Sunscreen Schishms

Evidence is trending to show that several common sunscreen chemicals have toxic or adverse effects on human health.

Extensive research has shown that a number of UV filters frequently used in commercial sunscreens (e.g. 4-MBC, octyl methoxycinnamate (OMC), octyl-dimethyl-PABA) possess endocrine-disruptor activity, i.e. interfere with endogenous hormone action and production.

Endocrine disruptors have been implicated in the development of a number of diseases, including reproductive cancers, as well as the abnormal development of the male reproductive system.

HRT and Ovarian Cancer

A recent study in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that women taking HRT had an increased risk of ovarian cancer irrespective of the duration of use of hormone replacement therapy or the type of therapy. The study involved 900,000 women in Denmark who were followed for an average of eight years. Compared […]

Folinic Acid VS Folate and Weight Loss

Many of you may have heard discussion in the media recently about the MTHFR gene and its association with folinic acid and weight loss.

The MTHFR gene is an important regulatory enzyme involved in the metabolism of hormones. One aspect of a defect in this gene (and 50 per cent of Australians are estimated to carry this gene polymorphism) is central adiposity, or being overweight. It is associated with higher BMI, higher waist to hip ratio, higher androgens and lower SHBG (sex hormone binding globulin).

Vitamin D Deficiency and Safe Supplementation

Vitamin D is obtained through the diet, and depending on sun exposure is also produced and stored in the body. Dietary vitamin D is found in fortified food, such as milk and butter, fish and sun-dried shitake mushrooms.

Traditionally, the primary function of vitamin D3 has been to assist in the development, growth and mineralisation of a healthy skeleton through its role in calcium metabolism. Recent findings however have shown other benefits of vitamin D3, such as playing a vital role in maintaining the immune and nervous systems, a healthy cardiovascular system and cardiac muscle, healthy skin, kidney health and muscle strength. Vitamin D is also required for healthy cell differentiation, particularly in the prostate gland.

RHODIOLA – the Golden Rose of a naturopath’s dispensary!

This relatively new herb to be added to my herbal dispensary is a fantastic adaptogenic herb. It can increase stamina and energy, improve memory, has an anti oxidant effect, alleviates anxiety and has even been shown to reduce high altitude sickness. What more could a naturopath want?!  Rhodiola rosea (R.rosea) commonly referred to as the golden root and rose root […]

Muesli vs Sportsdrinks

Latest research reported in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition has found that sports drinks specially formulated to aid recovery, are not so special after all!    The research involved 12 athletes who cycled for two hours at a comfortable work rate. They consumed an electrolyte sports drink immediately after one exercise session and a bowl […]

Magnesium and Migraine

A number of clinical trials have established a clear link between magnesium and the development of migraine. Magnesium is involved in the release of nitric acid, a chemical that dilates blood vessels, as well as a number of migraine related receptors and neurotransmitters. Studies show that up to 50% of migraine sufferers are deficient in magnesium during an acute attack and that the infusion with magnesium gives rapid relief.

Swine Flu Virus (Influenza type A H1N1)

A strong, healthy, viable immune system is the very best prevention to keep all winter viruses at bay. A few very simple strategies can go a long way in boosting a vulnerable immune system or enhancing a reasonably effective one.

Kelp, Yourself and Your Metabolic Rate

A recent study conducted by the Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) has found that 43% of Australians do not receive enough iodine, while 70% of women of child-bearing age and about 10% of children between the ages of two and three are iodine deficient.

On the Outside

Our skin is the largest organ of the body, covering a mind-boggling 20 square feet or so. What we place next to this crucial organ is therefore very significant. Equally important to consider is the impact on the environment of the textiles we choose to place next to our skin.