long article, but worth a read - especially if you suspect you have a thyroid problem:
http://www.newswithviews.com/Howenstine/james37.htm
IODINE IS VITAL FOR GOOD HEALTH
By Dr. James Howenstine, MD.
November 5, 2005
NewsWithViews.com
Lack of iodine is widespread in the United States today. For many years iodine was added to bread in generous quantities which prevented iodine deficiency. Each slice of bread contained 150 mcg. of iodine filling the whole days RDA of iodine In 1960 the average diet consumed about 1 mg. of iodine daily with bakery products accounting for about 75 % of the total. This quantity of iodine was enough to decrease the thyroid glands ability to absorb radioactive iodine and it was also sufficient to prevent excess release of thyroid hormone thus preventing many cases of hyperthyroidism (Grave’s Disease).
Forty years ago the food industry decided to remove iodine from baked goods and replace the iodine with bromine. Iodine and bromine appear similar to the thyroid gland and bromine easily binds to the thyroid gland’s receptors for iodine. Bromine, however, is of no value to the thyroid gland unlike iodine and it inhibits the activity of iodine in the thyroid gland. Bromine also can cause impaired thinking and memory, drowsiness, dizziness and irritability. This substitution of bromine for iodine has resulted in nearly universal deficiency of iodine in the American populace. Iodine therapy helps the body eliminate fluoride, bromine, lead, cadmium, arsenic, aluminum and mercury. Could this substitution of bromine for iodine have been carried out to increase diseases and thus create more need for pharmaceutical drugs?
Among the problems caused by iodine deficiency are:
• Underactivity of the thyroid gland produces fatigue. In rodents iodine deficiency leads to abnormal pituitary-adrenal function. The adrenal gland provides energy and stamina.
• When iodine no longer binds to thyroid cell membranes enzymes called peroxidases are able to damage these membranes and produce autoimmune diseases such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and Hyperthroidism (Graves Disease). Researcher Dr. Guy Abraham has observed several cases of thyroiditis and hyperthyroidism that have been corrected by the simple replacement of iodine. For more than 100 years high doses of iodine have been known to benefit both underactivity (hypothyroidism) of the thyroid gland and overactivity of the thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism). Iodine therapy allows the sluggish thyroid gland to resume normal production of thyroid hormone leading to resolution of hypothyroidism. Provision of iodine stops the peroxidase injury to the thyroid membranes in hyperthyroidism which permits hyperthyroidism to resolve. Thus thyroid surgery for hyperthyroidism is no longer necessary.
• Several human organs need iodine but can not absorb it until blood iodine levels reach high values (stomach, salivary glands). Most persons exhibit impaired production of stomach acid as they age. This impaired capability to produce adequate stomach acid may be a result of iodine deficiency as iodine promotes stomach acidity.
• Resolution of cysts Iodine therapy resolves nearly every case of breast cysts. This treatment also can heal ovarian cysts and works well on skin cysts when rubbed over the cyst.
• Iodine is found in large quantities in the brain and the ciliary body of the eye. Lack of iodine may be involved in production of Parkinson’s disease and glaucoma.
• Lipoprotein (a) This dangerous substance is quite important as it produces plaques in arteries because it is very sticky and collects platelets, calcium and fibrin from the blood circulating inside our arteries. Excessive clotting and vascular disease resulting from high levels of lipoprotein (a) can be reversed by iodine treatment.
• Other Health Problems Iodine has proven value in treating headaches, keloids, and parotid duct stones.
How Can Iodine Deficiency Be Detected?
An accurate test for diagnosing iodine deficiency exists. Dr. Jay Abrahams has developed a loading test to settle this issue. The patient takes 4 iodine tablets (12.5 mg each). If there is sufficient iodine in the individual the excess iodine is excreted in the urine in the next 24 hours. If iodine is lacking the body retains most of the iodine with little iodine appearing in the urine. Use of this test has shown that nearly every patient with any condition known to be associated with iodine deficiency tested positive for iodine lack. Therefore, it often is sensible to assume iodine lack and proceed to treat with iodine.
However, when a patient takes iodine for several months and has shown no improvement this test can be used to exclude a problem with absorption of iodine.
Iodine lack is known to be a factor in the development of breast and prostate cancer. Sixty patients with a variety of cancers were studied. All sixty patients were found to have serious iodine deficiency.
To correct iodine deficiency by taking iodized salt is not feasible. You would need 20 teaspoons of iodized salt daily to get adequate quantities of iodine.
Dr. Abrahams has developed an iodine preparation named Iodoral to treat iodine deficiency. This is composed of dried Lugol’s solution containing 12.5 mg of iodine per tablet. A person with adequate iodine stores who takes 4 of these tablets (50 mg.) will excrete 90 % of the iodine in their urine.
Dr. Abrahams thinks that the correct quantity of iodine needed to maintain sufficient amounts of iodine in the body is 13 mg. daily. This is 100 times more than the government recognized RDA for iodine. This quantity of daily iodine would be distributed as follows –six mg. to thyroid gland, five mg. for the breasts in females and two mg. for the remainder of the body. Males appear to usually, but not always, need slightly less than females.
Prominent thyroid researcher, Dr. Benjamin Eskin, has shown that the thyroid gland and skin prefer to concentrate the iodide form of iodine while the breasts concentrate iodine. His research suggested that the body needs both the iodide and iodine form of iodine. This is easy to accomplish with Lugol’s solution developed by French physician Dr. Jean Lugol in the 1820s. His solution mixed iodine (5 %) with potassium iodide (10 %) and 85 % water. Dr. Lugol’s solution killed germs and was used with success in treating infections and many other conditions. This solution in the recommended 2 drop dosage contains 5 mg. of iodine and 7.5 mg. of iodine which is exactly the quantity of iodine recommended for daily intake by Dr. Abraham. Lugol’s solution tastes metallic unless greatly diluted and stains clothing and skin.
A third solution that works well in correcting iodine deficiency is Triodide made by Scientific Botanicals of Seattle, Washington. This has the same dosage of iodine and iodide combined with a sea vegetable called bladderwrack. This can be obtained from natural food stores, Tahoma Clinic Dispensary and compounding pharmacies. This contains 12.5 mg of iodine in the same 2 drop dosage.
Dr. Abrahams recommends taking 50 mg of Iodoral (four 12.5 mg. tablets), Lugol’s solution (8 drops)or Triodide (8 drops) daily for 3 months as a loading dose. Then this dose should be gradually reduced to the 12.5 mg. maintenance dosage under the supervision of a knowledgeable health care professional. Dr.Abraham feels that 14 to 15 mg. of iodine/iodide daily is the upper maximum of safety. This is close to the recommended dose of 12.5 mg daily so caution is necessary in managing iodine repletion. Japanese researchers have discovered patients with hypothyroidism who were taking 20 mg. of iodine or more daily.
Another valuable iodine preparation is saturated solution of potassium iodide. This does not have the correct ratio of iodine iodide recommended by Dr.Abrahams for correcting iodine deficiency but it does have a multitude of valuable healing properties. It can help open up blocked arteries, disinfect water, cure bladder infections, reduce or eliminate ovarian cysts, diminish unsightly keloids, loosen thick bronchial secretions, reduce or eliminate Peyronie’s Disease and Dupuytron’s contracture.
Endocrine Cancers And Iodine Stores
Iodine deficiency is a recognized risk factor in the development of cancer of the breast, prostate, and probably the ovary and endometrium. Breast Cancer is twice as common (12.1 %) in women taking natural thyroid hormone or synthetic thyroid hormone as in women not taking thyroid hormones (6.2 %). The risk for breast cancer in women taking thyroid hormones increases with time. Women who had taken thyroid hormone for 15 years had a 19.5 % incidence of breast cancer while women who had been on thyroid hormone therapy for five years had only a 10 % incidence of breast cancer. This increase in breast cancer with time suggests that correction of a iodine deficiency might well eliminate the need for thyroid hormone and would also lower the incidence of breast cancer.
Japanese women, who are eating lots of seaweed, have the highest iodine intake (13.8 mg. daily) of women anywhere in the world. They also have the lowest incidence of breast cancer in the world. Japan has one of the lowest worldwide rates of every type of cancer with the exception of stomach cancer. In addition Japan has one of the lowest incidences of iodine deficiency, goiter (enlarged thyroid gland), and hypothyroidism. Iceland, another high iodine intake country, has low rates of goiter and breast cancer. Two countries with low iodine intakes (Thailand, Mexico) have high rates of breast cancer and goiter.
Patient Studies.With Iodine Therapy
A patient of Dr. Rowen named Betty had severely painful breast cysts. She took 5 mg. of iodine daily with complete disappearance of painful breast cysts.
Veronica, another patient of Dr. Rowen, had advanced breast cancer with severe hip pain from a bone metastasis. Iodine loading test showed severe deficiency of iodine. After three months of Iodoral she still has not restored her iodine levels but her excretion of bromine has increased 10 fold. Her cancer therapy with IPT and artemisin has been stable with only an occasional IPT and she continues with 25 mg. of Iodoral three times daily. Dr. Abrahams relates that he has seen two remissions of breast cancer in persons taking 75 mg of Iodorol daily. Iodine deficiency plays a role in allowing breast cancer and prostate cancer to develop.
Another physician has seen a case of prostate cancer go into remission after taking Iodoral and supplements.
George Flechas MD relates that many of his diabetic patients need lowering of insulin dosage and diabetic drugs after repletion of iodine deficiency. Dr. Rowen has observed the same thing.
Food Sources Of Iodine
Iodine from fish must be limited because of mercury problems. However, sardines have such a short life span they do not get contaminated with mercury. My suggestion would be to buy tins of sardines packed in tomato sauce so you can avoid the transfats used in oil packed sardines.
Brown and red seaweeds contain the most iodine (kombu, focus, etc.).of sea vegetables. You may still need supplemental iodine to get an adequate quantity for repletion of iodine deficiency. unless you are eating lots of seaweeds.
Iodoral can be purchased from Optimox 310-618-9870 if you are willing to buy a case. Otherwise you can probably find this in health food stores. Lugol’s solution is a satisfactory way to obtain iodine but you will need a prescription. The dose is 2 drops daily. Be careful in measuring as 3 drops daily can lead to toxic symptoms.
The evidence presented here proves that iodine is vital to human health. Many persons will experience improved health when their iodine deficiency is corrected.
Index Words in order
Iodine, hyperthyroidism, bromine, thyroid gland, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, hypothyroidism, breast cysts, ovarian cysts, skin cyst, Parkinson’s Disease, glaucoma, lipoprotein (a), keloids, bladder infections, arteries, bronchial secretions, Peyronie’s Disease, Duputron’s contracture, cancer breast, cancer ovary, cancer endometrium, cancer prostate, goiter, diabetes
© 2005 Dr. James Howenstine - All Rights Reserved
Dr. James A. Howenstine is a board certified specialist in internal medicine who spent 34 years caring for office and hospital patients. After 4 years of personal study he became convinced that natural products are safer, more effective, and less expensive than pharmaceutical drugs. This research led to the publication of his book A Physicians Guide To Natural Health Products That Work. Information about these products and his book can be obtained from amazon.com and at
http://www.naturalhealthteam.com
Saturday, 10 November 2007
One Week Salt Water Cleanse
I personally gained benefits from this just in one day ( may not be necessary to do it for 7 days)
from http://www.lifeevents.org/salt-water-cleanse.htm :
"Saltwater cleansing practice purifies the digestive system and draws impurities out of organs inside the body. Salt-water cleanses may be used to treat common colds, high blood pressure (it's important to have salt from a natural source that has not been processed), digestive ailments, fever and degenerative related ailments.
Natural Salt Crystal: Use non-purified salt for salt water cleansing.
Natural Salt Crystal: Smithsonian Institute
Use non-purified salt for salt water cleansing.
We recommend this inner body cleanse with natural salt prior to spiritual consultations, meditation groups and retreats.
Before starting a new healing program, taking a new herb/vitamin, fasting or changing diet, you need to rid your body of built-up toxins and schlock. Getting rid of the old stuff, will make way for the new program to take effect. How else will you know that a healing program is working if you are just putting new things on top of the old?
NOTE: persons with very advanced forms of ulcer, appendicitis, intestinal tuberculosis, or cancer are recommended not to practice this technique.
Prior to Cleanse
If you have problems with constipation, please clean your bowls with a safe herbal laxative (i.e. senna or garcinia) for one or two days before this cleanse.
During the Cleanse
Avoid alcohol, spicy foods, fried foods and anything rich or heavy during this week of cleansing. You will take your digestive tract back to its childhood state. Feel what would be best to feed a small child and you will know what to eat.
Salt-Water Flush Recipe
* 2 Quarts (2 Liters) Water - boil to tea drinking temperature
* 1 Level Tablespoon Natural Salt - from sea or ground
* Juice from a Lime/Lemon - if required to offset the taste
* 16oz (1/2 Liter) Serving Cup
* Alarm Clock - set to sunrise for 7 days
* Toilet Paper
Salt from a natural source is better for cleaning the body than iodized salt. Sea salt is fine, evaporated salt is fine, and ground-based salt is fine.
Natural Sea Salt: Another possible natural source for saltwater cleaning during a salt-water flush.
Natural Sea Salt: Another possible source (natural)
for cleaning during a salt-water flush.
YES!!! You will drink 2 Quarts (2 Liters) in one sitting.
NOTE FROM JOHN PARSONS - THE USUAL RECOMMENDATION IS 2 TEASPOONS OF SEA SALT DISSOLVED IN 1 QUART OF FILTERED WATER (1 QUART IS ABOUT 1 LITRE).THIS IS ADEQUATE.
Your Daily Program for Saltwater Cleaning
The organs of the body have open channels in the early morning hours between 5AM and 7AM. This is the best time to drink salt water and a common time in most spiritual practices to perform a morning ritual.
Face the four directions: North, South, East and West.
* East for Water
* West for Earth
* South for Fire, and
* North for Air
Ask for blessings, purity, strength and anything you might need. Drink the hot salt water facing the four directions until finished.
When you drink in each direction, feel how the associated element effects your life. Example: Water - "Thank you water. Biological life comes from water, thank you. Humans come from water, thank you. I came from the water of my mother's womb, thank you. I relax in the surf at the beach, thank you. I drink this yummy salt water to heal my body, thank you..."
If you find yourself with a full stomach, even after the first glass, the following exercises will help. The idea is to get the water out of your stomach and into your intestines.
* Exercise 1 - Rub your stomach with the palm of right your hand clockwise 21 times and counter clockwise 13 times.
* Exercise 2 - Raise your arms over your head (still standing) and sway them left to right.
* Exercise 3 - Spread your feet shoulder width apart and spin your body at the waist from left to right. Let your arms swing with your body. Feel the stretch in your lower back and abdomen.
* Exercise 4 - With knees and feet together, bend your knees and squat. Reach with your left hand and touch the tip of your index finger to the outside of your right foot. Now try to do both together with your head facing somewhat forward. You should find your left elbow touch the outside of your right knee when you're in the full squat position. This exercise is of course a little (sic) difficult. If too difficult try something else.
* Exercise 5 - Doing the Hatha Yoga Cobra Position is also good as are other exercises that get the intestines stimulated.
Results from the Saltwater Flush
What to Benefits to Expect from your Intestinal Cleanse
As with any cleansing program, reactions vary from people to people. You may take more than one hour to drink this much saltwater. After a little practice, most people can drink the water in 30 to 45 minutes. Some people throw up the first glass; keep trying and you'll be glad you did.
You should expect to make trips to the toilet throughout the morning. Some people finish cleaning their bowels in a couple of hours. It may take a little longer during the first few days.
One thing that is very common, is to have LOTS of additional energy and a great appetite. This too may take a couple of days.
Plan to take it easy on the first few days, especially if you have never done any kind of cleansing before (headaches commonly occur during detoxification.) Very soon you will be amazed at the effects on your energy, mood and emotions. Physical cleaning is often connected to a deeper more psychological and spiritual cleaning.
You will be taking your digestive track back to its childhood state and this can be serious work. Eat light (no fried, heavy, spicy food) during the cleanse and do not drink alcohol. Consider what you your feed a 5 to 6 year old child (not McDonald's). When you stop cleansing, watch what you eat and bring your body back to your normal diet slowly.
After the first 7 days, you may choose to continue. During the second week, drink every second day, the third week, drink every third day, the forth week, drink every fourth... until you drink salt water one time in one week for the rest of your life. Or... whenever you feel you need a cleansing.
People over 25 years of age can drink salt water once per week as a laxative and to keep the immune system up to par.
For more information about the Yogic Practice of Shank Prakshalana (Internal Purification) see this short presentation on the net.
Here is a short exert of the information below:
Salt Water Flush Benefits:
* The effects won't appear immediately, but after 2-3 days, manifesting as freshness of the breath, better sleep, disappearance of rushes and pimples, a general state of lightness in the body, improved digestion.
* The sweat becomes odorless.
* The skin and especially the complexion bright, the glance becomes radiant and magnetic.
Increases the strength of the immune system.
* Regulates the metabolism, bringing balance in the body - therefore people who are overweight might harmoniously lose some weight and people who are too skinny might gain a few kilograms.
Salt Water Cleaning Provides relief for these ailments:
* Chronic headaches
* Diseases of the eye, nose, teeth, heart, abdomen, and rectum
* Appendicitis
* Damaged intestines
* Inflammation of the digestive tract
* Intestinal worms
* Menstrual irregularities
* Diseases connected to the organs of reproduction
* All the 25 kinds of urethral infection and affections known in the Ayurvedic medicine."
ps. also see the post about coconut oil if you are serious about detox and weight loss.
yours in health
John
from http://www.lifeevents.org/salt-water-cleanse.htm :
"Saltwater cleansing practice purifies the digestive system and draws impurities out of organs inside the body. Salt-water cleanses may be used to treat common colds, high blood pressure (it's important to have salt from a natural source that has not been processed), digestive ailments, fever and degenerative related ailments.
Natural Salt Crystal: Use non-purified salt for salt water cleansing.
Natural Salt Crystal: Smithsonian Institute
Use non-purified salt for salt water cleansing.
We recommend this inner body cleanse with natural salt prior to spiritual consultations, meditation groups and retreats.
Before starting a new healing program, taking a new herb/vitamin, fasting or changing diet, you need to rid your body of built-up toxins and schlock. Getting rid of the old stuff, will make way for the new program to take effect. How else will you know that a healing program is working if you are just putting new things on top of the old?
NOTE: persons with very advanced forms of ulcer, appendicitis, intestinal tuberculosis, or cancer are recommended not to practice this technique.
Prior to Cleanse
If you have problems with constipation, please clean your bowls with a safe herbal laxative (i.e. senna or garcinia) for one or two days before this cleanse.
During the Cleanse
Avoid alcohol, spicy foods, fried foods and anything rich or heavy during this week of cleansing. You will take your digestive tract back to its childhood state. Feel what would be best to feed a small child and you will know what to eat.
Salt-Water Flush Recipe
* 2 Quarts (2 Liters) Water - boil to tea drinking temperature
* 1 Level Tablespoon Natural Salt - from sea or ground
* Juice from a Lime/Lemon - if required to offset the taste
* 16oz (1/2 Liter) Serving Cup
* Alarm Clock - set to sunrise for 7 days
* Toilet Paper
Salt from a natural source is better for cleaning the body than iodized salt. Sea salt is fine, evaporated salt is fine, and ground-based salt is fine.
Natural Sea Salt: Another possible natural source for saltwater cleaning during a salt-water flush.
Natural Sea Salt: Another possible source (natural)
for cleaning during a salt-water flush.
YES!!! You will drink 2 Quarts (2 Liters) in one sitting.
NOTE FROM JOHN PARSONS - THE USUAL RECOMMENDATION IS 2 TEASPOONS OF SEA SALT DISSOLVED IN 1 QUART OF FILTERED WATER (1 QUART IS ABOUT 1 LITRE).THIS IS ADEQUATE.
Your Daily Program for Saltwater Cleaning
The organs of the body have open channels in the early morning hours between 5AM and 7AM. This is the best time to drink salt water and a common time in most spiritual practices to perform a morning ritual.
Face the four directions: North, South, East and West.
* East for Water
* West for Earth
* South for Fire, and
* North for Air
Ask for blessings, purity, strength and anything you might need. Drink the hot salt water facing the four directions until finished.
When you drink in each direction, feel how the associated element effects your life. Example: Water - "Thank you water. Biological life comes from water, thank you. Humans come from water, thank you. I came from the water of my mother's womb, thank you. I relax in the surf at the beach, thank you. I drink this yummy salt water to heal my body, thank you..."
If you find yourself with a full stomach, even after the first glass, the following exercises will help. The idea is to get the water out of your stomach and into your intestines.
* Exercise 1 - Rub your stomach with the palm of right your hand clockwise 21 times and counter clockwise 13 times.
* Exercise 2 - Raise your arms over your head (still standing) and sway them left to right.
* Exercise 3 - Spread your feet shoulder width apart and spin your body at the waist from left to right. Let your arms swing with your body. Feel the stretch in your lower back and abdomen.
* Exercise 4 - With knees and feet together, bend your knees and squat. Reach with your left hand and touch the tip of your index finger to the outside of your right foot. Now try to do both together with your head facing somewhat forward. You should find your left elbow touch the outside of your right knee when you're in the full squat position. This exercise is of course a little (sic) difficult. If too difficult try something else.
* Exercise 5 - Doing the Hatha Yoga Cobra Position is also good as are other exercises that get the intestines stimulated.
Results from the Saltwater Flush
What to Benefits to Expect from your Intestinal Cleanse
As with any cleansing program, reactions vary from people to people. You may take more than one hour to drink this much saltwater. After a little practice, most people can drink the water in 30 to 45 minutes. Some people throw up the first glass; keep trying and you'll be glad you did.
You should expect to make trips to the toilet throughout the morning. Some people finish cleaning their bowels in a couple of hours. It may take a little longer during the first few days.
One thing that is very common, is to have LOTS of additional energy and a great appetite. This too may take a couple of days.
Plan to take it easy on the first few days, especially if you have never done any kind of cleansing before (headaches commonly occur during detoxification.) Very soon you will be amazed at the effects on your energy, mood and emotions. Physical cleaning is often connected to a deeper more psychological and spiritual cleaning.
You will be taking your digestive track back to its childhood state and this can be serious work. Eat light (no fried, heavy, spicy food) during the cleanse and do not drink alcohol. Consider what you your feed a 5 to 6 year old child (not McDonald's). When you stop cleansing, watch what you eat and bring your body back to your normal diet slowly.
After the first 7 days, you may choose to continue. During the second week, drink every second day, the third week, drink every third day, the forth week, drink every fourth... until you drink salt water one time in one week for the rest of your life. Or... whenever you feel you need a cleansing.
People over 25 years of age can drink salt water once per week as a laxative and to keep the immune system up to par.
For more information about the Yogic Practice of Shank Prakshalana (Internal Purification) see this short presentation on the net.
Here is a short exert of the information below:
Salt Water Flush Benefits:
* The effects won't appear immediately, but after 2-3 days, manifesting as freshness of the breath, better sleep, disappearance of rushes and pimples, a general state of lightness in the body, improved digestion.
* The sweat becomes odorless.
* The skin and especially the complexion bright, the glance becomes radiant and magnetic.
Increases the strength of the immune system.
* Regulates the metabolism, bringing balance in the body - therefore people who are overweight might harmoniously lose some weight and people who are too skinny might gain a few kilograms.
Salt Water Cleaning Provides relief for these ailments:
* Chronic headaches
* Diseases of the eye, nose, teeth, heart, abdomen, and rectum
* Appendicitis
* Damaged intestines
* Inflammation of the digestive tract
* Intestinal worms
* Menstrual irregularities
* Diseases connected to the organs of reproduction
* All the 25 kinds of urethral infection and affections known in the Ayurvedic medicine."
ps. also see the post about coconut oil if you are serious about detox and weight loss.
yours in health
John
ultra herbal
I have spent a great deal of time researching herbal product companies and have finally settled on this one - I like the range and quality of their natural products for weight loss, mens and womens health problems, skin problems, etc. see link :
www.ultraherbal.com
www.ultraherbal.com
Thursday, 8 November 2007
vital functions of salt in the body
"Water: Rx for a Healthier Pain-Free Life".
Vital Functions of Salt in the Body
1. Salt is most effective in stabilizing irregular heartbeats and, Contrary to the misconception that it causes high blood pressure, it is actually essential for the regulation of blood pressure - in conjunction with water. Naturally the proportions are critical.
2. Salt is vital to the extraction of excess acidity from the cells in the body, particularly the brain cells.
3. Salt is vital for balancing the sugar levels in the blood; a needed element in diabetics.
4. Salt is vital for the generation of hydroelectric energy in cells in the body. It is used for local power generation at the sites of energy need by the cells.
5. Salt is vital to the nerve cells' communication and information processing all the time that the brain cells work, from the moment of conception to death.
6. Salt is vital for absorption of food particles through the intestinal tract.
7. Salt is vital for the clearance of the lungs of mucus plugs and sticky phlegm, particularly in asthma and cystic fibrosis.
8. Salt is vital for clearing up catarrh and congestion of the sinuses.
9. Salt is a strong natural antihistamine.
10. Salt is essential for the prevention of muscle cramps.
11. Salt is vital to prevent excess saliva production to the point that it flows out of the mouth during sleep. Needing to constantly mop up excess saliva indicates salt shortage.
12. Salt is absolutely vital to making the structure of bones firm. Osteoporosis, in a major way, is a result of salt and water shortage in the body.
13. Salt is vital for sleep regulation. It is a natural hypnotic.
14. Salt is a vitally needed element in the treatment of diabetics.
15. Salt on the tongue will stop persistent dry coughs.
16. Salt is vital for the prevention of gout and gouty arthritis.
17. Salt is vital for maintaining sexuality and libido.
18. Salt is vital for preventing varicose veins and spider veins on the legs and thighs.
19. Salt is vital to the communication and information processing nerve cells the entire time that the brain cells work - from the moment of conception to death.
20. Salt is vital for reducing a double chin. When the body is short of salt, it means the body really is short of water. The salivary glands sense the salt shortage and are obliged to produce more saliva to lubricate the act of chewing and swallowing and also to supply the stomach with water that it needs for breaking down foods. Circulation to the salivary glands increases and the blood vessels become "leaky" in order to supply the glands with water to manufacture saliva. The "leakiness" spills beyond the area of the glands themselves, causing increased bulk under the skin of the chin, the cheeks and into the neck.
21. Sea salt contains about 80 mineral elements that the body needs. Some of these elements are needed in trace amounts. Unrefined sea salt is a better choice of salt than other types of salt on the market. Ordinary table salt that is bought in the super markets has been stripped of its companion elements and contains additive elements such as aluminum silicate to keep it powdery and porous. Aluminum is a very toxic element in our nervous system. It is implicated as one of the primary causes of Alzheimer's disease.
22. Twenty-seven percent of the body's salt is in the bones. Osteoporosis results when the body needs more salt and takes it from the body. Bones are twenty-two percent water. Is it not obvious what happens to the bones when we're deficient in salt or water or both.
* The information on salt intake is taken from Dr. Batmanghelidj's book, "Water: Rx for a Healthier Pain-Free Life".
Vital Functions of Salt in the Body
1. Salt is most effective in stabilizing irregular heartbeats and, Contrary to the misconception that it causes high blood pressure, it is actually essential for the regulation of blood pressure - in conjunction with water. Naturally the proportions are critical.
2. Salt is vital to the extraction of excess acidity from the cells in the body, particularly the brain cells.
3. Salt is vital for balancing the sugar levels in the blood; a needed element in diabetics.
4. Salt is vital for the generation of hydroelectric energy in cells in the body. It is used for local power generation at the sites of energy need by the cells.
5. Salt is vital to the nerve cells' communication and information processing all the time that the brain cells work, from the moment of conception to death.
6. Salt is vital for absorption of food particles through the intestinal tract.
7. Salt is vital for the clearance of the lungs of mucus plugs and sticky phlegm, particularly in asthma and cystic fibrosis.
8. Salt is vital for clearing up catarrh and congestion of the sinuses.
9. Salt is a strong natural antihistamine.
10. Salt is essential for the prevention of muscle cramps.
11. Salt is vital to prevent excess saliva production to the point that it flows out of the mouth during sleep. Needing to constantly mop up excess saliva indicates salt shortage.
12. Salt is absolutely vital to making the structure of bones firm. Osteoporosis, in a major way, is a result of salt and water shortage in the body.
13. Salt is vital for sleep regulation. It is a natural hypnotic.
14. Salt is a vitally needed element in the treatment of diabetics.
15. Salt on the tongue will stop persistent dry coughs.
16. Salt is vital for the prevention of gout and gouty arthritis.
17. Salt is vital for maintaining sexuality and libido.
18. Salt is vital for preventing varicose veins and spider veins on the legs and thighs.
19. Salt is vital to the communication and information processing nerve cells the entire time that the brain cells work - from the moment of conception to death.
20. Salt is vital for reducing a double chin. When the body is short of salt, it means the body really is short of water. The salivary glands sense the salt shortage and are obliged to produce more saliva to lubricate the act of chewing and swallowing and also to supply the stomach with water that it needs for breaking down foods. Circulation to the salivary glands increases and the blood vessels become "leaky" in order to supply the glands with water to manufacture saliva. The "leakiness" spills beyond the area of the glands themselves, causing increased bulk under the skin of the chin, the cheeks and into the neck.
21. Sea salt contains about 80 mineral elements that the body needs. Some of these elements are needed in trace amounts. Unrefined sea salt is a better choice of salt than other types of salt on the market. Ordinary table salt that is bought in the super markets has been stripped of its companion elements and contains additive elements such as aluminum silicate to keep it powdery and porous. Aluminum is a very toxic element in our nervous system. It is implicated as one of the primary causes of Alzheimer's disease.
22. Twenty-seven percent of the body's salt is in the bones. Osteoporosis results when the body needs more salt and takes it from the body. Bones are twenty-two percent water. Is it not obvious what happens to the bones when we're deficient in salt or water or both.
* The information on salt intake is taken from Dr. Batmanghelidj's book, "Water: Rx for a Healthier Pain-Free Life".
Sunday, 4 November 2007
thyroid symptoms
this list of symptoms covers almost everything - could indicate the need for iodine supplements:
Symptoms of Hypothyroidism (An underactive thyroid)
fatigue, exhaustion
feeling run down and sluggish
depression
difficulty concentrating, brain fog
unexplained or excessive weight gain
dry, coarse and/or itchy skin
dry, coarse and/or thinning hair
feeling cold, especially in the extremities
constipation
muscle cramps
increased menstrual flow
more frequent periods
infertility/miscarriage
Symptoms of Hyperthryodisim (An overactive thyroid)
nervousness
irritability
increased perspiration
thinning of your skin
fine brittle hair
muscular weakness especially involving the upper arms and thighs
shaky hands
panic disorder
insomnia
racing heart
more frequent bowel movements
weight loss despite a good appetite
lighter flow, less frequent menstrual periods
More info at the link, including self-tests for hypo and hyperthyroidism.
http://thyroid.about.com/cs/basics_starthere/a/symptoms.htm
Symptoms of Hypothyroidism (An underactive thyroid)
fatigue, exhaustion
feeling run down and sluggish
depression
difficulty concentrating, brain fog
unexplained or excessive weight gain
dry, coarse and/or itchy skin
dry, coarse and/or thinning hair
feeling cold, especially in the extremities
constipation
muscle cramps
increased menstrual flow
more frequent periods
infertility/miscarriage
Symptoms of Hyperthryodisim (An overactive thyroid)
nervousness
irritability
increased perspiration
thinning of your skin
fine brittle hair
muscular weakness especially involving the upper arms and thighs
shaky hands
panic disorder
insomnia
racing heart
more frequent bowel movements
weight loss despite a good appetite
lighter flow, less frequent menstrual periods
More info at the link, including self-tests for hypo and hyperthyroidism.
http://thyroid.about.com/cs/basics_starthere/a/symptoms.htm
Thursday, 1 November 2007
thought for the day
Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day. Teach him how to fish, and he will sit in a boat and drink beer all day.
- Unknown
- Unknown
secret of manifestation
I like this quote - its sums up the principles behind "The Secret"
"There is
nothing more
creative in man than
to believe something into
existence.
Do
you know
what you want?
Begin to
believe it in
as you believe now
that you can smell roses.
Believe it in.
What would you see
if it were true?
Go
to the end
and dwell in the end…
…as if it were true".
Neville
"There is
nothing more
creative in man than
to believe something into
existence.
Do
you know
what you want?
Begin to
believe it in
as you believe now
that you can smell roses.
Believe it in.
What would you see
if it were true?
Go
to the end
and dwell in the end…
…as if it were true".
Neville
Wednesday, 31 October 2007
ghost story for halloween
Considerable numbers of people these days are suffering from causes which are totally unknown to them. Some of them know or sense that there is a possibility of improving their condition and they try as hard as they can to recognize the source of their misfortune.
Many have tried to find a solution to their problems in either traditional or unconventional medicine. Many seek for a solution in their own psyches, but very often even these searches fail.
There is an area which covers a large part of these unrecognized causes but which it very hard to reach; the reason for that being that there is very little knowledge on the subject. That is possession or haunting by ghosts.
Ghosts are entities which previously were people who, after death, did not resolve to pass through to the other side of death's curtain. Possession by ghosts can be the cause of very sad and sometimes positively tragic experiences. This happens for many reasons, chiefly because:
1. The sicknesses of the ghost pass over to the person possessed;
2. The presence of ghosts brings about powerful mood swings from strong negative emotional outbursts through to profound depression. Ghosts can provoke the possessed person to forms of behavior which are not in the person's character, e.g. aggression, violence etc. If a trait like that already exists in a person it will be intensified considerably by the ghost;
3. Ghosts frequently persuade the possessed to commit suicide or murder;
4. Ghosts have a powerful influence on the psyche, provoking mental illnesses. I dare say that the majority of mental illnesses is caused by the presence of ghosts in a person;
5. Ghosts can influence behavior and lead people to dependence on alcohol, drugs as well as to many other unwanted acts.
I have written extensively on this subject in my book "Possessed by Ghosts - Exorcisms in the 21st Century" by Wanda Pratnicka
"Possessed by Ghosts - Exorcisms in the XXI century"
Many have tried to find a solution to their problems in either traditional or unconventional medicine. Many seek for a solution in their own psyches, but very often even these searches fail.
There is an area which covers a large part of these unrecognized causes but which it very hard to reach; the reason for that being that there is very little knowledge on the subject. That is possession or haunting by ghosts.
Ghosts are entities which previously were people who, after death, did not resolve to pass through to the other side of death's curtain. Possession by ghosts can be the cause of very sad and sometimes positively tragic experiences. This happens for many reasons, chiefly because:
1. The sicknesses of the ghost pass over to the person possessed;
2. The presence of ghosts brings about powerful mood swings from strong negative emotional outbursts through to profound depression. Ghosts can provoke the possessed person to forms of behavior which are not in the person's character, e.g. aggression, violence etc. If a trait like that already exists in a person it will be intensified considerably by the ghost;
3. Ghosts frequently persuade the possessed to commit suicide or murder;
4. Ghosts have a powerful influence on the psyche, provoking mental illnesses. I dare say that the majority of mental illnesses is caused by the presence of ghosts in a person;
5. Ghosts can influence behavior and lead people to dependence on alcohol, drugs as well as to many other unwanted acts.
I have written extensively on this subject in my book "Possessed by Ghosts - Exorcisms in the 21st Century" by Wanda Pratnicka
"Possessed by Ghosts - Exorcisms in the XXI century"
Monday, 29 October 2007
'Proof still needed' for flu jab - swine flu
In the light of all the publicity about 'swine flu' this may be of interest:
There is not enough evidence to support the effectiveness of immunising older people against flu, fresh research in the US has concluded.
Researchers from George Washington University, Washington DC, say the benefits in reducing deaths among over 70s have been "greatly exaggerated".
The research led by Dr Lone Simonson, showed that in the US - despite an increase in vaccination coverage from 15% to 65% since 1980 - excess mortality among elderly people actually increased during the 1980s and 1990s.
The findings echo a 2006 British Medical Journal study, and they also cited an Italian study, which found no decline in flu-related mortality rates, even as vaccine coverage rose from 5% to 65%.
More worrying according to a leading anti-vaccine campaigner, Dr Tedd Koren:
"Do You Know What's In A Flu Shot?
Flu shots can cause rare epilepsy and mental retardation.
The flu vaccine contains one of the most poisonous substances known to man, and can damage DNA and cause cancer.
Did you know:
how the flu shot is linked to Alzheimer's?
how many really die from the flu?
how the flu shot damages the immune system ?"
"According to Hugh Fudenberg, MD, the world's leading immunogeneticist and 13th most quoted biologist of our times, if an individual has had five consecutive flu shots between 1970 and 1980 (the years studied), his/her chances of getting Alzheimer's Disease is ten times higher than if they had one, two or no shots. I asked Dr Fudenberg why this was so and he said it was due to the Mercury and Aluminum that is in every flu shot (and most childhood shots). The gradual mercury and aluminum buildup in the brain causes cognitive dysfunction. Is that why Alzheimer's is expected to quadruple?"
(This was quoted from Dr. Fudenberg's speech at the NVIC International Vaccine Conference, Arlington VA, September 1997).
Mercury and aluminum are directly toxic to brain cells and also over-stimulate the brain’s immune system. There is compelling evidence that this mechanism can trigger Alzheimer’s dementia, Parkinson’s disease, Lou Gehrig’s disease and autism spectrum disorders, as well as Gulf War Syndrome.
The greatest risk of vaccinations triggering brain disorders is among those with impaired immunity. We know that as we age, the immune system becomes compromised, primarily because of poor nutrition.
In addition, the mercury in childhood vaccines, as well as adult vaccines such as flu vaccines, accumulates in the brain and is very difficult to remove. The idea of having yearly mercury injections is insane, to say the least, but millions still willingly line up for their annual flu shot.
Are there alternatives to vaccination? Absolutely. We know that there is a solid connection between a strong immune system and nutrition. Several studies have shown that age-related immune problems can be corrected with nutrients such as selenium, vitamins E and C, zinc and the carotenoids. In addition, vitamin D3 helps prevent ovr-reaction of the immune system as seen in these devastating diseases.
There is not enough evidence to support the effectiveness of immunising older people against flu, fresh research in the US has concluded.
Researchers from George Washington University, Washington DC, say the benefits in reducing deaths among over 70s have been "greatly exaggerated".
The research led by Dr Lone Simonson, showed that in the US - despite an increase in vaccination coverage from 15% to 65% since 1980 - excess mortality among elderly people actually increased during the 1980s and 1990s.
The findings echo a 2006 British Medical Journal study, and they also cited an Italian study, which found no decline in flu-related mortality rates, even as vaccine coverage rose from 5% to 65%.
More worrying according to a leading anti-vaccine campaigner, Dr Tedd Koren:
"Do You Know What's In A Flu Shot?
Flu shots can cause rare epilepsy and mental retardation.
The flu vaccine contains one of the most poisonous substances known to man, and can damage DNA and cause cancer.
Did you know:
how the flu shot is linked to Alzheimer's?
how many really die from the flu?
how the flu shot damages the immune system ?"
"According to Hugh Fudenberg, MD, the world's leading immunogeneticist and 13th most quoted biologist of our times, if an individual has had five consecutive flu shots between 1970 and 1980 (the years studied), his/her chances of getting Alzheimer's Disease is ten times higher than if they had one, two or no shots. I asked Dr Fudenberg why this was so and he said it was due to the Mercury and Aluminum that is in every flu shot (and most childhood shots). The gradual mercury and aluminum buildup in the brain causes cognitive dysfunction. Is that why Alzheimer's is expected to quadruple?"
(This was quoted from Dr. Fudenberg's speech at the NVIC International Vaccine Conference, Arlington VA, September 1997).
Mercury and aluminum are directly toxic to brain cells and also over-stimulate the brain’s immune system. There is compelling evidence that this mechanism can trigger Alzheimer’s dementia, Parkinson’s disease, Lou Gehrig’s disease and autism spectrum disorders, as well as Gulf War Syndrome.
The greatest risk of vaccinations triggering brain disorders is among those with impaired immunity. We know that as we age, the immune system becomes compromised, primarily because of poor nutrition.
In addition, the mercury in childhood vaccines, as well as adult vaccines such as flu vaccines, accumulates in the brain and is very difficult to remove. The idea of having yearly mercury injections is insane, to say the least, but millions still willingly line up for their annual flu shot.
Are there alternatives to vaccination? Absolutely. We know that there is a solid connection between a strong immune system and nutrition. Several studies have shown that age-related immune problems can be corrected with nutrients such as selenium, vitamins E and C, zinc and the carotenoids. In addition, vitamin D3 helps prevent ovr-reaction of the immune system as seen in these devastating diseases.
Friday, 26 October 2007
al sears exercise programme research
June 25, 2007
A Pair of Twins, A Pair of Exercises, A Pair of Results
What type of exercise do you think will burn off the most fat for you? Aerobics many people say, weight training others will say. But would you believe neither?
In a recent book written by Dr. Al Sears, he relates the outcome achieved when he had twin girls follow different exercise routines while he measured the change in their weight, Body Mass Index, body fat, and muscle mass for 4 months.
Twin A used a graduated program of aerobic jogging and worked up from one mile a day to 10 miles daily for her exercise. How much weight and how much fat would you guess she lost in 4 months?
Twin B used Dr. Sears' PACE© system, in which she used a graduated program of running in short bursts of increasing intensity with short periods of recovery in between each sprint. At the end of the 4 months Twin B was sprinting 50 yards followed by a recovery period of 30 seconds and repeating for a total of 6 sets. This was certainly a shorter time than Twin A was spending to jog 10 miles every day.
Both twins started with 24.5% body fat. At the end of 4 months, Twin A had lost 8 pounds of fat and 2 pounds of muscle. Her body fat dropped to 19.5%.
Twin B, using Dr. Sears' PACE© system, had dropped 18 pounds of fat, built 9 pounds of muscle and had a very healthy body fat of 10%.
So Twin A lost 10 pounds but lost muscle, and Twin B lost more fat and built muscle.
Which "twin" would you rather follow? Losing fat and building muscle is the best way to maintain your metabolism and improve your healthspan.
These results are very impressive, and Dr. Sears shows even more impressive results in his book using a wide variety of exercises, not just the sprinting used by Twin B.
see also
A Pair of Twins, A Pair of Exercises, A Pair of Results
What type of exercise do you think will burn off the most fat for you? Aerobics many people say, weight training others will say. But would you believe neither?
In a recent book written by Dr. Al Sears, he relates the outcome achieved when he had twin girls follow different exercise routines while he measured the change in their weight, Body Mass Index, body fat, and muscle mass for 4 months.
Twin A used a graduated program of aerobic jogging and worked up from one mile a day to 10 miles daily for her exercise. How much weight and how much fat would you guess she lost in 4 months?
Twin B used Dr. Sears' PACE© system, in which she used a graduated program of running in short bursts of increasing intensity with short periods of recovery in between each sprint. At the end of the 4 months Twin B was sprinting 50 yards followed by a recovery period of 30 seconds and repeating for a total of 6 sets. This was certainly a shorter time than Twin A was spending to jog 10 miles every day.
Both twins started with 24.5% body fat. At the end of 4 months, Twin A had lost 8 pounds of fat and 2 pounds of muscle. Her body fat dropped to 19.5%.
Twin B, using Dr. Sears' PACE© system, had dropped 18 pounds of fat, built 9 pounds of muscle and had a very healthy body fat of 10%.
So Twin A lost 10 pounds but lost muscle, and Twin B lost more fat and built muscle.
Which "twin" would you rather follow? Losing fat and building muscle is the best way to maintain your metabolism and improve your healthspan.
These results are very impressive, and Dr. Sears shows even more impressive results in his book using a wide variety of exercises, not just the sprinting used by Twin B.
see also
Saturday, 20 October 2007
Anandamayi Ma
In Paramahansa Yogananda's classic book, The Autobiography of a Yogi, he writes about his meeting with Anandamayi Ma in his chapter entitled, "The Joy-Permeated Mother." He asks her, "Please tell me something of your life." She replied:
"Father, there is little to tell. My consciousness has never associated itself with this temporary body. Before I came on this earth, Father, I was the same. I grew into womanhood, but still I was the same. When the family in which I had been born made arrangements to have this body married, I was the same. And Father, in front of you now, I am the same. Even afterwards, though the dance of creation changes around me in the hall of eternity, I shall be the same."
This is one of my favorite quotes and something we can remember when we're going through major transitions in our lives
"Father, there is little to tell. My consciousness has never associated itself with this temporary body. Before I came on this earth, Father, I was the same. I grew into womanhood, but still I was the same. When the family in which I had been born made arrangements to have this body married, I was the same. And Father, in front of you now, I am the same. Even afterwards, though the dance of creation changes around me in the hall of eternity, I shall be the same."
This is one of my favorite quotes and something we can remember when we're going through major transitions in our lives
Tuesday, 9 October 2007
research on ageing
Are there any studies showing the benefits of chiropractic care in the aging?
A recent study evaluated the health status of 414 elderly individuals (average age 80 years) and compared those individuals under chiropractic care with those not under chiropractic care.
The researchers found a number of significant findings, which included:
87% of those who used chiropractic care rated their health as good or excellent compared with only 68% in the non-chiropractic group.
13% of those who used chiropractic care related their health as fair or poor compared with 32% in the non-chiropractic group.
44% of those who used chiropractic care reported having arthritis compared with 66% in the non-chiropractic group
Those who used chiropractic care were more likely to do strenuous levels of exercise.
A 3 year follow-up shows that only 26% of those who used chiropractic care were hospitalized compared with 48% of those in the non-chiropractic group.
Coulter, PhD et al. Chiropractic and Care for the Elderly.
Top Clin Pro 1996:3(2):46-55.
A recent study evaluated the health status of 414 elderly individuals (average age 80 years) and compared those individuals under chiropractic care with those not under chiropractic care.
The researchers found a number of significant findings, which included:
87% of those who used chiropractic care rated their health as good or excellent compared with only 68% in the non-chiropractic group.
13% of those who used chiropractic care related their health as fair or poor compared with 32% in the non-chiropractic group.
44% of those who used chiropractic care reported having arthritis compared with 66% in the non-chiropractic group
Those who used chiropractic care were more likely to do strenuous levels of exercise.
A 3 year follow-up shows that only 26% of those who used chiropractic care were hospitalized compared with 48% of those in the non-chiropractic group.
Coulter, PhD et al. Chiropractic and Care for the Elderly.
Top Clin Pro 1996:3(2):46-55.
Tuesday, 25 September 2007
Acupuncture 'best for back pain'
Acupuncture is said to release the body's vital energy, but the most remarkable thing about this research was that putting needles in at random was nearly as effective as real acupuncture:
Acupuncture is more effective at treating back pain than conventional therapies, research suggests.
A German study found almost half the patients treated with acupuncture needles felt pain relief that lasted for months.
In contrast, only about a quarter who received drugs and other Western therapies felt better.
The Archives of Internal Medicine study also found fake acupuncture to work nearly as well as the real thing.
Acupuncture represents a highly promising and effective treatment option for chronic back pain
Dr Heinz Endres
Ruhr University Bochum
The researchers, from the Ruhr University Bochum, say their findings suggest that the body may react positively to any thin needle prick - or that acupuncture may simply trigger a placebo effect.
One theory is that pain messages to the brain can be blocked by competing stimuli.
Researcher Dr Heinz Endres said: "Acupuncture represents a highly promising and effective treatment option for chronic back pain.
"Patients experienced not only reduced pain intensity, but also reported improvements in the disability that often results from back pain and therefore in their quality of life."
Needles not manipulated
More than 1,100 patients took part in the study. They were given either conventional therapy, acupuncture or a sham version.
Although needles were used in the sham therapy, they were not inserted as deeply as in standard acupuncture. Neither were they inserted at points thought key to producing a therapeutic effect, or manipulated and rotated once in position.
After six months 47% of patients in the acupuncture group reported a significant improvement in pain symptoms, compared to 44% in the sham group, and just 27% in the group who received conventional therapy.
Dr James Young, of Chicago's Rush University, said: "We don't understand the mechanisms of these so-called alternative treatments, but that doesn't mean they don't work."
Acupuncture is based on the ancient Chinese theory that needles can be used to release the body's vital energy, or qi.
Conventional therapies tested in the study included painkillers, injections, heat therapy and massage.
It is estimated that as many as 85% of the population experiences back pain at some point, and the problem costs the NHS around £500m a year.
The study echoes the findings of two studies published last year in the British Medical Journal, which found a short course of acupuncture could benefit patients with low back pain.
Acupuncture is more effective at treating back pain than conventional therapies, research suggests.
A German study found almost half the patients treated with acupuncture needles felt pain relief that lasted for months.
In contrast, only about a quarter who received drugs and other Western therapies felt better.
The Archives of Internal Medicine study also found fake acupuncture to work nearly as well as the real thing.
Acupuncture represents a highly promising and effective treatment option for chronic back pain
Dr Heinz Endres
Ruhr University Bochum
The researchers, from the Ruhr University Bochum, say their findings suggest that the body may react positively to any thin needle prick - or that acupuncture may simply trigger a placebo effect.
One theory is that pain messages to the brain can be blocked by competing stimuli.
Researcher Dr Heinz Endres said: "Acupuncture represents a highly promising and effective treatment option for chronic back pain.
"Patients experienced not only reduced pain intensity, but also reported improvements in the disability that often results from back pain and therefore in their quality of life."
Needles not manipulated
More than 1,100 patients took part in the study. They were given either conventional therapy, acupuncture or a sham version.
Although needles were used in the sham therapy, they were not inserted as deeply as in standard acupuncture. Neither were they inserted at points thought key to producing a therapeutic effect, or manipulated and rotated once in position.
After six months 47% of patients in the acupuncture group reported a significant improvement in pain symptoms, compared to 44% in the sham group, and just 27% in the group who received conventional therapy.
Dr James Young, of Chicago's Rush University, said: "We don't understand the mechanisms of these so-called alternative treatments, but that doesn't mean they don't work."
Acupuncture is based on the ancient Chinese theory that needles can be used to release the body's vital energy, or qi.
Conventional therapies tested in the study included painkillers, injections, heat therapy and massage.
It is estimated that as many as 85% of the population experiences back pain at some point, and the problem costs the NHS around £500m a year.
The study echoes the findings of two studies published last year in the British Medical Journal, which found a short course of acupuncture could benefit patients with low back pain.
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