• Keep expectations for the holiday season manageable. Manage stress by setting realistic goals and being honest about what you can and cannot do – don’t over commit yourself and you will prevent a lot of seasonal anxiety and pressure. Organize your time by making a list and prioritizing the important activities and spread out (time-wise) commitments to lessen stress and increase enjoyment.
• Don’t drink and drive or let others drink and drive. If you must drink, do so conservatively, limit yourself to one or two drinks interspersed with non-alcoholic beverages and food over a period of time.
• Practice fire safety. Most residential fires occur during the winter months, so be careful to never leave fireplaces, space heaters, stoves, or candles unattended. Make sure fire and carbon monoxide alarms have fresh batteries and are in working order.
  
• Holiday trees are grown as a sustainable crop; in fact, 1 acre of Christmas trees produces enough oxygen to support 18 people, and provides habitats for birds and wildlife. Buying an artificial tree isn’t a better choice, since most faux foliage is made from earth-toxic PVC. The very best thing you can do is buy a live tree with a root ball. Live trees can be found at most nurseries and some tree lots. When you’re done with it, plant the tree in your garden. This requires some forethought, particularly in colder climates where you’ll need to break up the ground for planting before it freezes; you’ll also need to keep a live tree moist, and indoors for no longer than a week. If that’s not possible, purchase your cut tree from a tree farm that shuns pesticides and chemicals.
• Prepare food safely. Remember these simple steps: wash hands and surfaces often, avoid cross-contamination, cook foods to proper temperatures, and refrigerate promptly.
• Eat healthy and get moving. Eat plenty of right for your type fruits and vegetables. Limit your portion sizes and avoid foods high in fat and sugar. Be active for at least 2½ hours a week and help kids and teens be active for at least 1 hour a day.
• Some typical holiday plants can be toxic to people and animals when ingested. Keep pets and young children away from poinsettia, mistletoe and holly berries.
• Leave “yesteryear” in the past and look toward the future. Life brings changes. Each season is different and can be enjoyed in its own way. Don’t set yourself up by comparing today with the “good ol’ days.”
• Do something for someone else – volunteer some time to help others or donate to a food pantry. Across America, families are struggling financially and the need for food and small gifts for children is staggering.
• Prevent money problems—don’t create them. Give gifts of time and yourself, or pull names for gift exchanges. Enjoy activities that are free, such as driving around to look at holiday decorations; going window shopping without buying; making a snowperson with children.
• Don’t Forget the Elderly! Younger family members should try to involve their elders in holiday preparations and make them feel an important part of the family during the holiday season.

MOST IMPORTANTLY…

• Give Thanks. Take a moment to appreciate all that you have. Reflect on your favorite people or the pleasures of the day. Celebrate the moment.

No single diet theory can address all aspects of our individuality, and only a fool would claim that soy, red meat, grains, coconut oil or anything else is universally good or universally bad for everyone.

For example, people who are blood type O appear to derive significant benefit from a diet including hormone and antibiotic free meats and poultry. There is a very basic physiologic reason for this: those with type O blood have almost three times the levels of an enzyme in their intestines called ‘intestinal alkaline phosphatase’ (IAP). [1]. This enzyme performs two very important functions in the body. First, IAP splits dietary cholesterol into smaller fragments, allowing for their proper breakdown. Second, IAP enhances the absorption of calcium from the diet. Now you’d think this was cutting-edge, late-breaking news since it is obviously of tremendous interest in these nutrigenomic times. However, the first observations were made over four decades ago.[2]

In addition to these two critical functions, IAP is an important influence on the ability of the digestive tract to heal. Thus in most of our type O patients (44% of the population) we see a marked improvement in their IBS, colitis and Crohn’s disease when they increase their protein and cut back on their carbohydrates. [3]

Blood type B makes considerable amounts of IAP as well, but type A’s make very little. This probably explains why most studies that have looked at heart disease and blood type show a significantly higher rate of problems with blood type A individuals. These folks really should follow a Mediterranean-type diet.

Later studies showed that type A not only secreted almost no alkaline phosphatase in their intestines, but whatever little they did secrete was in and of itself inactivated by the presence of their own A antigen. [4]

Thus, we have here one of the strongest indications for the long term benefit of a low-fat diet in type A, both with regard to the susceptibility to cardiovascular disease, and (although not mentioned here) their additional susceptibility to cancer. Following the type A eating plan, with its emphasis on a healthy fats, low animal protein and the avoidance of foods high in phenylalanine, is the best method to maximize digestive efficiency in type As, lower their level of intestinal dysfunction, and to influence their susceptibility to cardiovascular disease.

Many medical experts consider the influenza virus (cause of the flu) to be the most dangerous virus in the world. Several times in past history, this virus has been responsible for killing huge numbers of people within a 1 to 2 year period. As an example, the Spanish flu (type A(H1N1)) of 1918-19 killed about 500,000 people in the U.S. and at least 20 million people worldwide. In 1957-58, the Asian flu (type A(H2N2)) resulted in 70,000 deaths in the US and in 1968-69, the Hong-Kong flu (type (A(H3N2)) killed 34,000 in the U.S.

What is the Flu?

Let’s pause here and take a moment to get a clearer picture of what the flu really is. Terminology and language can be fickle and non-specific masters, and so the common day-to-day use of the term flu has evolved to often encompass anything from a common cold to a true flu.

The stomach flu is another misleading term, often used to describe a gastrointestinal illness (the stomach flu is usually not even caused by a virus but by other microorganisms). So, the first critical point to understand is that a flu is not a common cold or a stomach infection.

When researchers, or doctors speak of the flu, they are being very specific and mean an infection by the influenza virus. Epidemic influenza is divided into type A and type B. The most common presentation of influenza includes a fever (usually 100-103 degrees F in adults), respiratory symptoms (such as cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose), headache, muscle aches, and often extreme fatigue. So, the second key point is that public health officials and doctors mean influenza virus when they use the term flu.

The year-in, year-out flu can be deadly (in an average year, influenza is associated with about 20,000 deaths), especially for the elderly, immuno-compromised, or those who have an existing condition, such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease. Even for those of us who are in generally good health, the flu can still really “take the wind out of our sails”, causing us to feel miserable for several days to a week or two.

Currently there are three main variants of the flu circulating (two types “A” and one type “B”). The type A variants are the “Hong Kong” type A(H3N2) virus and its relatives (responsible for about 400,000 deaths in the United States since 1968 (90% of which are among the elderly), and distant relatives of the “Spanish Flu”, type A(H1N1). The “H” and “N” refer to viral proteins called haemagglutinin (H) and the neuraminidase (N) (more on this in a bit).

Some medical and public health experts believe it is only a matter of time (in fact they think we are overdue) before a new pandemic (worldwide epidemic) of the flu occurs, killing many, many people.

Why has the flu been able to kill such large numbers of people so quickly in the past? 

I am going to oversimplify here, but follow along.

The flu virus is able to mutate or change over time, allowing it to reinfect you year after year. Usually this is a slow and very gradual process (both type A and B influenza virus can change in this manner). As an example, if you were exposed to last year’s flu virus, your immune system would have created a very specific memory of how to effectively deal with the virus. A new exposure to the same virus would not now be a problem. Since the virus changes a slight amount each year, last years immune memory will partially, but not completely protect you from this year’s influenza infection. Think of it in terms of not seeing a friend for a long while…they will obviously look a bit different, so it might take a moment for you to recognize them and remember their name. However, once this moment passes and you remember the name, you now have a clear idea of how to greet them However, every once in a while, the type A flu virus (the type B does not change in this manner) will have a dramatic and abrupt change to either its haemagglutinin (H) and/or neuraminidase (N) proteins. This results in a new strain of the virus, which is not recognized as something your immune system dealt with in the past. It would be as if a new person moved into your town; you have no information in your memory to identify them as your friend and no idea of the name. In the years that the flu virus became a worldwide epidemic and killed into the millions of people, the flu virus changed in this manner.

Blood type and the flu?

Quite a few different researchers have investigated blood type and influenza. The volume of research alone is almost enough to suggest strong blood type connections, but let’s look at the research just to be sure.

After exposure to the influenza virus, an immune process termed seroconversionshould occur. This means that your immune system should be producing antibodies against the influenza virus. Researchers have found that after circulation of influenza A (type (H1N1) and (H3N2)) and influenza B viruses, the immune response (as measured in a rise in antihaemagglutinin antibodies against the virus) differ along blood type lines.

The following generalized immune observations apply:

Blood type A: Overall has a great ability to generate a quick and substantial antibody response against influenza type A(H1N1) and especially A(H3N2). Their antibody response against influenza B is not quite as dramatic.

Blood type AB: Relatively poor ability to generate high antibody levels against any of the influenza viruses.

Blood type B: Reasonable, but not great ability to generate an antibody response against influenza A(H1N1). Slowest (it can take them 3-5 months) and weakest ability to generate antibodies against influenza A(H3N2) of any blood type. Against influenza B virus, blood type B has a significant advantage and responds differently from either blood group A or O. The blood type B immune response happens much earlier and persists longer.

Blood type O: Relatively decent ability to generate antibody response against influenza A(H1N1) and A(H3N2) viruses. Antibody response against influenza B is not as dramatic as blood type B.

Some researchers have hypothesized that one explanation for the typical emergence of the new epidemic strains of influenza in Asia is connected to blood type (and the relatively high proportion of type B blood found in Asia). It seems that blood type B has a genetic predisposition to latent (chronic) persistence of influenza A virus (especially A(H3N2) “Hong Kong” variants). Often, the influenza virus antigen can still be found in healthy type B individuals as much as 5 months after a flu. This means that although they might not have symptoms, they are providing a safe harbor for the virus.

With these differences in immune responses, we would expect to see differences in susceptibility to and severity of influenza infection between the different blood types…and indeed we do. What we find is that the susceptibility to influenza changes based upon your blood type and the properties of the circulating strains of influenza virus.

Looking at influenza A as a whole, the following blood type generalities exist. People with blood type B are going to be much more susceptible to infection during times when new antigenic variants and serotype’s of influenza virus appear. This is actually particularly bad news for B’s and AB’s, since this is the type of influenza A virus change that results in widespread flu pandemics. Blood type O individuals tend to be susceptible to influenza infection at the period of the circulation of virulent strains (so in years when the flu is making people feel really sick, type O will be hit the hardest). Type A’s are the lucky ones when it comes to influenza A; they have a generalized susceptibility to the less virulent strains of influenza A.

Overall, influenza is probably most problematic year to year for Type AB’s. In general, they are more sensitive to infection by both influenza A and B than the other blood types. They are affected by these viruses earlier and more severely than those with the other blood groups (and they need to be extra cautious regarding an abrupt change in the influenza A virus as well) . Blood type B is most severely affected when the influenza A(H3N2) (this is the “Hong Kong” variety and its relatives) is in circulation; has relatively little difficulty with influenza B and has to be very concerned about an abrupt change in the influenza A strains. Type O gets less influenza A(H1N1) and more A(H3N2). Type A blood indirectly offers relative protection against both strains of influenza A.

Will the flu shot protect me?

Does the flu shot protect the blood types differently? Well, what the research shows is that all blood types will have similar seroconversion frequencies to both the live attenuated and killed subunit vaccines after the administration of TWO doses. But after only ONE dose of the live vaccine, blood type A is much more likely than the other blood types to seroconvert. The lesson to be learned here is that blood types B, AB and O really should probably get two doses of the live vaccine for best results (most type A’s can probably get away with just one dose). With the killed subunit vaccine, type O produces the greatest anti-haemagglutinin antibody response. Again two doses generally places the blood types on equal ground.

In addition to the blood type information, remember the following. This year’s flu shot is made from the most common flu viruses in circulation last year. So, in most years, when the virus changes only a tiny bit from last year, the flu shot will offer some protection.

Note: There are many people nevertheless who benefit significantly from the flu shot including elderly, chronically ill, and immuno-compromised individuals. For more information on who should receive this vaccination it is advised that you contact a physician or the department of public health.

Essentially, the effectiveness of the flu shot is always going to be dependent on how closely the vaccine matches the strain of flu virus in current circulation. So, if the virus changes dramatically from last year (as it did in the pandemic years), the flu shot will be of little to no use, because, in essence, it is not providing you with any one who knows this new person in town. So a key point then with regards to the flu shot is that it offers protection in most years, but probably not from a pandemic flu.

Antivirals and the flu

Amantadine and rimantadine are chemically related drugs that interfere with the replication cycle of influenza type A viruses (they are not effective against influenza type B). They both offer a decent degree of protection against infection if taken daily during flu season; however, cost, compliance, and side-effects limit this type of use for most people.

Amantadine and rimantadine are also useful in treatment of the flu; able to reduce the severity and shorten the duration of influenza A if given within the first 48 hours. One huge drawback with these antiviral’s is that they result in Amantadine- and rimantadine-resistant influenza A viruses when they are used for treatment (a very poor long-term strategy resulting essentially in a possible ineffectiveness of these drugs when you might need them the most for a severe or life-threatening flu).

Zanamivir and Neuraminidase Inhibitors.

Zanamivir was the first in a new class of drugs known as selective viral neuraminidase inhibitors. And, if in fact the old saying that “imitation is the most sincere form of flattery” holds true, this type of drug must hold tremendous promise. Pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies (including one of the industry giants—Hoffman La Roche) have quickly jumped on the neuraminidase band-wagon and are now either planning a launch or are in the process of developing their own neuraminidase inhibitors.

The reason Zanamivir is such a promising development is that in humans it not only prevents influenza infection, but also reduces the duration and intensity of the typical symptoms if given within the first 30 hours during an influenza infection. Let’s take a moment here to discuss haemagglutinins and neuraminidase in the context of influenza (remember these are the H and N in the A(H1N1) and A(H3N2) strains).

The influenza virus forms haemagglutinins (essentially protein spikes) which release an enzyme called neuraminidase in order to spread to new cells and propagate the infection. From a biochemistry perspective, neuraminidase is an enzyme that cleaves terminal sialic acid residues from glycoconjugates (Does the term glycoconjugate remind you of anything? It should, because the antigens on your cells like your ABO marker are glycoconjugates). By cleaving off the sialic acid sugar, the virus can escape from infected cells, spread to new cells, and make the mucus you produce in response to an infection less effective (yes, the runny nose and mucus you produce in response to a cold or flu are actually part of your body’s defense strategy).

It was assumed that an ability to inhibit neuraminidase would be a useful medical intervention for treating (and maybe preventing) the flu. So far in the trials on Zanamivir, this assumption appears to be true. The biggest disadvantage with Zanamivir is that it is not well absorbed orally, so must be given by inhalation. Its use might also be limited by its cost. So far, researchers claim that resistance of the virus to the drug has been only rarely observed (but remains a possible area of concern).

Elderberry and the flu

So where does elderberry fit in this portrait of the flu. I have mentioned it was used historically, but does it work? In experiments, elderberry actually does inhibit replication of all strains of human influenza.

In an actual placebo-controlled, double blind study (the scientific gold-standard so to speak) an extract of elderberry fruit has been shown to be effective for treating influenza B. What this research showed was that people using the elderberry extract got better much quicker (more than 70% were better after 2 days and over 90% of people completely resolved the infection within 3 days). In contrast, the people given a placebo often needed as much as 6 days to feel well.

Why does elderberry work? Well, the researchers found two reasons really. People taking the elderberry were able to produce higher anti-haemagglutination titers to influenza B (meaning their immune system essentially performed better and they now have a higher level of recognition should this flu return). And, elderberry inhibits neuraminidase (yes, that is the same neuraminidase that scientists are spending millions of dollars designing drugs against). (Editor’s note: Zanamivir to an extent duplicates this neuraminidase blocking ability of elderberry, but does not appear to have elderberry’s beneficial impact on the immune system).

An important question that has not been answered yet is…will elderberry work as well against influenza A strains? I don’t have a definitive answer for you on this yet, but based upon its method of action, its in vitro ability, and my clinical observations, the answer is probably yes. Our patients taking the elderberry, blueberry, cherry and apple concentrate mixture, seemed to pass easily through this past flu season. The one word of caution I leave you with is that when it comes to daily use of elderberry, more is not always better. Large doses will lead to nausea. If you are trying to avoid a flu a small amount daily might help. I recommend elderberry especially for type B’s and AB’s because of their general susceptibility to the virus. For treatment we use 2 tablespoons 3-4 times daily for adults and less for children depending upon their body weight.

So, the final key point is…next flu season remember your friendly elderberry.

REFERENCES

1. Naikhin AN, Katorgina LG, Tsaritsyna IM, et al. Indicators of collective immunity to influenza depending on the blood group and sex of the population. Vopr Virusol 1989 Jul-Aug;34(4):419-23 [Article in Russian]
2. Aho K, Pyhala R, Visakorpi R. ABO associated genetic determinant in H1N1 influenza. Tissue Antigens 1980 Oct;16(4):310-3
3. Lebiush M, Rannon L, Kark JD. The relationship between epidemic influenza (A(H1N1) and ABO blood group. J Hyg (Lond) 1981 Aug;87(1):139-46
4. Sominina AA, Tsubalova LM, Karpova LS, et al. Genetic predisposition to latent influenza A virus in children with blood type B(III) as a possible cause of new epidemiologic strains in the countries of South-Eastern Asia. Vestn Ross Akad Med Nauk 1994;(9):21-4 [Article in Russian]
5. Fedorova GI, Slepushkin AN, Popova NS, et al. Correlations of the antigenic specificity of human blood with the levels of antihemagglutinins to influenza viruses. Vopr Virusol 1983 Jan-Feb;28(1):54-7 [Article in Russian]
6. Mackenzie JS, Fimmel PJ. The effect of ABO blood groups on the incidence of epidemic influenza and on the response to live attenuated and detergent split influenza virus vaccines. J Hyg (Lond) 1978 Feb;80(1):21-30
7. Mackenzie JS, Wetherall JD, Fimmel PJ, et al. Host factors and susceptibility to influenza A infection: the effect of ABO blood groups and HL-A antigens. Dev Biol Stand 1977 Jun 1-3;39:355-62
8. Frolov VK, Sokhin AA, Sotnik AY, et al. Polymorphism of human blood groups and incidence of influenza A/Hong Kong (H3N2). Acta Virol 1975 Sep;19(5):406-12
9. Karpova LS, Popova TL, Oleinikova EV, et al. Significance of persons with different blood groups in the influenza type A epidemic process. Zh Mikrobiol Epidemiol Immunobiol 1982;(11):86-91 [Article in Russian]
10. Waghorn SL, Goa KL. Zanamivir. Drugs 1998;55:721-25
11. Zakay-Jones Z, Varsano N, Zlotnik M, et al. Inhibition of several strains of influenza virus in vitro and reduction of symptoms by an elderberry extract (Sambucus nigra L.) during an outbreak of influenza B Panama

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) affects million of people everywhere, about half a million people in the US only, each year. It’s thought that there are many more cases, including those who have a milder form of SAD, who don’t seek treatment. Often called the winter blues, SAD sufferers become depressed when the winter season rolls around. Below are a few suggestions for avoiding SAD this winter:

• Spend some time outside every day.
• Supplement with vitamin D3 (our Phyto D 2000™ is an excellent source).
• Avoid simple carbohydrates, sugars, and alcohol.
• Sit under a full spectrum light for at least 15 minutes daily.
• Eat right for your (blood) type.
• Exercise daily. Get at least 20 minutes per day (walking, yoga, bicycling, or vigorous exercise depending on type).
• Socialize—get out of the house and spend time with friends and family.

Symptoms of SAD

• Afternoon slumps with decreased energy and concentration
• Carbohydrate cravings
• Decreased interest in work or other activities
• Depression that starts in fall or winter
• Increased appetite with weight gain
• Increased sleep and excessive daytime sleepiness
• Lack of energy
• Slow, sluggish, lethargic movement
• Social withdrawal

When to see a doctor

A visit to your health care provider will look for other causes of the symptoms and confirm the diagnosis. A psychological evaluation may be needed for more severe depression.

Source:

• D’adamo  Newsletter, December 2010

In a study presented at the American Society of Reproductive Medicine Conference in Denver, the researchers at Yale and Albert Einstein College of Medicine measured levels of a chemical called follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in 560 women undergoing fertility treatments and found that those women with type O blood had chemical signs linked to low egg numbers.

The control group had an average age of 35 and those with O blood type were found to have higher levels of FSH – almost twice the levels of women with the blood type A antigen. This is significant as high levels of FSH are thought to be an indicator that a woman’s ovarian egg reserve is diminishing – which can reduce a woman’s chances of conception once a woman reaches her 30s and 40s.

“This is significant as high levels of FSH are thought to be an indicator that a woman’s ovarian egg reserve is diminishing – which can reduce a woman’s chances of conception once a woman reaches her 30s and 40s.”

Although researchers at Yale and Albert Einstein College of Medicine could not identify a specific reason for this association, Dr. Peter D’Adamo provided this insight, “A significant number of infertility cases are the result of immunologic hostility between a person’s blood type and the environment.”

Dr. Peter D’Adamo has researched the connections between blood type, genetics, and disease susceptibility for more than 30 years and supported his findings with extensive scientific documentation. In his book, Eat Right for Your Baby, published in 2003, Dr. Peter D’Adamo discussed the vital connection between blood type and fertility, pointing out that, “Type O’s tend to suffer from hormonal and metabolic disorders, which are a major impediment to fertility.” As nutrition has an overarching affect on health and hormonal stability, Dr. Peter D’Adamo makes nutritional recommendations unique to each of the four human blood groups to promote fertility and a healthy pregnancy.

Source:

• Dr. D’Adamo’s Newsletter for December 2010

• We all know that immunity begins in our gut. By eating foods that are right for your type, you are taking the most important step to staying healthy. Step up your consumption of beneficial foods and remove any foods to be avoided  from your diet.
• Stress lowers immunity. We can’t completely avoid stress, but take a few moments to slow down – find 10 minutes a day to just sit and close your eyes, do some deep breathing or meditation.
• Exercise boosts immunity! Find an exercise that is right for you and stick with it. I love going for a brisk walk in the cool fall evenings as the sun is setting, it’s a great way to wind down the day and enjoy the beauty of the season.
• Avoid refined sugars and saturated fats. Although you may be eating right for your type, sometimes these find a way of sneaking into our diet – be vigilant.
• Take a quality vitamin and multimineral supplement and a proven immune-enhancing product like ARA or ProBerry.
• Follow good cough/sneeze etiquette. Wash your hands frequently, and avoid touching your face.

Your immune system, when working properly, has a remarkable ability to fight off the flu and colds. Even if an infection does gain a foothold, it’s usually just a matter of time before your immune system mounts an effective counter attack!

Your immune system, when working properly, has a remarkable ability to fight off the flu and colds. Even if an infection does gain a foothold, it’s usually just a matter of time before your immune system mounts an effective counter attack!

• Source: Dr.Ann Quasarano’s October 2010 Newsletter

A 1984 WHO Committee report suggested that up to 30 percent of new and remodeled buildings worldwide may be the subject of excessive complaints related to indoor air quality (IAQ). Often this condition is temporary, but some buildings have long-term problems. Frequently, problems result when a building is operated or maintained in a manner that is inconsistent with its original design or prescribed operating procedures. Sometimes indoor air problems are a result of poor building design or occupant activities.

Indicators of SBS include:

• Building occupants complain of symptoms associated with acute discomfort, e.g., headache; eye, nose, or throat irritation; dry cough; dry or itchy skin; dizziness and nausea; difficulty in concentrating; fatigue; and sensitivity to odors.
• The cause of the symptoms is not known.
• Most of the complainants report relief soon after leaving the building.

Indicators of BRI include:

• Building occupants complain of symptoms such as cough; chest tightness; fever, chills; and muscle aches
• The symptoms can be clinically defined and have clearly identifiable causes.
• Complainants may require prolonged recovery times after leaving the building.

It is important to note that complaints may result from other causes. These may include an illness contracted outside the building, acute sensitivity (e.g., allergies), job related stress or dissatisfaction, and other psychosocial factors. Nevertheless, studies show that symptoms may be caused or exacerbated by indoor air quality problems.

Causes of Sick Building Syndrome

The following have been cited causes of or contributing factors to sick building syndrome:

Inadequate ventilation In the early and mid 1900′s, building ventilation standards called for approximately 15 cubic feet per minute (cfm) of outside air for each building occupant, primarily to dilute and remove body odors. As a result of the 1973 oil embargo, however, national energy conservation measures called for a reduction in the amount of outdoor air provided for ventilation to 5 cfm per occupant. In many cases these reduced outdoor air ventilation rates were found to be inadequate to maintain the health and comfort of building occupants. Inadequate ventilation, which may also occur if heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems do not effectively distribute air to people in the building, is thought to be an important factor in SBS. In an effort to achieve acceptable IAQ while minimizing energy consumption, the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) recently revised its ventilation standard to provide a minimum of 15 cfm of outdoor air per person (20 cfm/person in office spaces). Up to 60 cfm/person may be required in some spaces (such as smoking lounges) depending on the activities that normally occur in that space (see ASHRAE Standard 62-1989).

Chemical contaminants from indoor sources Most indoor air pollution comes from sources inside the building. For example, adhesives, carpeting, upholstery, manufactured wood products, copy machines, pesticides, and cleaning agents may emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including formaldehyde. Environmental tobacco smoke contributes high levels of VOCs, other toxic compounds, and respirable particulate matter. Research shows that some VOCs can cause chronic and acute health effects at high concentrations, and some are known carcinogens. Low to moderate levels of multiple VOCs may also produce acute reactions. Combustion products such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, as well as respirable particles, can come from unvented kerosene and gas space heaters, woodstoves, fireplaces and gas stoves.

Chemical contaminants from outdoor sources The outdoor air that enters a building can be a source of indoor air pollution. For example, pollutants from motor vehicle exhausts; plumbing vents, and building exhausts (e.g., bathrooms and kitchens) can enter the building through poorly located air intake vents, windows, and other openings. In addition, combustion products can enter a building from a nearby garage.

Biological contaminants Bacteria, molds, pollen, and viruses are types of biological contaminants. These contaminants may breed in stagnant water that has accumulated in ducts, humidifiers and drain pans, or where water has collected on ceiling tiles, carpeting, or insulation. Sometimes insects or bird droppings can be a source of biological contaminants. Physical symptoms related to biological contamination include cough, chest tightness, fever, chills, muscle aches, and allergic responses such as mucous membrane irritation and upper respiratory congestion. One indoor bacterium, Legionella, has caused both Legionnaire’s Disease and Pontiac Fever.

These elements may act in combination, and may supplement other complaints such as inadequate temperature, humidity, or lighting. Even after a building investigation, however, the specific causes of the complaints may remain unknown.

Solutions to Sick Building Syndrome

Solutions to sick building syndrome usually include combinations of the following:

Pollutant source removal or modification is an effective approach to resolving an IAQ problem when sources are known and control is feasible. Examples include routine maintenance of HVAC systems, e.g., periodic cleaning or replacement of filters; replacement of water-stained ceiling tile and carpeting; institution of smoking restrictions; venting contaminant source emissions to the outdoors; storage and use of paints, adhesives, solvents, and pesticides in well ventilated areas, and use of these pollutant sources during periods of non-occupancy; and allowing time for building materials in new or remodeled areas to off-gas pollutants before occupancy. Several of these options may be exercised at one time.

Increasing ventilation rates and air distribution often can be a cost effective means of reducing indoor pollutant levels. HVAC systems should be designed, at a minimum, to meet ventilation standards in local building codes; however, many systems are not operated or maintained to ensure that these design ventilation rates are provided. In many buildings, IAQ can be improved by operating the HVAC system to at least its design standard, and to ASHRAE Standard 62-1989 if possible. When there are strong pollutant sources, local exhaust ventilation may be appropriate to exhaust contaminated air directly from the building. Local exhaust ventilation is particularly recommended to remove pollutants that accumulate in specific areas such as rest rooms, copy rooms, and printing facilities. (For a more detailed discussion of ventilation, read Fact Sheet: Ventilation and Air Quality in Offices)

Air cleaning can be a useful adjunct to source control and ventilation but has certain limitations. Particle control devices such as the typical furnace filter are inexpensive but do not effectively capture small particles; high performance air filters capture the smaller, respirable particles but are relatively expensive to install and operate. Mechanical filters do not remove gaseous pollutants. Some specific gaseous pollutants may be removed by adsorbent beds, but these devices can be expensive and require frequent replacement of the adsorbent material. In sum, air cleaners can be useful, but have limited application.

Education and communication are important elements in both remedial and preventive indoor air quality management programs. When building occupants, management, and maintenance personnel fully communicate and understand the causes and consequences of IAQ problems, they can work more effectively together to prevent problems from occurring, or to solve them if they do.

References:

• Indoor Air Facts, U.S.Environmental Protection Agency
• SBS topic issued by National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health

The primary function of the sinuses is to warm, moisten, and filter the air in the nasal cavity. The sinuses  also play a role in our ability to vocalize certain sounds. Sinusitis, which is common in the winter, may last for months or years of inadequately treated. Although colds are the most common cause of acute sinusitis, people with allergies may also be predisposed to developing sinusitis. Allergies can trigger inflammation of the sinuses and nasal mucous linings. This inflammation prevents the sinus cavities from clearing out bacteria, and increases the chance of developing secondary bacterial sinusitis.

Structural problems in the nose – such as:

• narrow drainage passages,
• tumors or polyps, or
• a deviated nasal septum (the wall between the left and right sides of the nose)

– may be another cause of sinusitis. Surgery is sometimes needed to correct these problems. Many patients with recurring or chronic sinusitis have more than one factor that predisposes them to infection.

Blood group B and to a somewhat lesser extent, blood group O are most susceptible to sinusitis that is provoked by allergies.

Sinus Health Protocols:

Blood Groups A & AB

• Stone Root (Collinsonia Canadensis), 200g: 1-2 capsules, twice daily
• Stinging Nettle leaf (Urtica dioica), 500mg: 1-2 capsules twice daily away from food

Blood Group B

• Magnolia Flower (Magnolia lilflora), 50mg: 1-2 capsules, twice daily
• Wild Indigo (Baptista tinctoria) tincture: 3-7 drops, twice daily

Blood Group O

• Stinging Nettle leaf (Urtica dioica), 500mg: 1-2 capsules twice daily away from food
• MSM (methylsulfonylmethane), 500mg: 1-2 capsules, twice daily

Non-Secretors Add:

• Vitamin A, 10,000 IU: 1 capsule daily
• Elderberry Concentrate, “Proberry”: 1tsp, twice daily

General Recommendations Usable By All Blood Groups

• Vitamin C (from Acerola cherry or rose hips), 250mg: 1 capsule twice daily
• Neti Pots, the natural way to keep your sinus passages clear and healthy
• Yerba Santa (Eriodictyon califonicum) tincture: 10-15 drops, twice daily in warm water
• Anise essential oil (Pimpinella anisum): added to a nebulizer or vaporizer

If  you are trying to find out natural way to relief and heal sinusitis, I recommend you to visit another fresh post titled Sinusitis and Neti Pot.

Source:

• Peter D’Adamo’s Newsletter, August 2010

I believe that all of you want beautiful, glowing skin and there are hundreds, if not thousands of products on the market that promise to restore your skin to its youthful beauty.

A wise consumer knows that most of those products fail to deliver on their promises and contain ingredients that can disrupt hormone function or can be toxic.

To stay beautiful on the outside, start on the inside by following the diet that is right for your type – be sure to include healthy fats and oils, fruits and vegetables.

Drink six to eight glasses of water daily to flush toxins from your body. Make sure you’re getting enough exercise, which improves circulation and gives you a healthy glow. Here are a few more tips to get your skin in tip-top shape for summer:

Sun Protection – Staying out of the sun during peak hours and wearing protective clothing and a hat with a wide brim are the best all-natural “sunscreens.” When you can’t help being out in the sun, choose a broad spectrum sunscreen with fewer chemicals that can penetrate the skin. The Environmental Working Group’s website, www.ewg.org has a list of the top rated sun protection products with the fewest hazardous chemicals.

Stop Scrubbing – When washing your face, begin with warm, not hot water and use an all natural cleanser. Avoid cleansers that contain abrasive ingredients as they can cause tiny tears in the skin. Use your hands, not a washcloth, to gently wash your face in a circular motion without pulling or tugging at the skin. Rinse with cool water and pat skin dry. Don’t rub as this can irritate skin.

Trap Moisture – Applying moisturizer after a warm face wash or shower is one of the best remedies for skin. Using a good quality, all natural moisturizer helps to restore the oils that our skin has lost and helps to keep skin hydrated. Hydrated skin is plumper and has a more youthful appearance than dry, flaky skin.

Avoid Petrochemicals – Avoid products that contain petrolatum, mineral oil and paraffin. Toxic and environmentally unfriendly, these chemicals are created from petroleum and don’t belong on your skin!

Say No to Fragrance – Artificial fragrances, which frequently contain phthalates, may trigger allergic reactions, irritation, and other health problems are often found in cosmetics and skin care products. Be mindful of the hidden dangers that “fragrance” or “parfum” listed on the ingredient labels can pose and choose fragrance free products.

Do you know that there are 20 times more bacteria than cells in your body, or that you have more bacteria in your body at this very moment than the total number of people who have ever lived on the planet? This may sound alarming, but these tiny organisms are crucial to good health.

What is Probiotic

A probiotic is an organism which contributes to the health and balance of the intestinal tract.These “friendly” or “beneficial” bacteria live in your small and large intestines, support your immune system, and contribute to healthy digestion.

A number of companies have recognized the importance of these friendly bacteria and are supplementing their yogurt products with probiotics. Turn on the TV during the traditional mid-morning and afternoon programming hours aimed at women, and you’ll be invited to take the “challenge” that one company is offering—your money back if you don’t see improvement in digestion after one month. While it’s great that people are becoming more aware of how these good bacteria contribute to digestion, they don’t mention that specific strains of bacteria are beneficial or harmful in the gut of people with different blood types.

What does blood type have to do with friendly bacteria? According to Dr. D’Adamo, there are three things:

• Your blood type antigens are prominent in your digestive tract and in about 80% of individuals (secretors), are also prominent in the mucus that lines your digestive tract. Because of this, many of the bacteria in your digestive tract actually use your blood type as a preferred food supply. In fact, blood group specificity is common among intestinal bacteria with almost 1/2 of strains tested showing some blood type A, B, or O specificity. To give you an idea of the magnitude of the blood type influence on intestinal microflora, it has been estimated that someone with blood type B will have up to 50,000 times more of some strains of friendly bacteria than either blood type A or O individuals.
• Some strains of beneficial bacteria can have lectin-like hemagglutinin activity directed against your blood type, so avoiding those is a good idea.
• Polyflora Blood Type Specific Probiotics also blend prebiotics (foods which provide special growth factors for probiotic bacteria) that are right for each blood type.

In a recent blog, Dr. D’Adamo referenced two recent studies that link type II diabetes, obesity, and the lack of intestinal flora. He says, “Increasingly, studies are showing that changes in the microflora content of the digestive tract can be linked to metabolic illnesses, including type II (adult onset) diabetes and obesity. Blood group and secretor status play an important role in conditioning the overall characteristics of the digestive tract, including influencing the appearance and frequency of many strains of bacteria.”

Routinely taking probiotics that are Right for Your Type improves digestion, enhances bioavailability, promotes detoxification and better absorption of nutrients, and enhances immunity. There is also evidence that routine use of probiotics lowers LDL (bad cholesterol), inhibits Candida (yeast), and may even prevent nitrates from being converted into cancer causing nitrosamines.

As a point of interest, the word probiotic means, “in favor of life.” I’m in favor of that!

Source:

• Dr. D’Adamo Newsletter of June 2010