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Genetic Testing – A Discovery into knowing exactly why you don’t feel well and what you can do to dramatically improve your health!

Genetic Testing – A Discovery into knowing exactly why you don’t feel well and what you can do to dramatically improve your health!

Genetic Testing – A Discovery into knowing exactly why you don’t feel well and what you can do to dramatically improve your health!

Arkansas Nutrition and Natural Healing

Dr. Roger Trubey, Dr.PH, MPH, and Doctor of Integrative Medicine 362 Unger Trail, Mountain Home, Arkansas 72653

Call 501-538-4944

Genetic Testing – A Discovery into knowing exactly why you don’t feel well and what you can do to dramatically improve your health!

Personalized
Targeted
Nutrition exactly
for you!


Since the compilation of the Human Genome Project at the turn of the century and with the successful mapping of all 25,000 human genes, there has been an explosion of interest in knowing what secrets our genes can tell about our health disease risks.

Not only is the interest exploding in the general population but so has the research into our understanding of the role of gene-diet interactions, gene-environment interactions and even the relationship between our genes and our thoughts and beliefs. These are the bridges into epigenetics, those factors that can dramatically influence our genes.

You see, you may be stuck with a crooked nose or a physical height that makes you a bit vertically challenged, but you are not destined to have diabetes, heart disease, or Alzheimer’s disease because of what your forebearers had to live with. The science of epigenetics teaches us how we can better understand and in many ways override our genetics weaknesses. In other words, we can’t change our genes but we can change the expression of our genes. Or let me put it another way: Genes are your tendency but not necessarily your destiny. It is the epigenetic factors that we can change that will determine whether a gene that is predisposing us to a particular disease gets expressed or not.

It was the completion of the human genome that in many ways fully sounded the death knell of the belief that many of our diseases were genetic in nature and fully awakened us to the understanding that our environment and our food choices can and do alter our genetic expression – sometimes positively and sometimes negatively.
Genes are made up of DNA and the genes have only one job, to make proteins, and each gene makes one specific protein. The most common form of any gene with the normal expression of the gene is called the wild type. Gene expression occurs when gene activity leads to the production of the specific protein.

When a tiny human is being “knit together” in his/her mother’s womb, a change may take place in the normal (wild type) amino acid sequence that makes up the protein the gene is coding for. This is called a variant and it may be only a single amino acid that takes the place of another amino acid found in the wild type.

 

Genetic Testing – A Discovery into knowing exactly why you don’t feel well and what you can do to dramatically improve your health! Genetic Testing – A Discovery into knowing exactly why you don’t feel well and what you can do to dramatically improve your health!

 

These small variations are frequently referred to as SNPs (“Snips”) and it is an abbreviation for “Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms”. I prefer the term variant (but the word mutation is also used) and it is these variants that make us individually unique and quite different from everyone else. The human DNA consists of over 3 billion nucleotide base pairs, more than 99% of which are identical in every one of us.

The nucleotide base pairs, thymine-adenine and cytosine-guanine will attach with hydrogen bonds like a zipper.  With the influence of sugar-phosphate, they cause the zipper to curl or spiral into the double helix shape of DNAGenetic Testing – A Discovery into knowing exactly why you don’t feel well and what you can do to dramatically improve your health!

 
The fraction that is not is due to these variants. These variants are not necessarily bad, they are just different and every one of us has our unique set of variations from the wild type. It is, however, something on the order of 1/10 of 1% difference in our genetic makeup that gives variation in personality, hair color, different disease tendencies, emotional constitution and so much more that provides for all the different features we see in each other. This genetic variation can also have a very big impact on one’s nutritional requirements and tendency toward disease. The relationship of foods to our genetic makeup is the subject of Nutrigenomics and research in this area is exploding.

 

 

Genetic testing assesses the presence or absence of these genetic variations. This is extremely helpful as these variants or SNPs can have a profound effect on the functioning of the genes in which they are found. This in turn affects the biological pathway in which the gene is active, affecting metabolic functions that are important for maintaining a state of good health. Knowledge of these variants offers a powerful health advantage, enabling me to prescribe lifestyle, nutritional and health information that is exquisitely more precise for each patient. The precision is due to the fact that with an understanding of your unique genetic variation I am able to provide specific recommendations that compensate for them, preventing them from becoming a health liability.

The Practicality of Genetic Testing

Let’s look at an example of how this works. 20% of the population has the APOE4 gene. This is the gene that will impact your heart disease risk, memory loss, and is one of the main genes related to Alzheimer’s disease risk. There are APOE2, 3, and 4 alleles of this gene. Having APOE2 or 3 does not guarantee you will not get Alzheimer’s any more than having the APOE4 guarantees you will. But someone with the APOE4 gene must be much more careful with avoiding those dietary and environmental factors that promote the effects of that gene. Remember genes don’t determine our health destiny, our epigenetics does.

You see, having 1 copy of the APOE4 gene (we get 2 copies of genes – one from each parent) increases one’s risk of Alzheimer’s by 30% or more, and with 2 copies the risk increases to at least 50% – 70%. So with that inherited variant one would need to be far more careful in avoiding detrimental environmental factors, eating healthfully, and supporting their body with proper supplements.

Individuals with this APOE4 gene really need healthful fish and fish oil but ironically they have limited uptake of fish oil fats from the blood into the brain. So they need to take as much as twice the amount of these oils and fish that someone without the APOE4 variant would need. And while some may get by with less exercise, those with the APOE4 variant will benefit from a regular exercise program.

In the same way, blood sugar dysregulation is devastating to those with this APOE4 variant. But with proper nutrition, it does not have to lead to this dreaded disease. All this is true preventive medicine and the earlier one starts the greater the benefit. It is for this reason that many encourage parents to have their children tested.

Many individuals searching for a greater understanding of their genetic profile have turned to 23andMe and have been rather disappointed at the avalanche of numbers and genes that provide no understanding as to their meaning, let alone what to do about them.

Taking an At-Home Test

With my at-home test, I discovered that I had a small amount of Neanderthal in my genetic ancestry (and yes my children were not surprised), that I was more likely to have blue or green eyes, and that I was not likely to be lactose intolerant. That and some other tidbits of information are interesting but not very helpful in knowing the strategies I need to ensure a healthy life. But an even bigger issue was found in a limited study completed by Ambry Genetics, a small medical lab in California, researchers discovered using at-home DNA tests to assess for risk of certain diseases or other non-phenotypic traits, such as eye color, resulted in a 40 percent false positive reading. (GENETICS in MEDICINE doi:10.1038/gim.2018.38)

What Ambry Genetics found was consumer labs test genotype DNA rather than sequencing it, and use just one method. Although this method is cheaper and quicker than clinical sequencing, it also is less effective and accurate than the clinical laboratory method of sequencing and using another test to confirm a positive variant. There does not seem to be any question about this as the leading at-home provider of genetic testing said this: “This data has undergone a general quality review; however, only a subset of markers have been individually validated for accuracy.” Source: Gizmodo, Another Reminder That Consumer DNA Tests Are Not 100% Accurate

Here is another huge issue as far as I’m concerned – your raw data is not just in your hands but likely in many other hands as well. The direct-to-consumer DNA testing companies make it clear in their terms and conditions how they use your DNA, and these firms are not bound by HIPAA regulations, which means your personal information is unregulated. And, as with all data, the more places it can be found, the more chances it can be leaked. In fact, one company admitted in 2013 the real goal of the company was not to make money selling DNA testing, but instead to collect massive amounts of data they can use without any further consent. Source: Scientific American, November 27, 2013

I encourage my patients to take the genetic test by Your Genomic Resource that uses a lab associated with Rutgers University – a far more functional, useful, practical, and safe but also highly accurate test. One can actually learn something from it. With it, you get results that are meaningful, with practical information that you can immediately put into practice. You are given specific actionable steps that allow you to correct any dysfunctional genes that can lead to disease progression. And you are likely to discover very specific reasons why you may be having the problems you are dealing with in your life. This is true Functional Genetics

This rapidly growing field of Functional Genomics provides insight as to how your DNA impacts function in your body and how genetic variants may serve as roadblocks to optimal wellness.

For example, glutathione, considered the master antioxidant, protects you from the onslaught of environmental toxicity and from toxins that are naturally created inside the body. But what if your genes do not quite code for the proper production of glutathione. All is not lost as you can intervene, but you need to know if it is necessary to do that. For some, it is critical if they want to have good health.

The test results from Your Genomic Resource is entered into a unique computer program that makes the data from your genes come alive and provides you a rich resource of information that will guide you to a better and healthier quality of life, enable you to look and feel younger even as you age.

Using the analysis from the software, I am now equipped to address your genetic imbalances and formulate a personalized nutritional protocol – personalized specifically for you. It means no guessing about what your body actually wants and needs to function properly. You become proactive rather than reactive as it relates to your health.

Here is how your DNA may directly impact your health

Functional Genomics analyzes hundreds of processes in your genetic patterns. The list below is a small sample of how your DNA may be impacting your health.

• Variants in the HLA and KIAA genes may increase the chances of gluten intolerance. The ABP1 genes that have variants may impact your ability to digest fermented foods, increase histamine levels and result in intestinal inflammation and digestive disturbances
• People with variated SULT SNPs may be more sensitive to toxins, hormones, xenobiotics, and toxic metals
• People with variated PEMT SNPs may be less able to digest and utilize fats
• Those with variated Nrf2 SNPs may be less able to make, utilize and recycle their antioxidants, critical to reducing inflammation and toxicity. No worries, however. There are specific nutrients you can take to correct this genetic disturbance. And you would want to, as Nrf2 is one of our longevity genes.
• Individuals with mutations on their HFE and SLC40A1 genes may have serious unresolved inflammation from iron being a damaging free radical, rather than an essential mineral to support health.
• Genetic impairments to produce nitric oxide can dramatically impact your cardiovascular health, neurotransmitter activity (think mood disorders), and sexual function in both sexes.

There are many more discoveries hidden in your genes that will give you wonderful insight into the steps you can take to improve or to maintain your health. The Functional Genomic Analysis report you will receive will provide you with a mountain of valuable data that commonly reveals the underlying reasons for the many frustrating complaints we experience.

Once you see and hear it explained to you, you will understand why it is so valuable in giving you answers that are literally unavailable with any other medical assessment. But remember to keep in mind that DNA results are never a diagnosis or an absolute determinant of disease. It is those variants in our genes combined with all the epigenetic factors that result in many of our health dysfunctions.

  Genetic Testing – A Discovery into knowing exactly why you don’t feel well and what you can do to dramatically improve your health!  

 

You can see how each of these areas interact with our genes but then notice the many triggering events that act as a primary determinant in causing the expression of our mutated or variant genes. It is the confluence of these factors that is the driving/underlying force behind our ill health and disease progression. But it does not have to remain this way. Notice the effect below as we intervene where our genetics are not favoring us and we correct the triggering factors.

Using Genetic Testing to Improve your Health

  Genetic Testing – A Discovery into knowing exactly why you don’t feel well and what you can do to dramatically improve your health!  

 

Most all degenerative diseases today are initiated and sustained by inflammation. And that is not surprising when you look at the inflammation genes in those with chronic diseases. It is not unusual at all to find the “ON” genes that turn on inflammation stuck in the “on” position, pushing us toward inflammation. But the worst-case picture is to find the genes that are designed to turn off inflammation “broken” and not functioning.

When we find this unfortunate genetic variation we can use diet adjustments and supplemental nutrients to downregulate the inflammatory genes and in the same way upregulate the genes that turn off inflammation. This is the first and most important step in escaping the chronic disease trap.

It is important to note that none of us have the perfect set of genes. We all have some genes that promote health and some that set us up for impaired health if we are not careful. Many individuals take probiotics but it would be interesting to actually know if there is a great need to be taking them. The FUT2 gene codes for the production of specific sugars that are secreted by our intestinal cells and very much needed for the survivability of our friendly bacteria. Individuals with a genetic variant here fail to adequately produce them and they need to take probiotics on a daily basis.

• If you knew you had a double variant of the VDR gene that might give the reason as to why your vitamin D level is always low. Would that be of interest to you? And if you know that it would also increase your risk of osteoporosis later in life, would you be more aggressive in what you should do to keep that gene from being expressed?

The Human genome contains at least 4 million “switches” that can either turn off a gene or turn it on by dietary and environmental factors (chemical, heavy metals, mold toxins, infections, etc.) and life experiences. These good and bad epigenetic influences, like a virtual “tug of war”, are constantly working for us and our health or against us, putting us at risk for illness of many types. Knowing our genetic variants and the steps needed to reduce their effects, enables the health side of this “tug of war” to have a much greater advantage than the illness side.

So who will benefit from genetic testing? Probably all will to some degree… ok perhaps not if you are already 105 years old and you are still taking daily walks. But otherwise, those who could particularly benefit would be:

• Those who are adopted and have no idea of the health history of their biological family
• Those with gastrointestinal disorders- IBS, IBD, food allergies/sensitivities, hives, reflux,
• Those challenged by stress, anxiety, depression, excessive fatigue, or sleep issues
• Families with members living with ADD/ADHD
• Those having a family history of dementia, Alzheimer’s, or Parkinson’s disease
• Individuals with autoimmune disease or having parents with autoimmunity
• Those with a strong family history of cancer, stroke, heart disease or diabetes
• Individuals sensing a predisposition to obesity
• Women with female problems – fibroids, endometriosis, infertility, PMS
• Sport competitors seeking a competitive edge or budding athletes contemplating competitive sports
• Those living with pain
• Individuals using pharmaceutical drugs who wish to know the better choice of drugs for them
• Parents wanting to give appropriate health guidance to their children.
• Women contemplating pregnancy or hormone therapy or just want to stay healthy

This last category is perhaps the single best time to get this testing done. Testing and making appropriate adjustments based upon the results could make a profound difference in the health of the child lasting their entire lifetime. Epigenetic effects naturally take place in the course of life, but much of it happens in that first month in the womb. It was best stated by William Walsh, Ph.D., Chairman of the Walsh Research Institute:

Genetic Testing – A Discovery into knowing exactly why you don’t feel well and what you can do to dramatically improve your health! “The key time to make an impact is before a woman gets pregnant and during the first month – even during the next nine months. This is when these genetic variations get caused – autism and spina bifida and a predisposition for things like mental illness and heart disease. So nutrition is incredibly important. These ‘bookmarks’ are there for the rest of your life.”

Avoidance of these unhealthy epigenetic effects can only be done if we know which ones are more likely to impact our genetic expression. What you don’t know can affect you. Yes, you are uniquely you and with Your Genomic Resource testing, you can discover your genetic singularity – those factors that you can enjoy as well as those factors that you must not ignore but take charge of, to ensure a long and healthy life. It’s true that we can’t change our genes but we can change the expression of our genes. Remember, our genes tell us our tendency, not necessarily our destiny. With only a small amount of saliva to get it done, you have some amazing and very important discoveries awaiting you.

 

About Your Genomic Resource Test

• This is not a medical test and is therefore not covered by insurance
• This test does not cover your entire genome of 4 million genes and your ancestry, but it is large – looking into 200,000 potential SNPs for thousands of genes
• This test does not provide a diagnosis or tell you what health conditions you have. But it does give you a window into the underlying reasons for your health conditions
• The report you receive will provide you with guidance for supporting the underlying biochemistry and proper function if a predisposition to weakness is being expressed
• Your personal report will reveal the genes involved with antioxidant production, the potential production of oxidative stress, excess free radicals, possible food sensitivities, potential trouble with histamine, and much, much more.
• Based on the analysis of your test, I may recommend other tests or lab work, lifestyle, or dietary changes as well as suggestions for targeted specific nutrients to support functional weakness.
• Your personal data will never be sold, shared, or given away to anyone. At the testing lab, only your barcode is used and is not tied to your name.

Blood & Lab Test Results Explained(In Detail Personal Consultation)

Blood & Lab Test Results Explained(In Detail Personal Consultation)

Natural Health Services

BLOOD AND LAB TEST RESULTS EXPLAINED
(by a real live person)

Arkansas Nutrition and Natural Healing

Dr. Roger Trubey, Dr.PH, MPH, and Doctor of Integrative Medicine 362 Unger Trail, Mountain Home, Arkansas 72653

Call 501-538-4944

Do you have any idea what your blood tests mean?  Have you even been given a copy of them or were you just told everything is OK?  In some cases I have had patients tell me they never even heard back from their care giver.

Please understand, those records, those lab tests are yours – you own them.  But it does no good if you can’t even pronounce the test names or figure out the symbols, let alone understand what they mean and how they may relate to your health.

Understanding is empowering, and everyone needs to be empowered to take responsibility for their health.  Your doctor is not responsible for health, you are.  And knowing what your blood test results mean is one the ways you take seriously that responsibility.  But don’t expect your doctor to take even 10 minutes to help you understand what is going on.  He is way too busy for that.  It takes time to review a battery of tests and he likely is not even allowed to spend the time it really takes to do it adequately.  I can and I will.  You need this information and I can help you easily decode your chemistry panel or your metabolic panel, lipid panel, complete blood count and most others as well.

How about a Hemoglobin A1c?  Do you know the significance of that test and how it relates to your blood sugar level?  What about your vitamin D level, at what level should it really be?  And then your thyroid test results, was it comprehensive enough?  Were you told it was normal but you still have symptoms that make you believe it’s not normal?  Is that frustrating or what?

If you would like to really understand what you lab tests mean to you, give me a call to arrange a phone consultation.  I will give you a full hour to review your test results and any questions that relate to them for $70.00.  I don’t diagnose – that’s not completely possible from blood tests alone – but I might suggest other tests you might want to consider to give you a fuller picture of your health status.  Don’t need a full hour!  OK I can give you a 30 minute consultation for $50.00.   You choose.

Here’s how it works.  You decide how much time you would like.  We arrange a convenient day and time in the comfort of your own home.  You send me (email or mail) a copy of your tests along with a check for the amount of time requested.  Then on the day and time of your appointment give me a call to get the answers you are looking for.

You will be satisfied with the information you receive or you can request a full refund.  For over 35 years I have reviewed lab results with hundreds of patients and nearly everyone was surprised at the amount of information their labs contained and how absolutely helpful their time spent with me was to them.  I believe you will find it the same as well.  Give me a call and let’s get started.  501-538-4944

Roger N. Trubey, DrPH, ND     
501-538-4944
www.burlesonnutritionandnaturalhealingcenter.com

G.I. Microbial Assessment

G.I. Microbial Assessment

Natural Health Services

The G.I. Microbial
Assessment Stool Analysis
Microbiology and DNA Analysis

Arkansas Nutrition and Natural Healing

Dr. Roger Trubey, Dr.PH, MPH, and Doctor of Integrative Medicine 362 Unger Trail, Mountain Home, Arkansas 72653

Call 501-538-4944

In the last few decades, DNA analysis has transformed the field of microbiology.   We have sorely needed better assessment techniques because more than ever before, we are now keenly aware of the health benefits or disease risks brought about by the microorganisms that inhabit the human body. You see, culture techniques, previously the standard, left up to 50% of bacterial species virtually invisible.  Anaerobic bacteria that make up a large part of the human microbiome can be opportunistic and cause illness. So our inability to cultivate these organisms left a large blind spot for clinicians when trying to diagnose the source of infection.

The G.I. Microbial Assessment panel is a comprehensive collection of microbial targets as well as immune and digestive markers. It screens for pathogenic bacteria, commensal bacteria, opportunistic pathogens, fungi, viruses, and parasites. It primarily uses multiplex, automated, DNA analysis to give integrative and functional medicine practitioners a better view into the gastrointestinal microbiome.

The G.I. Microbial Assessment measures pathogenic organisms that can cause hospital-acquired infections (HAI) such as C. difficile or norovirus, foodborne illness such as E.coli or Salmonella, and common causes of diarrhea such as Campylobacter, Shigella, and rotavirus A.  This panel measures viral causes of gastroenteritis, unavailable by other common stool tests. It measures parasites such as Cryptosporidium, Giardia, and Entamoeba histolytica. The GI-MAP analyzes Helicobacter pylori and its virulence factors. It can detect opportunistic pathogens such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Yersinia enterocolitica, and Proteus mirabilus, associated with autoimmune molecular mimicry. It includes a panel of single-celled, amebic parasites such as Blastocystis hominis, Dientamoeba fragilis, and Entamoeba coli. Fungal organisms are measured by the GI-MAP such as Candida, Geotrichum, and Microsporidia, with the latter being a new addition to DNA stool analysis. Finally, the GI-MAP measures standard markers of immunity, inflammation and digestion including lactoferrin, secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA), anti-gliadin antibody, and pancreatic elastase.

Disruption of the gastrointestinal microbiome can cause:

Gastrointestinal symptoms                                              More Gastrointestinal symptoms

  • Abdominal pain                                                          Vomiting
  • Bloating                                                                     Ulcer
  • Constipation                                                               Ulcerative Colitis
  • Crohn’s disease                                                                                
  • Diarrhea                                                                     Autoimmune Conditions
  • Food poisoning                                                           Ankylosing spondylitis
  • Gastric cancer                                                            Reactive and Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Gastritis                                                                     Thyroiditis (Hashimoto’s/Grave’s disease )
  • Gastroenteritis
  • Gastroesophageal reflux                                               Allergic Diseases
  • Irritable bowel syndrome                                              Asthma
  • Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)                   Eczema and Hives

Neurological conditions

  • Parkinson’s disease
  • Alzheimers disease

Methodology
Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory is using a novel DNA technique to detect a comprehensive list of stool bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. The method and instrument used is FDA-cleared for the detection of 15 of the most common causes of gastroenteritis- bacteria, parasites, and viruses.   This is an automated, multiplex DNA analysis method, allowing for the simultaneous measurement of multiple bacteria, fungi, parasites, and viruses, all from a single sample.
After receiving the stool specimens, nucleic acids are extracted and purified. The samples undergo multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR), which amplifies many gene targets.  Amplification can generate thousands to millions of copies of a single target DNA sequence for a much easier identification.

Our Friendly Bacteria
Although they are ubiquitous, pathogenic bacteria do not cause illness in all people. This is because commensal gastrointestinal flora can protect the host from infection. When gut microflora protects the intestines from pathogens and harmful microorganisms it is called, “colonization resistance.”  Animal models show that when normal gut microflora are lacking, the host is more susceptible to GI infections with Salmonella. Similarly, after antibiotic treatment there is increased risk of pathogenic infections.  On the other hand, commensal bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium can prevent gastrointestinal infection. Colonization resistance explains why most pathogenic bacteria fail to cause disease in healthy subjects.

Commensal bacteria naturally inhabit the human gastrointestinal tract and do not cause disease. Many are beneficial; they produce enzymes, vitamins, short chain fatty acids, and other metabolic products that keep the bowels and the body functioning well. The incredibly complex interaction between human health and the gastrointestinal microbiome is the subject of multiple cutting-edge research studies. Given the metabolic, nutritional, and immune-enhancing roles of these organisms, the microbiome deserves close analysis when treating patients with chronic illness.

Not-so-Friendly Pathogenic Bacteria
Bacterial pathogens are often spread due to contamination of food and water with fecal material containing these pathogens.  And antibiotic therapy is not always recommended because antibiotic resistance can worsen the infection. Hydration, probiotics, and supportive therapies for the gut-immune system can help to remove the pathogen from the GI tract.

The presence of a pathogen does not, by itself, indicate disease.  Results from laboratory tests must be interpreted together with clinical symptoms and history by a qualified health practitioner. With increased awareness of the complexity of the GI environment, a pathogen is likely to cause disease if there are vulnerabilities in the host’s defenses. For example, imbalanced microflora, poor immune defenses, poor diet, toxic exposures, antibiotics, or chronic GI symptoms could make one person more susceptible to harm from a pathogen, while in another person they may have a fecal pathogen but is in good health. In healthy patients, treating pathogens may not be necessary. However, continuing to support a beneficial and diverse microbiota and a strong gut-immune system will further protect the host from infection.

Complete List of Target Analytes Measured on the G.I. Microbial Assessment
Bacterial pathogens:

  • Campylobacter
  • C. diff Toxin A & B
  • E. coli o157
  • Enterotoxigenic E. coli LT & ST (ETEC)
  • Shiga-like Toxin producing E. coli stx1 & stx2 (STEC)**
  • Salmonella
  • Shigella
  • Vibrio cholera
  • Yersinia enterocolitica

Viral pathogens:

  • Adenovirus
  • Norovirus GI & GII
  • Rotavirus A

Parasitic pathogens

  • Cryptosporidium
  • Entamoeba histolytica
  • Giardia

Additional targets
Bacteria:

  • Helicobacter pylori and virulence factors, cagA and vacA
  • Enterococcus
  • Lactobacillus
  • Bifidobacter
  • Bacteroides spp.
  • Bacteroides fragilis grp
  • E. coli (total)
  • Citrobacter spp.
  • Citrobacter freundii
  • Proteus spp.
  • Proteus mirabilus
  • Proteus vulgaris
  • Pseudomonas spp.
  • Pseudomonas aeruginosa
  • Morganella spp.
  • Staphylococcus spp. (aureus)
  • Streptococcus spp.
  • Klebsiella spp.
  • Klebsiella pneumoneiae

Parasites:

  • Blastocystis hominis
  • Dientamoeba fragilis
  • Endolimax nana
  • Entamoeba coli
  • Entamoeba hartmanni
  • Chilomastix mesnelli
  • Cyclospora cayetanenensis
  • Pentatrichomonas hominis

LDT fungi/yeast:

  • Microsporidia spp. including Enterocytozoon bieneusi and Encephalitozoon intestinalis **
  • Candida albicans
  • Candida spp.
  • Geotrichum spp.
  • Trichosporon spp.

Other tests:

  • Secretory IgA (sIgA)
  • Anti-gliadin sIgA
  • Pancreatic elastase 1
  • Lactoferrin
  • Occult blood

Conclusions
The G.I. Microbial Assessment can be used in the detection and identification of gastrointestinal microbial nucleic acids and has been clinically validated for the detection of gastrointestinal pathogens that cause infectious colitis or gastroenteritis.   This technology has been used to identify and control pathogen outbreaks because of its rapid turn-around-time.  It measures a substantial list of opportunistic pathogens as well as a list of FDA-cleared pathogens, including novel targets such as viruses, Microsporidia, and pathogenic virulence factors. Chronic gastrointestinal symptoms, intestinal permeability, hormonal imbalance, and food sensitivities may trace their origins to imbalanced gut microbes as a root cause. Further, chronic inflammatory arthritis could have a microbial component that may warrant investigation by stool studies. This stool test offers integrative and functional medicine practitioners superior sensitivity and specificity to help resolve persistent and complex illnesses. Since the immune system, the intestinal barrier, and microbial diversity are intimately interwoven, thorough understanding of our gut microbiome holds promise for new approaches to treat and prevent disease.

 

Dr. Trubey’s patients with digestive conditions routinely obtain relief from Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Chronic gastritis, and chronic diarrhea. Call for an appointment – 501-538-4944.

 

Cardiovascular Disease Risk Assessment

Cardiovascular Disease Risk Assessment

Natural Health Services

Cardiovascular Disease Risk Assessment

 

Arkansas Nutrition and Natural Healing

Dr. Roger Trubey, Dr.PH, MPH, and Doctor of Integrative Medicine 362 Unger Trail, Mountain Home, Arkansas 72653

Call 501-538-4944

Cholesterol testing has historically been used as the standard indicator for cardiovascular disease classified as HDL (good) or LDL (bad). However, it is actually the lipoprotein particles that carry the cholesterol throughout the body, not necessarily the cholesterol within them, that are responsible for key steps in plaque production and the resulting development of cardiovascular disease.

You see, cholesterol is a waxy fat-like substance and as such, does not mix well in a water-soluble medium like blood.  So it must be carried through the blood in these lipoprotein particles.  And your cardiovascular risk increases with a higher number of Low density lipoprotein (LDL) particles, regardless of how much cholesterol each of the lipoprotein particles contain.  This is why data from the National Heart, Blood and Lung Institute have shown that approximately one-half of all heart attack victims have “normal” cholesterol.  Some data suggest that it could be as high as 75% of heart attack victims have normal cholesterol.If you look at the people of France, they have one of the highest average cholesterol levels (about 250) in Europe.  But they also have one of the lowest incidence of heart disease.   A ten-year study of the people on the Greek island of Crete failed to register a single heart attack despite an average cholesterol well over 200.  Numbers like these would prompt doctors all over the US to put these individuals on a statin drug.Some of this newer information coming in during the last five years or so has forced medicine to turn away from an obsession with the cholesterol perspective and toward the understanding that it is the inflammation of arterial tissue that leads to heart disease and most strokes.   Cholesterol plays a role, but in no way a leading role. You find cholesterol at the scene of arterial inflammation and destruction, to be sure; it is a participant in the crime, so to speak, but not the perpetrator.   LDL Cholesterol is often called the bad cholesterol, yet it plays a very important and necessary role in the body.  Without cholesterol itself you would die and in fact, people with the lowest cholesterol as they age, are at the highest risk of death.

But let’s go back to that so-called bad cholesterol, LDL cholesterol.  LDL cholesterol is only bad if it is oxidized.  And there are literally hundreds of toxic chemicals, heavy metals, infectious organisms and the like that will initiate an oxidation response and cause LDL to oxidize and become part of the plaque and atherosclerotic process.  So what would protect the LDL cholesterol from becoming oxidized in the first place?  Antioxidants!  Vitamin E, Vitamin C, Co-enzyme Q10, Alpha Lipoic Acid and the like!  So is the “bad guy” here the cholesterol or the oxidizing chemicals and the lack of adequate antioxidants?

Measuring the lipoprotein subgroups is the only way to evaluate these new risk factors, which is crucial for the accurate assessment of one’s cardiovascular disease risk, and that is according to the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP).  So what are these new emerging risk factors NCEP has identified?

  •  Small, dense LDLparticles: these atherogenic particles are easily oxidized and penetrate the arterial endothelium to form plaque
  •  Lp(a) particles: this small, dense LDL particle is involved in thrombosis and promotes the rupture of plaque.
  •  RLP (Remnant Lipoprotein) particles: is very atherogenic, has a similar composition and density of plaque, is believed to be a building block of plaque and does not need to be oxidized like other LDL particles
  •  HDL2b particles: positively correlates with heart health because it is an indicator of how well excess lipids are removed

Other critical measurements to better evaluate your risk include:

  •  C-Reactive Protein-ss – an inflammation marker
  •  Homocysteine  – an amino acid linked to higher risk of coronary heart disease and peripheral vascular disease
  •  Fasting insulin level – a high fasting insulin is a sign of insulin resistance and the start of type II diabetes or metabolic syndrome

Why is it important to know lipoprotein numbers?  Because cardiovascular disease risk increases with a higher LDL particle count! With a higher non-HDL lipoprotein count the probability of particle penetration of the arterial wall rises, regardless of the total amount of cholesterol contained in each particle. On average, the typical particle contains 50 percent cholesterol.

Now here is what is troubling.  More than 20 percent of the population has cholesterol-depleted LDL, a condition in which a patient’s cholesterol may be “normal” but their lipoprotein particle number, and hence their actual risk, could be much higher than expected. This is especially common in persons whose triglycerides are high or HDL is low. In the population with a cholesterol-depleted LDL, there can be up to a 40 percent error in risk assessment.  Notice who has the real risk in the picture below and realize that your risk increases with an increasing number of small particles as well as the total number of particles.Description: The size/density and number particles determines your risk

 

Here are some thought provoking findings from Mark Hyman, MD to ponder before considering the use of statin drugs.   You can read the entire article, Why Cholesterol May Not Be the Cause of Heart at: www.ultrawellness.com/print/3039

• If you lower bad cholesterol (LDL) but have a low HDL (good cholesterol) there is no benefit to statins. (i)• If you lower bad cholesterol (LDL) but don’t reduce inflammation (marked by a test called C-reactive protein), there is no benefit to statins. (ii)• If you are a healthy woman with high cholesterol, there is no proof that taking statins reduces your risk of heart attack or death. (iii)• If you are a man or a woman over 69 years old with high cholesterol, there is no proof that taking statins reduces your risk of heart attack or death. (iv)• Aggressive cholesterol treatment with two medications (Zocor and Zetia) lowered cholesterol much more than one drug alone, but led to more plaque build up in the arties and no fewer heart attacks. (v)• 75% of people who have heart attacks have normal cholesterol
• Older patients with lower cholesterol have higher risks of death than those with higher cholesterol. (vi)• Countries with higher average cholesterol than Americans such as the Swiss or Spanish have less heart disease.• Recent evidence suggests that it is more likely statins ability to lower inflammation that accounts for any of its benefits, not their ability to lower cholesterol.

So for whom do the statin drugs work for anyway? They work for people who have already had heart attacks to prevent more heart attacks or death. And they work slightly for middle-aged men who have many risk factors for heart disease like high blood pressure, obesity, or diabetes.  Sadly, statins were not enough to save the life of NBC News anchor Tim Russert.  Perhaps if he had known all the risk factors things might have turned out different for him.

Know your risk by knowing the full information.  Get a Lipoprotein Particle Profile™ and let’s evaluate your true risk and what lifestyle changes you can make along with diet and supplement support to improve your odds against heart attack.  You will be glad you did.

 

Initial Evaluation – What to Expect

Initial Evaluation - What to Expect

 

Initial Evaluation – What to Expect

 

Arkansas Nutrition and Natural Healing

Dr. Roger Trubey, Dr.PH, MPH, and Doctor of Integrative Medicine 362 Unger Trail, Mountain Home, Arkansas 72653

Call 501-538-4944

I often find that many new patients have never been to a Naturopathic Doctor previously.

Some have always used natural remedies that they learned from mom or dad or they just knew intuitively that it was the best place to start.  Others, having used a more traditional route with conventional doctors, came to see me because their chronic issue(s) was/were not being resolved.

I always start with a thorough history.

So I always ask “what is your primary health concern?”   Sometimes it is only one concern but often it can be three or four.   What is important to you is very important to me so I want to know as much about your problem(s) as you can provide.  I want to know how long you have had symptoms, how long ago you were given a diagnosis (if you were given one) and I want to know what makes the problem better or what makes it worse.  It is important for me to know if there was some event in your life that preceded the onset of symptoms.  Was there an illness, like a flu that preceded the onset of symptoms, or did it begin with a travel event, auto accident, or a major stress of some type.  These are clues that may be useful in determining the underlying cause(s).

The underlying cause or causes is far more important than having a diagnosis and most patients do recognize this.

Sometimes the event that started the problem was only a trigger for a deeper underlying cause – like a serious cold or flu that awakens a dormant, but more serious chronic infection.  Or an automobile accident that weakens the immune system and awakens a smoldering and chronic infection to a more significant level of activity.

We can take a pain reliever for a headache and while it may relieve the pain, aspirin or Tylenol deficiency is not the cause of the headache.  I want to know what that cause is.  Sometimes the underlying cause was not the precipitating cause and I need all this information to try to distinguish the two.

The problem most patients have with chronic disease today is that in conventional medicine, the underlying reasons for the disease is never really assessed.  Chronic viruses, the Lyme spirochete, mold toxins, food sensitivities, gluten, chemicals, pesticides, herbicides, damaged or leaky gut, parasites, adrenal and mitochondrial dysfunction and much more are, for the most part, ignored, or worse, scoffed at and ridiculed.  But today, all chronic diseases have one or more of these underlying factors and they must be uncovered if we are to get long-term relief of chronic illness.  The body always wants to heal but it is generally necessary to remove some blocking agents to allow the body to accomplish its goal.

I also want to know what you are eating and drinking during a typical day.

This will provide further clues so that I can give you the best possible advice to improve your health.

I will also ask about dental interventions.  I want to know if you have had any root canals, dental restorations and the materials used.  I will want to find out if your gums bleed or if you have periodontal disease.  What happens in your mouth has a great deal to do with the health of your body.   All of our teeth (or spaces where a tooth was) are on a specific acupuncture meridian and connected directly with specific organs of the body.   Any inflammation, dental material, or infection can have a potentially toxic influence in a tissue far away from that tooth.

You will be asked about supplements you take and any prescription drugs you are using. 

It is not unusual for some of the symptoms patients are complaining of to be the same as the side-effects of the drugs they are using.

And, as you could guess, I do want to know what stresses you may have in your life and how much of a stress these are, how long you have been dealing with them and if you are having trouble coping with them, when you expect any resolution, if at all.

I have all patients complete a detailed information questionnaire that will ask about many areas for which you may or may not have symptoms.   I will send this to you in advance so that you can complete it at your own pace prior to our appointment.

If you have had any lab work completed in the last year or two, I encourage you send it to me before this this first evaluation and I will review it with you. 

I often find key blood parameters that are missing or ones that were abnormal and the patient was never told that it was a potential problem.  Knowing this previous data is very helpful to me in evaluating any changes in a particular parameter over time that is in need of attention.

Much of our health is determined by our start in life.  Yes, our genetics will play a role and while we can’t change our genes, we can control how they are expressed and that is the epi-genetics.  Epi-genetic factors are those nutritional, environmental and even emotional factors that will determine if a gene is expressed on not.  So, having a gene variant for breast cancer does not mean that it has to be expressed.   There are generally several factors that are working to inhibit the expression of a gene and likewise others working to express a gene.  So eating a lousy diet, not getting any healthy sunlight, being a “couch potato” with lots of stress will encourage the expression of that gene.  But likewise a healthy diet with adequate nutrients needed for breast tissue with exercise and a happy outlook can go a long way to prevent the expression of that gene.

So with that in mind, our start in life is very important, so I ask if you were born vaginally or by C-section and if you were breast fed and, in addition, if you were given lots of antibiotics.  These are critical factors in determining the health of our intestinal tract.  You see, changes in our intestinal microbiome can have effects that not only last our lifetime but can be passed on to successive generations.  And a damaged gut is the foundation for the majority of our chronic degenerative diseases.

Finally, I will ask about flu vaccinations, if you have had them, breast augmentation for females, later history of antibiotic use and if you have had an exposure to mold at home or at a place of work.

After I have all this information, I may make recommended changes to your diet and to suggest changes to your nutritional supplements.  I may further suggest life-style changes to improve health outcomes and I will likely recommend specific tests that you should consider to give us a more complete picture of those underlying causes that are preventing you from having the level of health that you desire.   Before I do this I will often ask “Now what would you like for me to do for you?”   This gives me the assurance that I am focusing on exactly what you want to have done for you.  Most of the time patients will leave with a written and detailed plan to guide them in facilitating their health objectives.

Generally, the initial visit will take 1 1/2-2 hours. 

So please plan accordingly.  As a general rule, children can be a partial distraction and I encourage patients, if at all possible, to have this time free from their need for parental or grand-parental attention.

If you have any questions or concerns you need to discuss with me ahead of a potential visit, I am very happy to do so.  Just call me at 501-538-4944

Thank you for your interest in coming to see me, Dr. Roger Trubey

 

Restorative Strategies for Cancer and other Diseases

Restorative Strategies for Cancer and other Diseases

More Nutritional Articles

Restorative Strategies for Cancer
and other Diseases

Arkansas Nutrition and Natural Healing

Dr. Roger Trubey, Dr.PH, MPH, and Doctor of Integrative Medicine 362 Unger Trail, Mountain Home, Arkansas 72653

Call 501-538-4944

  • 1. Remove Toxic Foods
    • GMO Foods – cotton, zucchini squash, yellow squash, canola, corn, soy, papaya, beet sugar, alfalfa – these foods should always be consumed as organic
      • Most grains and most legumes are almost always sprayed with glyphosate (Roundup® weed killer) prior to harvesting – these food should always be consumed as organic
      • Glyphosate has been found to cause:
        • liver and kidney damage
        • Depletion of minerals in the soil
        • Kill beneficial gut bacteria
        • Block production of the aromatic amino acids – mood, sleep, pain issues here
        • Block production of vitamin D
        • Impairs detoxification
        • Poisons our mitochondria – energy, fatigue and brain fog issues here
        • Acts as an endocrine disrupter
        • Is a class 2A carcinogen
    • Bad fats – hydrogenated, processed or damaged grain and seed oils (corn, soy, canola, safflower, sunflower oils etc.)  Damage to these oils occurs with exposure to heat, light or air
    • Conventionally raised meats – loaded with antibiotics, chemicals and GMO grains
    • Pork – stores toxins and parasites.  Shrimp is a close second
    • Artificial sweeteners and soft drinks (form most Americans, more calories come from soft drinks than any other source)
    • Remember:   Cancer is an attempt to soak up all the sugar from the doughnuts, bread and carbohydrates we eat.  We must return to eating like our ancestors because what we eat brings consequences

 

    • 2. Improve Gut Function – heal a leaky gut
      • Bone broth (chicken or beef) or bone broth protein – loaded with glycine to support detoxification
      • Use bitter foods which dry up “dampness” (with cancer body is very “damp” – oriental medicine) use sour kraut, kimchi, kombucha, beet kvass, organic kiefer, pickles etc.  These foods are rich in cancer fighting probiotics.  There are more probiotics in these foods and more diverse in type, than in most probiotic supplements
      • The power of sour is that they eliminate the craving for sweets
      • Wheat, sugar and dairy are the foods that contribute the most to dampness

 

    • 3. Eat Real Food and Eat lots of Organic Colorful vegetables and some fruits (mostly berries)
      • Blueberries, raspberries, strawberries  cherries and blackberries – organic please
      • Parsley, tomato, bok choy, kale, olive oil, kale artichoke – all have anti-angiogenesis factors
      • The phytochemicals in these colorful foods are the substances plants use to protect themselves and benefit from them
      • Omit all processed foods – just a terrible drain on all body systems
    • 4. Eat Gluten Free
      • if you are known to have celiac disease, an autoimmune condition or chronic illness.  Much less damaging is the consumption of grains when sprouted or fermented as in sourdough where the gluten is broken   down by the fermentation process

 

    • 5. Enjoy lots of herbs and spices  – add them to every meal
      • Cilantro, Parsley, turmeric/curcumin, cinnamon (balancing insulin levels), nutmeg, rosemary, oregano, thyme, clove, etc.
      • Most of these are strongly immune supportive, have anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties and some like turmeric/curcumin have strong cancer preventive and treatment properties

 

    • 6. Eat and enjoy sprouted foods
      • Sprouted organic alfalfa, sunflower, lentil and other seeds and legumes
      • These unleash the power of nature because germination is activation and activation activates your health

 

    • 7. Use Medicinal Mushrooms to support the immune system
      • Reishi, Cordyceps, Shiitake, Maitake, Coriolus versicolor are all mushrooms having anti-cancer, antiviral, anti-inflammatory and liver protective activities.  They have also been found to alleviate chemotherapy side effects such as nausea and kidney damage and protect cellular DNA by raising antioxidant capacity.
      • They all give excellent support to the immune system and aid in cleansing, detoxifying and modulating the immune system.

 

    • 8. Load up on healthy fats
      • Avocado, olives and olive oil, coconut butter, butter, tallow, organic raw nuts and seeds, turkey bacon, grass-fed fatty meats, wild-caught fatty fish and fish oils, pastured chicken eggs, raw cheese, organic peanuts, very dark chocolate
      • Eating this way starves the cancer cells, improves neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and ALS and is excellent help in all autoimmune conditions
      • Black Cumin seeds (crushed whole seeds) and others from Seeds of Eden may be especially beneficial to the cancer patient.

 

    • 9. Be cautious of the common allergens
      • Dairy, wheat, soy, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, fish and shellfish

 

    • 10. Some supporting supplements to use
      • Vitamin D – get it from the sun when available otherwise most need at least 5000 I U/day
      • Probiotics and green tea – protect and heal the gut – always
      • Spirulina, chlorella and other greens taken daily are vital to our good health
      • Beta Glucan has been found to increase the number of macrophages – those white cells that fight infections and ravage cancer cells

 

    • 11. Get to know and use Essential Oils
      • Frankincense and Myrrh  – traditional used to fight cancer and other degenerative diseases – try drops on the skin with a carrier oil or apply 2 drops to the roof of the mouth
      • Lemon – d-limonene – bitter so will decrease dampness, release bile and drains the lymph tissues
      • Thyme/Oregano – these both contain thymol which acts a parasite cleanse.  Must be used with caution when taken internally
      • Ginger has often been used to treat stomach problems, nausea, heart strokes, indigestion, inflammation, respiratory problems, and menstrual disorders
      • Lavender – naturally decreases cortisol.  Use topically or add to bath water with Epsom salts. It helps to eliminate nervous tension, relieve pain,  enhance blood circulation and treat respiratory problems

 

    • 12. Promote cleansing and detoxification
      • Milk thistle and Bupleurum very helpful in facilitating liver detoxification
      • Use vegetable juicing, herbal teas and bone broth
      • DesBio Comprehensive Detox  and Cyto detox are particularly effective strategies to facilitate the removal of toxins and heavy metals

 

    • 13. Consider Natural treatments
      • Lymph massage, essential oils, barefoot walking in the sun, rebounder for lymph drainage (10 min. twice daily), adequate sleep/rest, deep breathing/ yoga, meditation and prayer

 

    • 14. Avoid all vaccinations
      • They may include aluminum, mercury, artificial colors, acetone, formaldehyde,  blood  from a cow fetus, antibiotics, known and unknown viruses, polysorbate 80, soy and yeast proteins, chicken egg proteins, dog and monkey kidney cell protein, sugar, milk sugar, mouse serum protein, human blood proteins, mouse brain tissue, aborted human fetal cells

 

    • 15. Avoid exposure to toxic chemicals   –
      • 2,000 new chemicals /year  – BPA/PCB, formaldehyde, toluene, phthalates, aflatoxins, parabens, fire retardants, pesticides, herbicides, cleaning agents, plastics, cosmetics…
      • These are found in common every-day use and exposure – shampoos, antiperspirants,  bottled water, cash register receipts, hot coffee in Styrofoam,  microwaving of plastics and plastic wraps

 

  • 16. Spiritual Restoration – Emotions interwoven with disease and have links to specific organs
    • Fear – kidney/bladder/ adrenal and breast – consider & meditate- Psalm 27:1-3; Joshua 1:9; Deut. 31:8
    • Worry – stomach, spleen and pancreas  – consider & meditate -Matthew 6:25-34; Philippians 4:6-7; Matthew 11:28-30
    • Grief /Depression – colon and lungs – consider and meditate- Psalm 40:1-3; II Corinthians 1:3-4; Romans 8:38-39
    • Anxiety/Nervousness – heart, brain and small intestine – consider and meditate – Luke 12:24-34; I Peter 5:7; Hebrews 13:5-6; 23rd psalm
    • Anger/Frustration – Liver and Gall bladder – Consider and meditate – James 1:1-5, 19; Proverbs  15:1; James 4: 1-2; Proverbs 3:5-6

Adrenal and Sex Hormone Assessment

Adrenal and Sex Hormone Assessment

Natural Health Services

Adrenal and Sex Hormone Assessment

Arkansas Nutrition and Natural Healing

Dr. Roger Trubey, Dr.PH, MPH, and Doctor of Integrative Medicine 362 Unger Trail, Mountain Home, Arkansas 72653

Call 501-538-4944

Hormones exert a powerful influence over all physical, intellectual and emotional behavior. Problems with weight, memory, sleep, digestion, blood pressure, high cholesterol, cravings, addictions, sexual dysfunctions, and problems associated with the immune system, are all influenced by the endocrine system. Endocrine problems lead to a wide spectrum of symptoms that in most cases can be reversed using natural methods.

A primary marker of the aging process in both men and women is a reduction in normal hormone levels which is responsible in large part for infertility, decreased energy and muscle strength, loss of libido, depression, mood swings, inability to cope, and an increase in the symptoms of PMS and menopause.  Research has shown that the use of natural hormone replacement can provide benefits for both men and women.

Estrogen dominance is a primary cause of almost all female health problems, including fibrocystic breast disease, PMS, mood swings, excessive bleeding, endometriosis, fibroids, infertility, and ovarian cysts. Perimenopause is the time when hormone levels begin to shift in preparation for menopause. It is not so much the decrease in hormones that produces the uncomfortable symptoms associated with perimenopause, but rather the changing ratio between estrogen and progesterone. Chronic or episodic depression, severe mood swings, and anxiety are frequent manifestations of these midlife fluctuations.

But estrogen can also be found deficient in the female body as well.  Signs of estrogen deficiency include: hot flashes, night sweats, dry eyes, vaginal dryness, sagging breasts and loss of breast fullness, mental fogginess, depression, changes in mood, decreased sense of sensuality and sexuality.

Progesterone is another female “sex” hormone, produced in the ovaries, that prepares the uterus for a fertilized egg. Its sudden withdrawal causes the uterus to shed its lining if pregnancy does not occur. While estrogen is high (during days 7-14 of the menstrual cycle), progesterone is at its lowest level. Its levels climb to a peak between days 14 – 24, and then dramatically drop off again just before the start of menstruation. Ideally, women should have five to ten times more progesterone than estrogen in the blood and 40 to 150 times more in the saliva. The lower the ratio of progesterone to estrogen, the higher the risk of health problems. Progesterone has the unique ability to change its structural form to become other hormones, allowing it to be converted and utilized by the body to the point of depletion.

Testosterone is responsible for much more than defining sexual characteristics in men or influencing sex drive. Testosterone is essential for life since it helps to regulate basic metabolism. Testosterone also facilitates protein synthesis and the building of body and bone tissues. Testosterone is produced by small groups of specialized cells within the testicles and is also secreted, to a lesser extent, by the ovaries. The production of testosterone is triggered by luteinizing hormone (LH), produced in the pituitary gland. In the absence of LH, testosterone production ceases. With age, blood levels of testosterone slowly decrease. Research conducted by the National Institute of Health has shown a 2% reduction per year from age 30 to age 70.

Endocrine problems may be the result of stress. Simply put, stress is the sum total of all mental and physical input over a given period of time. The marker used to measure stress is the adrenal steroid hormone, cortisol. Stress, whether physical or emotional in origin, provokes a response by the adrenal glands. Many hormonal imbalances are the direct result of adrenal insufficiency. When the adrenal glands become exhausted due to overwork, adequate levels of the stress hormones, DHEA and cortisol cannot be produced, this in turn plays a major role in the usage, or the misappropriation of all the other steroid hormones.  In other words with undue, long-term stress the body will use sex hormones to make stress hormones.  This is never an efficient system and was only designed by the creator for emergencies.  The trouble is that when this process continues for long periods of time, a maladaption takes place that depletes both progesterone and testosterone leading to estrogen dominance and all the problems associated with that in both men and women.

The adrenal glands produce two primary hormones, DHEA and cortisol. Both are considered the major shock absorber hormones in the body. They buffer us to stress and the negative impact it can have on both mental and physical function. Long-term stress can have a serious impact on the adrenal glands and cause them to shrink and reduce production. This causes cellular damage, which sets off a chain reaction affecting all parts of the body, as well as accelerating the aging process.

The adrenal glands hold the key to the hierarchy of hormones. It is necessary to establish the proper foundation first which means you must determine the cause of the hormonal dysfunction and treat the cause first. Our research has shown that to cause a positive hormonal change you must normalize adrenal activity first. It is the mainspring in the hormonal mechanism. When the adrenals malfunction, all other associated systems will as well. The symptoms associated with adrenal dysfunction are diverse and can involve the digestive, circulatory, respiratory, as well as the brain and nervous systems. In addition, the adrenals can impact the growth and repair of bones, muscles, hair and nails.

 

Knowing your adrenal and sex hormone levels is an important first step in assessing where your hormones may be out of balance and determining whether your current natural hormone regimen is working for you. If you are wondering whether certain symptoms may be due to a hormone imbalance, this is a quick, easy, and accurate way to find out.

There are three primary ways of assessing hormone levels – blood, saliva and urine. While each some advantages and disadvantages, it is my opinion that overall the best method is urine. But some testing will combine the saliva and urine and some parameters are only assessed via blood.

Saliva testing – While the free cortisol pattern in saliva has clinical value, there is a significant missing piece to surveying a patient’s HPA-Axis function with saliva testing – measuring metabolized cortisol. To properly characterize a patient’s cortisol status, free and metabolized cortisol should be measured to avoid misleading results when cortisol clearance is abnormally high or low. Likewise with sex hormones, measuring estrogen and androgen metabolites gives a fuller picture for more precise clinical diagnosis of hormonal imbalances and HRT monitoring.

Serum testing – While the most universally accepted testing method (due to the availability of FDA-cleared analyzers that are reliable and inexpensive), serum testing is lacking in some areas. Adrenal hormones cannot be effectively tested in serum because free cortisol cannot be tested throughout the day. There is also a lack of extensive metabolite testing (especially for cortisol and estrogens).

24-Hour Urine Testing – There are two primary drawbacks to urine testing of hormones. First, the collection is cumbersome, and as many as 40% of those who collect, do so in error. Secondly, dysfunction in the diurnal pattern of cortisol cannot be ascertained from a 24-hour collection. The daily free cortisol pattern was formerly only available with salivary testing.

The Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones (DUTCH) offers some distinct advantages.

· This advanced hormone testing was developed to improve on the available hormone testing options. DUTCH offers the most extensive profile of sex and adrenal hormones along with their metabolites. Additionally, the daily (diurnal) pattern of free cortisol is included along with melatonin. This unique combination of clinical information is not available by any other method.

· Effective HRT Monitoring: DUTCH testing was specifically made to be optimally effective for most forms of hormone replacement therapy. Unique methods are used for improved monitoring of oral progesterone and vaginal hormones.

· The Easiest Patient Collection: Patients collect just four or five dried urine samples over a 24-hour period. Dried specimen shipments are convenient worldwide. Dried samples are stable for several weeks.

· Analytical and Clinical Validation: Precision Analytical testing methods go through a rigorous validation process to verify accuracy, precision, recovery, linearity, etc.

In a separate test the lab providing the DUTCH assessment also combines the regular DUTCH urine assessment with saliva testing as a means of assessing a Cortisol Awakening Response (CAR). CAR is the natural rise in cortisol that is seen 30 to 40 minutes after awakening followed by a noticeable drop by 60 minutes. This activity is influenced by brain activity (hypothalamus/pituitary) and by adrenal function. Stress of all types will have a major influence on the CAR response.

Lower than normal CAR is often seen in individuals with:

· A high amount of psychosocial burnout

· Chronic fatigue

· PTSD

· Seasonal affective disorder (during winter)

· Nightshift work schedules

· Sleep apnea

· Short sleep cycles

· Chronic inflammation

· Adrenal insufficiency

· Lack of morning sunlight exposure

· Hippocampal damage or atrophy

· Amnesia (due to temporal lobe damage)

 

Factors associated with an elevated CAR include:

· Immediate access to light upon awakening

· Depression

· Ovulation phase of the menstrual cycle

· Sleep issues

· Older age

· Ongoing job-related and perceived stress (CAR is significantly higher on work days)

 

Hormone testing provides clues about menstrual irregularities, infertility, erectile dysfunction, endometriosis and osteoporosis. A hormone test can determine some of the reasons for hot flashes, night sweats, decreased libido, as well as monitor bio-identical and natural hormone therapy. In addition The DUTCH assessment also provides you a number of other very important clinical health parameters including:

· Methylation activity on hormones

· Vitamin B6 and B12 markers

· Glutathione marker

· Neurotransmitter metabolites

· Melatonin levels

· 8-OHdG Oxidative stress level

· Phase I and II detox function

 

Saliva contains the free fraction of the hormones which reflects the bioactive tissue levels. Free Fractions in saliva correlate more closely with clinical symptoms than total blood serum hormone levels (which mostly reflect the bound fraction). But dried urine testing has been shown to be extremely well correlated with saliva levels while at the same time providing us with many additional parameters that are unavailable with either saliva or blood.

Adrenal and sex hormone assessment is an accurate and simple way for you to know your current status of both the adrenals and sex hormones giving you information you will find highly valuable to improving your overall health.

 

Call Dr. Trubey at 501-538-4944 and make an appointment for a comprehensive health evaluation today.

Advanced Allergy Therapeutics

Advanced Allergy Therapeutics

Natural Health Services

Advanced Allergy Therapeutics

Arkansas Nutrition and Natural Healing

Dr. Roger Trubey, Dr.PH, MPH, and Doctor of Integrative Medicine 362 Unger Trail, Mountain Home, Arkansas 72653

Call 501-538-4944

Advanced Allergy Therapeutics (AAT) offers a unique and highly effective approach in treating the many symptoms associated with allergies and sensitivities. AAT is a precision-based therapy that treats the organ systems involved in an overreaction. AAT does not treat the immune system; instead, the therapy focuses on inappropriate reactions to a harmless substance in relation to the organs systems to produce rapid, long-term results for the relief of associated symptoms. AAT merges 21st century science with 3,000-year-old traditional acupuncture and modern naturopathic principles in offering an effective alternative in the treatment of symptoms associated with allergies and sensitivities.

  • Non-invasive
  • No needles
  • No herbal remedies
  • No supplements
  • No avoidance
  • Just results!

UNDERSTANDING ALLERGIES AND SENSITIVITIES

Allergies and sensitivities are caused by an inappropriate reaction to harmless substances.

The word “allergy” comes from the Greek allos, meaning “other”. It was first used in 1906 to refer to an “altered reaction” in the body’s immune system.

A “true allergy” is a reaction triggered by the immune system, however there are a vast number of symptoms or conditions caused by sensitivities that may or may not involve the immune system. With reactions involving food, a large percentage of the population believes they have allergies, yet fewer than 2% actually have true allergies. In fact, many suffer from undiagnosed food sensitivities or intolerances. The majority of patients who seek the AAT treatment do not have true allergies; their symptoms are likely to be caused by sensitivities with no immune involvement. Since there are few options for the treatment of sensitivities, other than avoidance, AAT provides a highly effective alternative. Symptoms caused by true allergies, however, also respond well to the treatment as the organs systems involved in the reaction are also addressed.

The use of the word “allergy” has become a generic term used by the public to describe allergies, sensitivities and intolerances.

WHAT IS AAT?

Advanced Allergy Therapeutics (AAT) is a clinically proven treatment that is highly effective in relieving the many symptoms associated with allergies and sensitivities. It is a therapeutic approach that was developed from over 16 years of clinical research. The AAT treatment does not rely on the use of medications, herbal remedies or supplements. The treatment is safe, painless and available to all ages including infants.

Advanced Allergy Therapeutics works directly with the relationship between the major organ systems and inappropriate reactions to harmless substances. While the immune system is responsible for initiating an immune reaction in the case of true allergies, it is the health and state of the organ systems that often determines the type of symptoms that may arise. With both sensitivities and allergies, symptoms typically stem from the organ system affected. For example, one patient may have a reaction to soybean by getting rashes while another patient may react with sinus congestion, heartburn or Irritable Bowel Syndrome. The symptoms in each of these cases represent a different organ system involved. By treating the organ system(s) involved in a reaction, the body is able to respond more appropriately.

During treatment, gentle pressure is used on points that correspond with the organ systems involved in a reaction. The degree of stress on the organ systems caused by an allergen or offending agent is proportional to the degree of the negative reaction. While the stimulation is applied, a subtle representation of the offending substance is introduced to the surface of the skin. The stimulation reduces the stress on the effected organ system, allowing for a more appropriate response.

All holistic fields of medicine are aligned in the approach to treat the whole body. They share the understanding that health conditions may develop as a result of interference in proper functioning caused by various forms of stress or other factors. Reducing the stress or interference allows for optimal health. When the specific organ system is supported and stress is reduced, the whole body is able to respond more appropriately.

AAT does not diagnose allergies, sensitivities or intolerances.

AAT does not test for allergies or sensitivities. The AAT system simply assesses what may be causing a stress to the body.

AAT does not cure allergies, nor does the therapy treat the immune system. AAT is a highly effective treatment that provides long-term relief from symptoms associated with allergies or sensitivities.

 

AAT does not treat cases of anaphylaxis or life threatening symptoms. Strict avoidance is always advised in these cases.

SYMPTOMS TREATED

A sensitivity or inappropriate reaction may cause symptoms from any organ system in the body. Some systems are prone to reacting to certain families of allergies or substances, such as the respiratory system reacting to pollen. However, a substance may affect any organ system, which could cause a multitude of symptoms varying from case to case. For example, a reaction to wheat may cause hives in one person, digestive issues in another, fatigue, wheezing or Acid Reflux all in different patients. AAT addresses the specific organ systems affected by the allergen or offending substance.

Digestive System

Symptoms include reflux, heartburn, abdominal and intestinal pain, cramping, gas, bloating, nausea, diarrhea and vomiting, primarily caused by reactions to food or other ingestants.

Respiratory System

Symptoms include sneezing, congestion, runny nose, wheezing, shortness of breath, coughs, postnasal drip, skin conditions, rashes and itchy, watery eyes. Reactions may be associated with pollens, dust, food, chemicals and animals (including dog and cat dander and bird feathers), air-borne substances and contactants.

Dermatological

Symptoms may include red, itchy, or scaly skin rashes, blisters with oozing and crusting, dry leathery patches or hives. The main cause of dermatological reactions can be a reaction to food but can also be caused by plants, contactants and chemicals.

Headaches and Migraines

May be caused by reactions to food such as chocolate and caffeine, airborne irritants such as pollens and chemicals including household cleaners, perfumes and vehicle fumes.

Tiredness and Fatigue

Many reactions result in lethargy and feelings of fatigue. Tiredness can also occur at certain times of the day, such as in the afternoon after eating.

Multiple Systems

Symptoms may affect multiple systems in the body, resulting in headaches, irritability, hyperactivity, mood swings, fatigue, tachycardia, or inflammation.

General

Chemicals – household cleaners, perfumes, building materials, washing detergent, pesticides

Occupational sensitivities such as latex or building materials such as paints, glues, carpets, woods or varnishes

Animals

Heat, cold and humidity/dampness

Symptoms associated with an allergy or sensitivity can contribute to common conditions such as: asthma, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). However not all cases involve allergies or sensitivities.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is primarily caused by sensitivities and affects approximately 15% of the population. Common symptoms include diarrhea, constipation, and bloating and abdominal pain.

Skin conditions, such as eczema, dermatitis and hives are commonly associated with the symptoms of an allergy or sensitivity.

PLEASE BE ADVISED

AAT cannot guarantee any results. While AAT may be highly effective in the relief of many symptoms associated with allergies or sensitivities, some cases do not respond.

AAT does not treat cases of anaphylaxis or life threatening symptoms. Strict avoidance is always advised.

COMMON ALLEGENS OR OFFENDING AGENTS

Contactants
Inhalants
Ingestants
Shell Fish
Red and White Wine, Beer
Chemicals, Latex
Fruit – Berries, citrus etc Food Components
Perfumes
Airborne Irritants
Herbal Remedies
Eggs
Dust, Dust Mites
Barometric pressure
Nutritional supplements
Nightshade foods
Seasonal allergens Environmental allergens
Grains
Animal Dander
Woods, Metals
Dairy foods
Fabrics, Upholstery
Plastics
Stinging Insects
Coffee and Chocolate
Detergents, Softeners
Sunlight

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How soon will I see results?

Many cases respond quickly to the treatment and achieve long-term results within the first few treatments. However, each case is different and some patients require additional treatment.

What are the most common symptoms addressed in the clinic?

I have added more symptoms – since we are taking out the conditions above.
Bloating, cramping, reflux, heartburn, gas, diarrhea, nausea, runny nose, sneezing, congestion, post-nasal drip, itchy watery eyes, coughs, wheezing, shortness of breath, red, scaly or itchy rashes, blisters with oozing and crusting, dry leathery skin areas, hives, itchy skin, hyperactivity, mood swings, headaches, fatigue, tiredness, chemical sensitivities, reactions to the sun, any negative reaction to harmless substances.

How many sessions are needed?

The number of sessions required depends on the number of items causing a reaction. For example, a patient who reacts to five families of substances (dairy, wheat, corn, animal dander and pollen) may require between 5 to 12 sessions to relieve the symptoms or resolve a condition.

Is there an age restriction for the treatments?

No. All ages may be treated, including infants.

How long do I have to wait before I can have contact with the items that were addressed in my session?

Following a session, a patient should avoid the substance that was treated for 2 hours, if possible. Depending on the item addressed, avoidance is not always possible. It is recommended that the patient not have excessive contact with the item until the following day.

How much does it cost and what is included?

The Initial Session is $145, which includes an assessment and one treatment.

Follow-Up treatments are $85.

Can I have more than one treatment in a day?

Yes. Two treatments can be completed in one day. However, there must be at least 2 hours between sessions.

How long are the sessions?

The Initial Session takes approximately 60 minutes and includes an assessment and one treatment. Follow-Up Sessions take 15 to 60 minutes and include one treatment.

Do you take health insurance for the treatments?

No. We do not take health insurance.

How do I make an appointment?

You can make an appointment by calling the clinic directly at 501-538-4944. You do not need a doctor’s referral.

Do I need to do anything before my appointment?

Patients should arrive 20 minutes prior to the Initial Session to complete the necessary forms unless you have previously completed them.

Please do not smoke or wear perfume or fragrances prior to coming in to the clinic. This is a courtesy to other patients who may be sensitive to those substances.

Please bring any allergy tests from medical doctors to the Initial Session.

Prescription or over-the-counter medications will not affect the treatment.

Patients who have other therapies (massage, chiropractic, acupuncture, etc) scheduled on the same day as the AAT treatment should schedule those therapies PRIOR to the AAT treatment, if possible.

If experiencing an acute stage of illness including an elevated temperature, the patient should contact the clinic to reschedule the appointment.

The Arkansas Center for Nutrition and Natural Healing and Total Health Services DO NOT treat anaphylaxis or any life-threatening symptoms. Strict avoidance is always advised.

Do I need to stop taking any of my medications before the treatment?

No, patients do not need to stop taking medication that has been prescribed by a medical doctor without his/her authorization. You may continue taking over the counter medication to control current symptoms, as this will not affect the treatment.

Are any traditional medical allergy tests offered in the clinic?

We do not offer any conventional allergy testing. Patients are encouraged to bring in allergy tests from their physicians.

Are there any guarantees that my symptoms will be relieved?

Unfortunately, we can offer no guarantees; however, the majority of our patients respond favorably to the AAT treatment on a long-term basis. We cannot guarantee that new symptoms will not develop in the future.

Can food intolerance be treated?

No. A food intolerance is different from an allergy or sensitivity in that there may be an enzyme deficiency, which inhibits the body from properly digesting the substance. Such cases are not affected by the treatment.

Can you treat for anaphylactic symptoms?

No. We do not treat conditions involving anaphylactic reactions. However, patients with an anaphylactic reaction may be treated for other sensitivities that are not life threatening.

 

Call Dr. Trubey at 501-538-4944 for availability of appointment.

 

Organic Acid Analysis

Organic Acid Analysis

Organic Acid Analysis

 

Arkansas Nutrition and Natural Healing

Dr. Roger Trubey, Dr.PH, MPH, and Doctor of Integrative Medicine 362 Unger Trail, Mountain Home, Arkansas 72653

Call 501-538-4944

The Organic acid analysis provides a metabolic “snapshot” into what the body is discarding through the urine.  These small organic acid molecules are byproducts of human cellular activity, food digestion and gut flora activity.  They provide to us markers of nutritional deficiencies, specific detoxification needs or disturbed metabolic pathways.  When excessive yeast or bacteria are present their metabolites clue us into to their excess so appropriate changes can be made.   Because the organic acid analysis provides us this window into human cellular activity, from it we can determine:

  • Cellular energy production
  • Metabolic toxicity
  • Detoxification needs and problems
  • Functional vitamin, mineral and other nutrient deficiencies
  • Amino acid deficiencies
  • Neurotransmitter problems
  • intestinal flora imbalances
  • Environmental pollutants

The usefulness of this unique profile, one rarely used in conventional medicine, is that it provides insight into so many areas of the human physiology.  It has implications for the practitioner into many problem areas, including but certainly not limited to:

  • Fatigue
  • Nausea
  • Multiple chemical sensitivity
  • Intestinal distress
  • Joint pain
  • Autoimmune disorders
  • Inflammatory conditions
  • Headaches
  • Early ageing
  • Vitamin and nutrient deficiencies
  • Environmental toxicities
  • ADD/ADHD

These small organic molecules in a healthy individual appear in only very small amounts.  But when we have disturbances in vitamin, mineral and hormone metabolism, energy shifts, or the integrity of the intestinal wall is compromised and muscle function is disturbed, these compounds can increase significantly, signaling where a problem is at.  Sometimes in individuals with chronic illness, autoimmune disorders or allergic illness we may find a number of abnormal organic acids being produced in rather high quantities.   The reasons behind these increases are quite varied, but may come from antibiotic use, excessive consumption of carbohydrates, immune deficiencies, genetic factors and toxin accumulation
Once abnormalities are detected there is a variety of treatment options available to improve one’s health and return to feeling well.  As such, the organic acid analysis is an extremely useful screening and assessment tool for a variety of very common health problems.