Meet Dr. Passero
Naturopathic Doctor and Vitabase Consultant and Contributor
| As a certified and fully trained Naturopathic Doctor, Passero has trained and preceptored with some of the nation's leading doctors in the field of natural medicine, working under the guidance of MDs, Chiropractors, Naturopaths and Acupuncturists. Furthermore, he is currently the Vice President of the Maryland Association of Naturopathic Physicians. |
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Dr. Passero, I am 52 years old, menopausal and suffering from vaginal dryness and painful intercourse. what are your recommendations for phyto HRT products? Is phyto estrogen therapy more effective if delivered to the vagina directly. Thanks.
Orally ingested phytoestrogen supplements can be very helpful at alleviating symptoms associated with menopause. All women are different and can expect to respond differently to supplements. Some may find that they get complete resolution of hormonal symptoms using a phytoestrogen product while others may find no relief at all.
Vaginal dryness and painful intercourse are unfortunately a very common problem that arises during menopause for many women. Starting with an oral phytoestrogen product designed to address the symptoms of menopause is a great place to start. If you do not find relief from oral phytoestrogen products, you may need some localized treatment. I do not know of any topical phytoestrogen products effective at relieving vaginal dryness. Usually, what I recommend is to use a very low dose natural estrogen cream applied directly to the vagina.
There are two forms of natural estrogen commonly prescribed by doctors. They are Estradiol (the strongest form) and Estriol (the weakest form). The nice thing about Estriol is that it has very specific affinity for vaginal tissue and is often more effective at relieving vaginal dryness than Estradiol. The other benefit is that because it is a very weak form of estrogen it has minimal hormonal effects on other areas of the body.
You will most likely need to find a doctor who specializes in prescribing natural hormones in order to get an Estriol vaginal cream. Your regular doctor will most likely prescribe a synthetic estrogen cream like Premarin® which you should avoid due to the negative hormonal impacts it can have on other areas of your body. Always start with the lowest strength of a natural estrogen cream to minimize hormonal effects in other areas of your body. You can slowly increase the potency if desired results are not achieved.
The label of your "Blood Support Formula" indicates that one should not exceed 3 capsules per day. The formula is helping with my issues with Type II diabetes and was wondering if this product will allow me to increase my carb intake during a rare but unavoidable meal by increasing the dosage? I am on insulin and monitor my blood daily
Exceeding 3 capsules per day of the blood sugar formula will not be harmful if done for only a short period of time. Excess intake of chromium (above 200mcg/day) can be harmful for certain people if the intake in maintained over long periods of time.
However, the important thing to remember is that just by increasing the intake of capsules, you will not necessarily improve your blood sugar by the same degree. If you are going to have to eat a more carbohydrate rich meal due to a special event you can choose to take a few extra capsules before the meal in addition to the other normal doses you took that day. Although this will help, you will find by monitoring your blood sugars that you are likely to still see a significant spike. The blood sugar formula might help to minimize that spike.
Once the body has ingested carbohydrates it is very difficult to stop the process of spiking the blood sugar. You must remember that increasing capsule intake does not replace a good diet and responsible management of the blood sugar thorough lifestyle.
Can you recommend Vitabase health products (or other) for MS treatment (other than Kalawala)?
Multiple Sclerosis is a very complicated disease and poorly understood by the medical community as are most auto-immune conditions. It occurs when the body produces anti-bodies that attack the myelin sheath that coats our nerves. Myelin helps our nerve signals to travel along the nerve and over time as the antibodies destroy it, nerve transmission becomes compromised. No one natural supplement will offer a cure for this condition but there are some important nutritional and botanical considerations to consider.
The health of the nervous system needs to be supported when dealing with MS because this is where the body has focused its attack. Omega 3 fatty acids are an excellent source of support for the neurological system and offer specific support for myelin production and health. Liquid cod liver oil is often the most economical way to get omega 3 fatty acids into the system in high doses. Getting between 3-5 grams (3000-5000mg) of combined EPA and DHA daily is a good minimum requirement to follow when taking fish oil. Not only does the omega 3’s support myelin production, they are also powerful anti-inflammatories which can help reduce the pain associated with MS flare ups. I have also seen Turmeric, another powerful anti-inflammatory, be helpful when dealing with the pain associated with MS flares.
Other products that help balance the TH1-TH2 ratio of the immune system are also thought to be helpful with multiple sclerosis and other auto-immune conditions. By balancing these components of the immune system, it is thought that auto-antibody production can be down regulated, resulting in less damage, to in this case the myelin sheath lining the nerve cells. Moducare® is a patented product that uses a natural plant sterol mix to balance T-helper cell ratios. It is commonly part of a protocol used address auto-immune conditions.
Vitamin D is a very important consideration with MS. Epidemiological research has clearly shown that MS rates rise the farther you go from the equator. The role of sun exposure and vitamin D production are intimately linked and thought to be a significant factor in the development and progression of multiple sclerosis. Having blood levels of vitamin D3 checked through a 25-hydroxy blood test is a great place to start. Anything below 45 ng/ml warrants aggressive supplementation until the blood levels raise to between 40 and 50ng/ml. It is important to monitor blood levels of vitamin D during aggressive supplementation as this vitamin can be toxic if given in excessive amounts over long periods of time. It is recommended that this be done under the care of a doctor.
Sphingolin is a natural health product containing myelin basic protein extracted from bovine spinal tissue. These myelin basic proteins serve as a building block for myelin production in the body. It is also thought to help MS related symptoms through gastrointestinal immune desensitization to reduce cellular anti-Myelin T-Cell attack against the myelin sheaths of CNS neurons. The myelin source is obtained from New Zealand cattle certified by the New Zealand government. No cases of BSE have ever been reported in New Zealand. Sphingolin is widely distributed in the United States. Chinese herbal formulas have shown some anecdotal reports of benefiting MS symptoms. One formula in particular manufactured by a company called Seven Forests seems to have consistent results with auto-immune conditions. It is called Reconciling Tablets. Working with a Chinese medicine practitioner to get a formula for your specific needs would be the best situation. Acupuncture can also be very helpful at reducing fatigue and pain symptoms associated with MS.
Many other factors play an important role in the development and progression of MS and other autoimmune diseases. Some major factors often correlated to the onset of MS are genetics, food sensitivities, gastrointestinal permeability and chronic infections, particularly ones related to the Epstein Barr virus and Cytomegalovirus. Different types of testing and evaluation are needed to uncover which of these factors may be significant for your particular situation.
I am 37 years old and can't seem to loss weight. I have gas and am constipated all the time. I am tired no matter what i do. Can you tell me what I need to do? I have never "cleansed" my body before.
Weight loss is a complex issue that must take into account a person's lifestyle (diet and exercise) patterns, along with individual metabolic needs and family history. Having chronic constipation will make weight loss very difficult and will also contribute to the gas symptoms you are having. Symptoms of acid reflux and heartburn are also commonly seen with chronic constipation.
A colon cleanse would be a very good idea for you to help remove the built up waste you have accumulated as a result of not having regular bowel movements. This may also help to stimulate more regular bowel patterns in the future. Colon cleansing is very easy and usually just requires following the instructions of a high quality colon cleanse product. If you have been diagnosed in the past with any type of bowel disease you should consult with your Doctor before doing a colon cleanse.
There are some very important words of warning about any colon cleansing program. A colon cleanse is only a short term solution to constipation. It is not a tool that someone should become dependant on for regular bowel movements; in the same way it is unwise for people to become dependant on prescription or over the counter laxatives for regular bowel movements. Magnesium, supplemented somewhere between 200-800mg a day in divided doses is the best gentle way to promote daily elimination until the root cause is identified and addressed. It is very gentle for most people and will not create dependency. Magnesium is also an important nutrient for hundreds of cellular processes and is commonly deficient in our society.
At the crux of the issue is to determine why you have chronic constipation in the first place. One of the main causes of chronic constipation can be an under-active thyroid. Your other symptoms of difficulty loosing weight and fatigue are also very characteristic of low thyroid function. Do you also suffer from low body temperature, thinning hair/dry hair, brittle fingernails or depression? These are also potential symptoms of low thyroid function.
I highly recommend you have your thyroid tested and interrupted in a way that can pick up the most common form of thyroid problems called sub-clinical hypothyroidism. You can read in detail about this condition including what tests to order and how to interrupt them in my blog under the title “Sub clinical Hypothyroidism: Could this be causing your fatigue, depression or weight gain?”
In summary, you may want to start with some type of colon cleanse (many products are available). When the cleanse is over, you can try the Magnesium (best form is Magnesium Citrate) as outlined above as a gentle non-habit forming way to keep your bowels regular. You may also want to introduce a high quality fiber supplement to assist you bowels but make sure you drink adequate amounts of water or it will only constipate you more. Most importantly, get the detailed thyroid testing done as outlined in my blog to determine if you have any thyroid imbalances that may be at the root of your problems.
What are the benefits of Pycnogenol?
Pycnogenol is a compound isolated from the bark of pine trees. Technically it is classified as an Oligomeric proanthocyanidin or OPC for short. These types of compounds are also found abundantly in grapes and red wine.
Pycnogenol is best studied for its antioxidant effects. It protects structures in the body from free radical damage from the sun, pollution and natural metabolic processes.
Pycnogenol refers specifically to the type of OPC extracted from the bark of pine trees. Although it is similar in structure to the OPC's found in grapes, it is purported to have different properties. Pycnogenol was the first type of OPC isolated and studied; so many people still consider it the gold standard when the health benefits of OPC's are desired.
The studied benefits of pycnogenol vary widely depending on the different body systems. Due to its anti-oxidant properties pycngenol has been shown to protect against free radical damage induced by environmental toxins, such as radiation, pesticides, pollution, cigarette smoke, heavy metals and other pollutants. It also works as an internal sunscreen helping to protect our skin cells from free radical damage induced by the sun.
OPC's also play an important role in supporting the cardiovascular system by preventing the oxidation of cholesterol. Oxidized LDL is a major contributor to plaque formation in the blood vessels. Pycnogenol also helps to strengthen capillary walls which improves microcirculation.
One of the most important properties of pycnogenol is its ability to cross the blood brain barrier. This unique capability allows it to exert anti-oxidant effects on the brain. Due to its high level of activity, the brain produces more free radicals then any other organ in the body. Free radical damage to the brain has been implicated in conditions such as Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's. In addition, improving capillary health in the brain promotes proper circulation and enhanced blood flow while minimizing the risk of certain types of strokes
I've heard a lot about EGCG recently. What is it and what does it do? I know it's found in Green Tea, but can you get it in Green Tea Extract as well?
EGCG, short for epigallocatechin gallate, are one of the most potent medicinal compounds found in green tea. They are officially categorized as catechins, which are a type of flavonoid compound found in many plants. This class of compounds is known to have strong anti-oxidant properties as well as other health promoting properties.
The most well understood mechanism of how EGCG's work is through it anti-oxidant properties. Anti-oxidants stop the damaging effects of free radicals produced by poor lifestyle, pollution and the body's normal metabolic processes. Over time these free radicals damage our cells and DNA ultimately contributing to aging and other health conditions such as cancer.
EGCG is one of the most widely studied natural substances and has an excellent safety record. It has been shown to be a great support for weight loss as it has the ability to increase the fat burning process in the body. Many people think the weight loss effect of drinking green tea is from the caffeine content, but it fact it is due to these powerful flavonoids.
EGCG's have also been widely studied in the context of cancer care. They seem to help cancer cells die by various mechanisms including preventing vital communication that keeps these cells alive.
EGCG's are found in Green Tea Extract at various levels depending on the product. Green Tea extracts are great way to get therapeutic doses of EGCG's without having to drink 7+ cups of green tea a day. The label of a Green Tea Extract product should clearly state percentage of EGCG's per capsule. They are stable compounds that preserve their potent medicinal properties through the extraction process.
I have knee pain and take your glucosamine chondroitin sulfate plus. Tell me about MSM? What is it and should I include it? I take blood pressure med and do not need any extra sodium...
MSM is commonly recommended for joint problems like arthritis because it is a compound high in sulfur. All connective tissue in our body including skin, hair, tendons and cartilage is built from a ground matrix. One of the primary nutrients that this ground matrix is made of is sulfur. Taking MSM or other sulfur containing supplements can promote the growth of cartilage which serves as the buffer between the bones in your joints. Most arthritis is due to a reduction of cartilage from wear and tear throughout life.
In my experience, different people respond to different combinations of Glucosamine, Chondroitin and MSM. For some, glucosamine doesn't work while for others it works like magic. The same is true for Chondroitin and MSM so I encourage each individual to try the different combinations until they find what offers them the most relief.
MSM contains no sodium so this will not affect your blood pressure.
What supplements do you recommend for pre-menopause/menopause symptoms?
Since every women experiences different symptoms during this life change, the answer can vary greatly. However, there are some basic things to consider.
One of my favorite recommendations for peri-menopausal symptoms is progesterone cream. This helps alleviate so many symptoms like mood swings, irritability, hot flashes, insomnia, anxiety and even headaches. Natural progesterone does not pose the same risks associated with conventional Hormone Replacement and has actually shown the potential to reduce the risk of certain diseases like breast cancer.
Nature's Precise Cream is a great option. It provides 360mg of USP natural progesterone per each container. This means that each ¼ teaspoon will contain 15 mg of progesterone. I recommend using ¼ teaspoon 1-2x daily. Always start with a low dose and build up the full amount. If you have trouble sleeping, take before bed. It is usually applied to the abdomen, inner thighs, or low back. If you are still menstruating regularly, use it only during the second half of your cycle. However, most women at this time have irregular cycles in which case use it until your period starts, then discontinue for 2 weeks and resume. For women who are done menstruating (no period for 1 year) use daily for 25 days of the month, take 5-7 days off, and then resume.
If you prefer not to use the progesterone and your main concern is hot flashes I would try the Vitabase brand Black Cohosh Plus. This provides a combination of herbs designed to help relieve hot flashes. You could also add the Soy Isoflavone product from Vitabase as the phyto-estrogens in this product help make up for the declining estrogen levels in your body.
Another nice product is called AM/PM peri-menopause formula. You take 1 dose in the morning which is designed to reduce hot flashes and promote energy and you take 1 dose in the evening which is designed to promote sleep and prevent night sweats.
My niece has just be diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. She is taking medication but having difficulty controlling her numbers. Would it be good for her to try some natural products along with her medication to try to help even out her numbers?
People with Type 1 diabetes should never start taking supplements without a doctor's supervision. Certain supplements can affect they way your body uses insulin which may cause dangerously low blood sugar levels. Always monitor your sugars carefully when starting a new supplement and be sure to advise your doctor first.
Chromium has been shown to be helpful in improving the body's sensitivity to insulin. 200 micrograms (mcg) is the dose that has most often been studied. Improving insulin sensitivity can result in needing less insulin to control blood sugars.
Magnesium has been shown to be low in individuals with type 1 diabetes and supplementing with 100-300mg daily may help to even out blood sugar levels.
A high quality multi-vitamin is very important as it provides essential nutrients that protect against damage from diabetes. The B vitamins, specifically B6 and B12, help to protect the nerves from being damaged. Anti-oxidants like Vitamin C, selenium, zinc and Vitamin E work to prevent damage to the eyes and kidneys.
The single most important thing for controlling blood sugar levels is diet. How she eats will be a huge part in determining how diabetes will affect her life. Dr. Bernstein, M.D. wrote a fantastic book called “Diabetes Solution” which explains in detail how blood sugar can be dramatically influenced by what you eat. Using diet in combination with insulin to modulate blood sugar levels is the most important strategy for reducing complications from diabetes. I suggest that you, your niece and her family all read the book.