Biofeedback(Neurofeedback), Next Frontier

Neurofeedback, also known as EEG Biofeedback or Neurotherapy, is a ground breaking technique that challenges the brain to better function. This powerful brain-based technique has been successfully helping clients around the world for over 30 years. It is a non invasive procedure with dramatic results for a multitude of symptoms.

Cancer spread can be monitored by blood test

A new breakthrough may mean that the spread of cancer cells could now be monitored by a blood test, it has been reported.

Inspirational Moments

Today’s Inspirational Moment

Questions:

How will this decision impact my family/marriage?

How will this decision impact my finances?

How will this decision impact my personal development?

How will this decision impact my physical development?

How will this decision impact my professional life?

How will this decision impact my social life?

How will this decision impact my spiritual life?

Quotations:

You are the one who must choose your place. — James Lane Allen

As a man thinketh, so is he, and as a man chooseth, so is he. — Bible

Decision determine destiny. — Frederick Speakman

 

Affirmation:

I am healthy, confident, and competent, and nothing is impossible with faith.

Sick Head, Sick Body: Pastors Lead by Example

A sick doctor can’t help heal patients.  It’s been said that healers must be wounded in order to develop the skills and the instincts necessary to heal others. But to truly be effective, they must first heal themselves.  It is impossible to pretend that you can prescribe for others what you are unwiling to prescribe for yourself.  Natural doctors in particular, expect themselves and are expected by their patients to exemplify their values and beliefs in an immediate and personal way.  Hippocrates the ancient teacher of doctors, put it this way, “Doctor, heal thyself.”

The same way doctors should exemplify their values and beliefs, pastors should be held to the same exacting standard to exemplify their belief in the word of God and all of His promises.  Of specific interest is being in this world, (replete with hectic schedules, overwhelming demands from every direction, and the stress that goes along with our modern, western lifestyle), but not of this world.  The point being, that Christians are just as stressed out as the world.  Christians suffer from the diseases of our society (heart disease, cancer, obesity to name a few) at the same rates as those in the world. Christians suffer the same divorce rate as those in the world.  Most pastors share the brunt of this stress as they endlessly minister to the needs of others, unknowingly suffering from the cummulative stressors. Pastors their spouses and leadership must incorporate time to recieve ministry if they expect to enoy longevity and life abundantly. 

It’s been my calling to develop The Word On Wellness™ Program designed especially for pastor and ther spouses, ministerial leadership, and lay leadership, which advocates a comprehensive approach to address the underlying causes of diseases and create a healing environment for your body rather than merely treating its symptoms. Contact me for more details.  See The Word On Wellness™ Program  page to the right→

Inspirational Moments

Engaging questions and affirmations help you think through a wide variety of choices…between the time we are faced with problem or challenge, and the time we make a final decision or take a final action.

The difference between the person who asks profound questions to help him/her process situations and infuses themselves with positive affirmations and the person who doesn’t is the difference of the person who lives with an intense sense of purpose and balance and joy.

Here are a few questions to start with:

What three changes in me would be most pleasing to God?

What  can I do to make the most significant difference for God in my lifetime?

Why am I on the earth?

 What is the very best organizational context for my dream?  

 

Please tune in regularly for inspirational thoughts, provoking questions, and life-changing affirmations!

 

 

Smokeless Tobacco Still Causes Cancer

People who use smokeless tobacco products (STPs), chewing tabacco and “snuff,” have an increased risk of developing types of cancer, according to research.

An international study into the use of STPs by scientists found that the products had carcinogenic properties which led to an 80 per cent increase in risk of oral cancer, a 60 per cent rise in the risk of esophageal cancer and pancreatic cancer.

“The risk of cancer, especially that of oral and lung cancer, is probably lower in smokeless tobacco users in the USA and northern Europe than in smokers and the risk of cancer is higher in smokeless tobacco users than in non-users of any form of tobacco,” said the report.

Trying to wean off of smoking to the “less toxic stuff” isn’t any better.  Another aspect of the study revealed that people who switch to snuff, an example of an STP, from smoking had a 90 per cent increased risk of cancer compared to people who gave up tobacco products altogether.

“We do not intend to address explicitly the use of smokeless tobacco to reduce the risk from tobacco smoking – e.g. by promoting smokers to switch to smokeless products,” the report stated.

According to the World Health Organization, every eight seconds, someone dies as a result of tobacco use. If you are seeking an end to your tobacco bondage, contact Dr. Walt for lifestyle coaching.

Stem Cell Used to Build Heart Tissue

Stem Cells

Scientists conducting stem cell research at the Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis have demonstrated that embryonic stem cells from mice can help build the heart.

According to the report published in Cell Stem Cell, the findings suggest a step forward in the use of stem cell research to develop a new generation of treatments for heart disease, that is growing new valvles, arteries, perhaps entire hearts.

Senior author of the study, Dr Kenneth Murphy, professor of pathology and immunology, said: “This isn’t the only gene we’ll need to get stem cells to repair damaged hearts, but it’s a key piece of the puzzle.

“This gene is like the first domino in a chain: the Mesp1 protein activates genes that make other important proteins, and these in turn activate other genes and so on. The end result of these falling genetic dominoes is your whole cardiovascular system.”

The researchers hope that stem cells could hold the potential to create new tissue for the treatment of a wide range of diseases and injuries.

Dr. Walt’s Response to Valerian Question

Question:

I have used Valerian Root and have been very pleased with the results. I have also recommended it to at least 12 of my friends and they have all had positive results as well. I have found it to be a natural sleep aid and a muscle relaxer. The only negative that I have noticed is that it has a strong smell (as of stinky soxs) and I take the capsules quickly and wash my hands to avoid that smell. Have you heard of any negative side affects from it?

From Ask Dr. Walt, 2008/07/06 at 2:22 AM

Dr. Walt’s Response:

Executive Summary

Valerian has been suggested for several conditions but has been most studied as a treatment for insomnia. Valerian may reduce the length of time it takes to fall asleep and may improve sleep quality with fewer adverse effects than commonly used prescription drugs. Valerian is not recommended in pregnant or breast-feeding women or in children. Alcoholic extracts should always be avoided in pregnant women. Remember that alcohol in some liquid preparations or tinctures may cause nausea or vomiting if taken with the drugs disulfiram or metronidazole. Valerian has been studied for only four to six weeks, and safety has not been established for longer-term use. Consult your health care provider immediately if you experience side effects. Also, see “Side Effects” section below.

Scientists have studied valerian for the following health problems:

Insomnia
Several studies suggest that taking valerian by mouth may reduce the time it takes for people to fall asleep and may improve sleep quality, especially in those who routinely suffer from insomnia or sleep difficulties. One study conducted in children with intellectual difficulties reports that valerian may be useful in the long-term treatment of sleep disruption. Valerian does not appear to cause a “hangover” effect the morning after use. Preliminary findings suggest that effects may be better with repeat use, rather than single-dose use. One study suggests a positive effect in insomniacs who are experiencing withdrawal symptoms from benzodiazepine. Another study showed that valerian extract may be comparable to the effects of the prescription benzodiazepine drug oxazepam (Serax) for insomnia. Further research is necessary to confirm these results.

Sedative
A few low-quality studies suggest that valerian does not possess significant sedative properties. A small double-blind, randomized, crossover, placebo-controlled study was performed in healthy elderly people to assess the effects of temazepam (Restoril), diphenhydramine (Benedryl) and valerian. The results confimed that valerian was not different from placebo (sugar pill) on any measure of drowsiness (psychomotor function) or sedation.

Anxiety Although early evidence suggests that valerian may possess some anti-anxiety properties, there are no clear answers in this area. Some of these studies have been done using combination products containing more than one herb. More research is needed before valerian can be recommended as a treatment for anxiety and related disorders.

Depression
A multicenter clinical trial was performed to assess the effectiveness of valerian extract and St. John’s wort in depression with comorbid anxiety. The studied determined that symptoms of depression and anxiety improved faster with valerian than with St. John’s wort alone. Valerian alone has not been proven to aid in depression or anxiety. More research is necessary before this therapy can be recommended.

Menopausal symptoms
Valerian has been studied along with other herbs to help with sleep disturbances and hot flashes present during peri- and postmenopause. Further research is needed to make a recommendation.

Stress
Valerian may be beneficial to health by reducing the physical reactions during stressful situations. A clinical trial studied the effects of valerian or kava on psychological stress induced in a laboratory. The study found that valerian or kava may reduce the physical reactions of stress and may therefore be beneficial to health. More studies are needed before any conclusions can be made.

Unproven Uses :

Valerian has been suggested for many other uses, based on tradition or on scientific theories. However, these uses have not been thoroughly studied in humans, and there is limited scientific evidence about safety or effectiveness. Some of these suggested uses are for conditions that are potentially very serious and even life-threatening. You should consult a health care provider before using valerian for any unproven use .

Absence of menstrual period
Aches
Acne
Anorexia
Antiperspirant
Antispasmotic
Antiviral
Arthritis
Asthma
Bloating
Chest pain
Colic
Congestive heart failure
Constipation
Coughs
Cramps
Cyanosis
Digestion problems
Diuretic
Epilepsy
Fatigue
Fever
Gas
Hangover Heart disease
Heartburn
High blood pressure
HIV
Hypochondria
Irritable bowel syndrome
Liver disease
Measles
Memory
Menstrual cramps
Menstrual period stimulant
Mood enhancement
Muscle tension
Nausea
Nerve pain
Seizures
Skin disorders
Urinary tract disorders
Vaginal yeast infections
Vertigo
Viral gastroenteritis
Vision enhancement
Withdrawal from tranquilizers

Allergies

People with allergies to plants in the Valerianaceae family may be allergic to valerian.

Side Effects

Few side effects have been reported when valerian is used at recommended doses. Rare problems may include headaches, excitability, decreased ability to concentrate, inability to sleep, uneasiness, dizziness, shakiness, unsteady walking, lower-than-normal body temperature (hypothermia), stomach discomfort, nausea or vomiting. It is not clear if valerian causes drowsiness or sedation, although early studies suggest that this may not be a major problem. Nonetheless, you should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery, especially within a few hours of each dose.

Although not extensively studied, it is possible that valerian may cause adverse effects on the liver or heart, especially if high doses are used for long periods of time. If you have been diagnosed with a heart or liver disorder and are considering taking valerian, discuss this with your health care provider.

Pregnancy And Breast-Feeding

Valerian cannot be recommended during pregnancy or breast-feeding because there is not enough information available. In theory, valerian may cause birth defects. Pregnant women should avoid ethanol (alcohol) extracts.

Interactions

Interactions with drugs, supplements and other herbs have not been thoroughly studied. The interactions listed below have been reported in scientific publications. If you are taking prescription drugs, speak with your health care provider or pharmacist before using herbs or dietary supplements.

Interactions With Drugs

In theory, valerian may increase the side effects, including the amount of drowsiness, caused by sedative drugs. Examples include benzodiazepines, such as lorazepam (Ativan); barbiturates, such as phenobarbital; narcotics, such as codeine; antidepressants, such as fluoxetine (Prozac); antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl); alcohol; and possibly some antiseizure or antidiarrheal drugs. Caution is advised while driving or operating machinery. The alcohol content in some valerian extracts may lead to vomiting if used with the drug disulfiram (Antabuse) or metronidazole (Flagyl).

Interactions With Herbs And Dietary Supplements

Very few interactions between valerian and herbs or supplements have been reported. Valerian may increase the side effects or the amount of drowsiness caused by some herbs or supplements, such as St. John’s wort or melatonin. Caution is advised while driving or operating machinery. Valerian may have effects that counteract stimultation caused by caffeine.

Dosing

The doses listed below are based on scientific research, publications or traditional use. Because most herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly studied or monitored, safety and effectiveness may not be proven. Brands may be made differently, with variable ingredients even within the same brand. Combination products often contain small amounts of each ingredient and may not be effective. Appropriate dosing should be discussed with a health care provider before starting therapy; always read the recommendations on a product’s label. The dosing for unproven uses should be approached cautiously, because scientific information is limited in these areas.

Valerian has only been studied for four to six weeks of use. It should not be used for longer without the supervision of a health care provider.

For Mild Insomnia

Adults (Aged 18 Or Older)

Capsules: A dose of 300 to 1,800 milligrams of valerian has been taken my mouth.

Aqueous or aqueous-ethanol extract: A dose of 1.5 to three grams of herb has been taken by mouth 30 to 60 minutes before going to bed.

Tea: A dose of 1.5 to three grams of valerian root steeped in 150 milliliters of boiling water for five to 10 minutes has been taken by mouth 30 to 60 minutes before going to bed.

Children (Younger Than 18)

The dosing and safety of valerian have not been studied thoroughly in children, and valerian is therefore not recommended.

For Sedation Or Stress Reduction

Aqueous or aqueous-ethanol extract: A dose of 100 to 600 milligrams taken by mouth before or after stressful events has been used.

Tea: A dose of 1.5 to three grams of valerian root steeped in 150 milliliters of boiling water has been taken by mouth five to 10 minutes before or after stressful events.

Selected Scientific Studies: Valerian

More than 355 articles were reviewed to prepare the professional monograph.

Some of the more recent studies are listed below:
1. Andreatini R, Sartori VA, Seabra ML, Leite JR. Effect of valepotriates (valerian extract) in generalized anxiety disorder: a randomized placebo-controlled pilot study. Phytother Res 2002;Nov, 16(7):650-654.
2. Chan TY. An assessment of the delayed effects associated with valerian overdose. Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther 1998;36(10):569.
3. Chen D, Klesmer J, Giovanniello A, Katz J. Mental status changes in an alcohol abuser taking valerian and gingko biloba. Am J Addict 2002;Winter, 11(1):75-77.
4. Coxeter PD, Schluter PJ, Eastwood HL, et al. Valerian does not appear to reduce symptoms for patients with chronic insomnia in general practice using a series of randomised n-of-1 trials. Complement Ther Med 2003;11(4):215-222.
5. Cropley M, Cave Z, Ellis J, Middleton RW. Effect of kava and valerian on human physiological and psychological responses to mental stress assessed under laboratory conditions. Phytother Res 2002;Feb, 16(1):23-27.
6. Diaper A, Hindmarch I. A double-blind, placebo-controlled investigation of the effects of two doses of a valerian preparation on the sleep, cognitive and psychomotor function of sleep-disturbed older adults. Phytother Res 2004;18(10):831-836.
7. Donath F, Quispe S, Diefenbach K, et al. Critical evaluation of the effect of valerian extract on sleep structure and sleep quality. Pharmacopsychiatry 2000;33(2):47-53.
8. Francis AJ, Dempster RJ. Effect of valerian, Valeriana edulis, on sleep difficulties in children with intellectual deficits: randomized trial. Phytomedicine 2002;May, 9(4):273-279.
9. Garges HP, Varia I, Doraiswamy PM. Cardiac complications and delirium associated with valerian root withdrawal. JAMA 1998;280(18):1566-1567.
10. Giedke H, Breyer-Pfaff U. Critical evaluation of the effect of valerian extract on sleep structure and sleep quality. Pharmacopsychiatry 2000;33(6):239.
11. Glass JR, Sproule BA, Herrmann N, et al. Acute pharmacological effects of temazepam, diphenhydramine, and valerian in healthy elderly subjects. J Clin Psychopharmacol 2003;Jun, 23(3):260-268.
12. Gutierrez S, Ang-Lee MK, Walker DJ, Zacny JP. Assessing subjective and psychomotor effects of the herbal medication valerian in healthy volunteers. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2004;78(1):57-64.
13. Hadley S, Petry JJ. Valerian. Am Fam Physician 2003;Apr 15, 67(8):1755-1758.
14. Hallam KT, Olver JS, McGrath C, Norman TR. Comparative cognitive and psychomotor effects of single doses of Valeriana officianalis and triazolam in healthy volunteers. Hum Psychopharmacol 2003;18(8):619-625.
15. Kuhlmann J, Berger W, Podzuweit H, et al. The influence of valerian treatment on “reaction time, alertness and concentration” in volunteers. Pharmacopsychiatry 1999;32(6):235-241.
16. Muller D, Pfeil T, von den Driesch V. Treating depression comorbid with anxiety: results of an open, practice-oriented study with St John’s wort WS 5572 and valerian extract in high doses. Phytomedicine 2003;10(Suppl 4):25-30.
17. Poyares DR, Guilleminault C, Ohayon MM, Tufik S. Can valerian improve the sleep of insomniacs after benzodiazepine withdrawal? Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatr 2002;Apr, 26(3):539-545.

Take Home Points for Alzheimer’s

Take Home Points:

1. Continue or start physical activity
2. Continue or start mental activity such as puzzles
3. Try learning new things
4. Maintian social support network
5. Try not to change eviornment
6. Try to maintian regular routine
7. Try to decrease uneccessary stressors
8. Maintain diet of whole foods(with plenty of geen vegetables and fresh fruit)
4. Try Dr. Walt’s Antioxidant Program:

Dr. Walt’s Antioxidant Program
A.M. Supplement Regimen

The Vitamin E Family
(1) 100mg Tocotrienols
(2) 200mg mixed tocopherols

Co Q10
(1) 50mg Co Q10

Lipoic Acid
(1) 50mg lipoic acid

Vitamin C
(1) 250mg – 1,000mg chewable ester vitamin C

Folic Acid
(1) 400cg folic acid

Biotin
(1) 300mcg biotin

Vitamin B6
(1) 2mg vitamin B6

Omega-3 Fatty Acid (EPA, DHA)
(1) 1,200mg-1,500mg

Isotonic Multivitamin and Isotonic OPCs (Pycnolgenol)

P.M. Supplement Regimen

The Vitamin E Family
(1) 400mg natural alpha tocopherols

Co Q10
(1) 50mg Co Q10

Lipoic Acid
(1) 50mg lipoic acid

Vitamin C
(1) 250mg – 1,000mg chewable ester vitamin C

Ginkgo Biloba
(1) 30mg to 50mg ginkgo biloba

Selenium
(1) 200mcg selenium

Omega-3 Fatty Acid (EPA, DHA)
(1) 1,200mg-1,500mg

Multivitamin if not taken in A.M.

OPC if not taken in A.M.

Response to Alzheimer’s Disease Question

Alzheimer’s disease also called SDAT (senile dementia Alzheimer’s type),is characterized by a general loss of intellectual ability and impairment of memory, judgment and abstract thinking, as well as changes in personality. Other symptoms include loss of speech, disorientation and apathy. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, rarely occurring before the age of 50. The disease takes from a few months to four or five years to progress to complete loss of intellectual function. Some 4 million Americans have Alzheimer’s disease, and experts predict that by 2020, that number could rise to over 10 million. There is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, although there are some drugs that may stave off the progression of the disease for some people.

Since neural membranes are highly susceptible to oxidative damage, free radicals are believed to be involved in the progression of SDAT. Many studies suggest that vitamin E along with Coenzyme Q10 can reduce free radical damage to the brain. Recent study by the Alzheimer’s Disease Cooperative Study showed that vitamin E worked even better than standard drug therapy.

There have been numerous European studies performed on the use of Ginkgo Biloba for SDAT with positive results. It works by helping control nitric oxide, an important free radical. Nitric oxide modulates communication among brain cells and is instrumental in helping us concentrate, learn new information, and maintain memories.

In the Packer Lab of Berkley CA, research studies revealed that Pycnogenol (pine bark extracts) may slow down or even prevent brain cell death by protecting glutathione, another important antioxidant and decreasing apoptosis, a process where cell begin to die.

Take Home Points: