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Health Articles

How To Boost Your Child's IQ Naturally

Brian Bartholomew - Monday, July 30, 2012

Boost Your Child's IQ with Natural Diet and Lifestyle

    
      

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The United States has an epidemic of childhood neurodevelopmental disease such as autism, ADHD, Asperger's and mental retardation. Much of this is due to the influence of industrial chemicals, processed foods, birth and childhood spinal trauma, & sedentary behavior. A natural diet and innate lifestyle can dramatically benefit children's brain development, boost IQ, and improve learning processes.

  

Children should eat a whole food based diet that is rich in color and variety. This includes fruits, vegetables, nuts & seeds of different colors, shapes, & sizes. Every color boasts its own unique variety of phytonutrient anti-oxidants. The novelty of the different produce will excite the child's developing cerebellum and boost neural growth patterns in this important area of the brain.

  

Super shakes using coconut, hemp, or almond milk with frozen berries and other frozen fruit is an amazingly refreshing and satisfying treat that could be made in a unique fashion more than once a day. Try different fruits such as raspberries, blueberries, strawberries, banana, etc. Berries are typically higher in pesticides so be sure to get the organic frozen or fresh variety.

  

Non-denatured, grass-fed whey protein is one of the best fuels for a growing child. This protein provides a mega dose of L-glutamine which is a very important amino acid for tissue healing and a strong gastro-intestinal system. Due to inflammatory diets and the overuse of anti-biotics and other medications many children have a very weak gastrointestinal lining. When this lining is damaged, proteins are able to cross into the bloodstream. The body then goes into self-defense against these alien proteins and triggers an inflammatory attack creating food allergies and intolerances.

  

High quality whey protein also boosts glutathione which is the bodies master anti-oxidant. Glutathione protects cells by neutralizing oxygen molecules before they damage cells. It also boosts natural liver detoxification and protects the arteries, brain, heart, and immune cells among others. Children who are deficient in glutathione are much more likely to develop neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism, ADHD and Asperger's.

  

High quality whey protein also provides highly bioavailable amino acids that help produce healthy muscle tissue. This is especially important for active kids and athletes engaging in long practices and physically demanding sports. These amino acids also help produce enzymes that carry out extremely important functions in the body. Active enzymes help metabolize inflammatory wastes and positively influence tissue healing processes.

  

Children should be getting a minimum of 1 gram of high-quality long chain omega 3 fatty acids EPA & DHA each day. The best natural source of EPA & DHA is wild, Alaskan sockeye salmon.   Salmon also contains astaxanthin which is another powerful anti-oxidant that is particularly good for eye health. Having wild salmon (never farmed) once or twice a week is particularly good for children. Grass-fed beef is also high in EPA and DHA as are free range eggs and wild game such as venison. These should all be rotated into the diet and eaten on a regular basis. Additional supplementation with a high quality, purified fish oil containing ample amounts of EPA & DHA is also highly recommended.

  

Municipal water is extraordinarily toxic to healthy brain development. Clean, filtered water that has removed chlorine, DBP's, heavy metals and fluoride is essential. High quality reverse osmosis systems are one of the very few water systems that is able to effectively remove fluoride. Add back a pinch of pink salt (1/4 teaspoon per gallon) to replace any lost minerals from the reverse osmosis process.Teach your children not to use municipal water fountains but instead to carry bottled water in either glass or stainless steel bottles. 
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Sensory Integration for Sensational Kids

Brian Bartholomew - Wednesday, April 25, 2012

Sensory Integration for Sensational Kids

Chiropractic for ADD/Autism/SPD

Sensory Processing Disorder affects on average 1 in 20 children.  1 in 6 children have sensory challenges present in their every day lives.  1 in 100 children are diagnosed with Autism.  

 

Children learn through their sensory systems.  Everything they see, smell, taste, and touch is taken into their brain.  Every movement of their body is registered.  Neurosensory integration is the ability of the brain and body to take in, process, organize and integrate sensory information so we can feel safe and secure in our environment.  This allows us to respond appropriately to situations and requests so proper social and academic learning can occur.  The integration of the sensory systems beings when the baby is developing in the womb and the first year of life is a critical time for brain pathways to develop.

 

When a baby is born, they are pre-programed with primitive reflexes, which are automatic reactions to a specific stimuli. For example, have you ever stroked a baby's cheek and noticed that they automatically turn their head and open their mouth?  This is an example of a primitive reflex that helps them learn to eat.  These reflexes protect them from harm and help them learn how to live outside the womb.  These reflexes should disappear after a few months as higher brain functioning takes over.

 

For some kids these reflexes do not disappear completely, meaning the child retains the primitive reflex and higher brain functioning does not take over as it should.  Why this happens in one child and not another is still unknown, however many theories exist. 

 

Symptoms of a retained reflex depend on which of the many reflexes still exist.  Some common symptoms are:

Chiropractic for ADD

 

  •  Hypersensitivity to touch, light, textures and withdraws from contact with others
  • Being startled very easily and over reacting to loud noises or changes
  • Balance and coordination issues
  • Difficulty with writing, reading, reading comprehension, speech
  • Bedwetting
  • Hyperactivity
  • Bothered by tags, socks, tight clothing
  • Seeks out sensory stimulation by yelling, being aggressive, jumping, kicking

 

Many children with these traits are labeled with Autism, Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).  

 

Dr. West offers a unique neurodevelopmental program in her office that combines chiropractic care with neurointegrative exercises and nutritional counseling.  Dr. West is a board certified Pediatric Chiropractor who has advanced education working with the specific needs of these fantastic kids!  

 

Each child is evaluated for subtle misalignments in their spine and pelvis.  These misalignments can be created in utero, through the birth process or as the result of physical trauma.  Physical trauma can happen as they are learning to walk or ride a bike and take a few falls.  As they play in sports or on the playground.  The brain and body need to be in constant communication through the nervous system, which is supported by the skull and spine.  A misalignment in the spine can slow this communication creating an immaturely functioning nervous system.  The sensory information that comes into the body and the commands down from the brain will be delayed.  The chiropractic adjustment helps to stimulate the nervous system and remove blockages in this flow of information.

 

Numerous studies have shown that kids with neurodevelopmental disorders have chronic gut inflammation.  This inflammation can contribute to picky eaters, repeated illnesses and behavior problems.  Dr. West works to help correct the source of the gut problem, not just covering the symptoms.  Through specific dietary changes and supplements it is possible to heal the intestines, leading to happier and healthier children.

 

Neurointegrative exercises help to restore the brain-body connection.  Each child has their own exercise program developed specifically for their needs.  The program works to integrate any retained primitive reflexes, while helping the child develop their sensory skills.   

 

If you think your child may benefit from our program please call us at the office today!

 

Sensory Integration

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Sensory Processing Disorder and Chiropractic Care

Brian Bartholomew - Wednesday, April 25, 2012

Sensory Processing Disorder and Chiropractic Care

by Dr. Jessica Caruso – Prenatal and Family Chiropractor

Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder resulting from the brain’s inability to integrate everyday sensory information received from the five senses: touch, vision, sound, smell, and taste.(1)

The five senses mentioned above are commonly known. However, there are 2 other senses, rarely known but extremely important: vestibular and proprioceptive systems.
The vestibular system is physiologically located in the cerebellum (base of brain), upper cervical spine (top of neck) and inner ear. The vestibular system is responsible for regulating all incoming sensory information and is considered the most important sensory system. The proprioceptive system is located throughout the spine and joints of the body. Disruption of this system may lead to problems with learning, motor skills, behavior, and social / emotional development. (1)

It is estimated that 1 in 20 children suffers from SPD. Children with SPD are often misdiagnosed as having ADD, ADHD, or other neurodevelopmental disorders. This misdiagnosis may be due to the fact that SPD often co-exists with ADD, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, OCD, anxiety disorder, traumatic brain injury, and learning disabilities. These children are usually misunderstood and labeled as aggressive, clumsy, inattentive, or difficult. (1)

Some signs your child may have SPD:

Touch: they may avoid or crave touch, get irritated by certain clothing (ex: tags, sock seams) and food textures (1)
Smell: may be susceptible to allergies, may need to excessively smell toys, items, people (1)
Taste: “picky eaters”, exhibit pica (eating non-edible items like chalk, crayons, dirt, etc.) (1)
Vision: difficulty going down stairs, poor hand-eye coordination, eye discomfort when required to perform visual work like reading, frequent headaches and stomach upset after school, may need to read out loud to keep place (1)
Auditory: may be upset with loud or unexpected noises, hum and sing to screen out unwanted noises, bothered by clock ticking, refrigerator humming, air conditioner on, cover ears a lot, speak loudly (1)
Proprioception: may need physical contact with another person, may exhibit hysteria over washing hair, pulling shirts over head, difficulty falling asleep, sleep walking, and are clumsy (1)

Chiropractic care is an essential treatment for these children. Properly functioning vestibular and proprioceptive sensory systems are key components in developing and maintaining a healthy sensory processing system. Because these two sensory systems are largely located in the spine, it is extremely important to remove any spinal misalignments with a chiropractic adjustment that may be causing nerve interference.

Family wellness chiropractors are also well versed in proper nutrition. It is important to avoid certain foods and add certain foods into the diet for treatment of SPD. Refined sugar, food preservatives, and food colorings should be avoided. Omega-3 fatty acids found in cold water fish (wild caught) such as salmon, tuna, and trout, and dark green leafy vegetables and flaxseed oil are considered good “brain food.” Dairy-free and gluten-free diets may also be helpful for these children (1). Keeping a food journal and reviewing it with your family chiropractor is advised.

Exercising your child’s brain is highly recommended. Today children spend more time in car seats, walkers, and other places that restrict movement and impair neurodevelopment. As children get older they are spending more time in front of a computer, playing video games, or texting, and not enough time running, jumping, skipping, climbing, swinging and crawling. Activities that involve using both sides of the body are necessary for proper development (1).

Other things to consider:

  • Drink Water: Water comprises more of the brain than any other organ of the body. Having children drink water before and during class can help “grease the wheel.” Drinking water is very important before stressful situations like taking tests (2).
  • Cross-Crawl Exercises: This exercise helps coordinate right and left brain by exercising the information flow between the two hemispheres. It is useful for spelling, writing, listening, reading and comprehension (2).
  • Brain Buttons: This exercise helps improve blood flow to the brain to “switch on” the entire brain before a lesson begins. The increased blood flow helps improve concentration skills required for reading and writing (2).
  • Hook Ups: This works well for nerves before a test or special event like making a speech. These help calm the mind and improve concentration (2).
  • Listening to classical music such as Mozart may help improve the IQ (2).
  • Using Colored Pens: Using colored pens helps the right brain remember patterns (2).

Finding a chiropractor familiar with Paul E. Dennison, Ph.D. and Gail E. Dennison’s work is recommended.

To find a family wellness chiropractor near you visit www.icpa4kids.com

References:

(1) Pathways to Family Wellness, Issue 19; What is Sensory Processing Disorder?, Monika Buerger, D.C.

(2) Brain Gym® Exercises, About.com, Kenneth Beare

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Sensory Integration Dysfunction, ADHD/ADD, Dyslexia and Chiropractic

Brian Bartholomew - Wednesday, April 25, 2012

A New Frontier for Caring for the Child With ADHD and Sensory Integration Dysfunction

By Claudia Anrig, DC

For doctors of chiropractic who serve the challenged child segment, it is not uncommon to hear, "Doctor, can chiropractic help my child with ADHD?" In my personal practice, I have seen many children helped with these disorders, and I have spoken to colleagues worldwide who shared their personal success stories. However, in all honesty, these success stories do not necessarily mean we can produce repeatable "breakthrough" results.

Over the years, I have never seen any specific technique, system of chiropractic analysis, protocol of care or adjunctive therapy (e.g., exercise, nutrition) to treat such challenging disorders. Now, however, the wait finally may be over. Monika Buerger, DC, and Robert J. Melillo, DC, DABCN, each have established timely, instructional programs for those seeking to serve these challenged pediatric population groups.

Dr. Buerger has been in private family practice for 15 years, specializing in sensory integration disorders in children. In her experience, she has found that many children who are diagnosed with ADD/ADHD, dyslexia, and various other autism spectrum disorders and learning disorders have an underlying problem with sensory integration dysfunction (SID). She notes that many of these children are being prescribed unnecessary medications and/or are not receiving proper treatment.

Sensory integration is the ability to take in, process, organize and assimilate sensory information so that we feel comfortable and secure; we then can respond appropriately to given situations and demands. All forms of learning occur through this process. Children with sensory SID experience a "disconnect" between the brain and the body (PNS and CNS) and have difficulty processing sensory information. Two rarely known senses are vestibular and proprioceptive sensations, both of which commonly function improperly among children with the above disorders.

Several years ago, Dr. Buerger became interested in this area and began extensive research, attending various seminars and workshops. Most sensory integration work has been performed in the occupational therapy arena; however, knowing the great impact chiropractic plays on the occulomotor, vestibular and proprioceptive systems, not to mention the entire nervous system, she knew the chiropractic profession needed to be a vital component in the treatment of these children. The more she researched and began to work in this field, it seemed to her that the neurological basis for SID was written for the chiropractic profession. Armed with a DC degree and a bachelor's degree in exercise physiology from California State University, Fresno, she began developing a program in her office for children with ADD and ADHD. As the children's success became known in her community, this area of her practice grew and began to include a variety of children with learning disorders. She also began to develop programs for local elementary schools.

Dr. Buerger is on the postgraduate faculty of several chiropractic college and is an instructor with the ICPA. She is also a contributing author to Pediatric Chiropractic. She shares a mission to teach doctors vital information regarding the treatment of children. As part of this mission, she developed a sensory integration program for the doctor of chiropractic, integrating the neurological principles of SID and those of chiropractic. The program in now offered through the ICPA and teaches how to perform a specific and detailed history, including what she calls a sensory and academic profile (SAP), a detailed neurological and sensory analysis and evaluation, specific short-lever adjustment protocols, home, school, and recreational recommendations, nutritional and biochemical considerations, and specific sensory exercise programs that are "graduated" in difficulty as children progress.

The program also discusses ways to implement a sensory integration program into your practice at any level, depending on how much space you have in your office, how much time you want to spend with patients, and how much you want to invest financially. The program is designed to give the doctor of chiropractic a firm understanding of the fundamental principles of neurosensory disorders and how they relate to children with ADD, ADHD, dyslexia, autism spectrum disorders, and various other learning and behavioral disorders. Its neurological basis gives the doctor of chiropractic a solid understanding as to why these children need chiropractic and its value as part of a drug-free treatment approach.

At the University of Bridgeport College of Chiropractic, Dr. Robert J. Melillo has been working with children in the area of neurobehavioral disorders like ADHD, dyslexia, learning disabilities, and autism for more than 10 years. He started to research the problem in 1995; at that time, the statistics showed a 250 percent increase in the use of Ritalin between 1990 and 1995. With these disturbing facts in mind, Dr. Melillo chose to devote much of his professional career toward trying to understand not only what causes ADHD and other neurobehavioral disorders, but also what can be done to correct these problems on a long-term basis, without the use of medication.

In 2004, Dr. Melillo published a textbook titled Neurobehavioral Disorders of Childhood - An Evolutionary Perspective, which describes what he believes to be the primary neurophysiologic mechanism that produces many of the most common neurobehavioral disorders. Applying this neurophysiologic mechanism to chiropractic, he focuses on three main areas: sensory/motor systems, biomechanical/nutritional, and neuropsychological, with the main concept revolving around hemispheric balance. His belief is that most of the symptoms seen in children with ADHD can best be explained by decreased activity in one hemisphere in the brain, often caused by an imbalance in the way that postural, vestibular and occulomotor information is being sent to the brain. As a result, one hemisphere is underactive, preventing the proper synchronization of the two hemispheres, which is necessary to properly share and process information.

From a chiropractic standpoint, an imbalance in postural muscle tone producing an observable subluxation complex may result in more gross postural disturbances, such as head tilts, which also could have central neurological consequences affecting and involving cognitive and behavioral functions.

Dr. Melillo recognizes that each child is different and should therefore be treated specifically; however, he has made his courses and treatment approaches more protocol-driven throughout the years for teaching purposes. He has developed specific protocols that involve not only precise adjustments, but also particular nutritional-, sensory-, motor- and cognitive-based protocols as well. The key, as he sees it, is to get the doctors to start seeing results, and protocols are the best means to that end.

A graduate education in neurology is not necessary for chiropractors wishing to take either of these new programs. The courses provide the chiropractor with all of the information necessary to treat children with ADHD and to help them feel comfortable interacting with other professionals such as teachers, occupational therapists, psychologists, and optometrists who also treat these children. To learn more about these programs, contact Monika Buerger, DC, at www.icpa4kids.com or Robert Melillo, DC, DABCN, atwww.carrickinstitute.org.

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Judge Rules Prozac Can Cause Children to Commit Murder

Brian Bartholomew - Wednesday, December 21, 2011

Canadian judge rules SSRI antidepressants like Prozac can cause children to commit murder

by Jonathan Benson, staff writer 

(NaturalNews) The use of antidepressant and psychiatric drugs, particularly among children, is an extremely risky activity that could have fatal consequences for both the individuals that use them, as well as their friends and family. According to the National Post, a Canadian judge recently ruled that the extreme mind-altering effects of the antidepressant drug Prozac were in large part responsible for causing a 15-year-old boy to thrust a nine-inch kitchen knife into one of his closest friends.

Though the Winnipeg boy that committed the heinous crime had allegedly abused prescription drugs and "experimented" with cocaine long prior to the incident, he had never had a violent or aggressive personality about him, according to reports. It was only when he began taking Prozac, the very thing doctors had given him as a so-called "solution" to his previous illicit drug problems, that he began to rapidly go off the deep end.

"He had become irritable, restless, agitated, aggressive and unclear in his thinking," said Justice Robert Heinrichs of the Manitoba Justice Department, who ruled on the case. "It was while in that state he overreacted in an impulsive, explosive and violent way. Now that his body and mind are free and clear of any effects of Prozac, he is simply not the same youth in behavior or character."

What the judge appears to be implying here is that Prozac is directly responsible for altering the brain of a user and causing them to think irrationally, which in turn can cause them to harm themselves or others. In other words, if it were not for the use of this mind-warping drug, the murderer in this case most likely would never have dreamed of slaughtering one of his best friends.

Judge Heinrichs ultimately determined that, because of the drug's involvement, the boy who murdered his friend would not be tried in an adult court. Even though the boy pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, the judge only added a ten-month sentence on top of the two years that the boy had already spent in jail pending the trial -- and there will apparently be no appeal, which is a first in any North American court.

In a similar outcome back in 2001, a Wyoming jury ruled that the antidepressant drug Paxil had caused a man to murder his wife, daughter, and granddaughter, after which he killed himself. And one of the mass-murderers in the infamous Columbine High School shooting, Eric Harris, had allegedly been taking the antidepressant drug Luvox at the time that he participated in the tragedy (http://www.naturalnews.com/019342.html). 
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ADHD America: Are the meds helping or hurting our kids?

Brian Bartholomew - Thursday, September 22, 2011

Posted By Dr. Axe On September 22, 2011 @ 1:38 am In ADD/ADHD | 

[1]According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Attention Deficient Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficient Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is on the increase in children in the U.S. The number of children between the ages of five and seventeen that have been reported by their parents to have ADHD or ADD has increased from 7 to 9 percent over a decade ending in 2009. What this means is that a whopping 5 million children have been diagnosed with either ADD or the hyperactive form called ADHD according to the 2010 U.S Census data.

 

The drug Adderall® is the new drug of choice prescribed to children and adults that have been diagnosed with attention deficient disorders.  Lawrence Diller M.D,  Author; Clinical Faculty, UCSF, states that one out of six 11-year-old white boys, with medical insurance, currently take a stimulant drug for ADD or ADHD at least during the school week.  “What I do know is that we are the only society currently managing our underperforming and misbehaving children with drugs to this degree”, says Dr. Diller.

Dr. Robert Mendelssohn author of,  How to Raise a Healthy Child…In Spite of Your Doctor had once noted: “No one has ever been able to demonstrate that drugs such as Cylert and Ritalin® (Adderall®) improve the academic performance of the children who take them…. The pupil is drugged to make life easier for his teacher, not to make it better and more productive for the child.”

Does hyperactivity in our children and the inability to focus really mean we need to give them dangerous drugs that could bring on scary side effects? Adderall® has dangerous side effects parents should be aware of before giving it to their children. As parents we should do everything in our power to keep our children off these addicting medications and give them something their body really needs, like a wholesome diet?

Not only does diet play a big role in the emotional and physical health of our children but so does the amount of sleep a child receives each night.  Did you know that children and teens that do not get 8 to 10 hours of sleep each night will show the same symptoms of ADD and ADHD?

Most children today are only lacking in vital minerals that encourage the body to thrive and grow strong and be fit and healthy into adulthood. Before we rush down to fill that prescription let’s take a look at some of the side effects of taking Adderall and other drugs like it.

Negative Side Effects of Adderall

  • Weight loss and the inability to gain weight
  • Constant thirst
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Chronic headaches and or migraines
  • High blood pressure
  • Emotional instability and mood swings
  • Emotional stress
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Dizziness and fainting
  • Weakness and tiredness
  • Spiked heart rate
  • Higher risk of infections (breaks down immunity)
  • Chest pains
  • Slowing of growth in children
  • Addictive
  • Depression [2]
  • Suicidal thoughts

Adderall is just as addicting as any recreational drug found on the streets today. It is being abused by some college students and adults to get high and to help them lose weight.  Adderall is a psycho-stimulant that makes people think they are more aware; they think it gives them more energy; and they think they are able to focus better, but overtime the body needs more and more of the drug to adjust to this need to feel good. It has been shown that anyone who uses the drug for long periods of time may experience serious withdrawals unless the dosage of Adderall is increased. This is when serious addiction sets in. Eventually, Adderall breaks down the body’s immune system, and then the more serious side effects begin to exist such as seizures, heart attacks, high blood pressure, stroke, and in some cases death.

Do you really want your children taking this drug? The body does not lack drugs such as Adderall, it lacks nutrients! Nutrients that help children and adults with attention deficiencies and hyperactivity.  The truth is, virtually anyone who does not get adequate sleep, adequate diet, and adequate exercise will exhibit symptoms of ADD or ADHD!

What is the Criterion for Diagnosing ADD/ADHD?

What’s real scary about the over prescribed drug Adderall is researchers have reported that many of these children may not meet the criteria for actually having ADD or ADHD. Could your child be targeted with having ADD or ADHD but really only lack certain nutrients, adequate sleep and general physical fitness?

There is not a diagnostic tool or brain scan or DNA test that reveals if a child has ADD/ADHD. Many of the children that are diagnosed with this condition are simply disruptive, inattentive, and hyperactive and some have the inability to focus for long periods of time. Inattention and hyperactive-impulsive behavior are two of the most common symptoms associated with ADHD children.

A 1994 study at Purdue University found that boys diagnosed with ADHD had lower levels of the omega-3 essential fatty acid DHA (American Journal of Clinical Nutrition). Another study in 1997 found that 95 percent of ADHD children tested were deficient in magnesium (Magnesium Research 10, 1997). A 1996 study found that ADHD children had zinc levels that were only 2/3 the level of those without ADHD (Biological Psychiatry 40, 1996).

Natural Health Alternatives for Healing Children with ADD/ADHD

Research has shown there are alternatives to taking dangerous drugs to calm and focus children with ADD. Prescribed medications only camouflage the real problem?The real problem is inadequate amounts of minerals in the body.

We simply need to take our focus off the drugs and on what the child is eating and not eating—we need to take an in depth look at our child’s diet. Did you know that a tablespoon of Black Strap molasses has as much calcium as a glass of milk and would supply your child with the daily iron his or her body needs? And did you know that cola drinks deplete the body of important minerals, such as magnesium, calcium and zinc, which all three actually supply the body with more focus, attention and calmness?

Research has shown (see tables below) that the very same symptoms evident in children with ADD/ADHD are also nutritionally deficient in zinc, magnesium, calcium and iron.

Assessment of Magnesium Levels in Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) 

Kozielec T, Starobrat-Hermelin B
Magnes Res 1997 Jun;10(2):143-8

The aim of this work was to estimate magnesium contents in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, (ADHD). The investigations comprised 116 children (94 boys and 20 girls), aged 9-12 years, with recognized ADHD. Magnesium levels have been determined in blood serum, red blood cells and in hair with the aid of atomic absorption spectroscopy.Magnesium deficiency was found in 95 per cent of those examined, most frequently in hair (77.6 per cent), in red blood cells (58.6 per cent) and in blood serum (33.6 per cent) of children with ADHD.

 

The conclusion from the investigations is that magnesium deficiency in children with ADHD occurs more frequently than in healthy children. Analysis of the material indicated a correlation between increasing levels of magnesium and freedom from distractibility.

The Effect of Deficiency of Selected Bioelements on Hyperactivity in Children with Certain Specified Mental Disorders 

Starobrat-Hermelin B
Ann Acad Med Stetin 1998;44:297-314

In this study of 116 ADHD children, the investigator found significant deficiencies of magnesium, copper, zinc, calcium, and iron (in blood and hair). Of 75 children with documented magnesium deficiency, 50 were placed on a magnesium supplement for 6 months, while the remaining 25 continued with conventional therapy, without additional magnesium. At the end of this study all 75 children were again evaluated for mineral levels.

 

The post-test findings revealed higher levels of magnesium, zinc, and calcium and respectively essential decrease in hyperactivity in the group of children treated with magnesium. At the same time, however, among the children given standard treatment without magnesium, hyperactivity had intensified.

 

The study concludes that there is a need for magnesium supplementation in ADHD, and that taken together with conventional modes of treatment provides opportunities to extend benefits to “children of the risk” who might otherwise fail to respond.

 

 

Foods High In Magnesium:

Pumpkin seeds, spinach, swiss chard, salmon, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, halibut, tuna, black beans, and navy beans, and blackstrap molasses, dried figs, artichokes, buckwheat, oat bran, almonds, cashews, brazil nuts, navy beans, white beans, and cornmeal.

Foods High In Omega-3:

Omega 3’s found in sardines in oil, fresh salmon and canned salmon with the bones, blackstrap molasses, broccoli, turnip greens, kale, corn bread, corn tortilla, rhubarb, almonds, sesame seeds, white beans, baked beans, brussel sprouts. (Hint: Sesame seeds and almonds can be ground down from whole form to make sesame and almond milk; both of which have more calcium per glass than cow’s pasteurized milk). Additionally, you can use sesame milk and or almond milk in place of cow’s milk in your recipes.

Foods High In Iron:

Black strap molasses, cooked beans and lentils, pumpkin seeds, pork liver, clams, oysters, beef liver, shrimp, sardines, turkey, salmon, tuna, egg yolks, raisins, prunes, and dates.

Foods High In Zinc:

Oysters, beef liver, lima beans, chick peas, split peas, raw cashews, raw pecans, parmesan cheese, ginger root, sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds, calves liver, shell fish, shrimp, and venison.

Parents can get creative with the nutritious foods above, and if at all possible make sure they are organic and fresh. Always steam vegetables and eat as many raw fruits and veggies as possible.  See how many healthful recipes you can come up with that use the foods above and give your child the head start he or she needs to have a healthy and strong body.

In 1996 the World Health Organization warned that Ritalin over-use had reached dangerous proportions.  And that was over 15 years ago!  And still here we are today, with the help of the FDA still doing the same thing! Today the over-used and over-abused drug for ADD and ADHD is Adderall. We can simply choose not to become involved in this drug-pushing agenda and say no to dangerous drugs and yes to proper diet, exercise, and adequate amounts of sleep. We’re the parents!

Source: http://adderallsideeffects.org/ [3], huffingtonpost.com [4]


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Back to School Checkup: Learning Disorders and Chiropractic Care

Brian Bartholomew - Sunday, September 18, 2011

Back to School Checkup: Learning Disorders and Chiropractic Care

By Minnesota Chiropractic Association
Published: Tuesday, Sep. 13, 2011 - 5:46 am

EDINA, Minn., Sept. 13, 2011 -- /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Learning disorders are just one of many neurological problems that affect children today. They also include hyperactivity, attention deficit disorder (ADD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and minimal brain damage among others.

The number of children diagnosed with these conditions is growing at a staggering rate, as medical historian Harris Coulter, Ph.D. has noted:

These disorders have received the appellation "developmental disabilities." Probably the leading one is dyslexia," also called "minimal brain damage." Another prominent one is "autism." But there are many others. Approximately twenty percent of American children - one youngster in five - suffers from a "developmental disability."

The Minnesota Chiropractic Association (MCA) is encouraging parents to include a regularly scheduled chiropractic checkup in their child's health regime.  Children under chiropractic care will experience optimal development of the nervous system, as interference with growth and development will be eliminated.  Just as with adults, a child's brain and spinal cord is the power source for the entire body. However, during childhood connections are still being formed. When the connections are being developed we want them to be assembled perfectly.  This will allow the body to function properly from the very beginning.

Although not a treatment for neurological disorders, chiropractic care has given many children suffering from neurological disorders new hope. Chiropractors, parents and school officials have reported on the effectiveness of chiropractic care for children with many kinds of neurological conditions including learning disorders, hyperactivity, inability to concentrate and behavior problems.

Source: www.abundantlife-chiropractic.com

CASE STUDY ON ADHD:

Chiropractic care has been shown to help benefit children that suffer from learning disabilities such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or ADHD.   This disorder affects approximately 5 million children between ages of 4 and 17 according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Boys are 3 times more likely to be affected by ADHD than girls.  

Chiropractic care offers an alternative to help manage ADHD.  Studies have shown that chiropractic treatment that assesses motor dysfunction reduces symptoms and enhances cognitive performance.  Chiropractic has helped, Leah, a six-year-old girl who presented to the clinic with symptoms of more aggressive behavior, a hard time concentrating or completing a task and could not sit still.  Her mother noted that her symptoms started around age 3 and had progressed every year since.  The mother was informed by her teacher that she was very disruptive in school and was falling behind in school work because she could not follow instruction.  She did a lot of fidgeting with her hands and feet and was easily distracted.  She had classic symptoms of ADHD and when tested was diagnosed with ADHD.

When doctors of chiropractic evaluate a child with ADHD, they look at the whole child.  Evaluation of past and present health revealed that Leah had a history of ear infections and sinus issues.  She was not good at eating breakfast and her diet was the typical American diet of less than nutritious food.  On evaluation of the spine, she had uneven shoulder and hip heights.  She had abnormal motion to different levels of her neck, mid, lower back and pelvis.  This abnormal motion causes the nervous system to malfunction.  In chiropractic care, this lack of communication of the nervous system is called a subluxation.  When Leah started her chiropractic care, her mother reported changes within 2 weeks.  These changes happened when normal motion was restored to her spine by gentle chiropractic adjustments.  As chiropractic treatment continued, her mother had made diet changes that included less refined sugar, no dyes and she increased her fruits and veggies as prescribed by the chiropractor.  After 4 weeks, her mother started to report that she was able to participate in small groups in school without being disruptive.  She started to read sitting by herself without someone there to keep her on task.  Her teacher reported after 3 months that she was no longer a "challenging child."  Her mother also reported that her ability to establish friendships and interact with other children had returned to normal and no longer was there any aggressive behavior.

Leah went through 2 visits per week for 4 weeks and then 1 visit per week for another 4 weeks.   Her mother one year later, seeks chiropractic care for Leah on a once every 3 month basis as she feels Leah's concentration starts to diminish.  Her mother feels these visits "tune her up" and put her back to optimal levels of mental function.  As her doctor of chiropractic, I am privileged to have helped her reach her full potential.  My hope is that all children with ADHD have the opportunity to receive chiropractic care to reach their optimum potential ….naturally.

Mary Beth Minser, D.C., F.I.P.C.A.

SOURCE Minnesota Chiropractic Association



Read more: http://www.sacbee.com/2011/09/13/3906259/back-to-school-checkup-learning.html#ixzz1YLjKPASt
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Chiropractic Care for ADHD

Brian Bartholomew - Sunday, August 28, 2011

Chiropractic Care For ADD/ADHD: A Drug-Free Solution?

For unknown reasons, the prevalence of ADD and ADHD have skyrocketed during the past two decades.  In 1987, 500,000 cases of ADHD were diagnosed in children aged 3-18; in 1993, this number grew to 3.2 million; in 2003, the number of diagnoses swelled to 7.4 million.  Roughly 70% of these children are on prescription medication for their symptoms (click here for source).  According to recent CDC data (click here), the current statistics on ADD and ADHD are as follows:

  • Number of children 3-17 years of age ever diagnosed with ADHD:  5.0 million
  • Percent of children 3-17 years of age ever diagnosed with ADHD:  8.0%
  • Percent of boys 3-17 years of age ever diagnosed with ADHD: 11%
  • Percent of girls 3-17 years of age ever diagnosed with ADHD 4.8%

These statistics indicate that in a given classroom of thirty pupils, between one and three kids will have issues with ADD or ADHD.  ADHD and ADD represent serious challenges to our growing generation, and this challenge is often met by treating the symptoms with medications such as Ritalin or Adderol.  While these drugs do in many cases attenuate these symptoms, medication of children is not without risk.  (Kevin Miller's documentary Generation RX is a well-researched and chilling exploration of the short term effects and long term consequences of medicating children, click here for a link; also see video below)  These statistics and concerns bring forth an important question:  If ADD and ADHD are so prevalent, and if drugs are not a good answer, what IS?


Watch CBS News Videos Online

The use of chiropractic care for ADD/ADHD was first suggested in 1989 (click here).  Numerous case studies suggest that chiropractic care can be helpful for improvement or resolution of ADD/ADHD (click here, here, and here for a few).  Unfortunately, the peer-reviewed literature on ADD/ADHD and chiropractic has yet to be strengthened by meta-analysis (click here); however, the evidence in this field is growing (click here), and evidence from both parents and clinicians abounds.  The following is one such story:


If your child or a child you know is affected by ADD or ADHD, perhaps chiropractic care can help reduce their symptoms.  Call or email us to schedule an appointment at Bartholomew Family Chiropractic for a spinal check to see whether chiropractic care may be of help.
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Autism and Environmental Factors

Brian Bartholomew - Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Autism and Environmental Factors

Posted by Dr Jen as Holistic Parenting, Your Health & Wellbeing

Autism and Environmental FactorsI was contacted this week by a mother who had just been told that her son was autistic. After sharing her recent journey she paused and in that silence I asked her, “Tell me sweetheart how did that make you feel when you heard those words?”

In a flood of tears she said , “I wanted to scream at them and say, ‘You don’t even know my boy but you want to give him a label for his entire life!!”
She continued,”Now I have no idea what to do next!”

Whenever any of us are faced with a health crisis be that large or small, it is vitally important that we take time to sit with whatever emotions are stirring and then allow ourselves to remember that we get to decide as to whether we play an active or passive role in how we move forward. Should we decide that we do indeed want to explore all of our options, deciding that we want to roll up our sleeves and get busy building our health literacy on the topics at hand, may we remember that there are many other families, health practitioners and support networks willing to offer knowledge and guidance.

Here is some interesting information regarding Autism…

The Spectrum

Autism is part of a spectrum of neurodevelopmental disorders characterised by repetitive behaviours and impaired language and social interaction, that has dramatically surged in prevalence in recent decades(1). Matson and Koslowski (2) note that early estimates of autism cases were less than 10 in10,000 individuals whereas current estimates are as high as110 per 10,000 individuals. Lleneza et al (3) state that approximately 1 in every 150 children in the U.S. is now affected, creating a higher prevalence than childhood cancer, diabetes, and AIDS combined.

The Cost

In 2002 (1) the annual monetary cost of autism was $26 billion in America alone. In Sweden it was shown that the financial cost of schooling and community support per child was more than $50,000 per year, not counting approximately 1000 hours per year spent by parents supporting and caring for their autistic child (4).

Trigger Factors

Many genetic and environmental factors have been identified and investigated as potentially triggering the disorder. Two pioneers in Autism management, Sidney M. Baker and Richard A Kunin, identify toxic environmental changes that have occured in developed societies between 1950 and 2000 that may be associated with the Autism upsurge. These have included increased antibiotic use; mercury exposure by injection in infancy; increased combined live viral vaccines and numbers of vaccinations; increased soil depletion leading to vitamin/mineral deficits; decreased omega 3 fatty acids in the diet; and greater exposure to xenobiotic toxins (chemicals capable of mimicking the body’s natural biochemicals) (1).

Whilst no individual factor has been definitively shown to cause Autism, pollutants in our modern environment such as pestacides, heavy metals, herbacides and fumigants have been linked to abnormalities in behaviour, perception, cognition, and motor ability during early childhood, even at just “background” levels (1).

Oxytocin

A 2004 review (5) proposed that excess oxytocin, a drug frequently used to induce and augment labor, could contribute to the development of Autistic Spectrum Disorders. The author stated that two barriers are commonly thought to prevent oxytocin from reaching the infant’s brain during labor: The maternal placenta barrier and the blood brain barrier of the infant, but that birthing factors may make it possible for oxytocin to permeate the infant´s blood brain barrier, desensitise oxytocin receptors and lead to changes in neurology and behaviour.

Prenatal Stress

Prenatal exposure to stressful events has also been associated with increased risk of Autism (4). A retrospective study demonstrated that mothers of Autistic children reported significantly more family discord during the pregnancies of their Autistic children, as did the 188 mothers of Autistic children in another study who reported significantly more stressful life events such as job loss or death of husband during their pregnancies than 202 mothers of normally developing children. Several other studies described by Kinney et al (4) have demonstrated that prenatal exposure to natural disasters significantly increased the risk for a variety of behavioral disorders in infants.

Mercury, Lead & Zinc

A 2006 study (6) looked at baby teeth as a measure of cumulative exposure to toxic metals during fetal development and early infancy, specifically comparing the level of mercury, lead, and zinc in baby teeth of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and typically developing children. It was found that children with Autism had significantly (2.1-fold) higher levels of mercury but similar levels of lead and similar levels of zinc. These same children also had a significantly higher usage of oral antibiotics during their first 12 moths of life. The authors described how antibiotic use is known to completely prevent the excretion of mercury in rats due to changes in normal gut flora. They hypothesised that the high use of antibiotics in autistic children may in turn reduce their ability to excrete mercury. Further noted were the high numbers of gastrointestinal issues in Autistic children potentially explained by the normal gut flora changes caused by frequent antibiotic use.

Antibiotics & Gut Problems

A study by Fallon (7) similarly demonstrates the prevalent use of antibiotics in Autistic children and makes note of the association between antibiotic clavulanate/amoxicillin´s introduction in the 1980s and the dramatic rise in autism cases. In her study, an exceptionally high number of ear infection episodes were found, with each child having received a mean number of 12.04 courses of antibiotics -a sum total of 2480 courses of antibiotics given to the 206 children in the study. Fallon proposed that the potentially high levels of urea/ammonia yielded by clavulanate in children warrants further investigation as a potential Autism cause. Fallon also questions whether Autism is a brain disorder or a gut disorder (8), given the high number of Autistic children with gut problems. Augmentin, an antibiotic known to cause gut irritation, may contribute to damage of the small intestine and pancreas resulting in allergens and pathogens passing through the gut lining and inadequate digestion foods. Fallon suggests that improper digestion of fats and proteins may consequently harm the rapidly growing brain of children, potentially contributing to the likely multi-factorial nature of Autism.

Mounting Evidence & Getting Support

A vast number of factors have been identified as potentially contributing to Autism. Whilst a definitive cause remains obscure, there is mounting evidence to show that everyday environmental toxins can have dangerous neurological and behavioural effects on humans and particularly children. In light of this research it makes sense to do all that we can to minimise exposure to harmful chemicals, medications, and stressful environments in order to optimise the health potential of our children. For parents whose children have been diagnosed as autistic, organisations such as MINND, Defeat Autism Now! (DAN!) and Autism360.org, may offer some support.

As a chiropractor, experience has taught me that having families work with these organisations and also work with a team of holistic health practitioners learning how to rebuild the gut strength of a child challenged with autism, how to progressively detoxify, and have adjustments to free-up their nervous system certainly creates more significant health outcomes then remaining idle.

For more information about reducing problematic environmental factors,
see “Holistic Parenting“, “Nasties to Avoid…” and “Well Adjusted Babies“.



Read more —> http://welladjustedbabies.com/autism-and-environmental-factors/#ixzz1RtcX4Jhz 
Get a free subscription to "Healthy Families" Magazine
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10 Tips for Increasing Concentration, Focus and Improving ADHD

Brian Bartholomew - Friday, June 17, 2011
10 Tips for Increasing Concentration, Focus and Improving ADHD

1. Follow our Healing Diet and Meal Ideas by adding in fresh, raw veggies, local grass fed beef, wild salmon and super foods like kale, spinach, fresh ground flax seeds, carrots, green peppers, brewer's yeast, blueberries and chlorella.

2. Try some new coconut products like Coconut Milk, Coconut Yogurt, Coconut Water, Extra Virgin Coconut Oil (great for cooking at high temperatures) and Coconut flakes (great in smoothies).

3. Be cautious and avoid toxins like Silver Amalgam Fillings, plug in air fresheners and non natural bath and beauty products.

4. Try to finish each task you start.  Today's technology makes it increasingly challenging but if you can discipline yourself each task strengthens your focus and attention span. 

5. Try a High Intensity Workout in the morning before your day gets started.  Get the early morning cobwebs out while burning calories, building muscle and getting amped for the day.

6. Kill your TV!! Spend time reading a book, talking with family or friends, walking your dog and get Outside!

7. Get your weekly or bi-weekly Chiropractic Adjustment.  Adjustments have been shown to improveconcentration, reaction time, immunity and generally keep you looking, feeling and functioning great.  If your whole family is not under chiropractic care WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?  What is better than having a well adjusted, healthy and happy family?  

8. Supplement your diet with a high quality Cod Liver Oil like BFO from BFC, Carlson's or Nordic Naturals.  1Tbsp or 2 capsules for adults and 1Tsp or capsule for children. 

9.  Boot the non-organic highly pasteurized and homogenized dairy products and replace them with a probiotic rich and healthy alternatives!

10. Live the life you love.  Be grateful, write a daily or weekly gratitude journal listing 5-10 things or people you are grateful for!  Thank you!!
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