Do You Have Leaky Gut Syndrome? (You May Be Surprised)

                                    

What is Leaky Gut Syndrome?

The gut is naturally permeable to very small molecules in order to absorb these vital nutrients. Leaky Gut Syndrome is a condition that involves damage of the lining of the small intestine causing incompletely digested nutrients, toxins, bacteria, and wastes to “leak” through the intestines and flood the blood stream. These foreign substances then entering the blood and cause an autoimmune response in the body including inflammatory and allergic reactions such as respiratory and digestive issues, headaches, joint pain, skin conditions, and more.

Once these tight junctions get broken apart, it is defined as leaky gut. When your gut is leaky, things like toxins, microbes, and undigested food particles can escape from your intestines and travel throughout your body via your bloodstream. Your immune system marks these "foreign invaders" as pathogens and attacks them. The immune response, hence “autoimmunity”, to these invaders can appear in the form of any of the nine signs you have a leaky gut, which are listed below.

Because damaged cells in the intestines may fail to produce the enzymes needed for proper digestion, absorption of essential nutrients is compromised, creating further imbalance throughout the body that can contribute to various issues including hormone imbalance and a weakened immune system.

Thus, substances leak out of the intestines, the liver is then forced to work extra hard to filter them out of the blood stream. The extra burden on the liver can result in the accumulation of fatty liver tissue.  Some toxins may be sent back into the blood stream when the liver’s ability to detoxify fails, where they reach muscles and connective tissues.

Be aware that Leaky Gut Syndrome isn’t typically diagnosed in western medicine; however, it can be affecting your health as it does to many others.  There are several health issues related to Leaky Gut Syndrome which go undiagnosed, misdiagnosed or are ignored by traditional medicine. Patients may be left with frustrating and uncomfortable symptoms and no answers.

#1) Are you having any of the listed symptoms? #2) Have you been testing? #3) Have you be thoroughly explained the condition? #4) Do you know where to seek out support?

What causes leaky gut?

The main culprits are foods, infections, and toxins. Gluten is the number one cause of leaky gut.  In sensitive people, gluten can cause the gut cells to release zonulin, a protein that can break apart tight junctions in the intestinal lining.  Other factors such as sugar, excessive alcohol, infections, toxins, stress and age can also cause these tight junctions to break apart.  The most common infectious causes are candida overgrowth, intestinal parasites, and small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).

DID YOU KNOW???

Toxins come in the form of medications, like Motrin, Advil, steroids, antibiotics, and acid-reducing drugs, and environmental toxins like mercury, pesticides and BPA from plastics. Stress and age also contribute to a leaky gut.

Some factors that may contribute to Leaky Gut Syndrome include:

Ø  Inherent weak digestion (All children fall into this category)

Ø  Stress

Ø  Too much refined sugar

Ø  Inadequate dietary fiber

Ø  Excessive alcohol intake

Ø  Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS)

Ø  Food sensitivities or allergies

Ø  Radiation and cytotoxic drugs

Ø  Parasitic infections

Ø  Candida (an imbalance of intestinal flora)

Ø  Antibiotics

Ø  The candida connection

WHY Antibiotics? Antibiotics are a common cause of Leaky Gut Syndrome because of the destruction of the beneficial bacteria that are required for healthy metabolic functioning and an adequate immune response.  As a result, antibiotics also support the excessive growth of pathogenic fungi and yeast in the body, such as Candida Albicans.

WHY Candida? Candida contributes to Leaky Gut Syndrome by causing the small intestine’s epithelial cells to shrink.  Spaces are then formed, and intestinal toxins can pass through to the blood. Important immune agents in the epithelial mucus of the small intestine that normally neutralize toxins are overwhelmed by the increased flow, and the immune system is compromised.

Signs You Have a Leaky Gut

1. Digestive issues such as gas, bloating, diarrhea or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

2. Seasonal allergies or asthma.

3. Hormonal imbalances such as PMS or PCOS.

4. Diagnosis of an autoimmune disease such as rheumatoid arthritis, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, lupus, psoriasis, or celiac disease.

5. Diagnosis of chronic fatigue or fibromyalgia.

6. Mood and mind issues such as depression, anxiety, ADD or ADHD.

7. Skin issues such as acne, rosacea, or eczema.

8. Diagnosis of candida overgrowth.

9. Food allergies or food intolerances.

10. Diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes or Metabolic Syndrome.

LEAKY GUT SYNDROME QUESTIONNAIRE

0 = Symptom is not present or rarely present

1 = Mild/sometimes

2 = Moderate/often

3 = Sever/almost always

INTESTINAL PERMEABILITY / LEAKY GUT SYNDROME

Constipation and/or diarrhea                                      0              1              2              3

Abdominal pain or bloating                                          0              1              2              3

Mucous or blood in stool                                              0              1              2              3

Joint pain or swelling, arthritis                                    0              1              2              3

Chronic or frequent fatigue or tiredness                 0             1              2              3

Food allergies, sensitivities or intolerance             0              1              2              3

Sinus or nasal congestion                                             0              1              2              3

Chronic or frequent inflammations                          0              1              2              3

Eczema, skin rashes or hives (urticaria)                   0              1              2              3

Asthma, hayfever, or airborne allergies                  0              1              2              3

Confusion, poor memory or mood swings             0              1              2              3

Use of NSAIDS (Aspirin, Tylenol, Motrin)                0              1              2              3

History of antibiotic use                                               0              1              2              3

Alcohol consumption makes you feel sick              0              1              2              3

Ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s or celiac’s disease        0              1              2              3

YOUR TOTAL: ________________________

Score 1-5: Leaky gut less apt to be present.

Score 6-10: Leaky gut may possibly be present.

Score 7-19: Leaky gut probably present.

Score 20+: Leaky gut almost certainly present. 

IF YOU OR A FAMILY MEMBER PRESENTS WITH SIGNS OF LEAKY GUT...CALL US!!!

WE CAN HELP!

Royal Healing Natural Health Center

832-913-5022

The Effect of Micronutrients and Your Thyroid

The thyroid gland is situated in front of the neck, just below your larynx (voice box).  

Did you know? 

The hormones produced in your thyroid gland regulate metabolism in every cell of the body.   Therefore, a deficency of thyroid hormones can affect virtually all body functions.  People with low thyroid function are diagnosed with Hypothyroidism and if the deficiency is severe it can be life-threatening (Myxedema).  

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS:

Depression	Difficulty Losing Weight	Dry Skin
Headaches	Hyperlipidemia	Headaches
Recurrent Infections	Cold Intolerance	Thinning of Eyebrows
Lethargy/Fatigue	Memory Problems	Menstrual Problems

Are you getting the Nutrients you need? 

There is overwhelming evidence that micronutrient deficiencies are associated with the chronic disease process and the overall condition of one's health.   Around the globe the most common cause of hypothyroidism is iodine deficiency.  Iodine deficiency leads to hypothyroidism or the development of an enlarged thyroid gland (a goiter), or both.  Zinc, selenium, vitamin E, and vitamin A function together in many body processes, including the manufacture of thyroid hormone.  A deficiency of any of these nutrients would result in production of lower levels of active thyroid hormone.  

HYPOTHYROIDISM: Nutrient Correlation Wheel

FACT: It is estimated that 12% of people will have a thyroid problem in their lifetime.  

Below are tips on three supplements that could help or harm your thyroid.

• Iodine, vitamin D and selenium can all impact thyroid health through affecting the immune system and potentially increasing or reducing chances of autoimmunity.
• The most common cause of hypothyroidism in westernized countries is an autoimmune process known as Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis.
• Hypothyroidism is diagnosed when TSH is high and T4 is low.
• Some studies show that you can lower the antibodies associated with Hashimoto’s with selenium. However, these studies may be biased.
• Recommended dosage of selenium is 200mcg per day.
• There is much association data showing that patients with Hashimoto’s or hypothyroidism have low vitamin D levels. Recently, a study showed treatment with Vitamin D decreased TPO antibodies.
• Recommended vitamin D levels between 40-50 ng/mL.
• Replete vitamin D deficiency with a dose between 2,000IU-10,000IU per day.
• Best source of vitamin D is good, safe sun exposure.
• 24-hour urinary iodine is the gold standard for iodine testing.
• The research shows the best-established environmental factor contributing to thyroid autoimmunity is excess iodine.
•  A low iodine diet has been shown to help thyroid autoimmunity. A low iodine diet is defined as less than 100mcg of iodine per day but one should always be above 20mcg per day to avoid iodine deficiency.
• Recommended daily iodine intake should be between 150mcg-1100mcg per day with a sweet spot around 450mcg.
• LEARN MORE TODAY ON TREATING MICRONUTRIENT DEFICENCY RELATED CONDITIONS 
• CONTACT DR. EZZY at 832-913-5022
• RoyalHealingND.com

HOW CAN SUPPLEMENTS MAXIMIZE YOUR COGNITIVE POTENTIAL

The critical importance to health of a whole foods diet and lifestyle changes cannot be overstated.   However, as I mentioned previous, it’s nearly impossible to get brain-healthy nutrition from diet alone these days.  The use of vitamins, minerals, and other food factors to support good health as well as to prevent or treat illness – is an important component of nutritional medicine.  

We all are familar of the well-known statement...

"The Average Human Uses upto 10% of Their Brain."

The key functions of nutrients such as vitamins and minerals in the human brain revolve around their role as essential components in enzymes and coenzymes.  That being said supplements provide the necessary support/nutrients to allow the enzymes of a particular tissue to work at optimal levels.   

In addition to serving as necessary components in enzymes, many supplements will exert pharmacologic effects...without major side effects.   There’s an abundance of evidence that taking the right vitamins can improve how well your brain works now … and protect it from mental decline in the future.  In our society today, stress, sugar, caffeine, tobacco, alcohol, medications, and poor digestion are just some of the issues that increase your need for vitamins.  A key essential strategy for both brain health and the body is to load your body with the proper nutrients that help it to attack oxidative forces, reduce inflammation, and supply raw materials for regeneration.  For the individuals seeking to enhance mental clarity, sharpen their memory, and improve cognitive support, research has shown that targeted functional supplements can be an effective resource.

These key vitamins for the brain help improve memory focus and mood while also guarding against mental and physical diseases. 

ESSENTIAL PLAYERS IN BRAIN HEALTH:

1. DHA

• Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), is an omega-3 fatty acid that is important as a structural component of the brain, comprising approximately 40% of its weight.  Within the cell membrane, DHA affects the transport of choline, which is a precursor for acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter, and phoshatidylcholine, another important fat in the cell membranes.  DHA can be found in fish oil based supplements.  For a vegan alternative, flaxseed contains a precursor that the body can convert to DHA (although in lower amounts).
2. VITAMIN C
• 
  Vitamin C is the most potent antioxidant vitamin, which improves blood flow to your brain. .  Your brain has approximately 100 billion neurons which communicate with each other via brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.  Vitamin C is essential in their production.  Neurotransmitters impact your ability to focus, concentrate, and remember.  They also control your mood, cravings, addictions, sleep, and more.  In a recent study, subjects randomly given vitamin C reported feeling happier, often within as little as one week.  Vitamin C protects against age-related brain degeneration, including dementia, Alzheimer’s disease and strokes.  Vitamin C protects against age-related brain degeneration, including dementia, Alzheimer’s disease and strokes.  You can see free radical damage at work when you cut open an apple and watch it turn brown.  Vitamin C’s antioxidant power can be enhanced further when taken along with vitamin E.
  
  
3. COGNITEX WITH BRAIN SHIELD
• Brain decline affects all aging humans. Scientific studies demonstrate more youthful
  
  cognition and memory in response to the proper nutrients. Cognitex® provides the following brain boosting ingredients in one advanced formula:
  
  Alpha-glyceryl phosphoryl choline boosts levels of acetylcholine; which is intimately involved in memory and enables brain cells to communicate. Acetylcholine levels markedly decline as humans age past 30. 
  Ashwagandha inhibits an enzyme (acetylcholinesterase) that breaks down acetylcholine in the brain.  
• Gastrodin acts as a "brain shield, " calming brain cells and helping to protect against oxidant, inflammatory, and excitatory damage. 
• Wild blueberry extract has been shown to inhibit oxidative and inflammatory changes in brain cells believed to be involved in memory decline.
• Learn more at: Royal Healing Online Medicinary
4. COGNITION SUPPORT
• 
  Cognition Support contains a blend of high quality, standardized herbal extracts to support healthy cognitive function, learning and memory. The clinically studied ginkgo, Asian ginseng and Bacopa extracts combine with alpha-lipoic acid to further support cognitive and circulatory function.  
• Ginkgo biloba is believed to work by increasing blood supply, reducing blood viscosity, boosting neurotransmitters, and reducing harmful free radicals.  Supplementation with Ginkgo extracts are currently used for treating of a wide range of conditions including memory loss, concentration problems, mental confusion, depression, anxiety, dizziness, tinnitus, and headache.
•  Purchase this product at: Royal Healing Online Medicinary
5. MENTAL ACUITY FORMULA
• Mental Acuity Formula is a mental sharpness supplement with ginkgo, B-vitamins, and clinically-studied herbs.  For mild memory problems associated with aging, Mental Acuity Formula “memory and focus formula” provides both immediate and long-term benefits!  
• Mental Acuity Formula safely supports enhanced focus and brain function through its unique blend of powerful antioxidants, energizing B vitamins, high-potency alpha lipoic acid and clinically-studied herbal extracts.
•  Read more on this product at: Royal Healing Online Medicinary
6. NUTRA BIOGENESIS BIOFOCUS BAR
• A comprehensive multivitamin/mineral specialty bar with nutritional support for healthy neurological and cognitive function.   
  Convenient and delicious nutrition for children on the go. Nutritionally designed to promote blood sugar stability, improve nutrient density, and support neurological and cognitive function. 
  
  Research has shown that a balanced healthy diet, especially one rich in essential vitamins and minerals, can correct low blood concentrations of the nutrients that are essential for proper brain function. BioFocus Bars are designed to be used as a between-meal snack or meal replacement to balance blood sugar levels and help children stay focused and on task.
• Macronutrient balanced for a healthy glycemic index
• Purchase this product at: Royal Healing Online Medicinary
7. MEMORY PRO
• Broad-spectrum memory support formula.  
• This formula combines acetyl–l–carnitine, phospholipids and herbal extracts to promote neural health, cognitive function and memory. Acetyl–l–carnitine serves as an acetyl donor to support healthy levels of acetylcholine, a key neurotransmitter in the brain. Phosphatidylserine is an important cell membrane component critical for neuron function and communication. 
• Research suggests that it promotes healthy neurotransmitter levels and spatial memory. The Ayurvedic herb Bacopa monniera promotes memory as well as mental function and information processing. Ginkgo biloba and vinpocetine promote cerebral blood flow, vascular integrity and healthy red blood cell and platelet function in the brain. Curcumin, resveratrol and lemon balm extracts help to protect neurons from oxidative stress. In a recent study, Curcumin C3 Complex helped maintain healthy tissue in the brain by supporting macrophage activity. 
• The soothing properties of lemon balm are highlighted in one double blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial, indicating that it promoted relaxation and cognitive function in elderly individuals. 
• Learn more on this product at: Royal Healing Online Medicinary
8. CUROPRO 200MG
• CuraPro is up to 10 times better absorbed than plain curcumin, and has a sustained retention time at meaningful levels in the body. This high-potency formula provides 375 mg of the clinically studied BCM-95 Curcumin, yielding a minimum of 250 mg of curcuminoids per capsule.  
• Curcumin, the principal curcuminoid found in spice turmeric, has recently been studied for its active role in the treatment of various central nervous system disorders. Curcumin demonstrates neuroprotective action in Alzheimer's disease, tardive dyskinesia, major depression, epilepsy, and other related neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders.
• Research studies have shown that one hour after the first dose, parameters of attention and memory improved in the group receiving curcumin as opposed to the placebo.  In addition, curcumin has been found by previous studies to exert antioxidant, anti-inflammation, anticancer, and lipid-lowering effects.
• Purchase this product at: Royal Healing Online Medicinary
9. BRAIN MEMORY 
• Brain Memory, provided by Douglas Laboratories, is a synergistic combination of nutrients, specially designed to help produce the acetylcholine needed to help keep the mind stay sharp.
  Membranes are the working surfaces of every cell, carrying out the essential functions of
  cellular communication and hormonal signal transduction. Nerve cells, in particular, depend on healthy membrane function for normal neurotransmitter metabolism and nerve signal transmission. 
• Acetyl-L-carnitine contributes its acetyl group to the production of acetylcholine, the primary neurotransmitter for memory and thought. The enzyme that makes acetylcholine from acetyl groups and choline is choline acetyl transferase. The activity of this important enzyme has a tendency to decline with age, causing low acetylcholine levels which in turn are thought to contribute to the impairment of brain function that is associated with aging. 
• Read more on this product at: Royal Healing Online Medicinary
10. HMF NEURO POWDER
• While most people connect probiotics with better digestive health, scientists are finding that they are fantastic memory supplements too.   Now there is a growing number of scientists now believe that gut bacteria can influence mental health.  
• HMF Neuro Powder is a unique preparation containing various strains and species of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria along with prebiotics to specifically assist with autistic spectrum disorders (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorders (ADHD). Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus crispatus species have the capability of breaking down the exorphin peptides which can be produced in excess in the intestines of autistic children. Undigested proteins, from foods containing gluten and casein, can lead to the production of aberrant peptides with opioid activity or “exorphins” in the intestines.   
• If you want to know how to improve memory and cognition, it might surprise you to know that a healthy brain begins in your stomach.  With bacterial cells outnumbering human cells ten to one, we would do well take good care of them! Be sure to start a healthy eating program and supplement regimen.  
• Remember, a healthy brain that is less likely to develop Alzheimer’s starts with a healthy gut and a good balance of bacteria. This involves a whole-body approach and it may require the guidance of your Naturopathic Physician or Functional Medicine Physician, especially if you have been exposed to environmental toxins, chemicals, or have a history of chronic medication use including antibiotics.
• Learn more at: Royal Healing Online Medicinary

See if you're deficient...

 CLICK HERE TO KNOW YOUR NUTRIENT LEVELS? 

Micronutrient Deficiency Specialty Test

VISIT OUR ONLINE MEDICINARY

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BE BRAIN FIT...BETTER MIND....BETTER LIFE!!!

Royal Healing Natural Health Center

LIVING WITH “ADHD” AS A CHILD OR AN ADULT

Let's Talk Health 101

The term attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADD/ADHD) encompasses three separate ADHD forms: predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactivity, and combined type --- which is perhaps one of the most improperly used diagnoses and mistreated in pediatrics at present.    Countless children are needlessly placed on amphetamines and atomoxetine, in many cases simply for the convenience of the child’s school. 

Do medications “Treat the Condition” or “MASK the Symptoms”?

In some children, these pharmaceuticals can make a noticeable difference in the child’s ability to function and learn, but may present with unwanted adverse effects.  In addition, for those children who do not truly have some form of ADHD, these medications needlessly alter their physiology and mental processes. 

Q: How frequent are ADHD cases presented?

A: ADHD has been found in 5 to 15 % of school-age children, or about 10 million children in the United States, with a greater incidence in males.

Q: What Factors are linked to ADHD?

A: Diminished function of certain circuits in the executive centers of the brain which are responsible for impulse control and the ability to maintain sustained attention.  Evidence from studies using brain imagery techniques such as MRI, EEGs, CT imaging, and PET scanning indicates that the brains of those with ADHD exhibit differences in both structure and function.

Research into what causes these changes has focused on genetic, environmental, and nutritional factors. 

If your child is experiencing one or more of the listed signs and symptoms, your child may be dealing with a “Dysfunctional Neurological System” –                      THIS CAN BE REVERSED

CHARACTERISTICS OF ADD/ADHD

Frequently associated with difficulties in school, both in learning and in behavior.

*Hyperactivity	*Disorders of memory and thinking
*Emotional Instability (mood swings, outbursts)	*Specific learning disabilities
*Clumsiness	*Disorders of speech and hearing
*Disorders of attention (short attention span, distractibility, not   listening, poor concentration)	*Various neurological signs and brainwave pattern irregularities
*Impulsiveness (action before thought, jumping in class, poor organizing)	Later in adolescence and adulthood, those with ADHD have a high risk of experiencing depression or anxiety, substance abuse and addictions, and social problems.

Facts to Know:

·         A child who has some form of inattentive or hyperactive behavior usually needs help to control his or her behavior in a classroom environment.

·         The key point to keep in mind is that physical substances –natural or pharmaceutical – are only part of the treatment. 

·         The treatment goal plan should be to use substances only to resolve underlying conditions or as a temporary support mechanism while the individual learns how to naturally control his/her behavior in structured social settings.  

How Can Naturopathic/Alternative Medicine Help?

As a Naturopathic Medical Doctor I approach ADHD, like all imbalances in the body, which is to say I don’t assume the human body is subject to an illness when the proper diet, supplementation and lifestyle precautions are taken.  When a patient has an underlying condition, it is necessary to look deeper and find out what missing links are interfering with the efficacy of their WHOLE body as ONE unique system.

My goal is to support each individual by strengthening the integrity of their immune, digestive, metabolic, and neurological systems so there is less risk of an imbalance or infection attacking the body, leaving it vulnerable to the aftermath of feeling sick, overwhelmed, disconnected, or hyperactive.

Naturopathic Medicine…The Real Solution

1.       We focus on getting to the underlying root cause of the condition.  In the case of ADHD, a treatment plan will involve the detection and elimination of any imbalances; food allergies, heavy metals or environmental toxicity.

2.       The role of nutritional and environmental factors as the underlying cause of ADHD is increasingly being recognized  As a result, we will establish an individualized optimal nutritional diet, including the use of high-potency multiple vitamins and supplements as needed. 

3.       Neurotransmitter and Micronutrient testing can untangle complex and recurring conditions by getting to the root problem underlying the symptom

4.       Biofeeback treatment is designed to train individuals with ADHD to reduce or eliminate abnormal brain wave activity.     

WANT TO KNOW MORE ON TREATMENT & HOW WE CAN HELP!

CONTACT US:

Royal Healing Natural Health Ctr

Dr. Ezenwanyi Ahaghotu, ND

2717 Commercial Center Blvd.
Katy, TX 77494   

Phone: 832-913-5022
Email: info@RoyalHealingND.com
Web: RoyalHealingND.com

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