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Billions spent on riskydigestion aids

Spike in gastrointestinaldisorders

GI tract largest componentof immune system

Vital: Chew well & eat

slowly! Poor digestion can damage

esophagus

Clean teeth, gums key togood health

Avoid fluoride!

Mercury fillings arehazardous

A way to beat Acid Reflux

Vital bacteria you need &

ones you dont Eating several small meals

aids digestion

What the stomach REALLYdoes

Stomach acid is yourfriend

Connection between ulcers& germs

Enzymes: Our invaluable

ally

PLUS:Tips to:

Beat ulcers

Keep a healthy mouth

Deal with gastritis

AND: Health News Briefs

& Ask Dr. Blaylock

Stomach Health:Stop Acid Reflux, Prevent Cancer& Improve Your Life

Today, the most commonly sold over-the-counter medications are

those used to treat gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, including

indigestion, bloating, heartburn, diarrhea and constipation andeven excessive flatulence.

Billions of dollars are spent on these remedies, which often bringonly temporary relief or none at all.

A number of gastrointestinal disease specialists have remarked on

the dramatic increase in digestive disorders especially acid reflux

(Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, or GERD), which is a condition inwhich acid rises out of the stomach and into the esophagus.

Acid reflux can bring on heartburn, damage to the lower esophagus,difficulty swallowing, unexplained coughing, the feeling of having a

lump in the throat and even cancer of the esophagus.

In severe cases, we see intense scarring of the esophagus and even

perforation into the chest which can be fatal.As we age, the occurrence of digestive disorders increases

dramatically.

Yet, like so many chronic diseases, digestive maladies are now

affecting younger people in larger numbers even preteens. To alarge degree, this is the result of inadequate nutrition, excessively bad

diets and exposure to a number of harmful food additives and toxins.

The gastrointestinal tract extends from the mouth down through 15

feet of hollow tubing to the anus. Most think of the GI tract assomething that allows us to eat. But what we are now learning is that

this vital passageway plays a major role in many aspects of humanhealth.

For example, the GI tract is the largest component of the immunesystem.

Buried within its walls is an extensive system of immune cells,lymphatics and lymph nodes. And it is important to appreciate that

the interior of the gut connects directly with the outside world, whichmeans that it is exposed to all of the germs, pollutants and toxins in

the environment.

Along with the skin, the GI tract serves as a first line of

The

Edited by Russell L. Blaylock, M

Blaylock Wellness ReportOCTOBER 2005 Vol. 2, No. 10

Quick Facts

Living a Long Healthy Life


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defense for the human body.

As we shall see, it is one of the more complicatedsystems in the body and has, in fact, been referredto as the second brain. This is because it contains

an extensive network of nerves, neurotransmittersand nerve receptors that allow it to operate largely

independent of the brain. This does not mean thatthe brain ignores the GI tract. In fact, the brain

modulates many of the gut brains activities asort of fine-tuning.

Some Problems Linkedto Stomach Illness

s Gastritis s Ulcers

sAcid Reflux s Bacterial Infections Inflammation s Potential for Cancer

An example of this gut brain activity is theswallowing reflex.

The only control we have when swallowing is

placing the food or drink into our mouth andpushing it back into the esophagus. At that point,

the nerve networks embedded in the esophagusgrab the food and move it downward toward the

stomach using a wave of muscle contractions calledperistalsis. Its all done automatically. In fact, if you

ever wanted to, you could swallow water whilestanding on your head.

Now let us see one of the most important yetoften overlooked aspects of digestion chewing

our food.

Chew Well & Eat Slowly!

As a small boy, my dad always used to tell me tochew my food 100 times before I swallowed it and

to eat slowly.

In our hurried society, this advice is oftenoverlooked and that may explain a lot of

digestive woes. We dash off to lunch and wolf downour food, often busy talking, giving no thought to

chewing everything properly.

Most assume that the stomach is solely

responsible for breaking down food and digesting it.

But in fact, the stomach can do its job only if the

food has been well chewed first. Often, when I seepeople eating a salad, I watch them give the lettuce

a couple of weak chomps before they swallow.

Remember that vegetables, especially in their rawform, are very difficult to digest if they are not

mechanically broken down first.

This is because plant cells are coated with anindigestible layer called a cellulose cell wall.

If this protective sheath is not broken, especiallywith raw vegetables, the rich nutrients inside will

merely pass through the GI tract unabsorbed. Andthat nullifies the effects of eating a lot of fruits and

vegetables, because they will do little to improveyour health.

To get the maximum nutritional value from your

foods, even meats, you should chew them until theyare finely dissolved that is, until they are almost

a liquid mush. This greatly assists digestion in the

rest of the GI tract and helps prevent acid reflux. Italso aids in reducing the volume in the stomach,which is vital to stopping acid reflux. Again, the gut

brain is playing a role.

There is a reaction known as the

gastroesophageal reflex that is triggered when thestomach is overdistended. When it occurs, it causes

a special ring of muscle located at the lower end ofthe esophagus to relax. This allows acid to erupt

back into the lower esophagus. Normally, when thefood enters the stomach from the esophagus, this

valve is closed.

Unlike the stomach, the esophagus lacks a layerof protective mucus and therefore the refluxed acid

can burn the tissue. If this occurs often enough,heartburn, belching and a sensation of fullness can

result a condition doctors call dyspepsia.

Occasionally, a sufferer will feel few symptoms

but by the time they do, considerable damage isoften already done.

Over time, this constant injury to the lower

esophagus can result in the development of acancer, which has a very high mortality. Smokingand drinking alcohol to excess can dramatically

increase this risk.

Obviously, as we chew our food, it is mixing inwith our saliva. While saliva does contain a

digestive enzyme called amylase, it actually playsonly a minor role in digestion. Salivas main

function is to moisten the food so that it can slidedown the esophagus more easily. By eating more

Page 2 The Blaylock Wellness Report October 2005


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slowly and chewing our food more thoroughly, we

stimulate more saliva secretion and give it time to

mix well with the food.

Some have advocated avoiding drinking during a

meal, claiming it dilutes digestive enzymes and

stomach acid. To a degree, this may be true, but it

also helps break the food down into smaller parts,improving digestion and absorption.

As we age, we often produce less saliva. In

addition, many medical conditions and medications

can cause a dry mouth, interfering with proper

breakdown of foods. In this event, drinking water

with the meal becomes critically important.

The essential fatty acid gamma-linolenic acid

(GLA) can increase the amount of moisture in the

mouth. The dose is 1,000 mg a day. In fact, when

taken orally it greatly amplifies moisture in theeyes, mouth and vagina, while keeping the skin

from drying out.

Clean Teeth, Gums: Keys to Good Health

Good oral hygiene is critical to maintaining good

health.

Recent studies indicate that bacteria found in the

mouth can greatly contribute to heart attack and

stroke risk because they can easily enter the

bloodstream and infect the walls of blood vessels.And that leads to chronic inflammation, which is

the leading cause of atherosclerosis. In fact, the

bacteria found in the mouth have been cultured

from the atherosclerotic plaque.

Another interesting species of bacteria has been

isolated from both the mouth and atherosclerotic

plaque. Its called nanobacteria.

These tiny germs are smaller than viruses and

are unusual in that they secrete a layer of calcium

in which they wrap themselves for protection. This

would explain the calcium crud commonly seen inatherosclerosis plaque within arteries. This makes it

very difficult for antibacterial drugs or the bodys

immune system to kill these dangerous germs.

It might also explain the benefits of chelation, a

process through which a chemical injection is

administered to remove toxic metals from the

bloodstream. This procedure improves

atherosclerosis and reduces the risk of arterial

disease, since it removes the calcium, making the

germs vulnerable to attack.

Researchers note that these very same bacteria

are also found in the plaque clinging to teeth.

Thats why heavy dental plaque is a sign of

similar infection in the walls of the arteries.

Combining the chelation therapy withantibacterial treatments or immune stimulation may

reduce the risk of atherosclerosis and even reverse

it. In fact, some recent studies comfirm this idea.

Healthy teeth and gums are also vital to properly

chewing your food. Many elderly are either

partially or totally toothless or have false teeth. This

makes chewing difficult.

Checklist for a Healthy Mouth

Brush and use mouthwash after meals (useonly fluoride-free products)

Eat a healthy diet of mainly vegetables and

some meats

Avoid sweets, sugar and excessive amounts of

fruits

Have dental amalgam fillings replaced with

ceramics

Treat gingivitis (bleeding gums and halitosis)

early and vigorously

A number of children also have decayed teeth orteeth severely weakened by dental fluorosis. Recent

studies have shown that 30 to 60% of children in

cities with fluoridated water are now exhibiting

dental fluorosis.

Fluoride in drinking water has been shown to

severely weaken the enamel of the teeth, thus

making dental decay more severe and difficult to

diagnose early.

Poor gum health is the leading reason that people

lose their teeth.Chewing sugar-filled gum, maintaining a diet

high in sugar, smoking, overindulging in alcohol

all of these can lead to gum disease. Bacteria

depend on sugar for growth the more sugar, the

more bacteria.

Dr. Westin Price did an interesting study as he

traveled throughout the world examining the dental

health of children living in non-industrialized

countries.

October 2005 The Blaylock Wellness Report Page 3


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He found that those who ate healthy, nutritious

diets had perfect teeth, even without using a

toothbrush or mouthwash.

Despite this, I would recommend using a natural

toothpaste (one without fluoride) as well as a

natural mouthwash without alcohol or fluoride.

Toms of Maine makes several types of both.Another good brand is Kiss My Face organic

whitening toothpaste. They should be used after

each meal or snack.

It is also important to sterilize your toothbrush

before each use. Hold the bristles under the hot

water for two minutes and this will kill all the

germs. Keep your toothbrush covered between uses.

Dr. Blaylocks Gum-Protection Mixture:

Mix 60 mg of CoQ10 powder into a teaspoon ofextra-virgin olive oil and swish in the mouth for 2

to 3 minutes, working it into the gums, after which

you can swallow it. CoQ10 has been shown to

significantly improve gingivitis. A similar mixture

with a quarter-teaspoon of curcumin and the same

amount of quercetin powder will also help kill the

bacteria. I would do this twice a day until the

gums are again healthy, then once a week.

Incidentally, a just-released study found that

vitamin D3 also significantly reduced the incidenceof gingivitis, in addition to preventing inflammation

in a number of tissues. The vitamin D3 is taken in

capsule form. The dose is 1,000 ug a day.

Finally, if you have dental amalgam fillings (the

silver metal-like variety which contain 50%

mercury), have them removed and replaced with

ceramics. It has been proven that the mercury-

laden dental amalgam fillings release large amounts

of mercury vapor when you consume hot foods and

drinks.

Several studies have shown that chewing withthese dangerous fillings is linked to a doubling of

blood mercury levels and that a significant amount

of the mercury is absorbed by the olfactory nerves

(smell nerves) in the nasal cavities. From there it

then enters the same area of the brain that causes

Alzheimers disease.

Mercury-laced fillings should only be

removed by a trained dentist. The International

Association of Oral Medicine and Toxicology

website has a list of trained dentists in your area.

You Can Beat Acid Reflux

As I said previously, effective digestion is largely

dependent on eating slowly and chewing your food

until it is almost a mush.

This practice aids digestion and prevents stomach

distention. Overeating is harmful because it

overdistends the stomach, resulting in increased

pressure and reflux of food and acid into the

esophagus.

One solution is to eat several small meals a day,

rather than three large meals a day.

Peppermint is a powerful antispasmodic,

meaning that it causes the muscles of the GI tract to

relax. In general, this is good. But eating a

peppermint candy after a large meal will ensurereflux into the esophagus because it relaxes the

muscle that keeps the lower end of the esophagus

closed during digestion.

In fact, acid-reducing medications the most

common treatment for the disorder may in fact

be harmful over the long run.

A very common mistake people make is to take

antacids such as Tums, Maalox or Rolaids.

This only makes things worse, since the calcium

in these products actually stimulates acid release.There is a rebound effect when too much buffer

enters the stomach, and the result is an outpouring

of stomach acid. Some of these antacids also contain

dangerous aluminum.

Another contributor to the problem which may

account, in part, for the increase in GERD is

frequent consumption of carbonated drinks. The

carbonation increases the pressure within the

stomach, forcing acid into the lower esophagus.

Also complicating digestion problems is thebacteria calledH. pylori, which researchers believe

to be responsible for the majority of peptic ulcers.

But there is some controversy regarding the role

this bacteria actually plays. Several studies have

shown that even after you cure this bacterial

infection, GERD risk actually increases.

This may be due to the fact that while H. pylori

lowers levels of stomach acid, once cured the levels

return to normal and GERD occurs only when



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stomach acid is normal or high. Also, H. pylori

reduces stores of vitamin C in the stomach,

lessening protection against free radicals in the

stomach lining.

In addition, many studies have shown that GERD

and gastritis cause intensified free radical

production in the stomach lining and esophagus.

One more problem is inflammation in the lower

part of the stomach (pyloric gastritis), which slows

the emptying of its contents, causing acid to back

up into the esophagus. Curcumin and hesperidin

bolster mucus production in the lining of both the

esophagus and stomach, providing protection

against this acid reflux.

Those with existing acid reflux would be best

served to avoid midnight snacks and should sleep

with the head of the bed elevated. Remember, foodtriggers acid release. It is also probably best to avoid

calcium supplements, since calcium stimulates acid

release. Sleeping on the left side also reduces acid

reflux, as this position helps to empty the stomach.

What Does the Stomach Really Do?

Most assume the stomachs main function is

digestion. But in fact, this important organ is only a

minor player in the digestive process.

The stomach has two main functions:s Killing dangerous organisms in the food we eat

AND

s Mixing, grinding and preparing that food

mixture for digestion and absorption in the

small intestine

You might be shocked to know that most of your

meals are contaminated with a variety of germs

including viruses, bacteria and fungi.

If these organisms are not killed, they can

potentially overpower the GI tract, making us verysick. Thats why the stomach produces hydrochloric

acid (HCL) as its primary method of killing these

germs. The substance also helps us absorb things

like iron.

A significant amount of research has shown that

low stomach acidity, as commonly seen with acid-

lowering drugs, dramatically increases the bacterial

growth in the small intestine.

As we age, our ability to generate sufficient

hydrochloric acid can decline significantly. The

condition is referred to as either hypochlorhydria

(acid levels are merely reduced) or achlorhydria

(hydrochloric acid is totally absent).

A recent study of healthy elderly people

determined that 90% had normal or near-normal

acid production. The remainder had varying degreesof low or absent stomach acid. But the percentage of

those suffering with this problem would be higher if

we included people with a variety of chronic

diseases commonly seen in our society.

Many of the digestive problems linked to aging

are the result of a hydrochloric acid shortage.

Ironically, acid loss can actually boostthe risk of

acid reflux.

Treating Acid RefluxAvoid Tums, Maalox, Rolaids and similar

medications

Avoid large meals and carbonated drinks

Avoid alcohol

Avoid calcium supplements

Chew your food thoroughly

Do not eat peppermint candies after a meal

Get tested for adequate stomach acid

Use acid-lowering prescriptions only for short-

term relief. Use quercetin-curcumin oil

mixture mentioned in report

Sleep with head elevated

Avoid nighttime snacks

Sound strange? This is due to the fact that when

acid levels are low, the muscular valve at the lower

end of the esophagus relaxes dramatically, making

reflux much more likely. And improved liquefaction

of the food means less pressure in the stomach,

which further reduces the chance that acid might

be forced back into the esophagus.Most treatments to improve digestion have been

incorrectly designed to lower stomach acid levels.

But this reduction can interfere with the absorption

of several nutrients and has been linked to a

number of medical conditions, including cancer of

the stomach.

The lack of stomach acid interferes with vitamin

B12 and iron absorption as well. Gastroenterologists

are especially concerned about B12 deficiency in


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the elderly particularly those who use acid-

lowering medications such as Prilosec, Pepsid AC

and Zantac.

Studies using more accurate measurements

indicate that 40% of normal elderly people and 80%

of the chronically ill elderly have significant B12

deficiencies. Research also suggests that virtually allpeople with Alzheimers disease are vitamin B12-

deficient, and a shortage of this vital substance

increases the risk of cancer in a number of organs.

Link: Infections and Stomach Disease

In 1984, Dr. B.J. Marshall made a revolutionary

medical discovery when he uncovered the

connection between ulcer disease and the germ

known as Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori).

Prior to his study, the medical world hadaccepted the notion that ulcers were caused by

stress, which was known to increase levels of

stomach acid.

But now we know that this organism is also

largely responsible for chronic gastritis, as well as

several forms of stomach cancer. In fact, infections

involving this germ cause a loss of stomach acid

and an eventual shrinking of the stomach lining

(gastric atrophy).

This in turn causes the cells lining the stomach

to begin their transformation into pre-cancerous

cells (metaplasia).

Of course, curing the H. pylori infection often

leads to the return of stomach acidity.

But the germ also depletes the stomachs levels of

vitamin C, which is critical for iron absorption and

protection against stomach cancer.

In fact, H. pylori infection boosts your risk of

getting stomach cancer by 600%. Smoking, alcohol

abuse, a poor diet (devoid of fruits and vegetables)

and low vitamin C intake all dramatically elevate

this risk.

We must also consider the finding that bacterial

overgrowth in the stomach (the result of a reduction

in stomach acid) also amplifies the cancer risk

posed by nitrites and nitrates in processed foods.

Hot dogs, other packaged meats (such as bologna,

ham, turkey, sausage, etc.) and some canned foods

are packed with these additives.

One recent study found that those who regularly

consumed nitrite-filled foods were 62 times morelikely to develop pancreatic cancer.

Food Poisoning: How Does It Occur?

I remember family reunions and get-togethers

from my childhood. There would always be a longwooden table lined with an assortment of

homemade foods supplied by the women.

Often, it was my job to fan the food in order tokeep the flies off it. We were in the Deep South and

flies were everywhere. Although I dont rememberever experiencing an outbreak of food poisoning, I

know it happened in other areas.

Most people know that unrefrigerated foods are

especially susceptible to bacterial and viral

infection.But what many dont know is that todays modern

farming techniques make animals more likely to

harbor pathogenic (disease-causing) organisms. Infact, many studies have shown that poor nutrition

in farm animals results in increased levels of deadlyE. Coli and salmonella in meats. And as strains of

these germs are becoming more deadly, USDAinspection leaves much to be desired.

In the past, farms were family-owned andemployed solid feeding methods that ensured good

nutrition for the animals such as free grazing.But these days, most farms are run by giant

corporate entities that cut corners, nourishing theiranimals with feeds that are both contaminated with

toxins and deficient in critical nutrients.

More shockingly, some farms even make theiranimals eat the feces of other livestock.

In Mississippi, we have several large corporatechicken farms.


Beat Ulcers

Use quercetin, curcumin and hesperidin

mixed with extra-virgin olive oil (onetablespoon between meals)

Take two capsules of DGL(deglycyrrhizinated licorice) between meals

and two at bedtime

Drink white/rosemary tea mixture two to

three times a day


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I have a patient who raises chickens on her

family farm. I asked her if she knew why the eggsin the market had such paper-thin shells and pale

yolks. She told me it was because they werevitamin-deficient, especially lacking in folic acidand vitamin B12.

We see the same problem with beef and other

sources of meats.

Farm animals are severely deficient in omega-3fats and CLA oils. This makes them, like people,

more prone to infectious disease.

In some states, 60 to 80% of cattle are infected

For those people carrying the H. pylori organism,curing the infection also resolves the dilemma of

acid depletion ifaction is taken early enough.

You can achieve both goals by employing acombination of antibiotics, bismuth preparations (this

mineral has proven effective in combating stomachills) and certain nutrients. However, the danger is that

this treatment also kills the good bacteria in the colon and that can cause a number of problems. (More

on this later.)

Several studies have documented that certain

flavonoids and vitamin C can inhibit the growth of H.pylori. The most potent were:

s Epigallocatechin gallate (a component of greentea extract and white tea)

s Luteolin (celery and artichoke extract)s

QuercetinANDs Curcumin

Green tea is very high in fluoride, so I would

instead recommend white tea, which has much lessfluoride. Plus the white variety actually has higher

levels of the beneficial flavonoid than green tea.

Now, the H. pylori germ secretes a toxin thatcauses most digestive problems and even ulcers.

Researchers were excited to discover that quercetinand curcumin block this harmful toxin.

These two powerful flavonoids also promotehealing of the stomach lining and aid in preventing

the formation of cancer. Meanwhile, studies show thatcurcumin and hesperidin boost the amount of

protective mucus in the stomach, which safeguardsthe stomach lining from the acid. These supplements

are available from natural health stores and suppliers.

Another key fact: Several studies found that bothquercetin and green tea extract (EGCG) enhanced the

effects of antibiotics used to kill H. pylori.

This would allow you to use smaller doses of

antibiotics but get the same results you would withhigher, more dangerous doses. Incidentally,

researchers also found that these two flavonoids wereeffective in fighting antibiotic-resistant strains of H.

pylori.

Another useful supplement was licorice extract.

The journal Life Sciences reported on a finding tha

licorice extract both inhibited the growth of the H.pylori and promoted healing of the stomach lining at

the same time.

Because pure licorice extract can cause high bloodpressure, you should use only the deglycyrrhizinated

form of licorice (DGL). DGL has proved to beeffective against those strains of bacteria that are

resistant to commonly used antibiotics.

One way to combine all of these flavonoids for

maximum efficiency is to dissolve 250 mg. ofquercetin, 250 mg. of hesperidin and 250 mg. of

curcumin in one tablespoon of either extra-virginolive oil or omega-3 oil.

All of these are fat-soluble, which enhancesabsorption and penetration into the stomach lining.

Also, add 1/4 teaspoon of pure liquid vitamin E to theoil. Mix well and swallow.

This mixture will expedite the destruction of H.pylori and simultaneously promote healing of ulcers,and gastritis. It can also prevent cancer development.

If you have ulcers, you should also take two DGLcapsules three times a day between meals, plus two

capsules at bedtime. This regimen has been shown tobe just as effective as taking prescription medications

Bolster this treatment by drinking a mixture of whitetea and rosemary tea at least twice a day.

Dealing With Ulcers


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with cancer-causing viruses that live on in the meat

even after slaughter. Think about that the next time

you order a rare or medium-rare steak.

Should you eat meats that are poorly cooked, or

even if a portion is underdone, you run the risk of

developing severe food poisoning. Symptoms range

from severe intestinal cramping and explosivediarrhea to weakness and in some cases even death.

In other instances, kidneys fail and limbs have to

be amputated as a result of hypercoagulation

(excessive clotting) of the blood.

Stomach Acid Kills Disease

As weve learned in this report, one of the most

important means of protection against food

poisoning is our stomach acid.

Normally, at a pH of 3 or less, this vital substancewill kill most bacteria and viruses. Conversely,

many studies have shown that low levels of

stomach acid can lead to an increase in one of the

most common bacterial overgrowths associated with

diarrhea. It is known as clostridium difficile and is

especially common in hospitals.

One study showed that a patient taking the acid-

lowering medication ranitidine became severely

infected with both clostridium difficile and giardia.

Other experiments have confirmed that suchtreatments increase risk. You will recall that H.

pylori infection, which is very common,

dramatically reduces levels of stomach acid.

But you can increase protection against infection

by allowing your body to produce more stomach

acid. This important substance is not secreted all

the time only when we eat (or think about

eating) or experience stress. Increasing your

stomach acid level also improves the absorption of

iron and vitamin B12.

You can raise levels while you eat by taking a

supplement called Betaine HCL. It is found in most

natural supplement stores.

Of course, those with active ulcers or

gastritis should avoid Betaine HCL.

You take one or two tablets just as you begin to

eat. Youll know if youre taking the proper dose by

the feeling you get.

If you experience noticeable warmth in your

stomach, cut the dose by one tablet.

But sometimes its not the growing bacteria

themselves that cause food poisoning. Instead, the

culprit is merely a toxin secreted by the bacteria.

This is the case with the deadly strain of E. Coli

0157:H7, which secretes a Shigella toxin that issecond only to botulism in toxicity. It can destroy

the kidneys, especially in children.

The CDC estimates that this strain affects 40,000

people every year, killing some 500. It was E. Coli

that killed three children and sickened many others

who ate at a Jack in the Box fast-food restaurant in

California in 1993. And similar epidemics occurred

at McDonalds restaurants in the early 1980s.

When they enter our systems through food, many

of these poisonous toxins and germs cause intense

inflammation of the stomach and intestines,inducing cramping and watery diarrhea.

Natural remedies like ginger, quercetin and

hesperidin can reduce inflammation, while

curcumin can curtail cramping and more

importantly kill the troublesome organisms.

In some cases, especially when symptoms are

prolonged, antibiotics may be required. In such

cases, the doctor must obtain a stool culture to

identify the offending organism. That way the

correct antibiotic can be used.This is very important because antibiotics can

offer no help if the food poisoning is caused by

bacterial toxins they may even make conditions

worse, as seen with E. Coli 0157:H7.

Antibiotics should be stopped as soon as

symptoms subside. Prolonged use will only create

new problems.

Cancer & Inflammation in the Stomach

One of the major concerns with a chronicirritation like gastritis or acid reflux is the potential

development of cancer.

Thats because the chronic inflammation illicited

by the displaced acid and bacteria produces

considerable amounts of free radicals and lipid

peroxidation products, which we know can severely

damage DNA.

One new study has uncovered a connection

between chronic acid reflux and cancers of the



9/16


throat (pharyngeal and laryngeal cancer). In

particular, esophageal cancer and acid reflux seemto be more commonly linked, while stomach cancer

is generally associated with chronic gastritis.

Cancer risk is dramatically reduced when

antioxidants things like white tea, grape seedextract, curcumin, quercetin, hesperidin and

vitamin C are taken in combination with theother vitamins and minerals (especially selenium).

Avoiding known carcinogens including nitritesand nitrates, carrageenan, seared meats (grilled and

pan-cooked at high heat) and eating a variety offruits and vegetables also dramatically reduces risk.

And again, an interesting connection leads us

back to our old friend H. pylori.

Studies show that this dangerous strain of

bacteria increases ones risk of developing gastriccancer, especially lymphoma.

It is important to remember that infections cause

cancer because they produce chronic inflammation.You can reduce inflammation by usingflavonoids

such as ones we have discussed here as well asvitamins E, C, D and K.

Some chronic gastritis has been linked toincreased stress. As a treatment, hesperidin not only

reduces stress-related injury to the stomach lining,but it also acts as a tranquilizer, soothing anxiety.

Then theres mad cow disease, a slowly

progressive degenerative and fatal disease affecting

the central nervous system. With the growing risk

of contracting it from infected foods, and as more

cases are discovered, researchers have taken great

interest in the recent finding that low stomach acid

levels significantly increase the risk of acquiring

the horrible condition.

Since this is a 100% fatal disease that causes

victims to endure one of the most horrible deaths I

have witnessed, anything you can do to reduce your

risk is worth it.

As far as harmful medications go, millions of

people regularly take anti-inflammatory drugs

(NSAIDS) like ibuprofen and aspirin.

One of the most common side effects is erosion

of the stomach, a condition whose symptoms are

very similar to those of ulcers. Bleeding and even

perforation of the stomach can occur, which will

lead to major surgery. Slow bleeding can result inanemia.

Researchers have developed numerous drugs to

combat this, but they usually provide little benefit.

However, natural remedies like quercetin and

curcumin have been shown to prevent and even

reverse the damage caused by such drugs.

Remember, curcumin and hesperidin also increase

protective mucus production in the stomach.

Interestingly, both of these also possess powerful

anti-inflammatory effects, which greatly reducesthe need for dangerous prescription drugs in the

first place.

Enzymes:The Spark that Starts the Engine

Enzymes are the catalysts that make chemical

reactions occur more rapidly and give us better

control over them.

In fact, enzymes are so vital that without them

there would be no life.

Our cells are filled with hundreds of enzymes

that are responsible for things like energy

generation, repairing cells and DNA, immune

function and production of all the molecules

needed to sustain life.

There is also an additional group of enzymes

whose task is to break down the foods we eat,

preparing them to be absorbed by the stomach.

There is compelling evidence that our body does

Fighting Gastritis

Take supplements to combat H. pyloriAvoid hot or spicy food

Stay away from alcohol Don't take NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-

inflammatory drugs). These include Advil,ibupropen, aspirin, etc. If unable to avoid,

use a transdermal form or take curcumin andquercetin in addition

Take DGL capsules two capsules threetimes a day plus two at bedtime

Use antioxidant vitamins with food

Chew your food thoroughly Once the symptoms subside, you will need

additional digestive enzymes with each meal


10/16

not produce sufficient digestive enzymes to break

down the foods we eat. As a result, we need the

enzymes already present in most of our foods,

especially fruits and vegetables, to get the job done.

Raw fruits and vegetables store an abundant

supply of these valuable enzymes and are especially

important as we age, since our digestive enzymesdecline significantly with time. People with

digestive diseases suffer even greater declines in

enzyme activity.

Cooking fruits and vegetables will destroy most of

their enzymes.

As I often tell readers, I prefer to drink

blenderized raw vegetables every day. This way

you maximize the intake of these enzymes. The

vegetable juice should be kept in the refrigerator.

Over time, these enzymes you consume will beginto digest the vegetables themselves, further aiding

the stomach in processing the food.

Plus, several of these enzymes will break down

the harmful products found in some plants (such as

bell peppers), rendering them safe to eat.

While saliva contains alpha-amylase (an enzyme

that breaks down carbohydrates) in most cases this

is a minor player. In the stomach, pepsin initiates

the breakdown of proteins. Primarily, the enzymes

secreted from the pancreas and small intestine are

responsible for most digestion. But when there is an

enzyme deficiency, the pancreas will become

enlarged sometimes growing to as much as twice

its normal size.

Poor digestion can have a profound effect on

health, especially harming the brain. Studies have

shown that low pancreatic enzymes result in brain

shrinkage.

Normally, enzymes in raw fruits and vegetables

help us digest our food, effectively sparing the

pancreas much of the task. Some symptomsfrequently associated with diminished digestive

enzymes are bloating, belching and abdominal

discomfort after meals. Doctors refer to this as

dyspepsia.

Many studies have shown that artichoke extract

aids dyspepsia. In one study, after a week of

consuming the supplement, 70% of patients saw

symptoms of bloating and pain improve. After a

month, 85% saw similar results.

Another study determined that those taking the

extract saw significant improvements in nausea,

loss of appetite, severe constipation and flatulence.

The extremely valuable artichoke extract contains

high levels of several biologically active compounds

including the anticancer flavonoid luteolin.

As far as other effects of poor digestion, chronicconstipation is high on the list.

The better our foods are digested (especially

meats), the better the quality of our stool. But the

most important effect of improved digestion is that

vital nutrients from foods we eat can be absorbed

with greater efficiency.

In order for enzymes to break down our meals,

they must be in contact with the surface of the

foods. A chunk of chicken swallowed after only a

few chews requires much more time to digest thana finely chewed piece of chicken. And on top of

that, it will not be completely digested.

Remember, one of the stomachs jobs is to

thoroughly mix the swallowed food with enzymes

and hydrochloric acid so that the major digestion

process can begin in the small intestine.

The decline in digestive ability begins after age 50.

Bloating, pain, gas and prolonged abdominal

discomfort after eating a meal are strong indicators

of poor enzyme function. Sufferers should takeadditional enzyme supplements with each meal.

Many brands and formulations are available. I

would recommend one that is vegetable-based and

comes in vegetable capsules. Take one or two

capsules with each meal. When symptoms of

dyspepsia subside, youll know youre getting the

correct dose.

At least one company makes enzymes

specifically designed to aid digestion of vegetables

and fruits. If you eat a lot of these natural foods,

you should consider using these special enzymes.It is also important to remember that the

powerful acid can deactivate many of these

enzymes so choose acid-protected formulas.

One of the better ones is derived from a plant

source that is acid-resistant. It is called Pancreatic

VegEnzymes, made by Pure Encapsulation

(Emerson Ecologics). It should also contain

enzymes to digest proteins, fats, carbohydrates

and fiber.



11/16


Another brand, called Super Digestive Enzyme

Caps, is also acid-resistant and contains a widerspectrum of enzymes.

The following is a list of the contents of Super

Digestive Enzyme Caps:

Amylase: ....................40,000 USP units

Protease:.....................40,000 USP unitsLipase...........................7,200 USP units

Protease II: ................................130 mgProtease III: ...............................140 mg

Amylase:....................................140 mgLactase: .......................................20 mg

Whole fruit papaya powder: .....100 mg

Another interesting brand, BV-Similas, is specially

designed to aid digestion of vegetables. In additionto the usual digestive enzymes, the manufacturer

included alpha-galactosidase, phytase, lactase andcellulase I and II.

BV-Similas can be purchased from Emerson

Ecologics.

Sources for Supplement Products

International Association for Oral Medicineand Toxicology (IAOMT)www.iaomt.org

Toms of Maine

www.tomsofmaine.comUnique-Ewww.acgraceco.com

Theralacwww.theralac.com

Super Digestive Enzyme Capswww.iherb.com/superdiges.html

Pancreatic VegEnzyme (Emerson Ecologics)www.emersonecologics.com

BV-Similas

www.emersonecologics.comKiss My Facewww.kissmyface.com

New Link Between Fish Oil andProstate Cancer

When Swedish scientists examined 6,272 men

over a 30-year period, they found that those who

ate the most fish had the lowest prostate cancer

rate.

In fact, they were 1/3 to 1/2 as likely to

develop prostate cancer as those who did not eat

fish.

Interestingly, they also ate the most vegetables

and least meat. Yet, even correcting for these

factors, researchers still found fish oil to be highly

protective.

A separate study of 47,882 men conducted by

Harvard Medical Center over 12 years also found

that men who ate the most fish had the lowest

prostate cancer risk by a whopping 44%.

Again, these statistics applied to the most

aggressive types of cancers. The conclusion was

that the omega-3 oils were responsible for the

diminished risk, mainly because of their immune-

modulating and anti-inflammatory effects. Eating

fish is to be discouraged because of the high

mercury content in many types of seafood. High-quality supplements provide superior results.

Early Omega-3 Slashes Cancer Risk

At the 96th annual meeting of the American

Association of Cancer Research, a shocking report

from Dr. Elaine Hardman, assistant professor in the

division of functional foods at Louisiana StateUniversity, found that when female animals (which

are genetically prone to develop breast cancer) were

fed omega-3 oil during early development, they had

an 87% reduction in breast cancer as adults.

In humans, this would represent the highest at-

risk group of women that is, those geneticallyprone to develop breast cancer.

Equally important was the finding that animals

fed only omega-6 oils (such as corn, soybean andsafflower oils) all developed breast cancer as adults.

The protective effect was greatest for animals

exposed to the omega-3 oil, both while in the uterus

Health News Briefs


12/16

(from the mothers diet) and after birth.

Explanations for the effect include:

s Omega-3 oils ability to reduce excess estrogen

(conversely, omega-6 oils increase estrogen)

s Omega-3 oils gene-regulating effects

ANDs The substances effect on inflammation. (The

amount used was equal to taking the

supplement three times a week.)

With all we know about the beneficial effects of

omega-3 oils on brain development, this new

information should convince mothers to add it to

their diets and those of their children.

There is a small window of time to make optimal

use of Omega-3s effects, so mothers should start

using the oils during pregnancy and continue themwell after their child is born.

Study: Soy Feminizes Male Babies

Compelling and frightening evidence has

conclusively proven that soy-based formulas can

alter the anatomical development of the

hypothalamus in male babies.

Soy has been shown to change the physiology of

this vital organ so that it comes to resemble that of

the female.The hypothalamus controls sexual development

and expression of sexual characteristics. In this

country, millions of babies are fed soy-based

formula, and additional evidence indicates that this

can delay the onset of male puberty, lower

testosterone levels and lead males to be socially

isolated.

Another study found that soy-based formula

dramatically increased aggressiveness in male

monkeys as well.

Link: Stress & High-Fat Diets

More bad news for both the Atkins diet and the

vegetable oil market.

A study published in the journal Physiology and

Behavior found that diets high in common

vegetable oils such as soybean and corn oil

significantly slowed the return of cortisol to normal

levels following stress.

Normally, levels return rather rapidly.

Elevated cortisol has been shown to damage the

very same area of the brain as damaged in

Alzheimers disease: the hippocampus. High levels

are commonly found in Alzheimers patients.

Recent studies link chronic elevation of cortisol to

hippocampus shrinkage in cases of chronicdepression.

Vitamin D: The Effect on Bones,Obesity

New studies have confirmed what has been

known in the nutrition field for decades: Vitamin D

intake recommendations have long been far too

low.

Newer studies indicate that those over age 40

should be taking at least 2,000 ug of vitamin D3 aday. Analysis shows a sharp decline in fractured

hips, backs and arm bones for those who regularly

consume these higher doses.

Of equal importance is the discovery that there is

no scientific foundation whatsoever behind all the

bad press surrounding the use of higher doses of

vitamin D.

As a result of the widespread use of sunscreen

and more and more people (especially by the

elderly) staying out of direct sunlight, vitamin Dlevels have plummeted.

A new study in the 2005 issue of the Journal of

Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism found that

when vitamin D levels were low, obesity was

significantly more common. The relationship seems

to be connected to the level of the calcium-

regulating parathyroid hormone, which was high in

the obese people.

Study: Alcohol Spurs Breast Cancer

We have long known that even moderate

drinking increases a womans risk of developing

breast cancer.

A new study observed 17,447 women over a 13-

year period and found that females who had normal

levels of folate and drank suffered no increase in

breast cancer risk, whereas the risk was high for

those who had low folate levels and drank.

Everyone should take 1,000 ug of folate a day.



13/16


Folate (folic acid) works to repair DNA, which is

how it works to prevent cancer. A combination offolate, methylcobalamin (vitamin B12) and vitamin

B6 significantly improves DNA repair.

Numerous studies have shown that people withpoor DNA repair capabilities have a dramatically

increased risk of getting all kinds of cancer. Thepresence of BRCA-1 and BRCA-2 genes, which are

commonly linked to elevated breast cancer risk,indicates impaired DNA repair ability.

Supplementation with folate, B12 and B6 canimprove this problem.

Even light alcohol consumption duringpregnancy appears to alter a babys brain formation

and the effects are irreversible.

None of this is related to folate deficiency it

happens when alcohol blocks critical glutamatelevels required for brain development. This is just

one of many reasons that pregnant women shouldavoid all alcohol.

Milk Drinkers Prone to Parkinsons?

A new study shows that men who drink morethan 16 ounces of pasteurized milk a day are 2.3

times more likely to develop Parkinsons diseasethan those who dont drink any milk.

But calcium has been ruled out as the culprit.

Researchers believe it may be the pesticideresidues in the milk. Cattle can have high levels ofchemicals in their bodies, and these substances areoften found in their milk. Pesticides and herbicideshave been shown to produce Parkinsons inexperimental animals as well as humans. Themechanism is excitotoxic.

And cows milk is often linked to elevated rates ofprostate cancer, lymphoma, leukemia and other

blood malignancies.

In fact, of all foods, cows milk has the highestassociation with cancer. So avoid the moo juice.

There is no scientific validity to the argument thatyour bones will become brittle if you dont drinkmilk. If this were true, humans would be the onlyknown animal that needed to drink another animalsmilk after being weaned.

Most animals elephants and rhinos, for example have no need for milk, and they do just fine.

High Protein May Slash Lifespan

Most people have heard that animals on low-calorie diets live longer than those that ingest more.

But many are unaware that high-protein diets canbe just as effective at shortening lifespan. And anew study may explain one reason for this.

Researchers found that people on high-proteindiets have higher homocysteine blood levels thanthose consuming less protein.

Raised homocysteine in the blood is associatedwith a number of diseases including Alzheimers,various birth defects, congenital heart disease,strokes, heart attacks and atherosclerosis. High

levels can dramatically increase heart attack andstroke risk more so than high cholesterol.

In fact, even homocysteine levels that areconsidered high normal can dramatically increaseheart attack and stroke risk more so than highcholesterol.

The amino acid methionine is responsible for theelevated homocysteine.

So beware of ingesting methionine as asupplement or free amino acid (as seen in someprotein bars and powders), since it increaseshomocysteine levels even more.

Report:High Homocysteine Leads to Dementia

A pair of new studies appearing in the latest

issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutritionlink high homocysteine levels with impaired

thinking and ability to recall information.

One set of data found that elevated homocysteine

was associated with a 200% higher risk of

developing dementia and a 211% increased risk of

developing Alzheimers in particular.

Folic acid provided the greatest protection against

both high homocysteine levels and B vitamindeficiency-related dementia. The dose for adults

should be 1,000 ug a day.


14/16

Q: What can I do about insomnia?

Josephine, Walnut Creek, Calif.

A: Insomnia is a growing problem and I think it is

due to many factors mainly the widespread use

of fluoride, aspartame and

glutamate-containing foods

such as MSG. All three of

these inhibit the pineal

glands release of melatonin,

which is the sleep hormone

released at bedtime.

The key is to stop the use

of these three neurotoxins.

Regular exercise during the

day increases sleep quality,

and eating turkey one hour

before bedtime also works (itcontains L-tryptophan). Also,

avoid intense mental activity

before bedtime.

For stubborn insomnia, do

the above plus take 1 to 3 mg.

of melatonin 30 minutes

before you go to sleep. The

flavonoid hesperidin also has

a soothing property that promotes sleep quality (I

recommend 250 mg. one hour before bedtime).

Finally, a new product has proven to induce deep

and restful sleep safely without the morning

hangover. It is an extract of the magnolia plant

known as Seditol. Gamma-hydroxybutryic acid

(GHB) used to be an excellent sleep aid that was

very safe but of course the FDA outlawed it

because of its widespread use as a date-rape drug.

Q: Are Vitamin D3 and Vitamin D different

and what is the best form of magnesium to

take? Dawn D., via e-mail

A: Vitamin D is the class of the vitamin. We refer

to the active form used by thebody as vitamin D3. This is

the form you should take.

As for magnesium, it

comes in a variety ofconfigurations. Each differs in

terms of cost and how well itis absorbed. Magnesium oxide

is the most common form onthe market and it is about60% absorbed by most

people.

However, some absorb only20%. Magnesium oxide is verycheap. If you develop

diarrhea, youll know that thesupplement is being poorly

absorbed. The best-absorbedvarieties include the malate,

malate/citrate, citrate andgluconate forms. But the latter

supplies too little magnesium;the one containing malate prevents aluminum

absorption. I recommend either the malate ormalate/citrate form.

Magnesium malate/citrate gives you 150 mg. ofmagnesium per capsule. Take two in the morningand two in the evening and make sure its

consumed with food. This powerful supplementalso helps to induce sleep. Avoid the aspartate form

since aspartate is an excitotoxin that inhibitsmelatonin release from the pineal gland.


Attention Blaylock Readers:

Dr. Blaylock welcomes any questions or comments you would like to share.

Each month, he will select a few to be published and answered in the newsletter. Please

e-mail the doctor at: [email protected]

Ask Dr. Blaylock

Dr. Russell Blaylock


15/16

About Dr. Blaylock

Dr. Russell Blaylock edits NewsMax.coms Blaylock Wellness Report. He is a nationally recognized board-

certified neurosurgeon, health practitioner, author and lecturer.

He attended the Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans and completed his internship

and neurosurgical residency at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, S.C.

For the past 26 years, he has practiced neurosurgery in addition to having a nutritional practice.

He recently retired from his neurosurgical duties to devote his full attention to nutritional studies and

research. Dr. Blaylock has authored three books on nutrition and wellness, includingExcitotoxins: The Taste That

Kills,Health and Nutrition Secrets That Can Save Your Life and his most recent work, Natural Strategies for The

Cancer Patient. An in-demand guest for radio and television programs, he lectures extensively to both lay and

professional medical audiences on a variety of nutrition-related subjects.

Dr. Blaylock is a member of the international board of the World Natural Health Organization. He is the 2004

recipient of the Integrity in Science Award granted by the Weston A. Price Foundation.

Dr. Blaylock serves on the editorial staff of the Journal of the American Nutraceutical Association and is the

associate editor of the Journal of American Physicians and Surgeons, official publication of the Association of

American Physicians and Surgeons.

He previously served as Clinical Assistant Professor of Neurosurgery at the University of Mississippi Medical

Center in Jackson, Miss., and is currently a visiting professor of biology at the Belhaven College, also in Jackson.



16/16

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Issue 1: Vaccinations: The Hidden Dangers

Issue 2: Save Your Brain: Protect Yourself Fromthe Ravages of Alzheimers and OtherDiseases

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Issue 5: Heart Saver: Protect Yourself FromHeart Attacks and Strokes

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