Monday 27 May 2013

Optimise your child’s immune system before the winter months

Kids love to share germs, so you may ask, how do you keep them healthy and their immune systems on high alert? Regular hand washing, adequate rest and a healthy dose of activity is a good place to start, but to put up a good fight their immune systems may need more.

The common cold is the most prevalent and widespread illness known to man.
“Germs generally only lead to illness when the body is out of balance and immunity is weakened,” says PharmaChoice spokesperson, pharmacist, Liezl van Tonder.“Simply put, supplementing your child’s diet with additional natural nutrients play a crucial role in supporting the immune system and are needed as the basis for avoiding nasty flu bugs.”

Van Tonder says, “The fact is that schools are ‘danger zones’ for potentially infectious bacteria and viruses, causing more than 20-million school days lost due to the common cold.” 
“We like to think our children have a nutrient rich diet but the truth is they are probably not getting their optimal requirement just from their daily food intake,” she adds. “Research shows that poor nutrition can weaken the ability of the immune system to fight off infections with this in mind the easiest way to boost their immune system is by giving them a supplement containing immune boosters...”
Containing some of the most highly-rated ingredients provided by nature such us; Echinacea extract, green tea, rosehip, vitamins A, B6, B12, C, D and E, folic acid, Biotin, Pantothenic acid and Selenium, to help reduce the susceptibility to cold and flu infection, helping recovery and reducing the duration and severity of colds and flu.

van Tonder provides you with 4 preventative measures to help keep those bugs at bay and aid in building a stronger immune system: 
  1. Make them germ aware: Teach them to wash their hands properly (20-seconds in warm soapy water) before and after eating, after using the bathroom, after touching animals and when they are in public spaces. A good idea is to send your child to school with a waterless hand sanitizer and show them how to apply it and when they should use it.
  2. Early to bed, early to rise: Children are always busy and fatigue increases their susceptiibility to illness, which means they are more likely to catch a cold if they do not get enough sleep. Although researchers aren’t exactly sure how sleep boosts the immune system, it is clear that getting adequate amounts (usually 8-10 hours for little one’s is essential part of health.
  3. Eating right: Reduce your children’s intake of ‘foods’ that are high in sugar, like soft drinks. Also reduce trans fats and any foods that are significantly processed and contain artificial colours, flavours, sweeteners and preservatives. Try to increase their consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables and the amount of whole foods in their diet. The best snacking foods are fresh fruits second to this is giving them dried fruits, nuts and seeds.
  4. Keep them active: Kids spend most of their day sitting at a desk in school. It is extremely detrimental if they then spend the rest of the day doing sedentary activities like homework, watching television or playing video games. It is your responsibility to make sure that they get a minimum of one hour (preferably two) of moderate physical activity per day. Playing sports is great, but not all kids are interested in sports or enjoy competitive activities. So get outside with them, kick a ball or have their friends over.

For more information read :
Optimise your child’s immune system before the winter months
Bona Magazine

Medical Disclaimer
The content of this website is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended as, nor should it be considered a substitute for, professional medical or health care advice or treatment for any medical or health conditions. Do not use the information on this website for diagnosing or treating any medical or health condition. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem or health issues, promptly consult your professional registered / licensed health care provider.
The information contained in this blog and related website should not be considered complete as it is presented in summary form only and intended to provide broad consumer understanding and knowledge of diet, health, fitness, nutrition, disease and treatment options.

Dr JPB Prinsloo is the oldest, most established homoeopathic practice in South Africa.
The practice, situated in Pretoria, was established in 1956.
To learn more about homeopathy, homeopathic treatment and the legal requirements for practising as a homeopath, visit:
http://www.biocura.co.za/

Pregnancy & Childbirth : Caesarean (C-section)

Gynaecologist Dr T. Mokaya explains the two cuts you might get while bringing your newborn into this world.

Caesarean (C-section)

WHAT IS A C-SECTION?
A C-section is the delivery of a baby through a surgical cut that your doctor makes on your stomach and womb. In some cases, a C’section is planned in advance, while with others it's done because of an unexpected problem.

CASES OF A PLANNED C-SECTION
  • Sometimes it's clear that you will need a C’section even before you go into labour.
  • This happens if:
  • You've had some kind of surgery, including a C’section. Having more than one C’section increases the risk that your uterus will tear if you choose a vaginal delivery.
  • You're carrying more than one baby. Some twins can be delivered vaginally, but more often multiple babies during birth require a C’section.
  • Your baby is expected to be very big.
  • Your baby is in a breech (bottom mrst) or transverse (sideways) position.
  • You have placenta previa (when the placenta is so low in the uterus that it covers the cervix).
  • You're HIV’positive and blood tests done near the end of pregnancy show that you have a high viral load.

CASES OF UNPLANNED C-SECTION DELIVERY
Doctors perform a C’section because of problems that you might have during labour.
These include:
  • Your cervix stops dilating (expanding) or your baby stops moving down the birth canal.
  • The umbilical cord slips through your cervix. If this happens, your baby needs to be delivered immediately because the cord can cut off his oxygen supply.
  • Your placenta starts to separate from your uterine wall, which means your baby won't get enough oxygen.
  • You have a genital herpes outbreak when you go into labour. Delivering your baby by C’section will help him avoid infection.

HOW IS A C-SECTION DONE?
After local anaesthetic the doctor will make a small cut above your pubic bone (near your hipbone). She will cut through the underlying tissue, working her way down to your uterus. When she reaches your stomach muscles, she'll separate and spread them to expose the baby.
The doctor will then reach in and pull out your baby. Once the cord is cut, you'll have a chance to see the baby brieny before he's handed to a paediatrician or nurse. While the staff is examining your newborn, the doctor will begin the process of closing you up.
After the surgery is complete, you'll be taken to a recovery room, where you'll be monitored for a few hours.

You can expect to stay in the hospital for about three days.

WHEN CAN I HAVE SEX AGAIN?
After having a C’section, you still need to wait about six weeks before having sex. Your doctor or nurse should give you the go ahead as they will want to ensure that your cut is healing and that your bleeding has stopped.

Episiotomy

WHAT IS AN EPISIOTOMY?
An episiotomy is a surgical cut in the area between the vagina and the anus. It is made just before delivery to widen your vaginal opening, allowing the baby to be delivered more easily.

Read more about the Episiotomy here.

Both these cuts are manageable and will heal as long as you take care of the wounds. Contact your doctor if you think there might be a problem while you are still healing.

Cuts of life: C-Section
By Amanda Ndlangisa
Bona Magazine

Medical Disclaimer
The content of this website is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended as, nor should it be considered a substitute for, professional medical or health care advice or treatment for any medical or health conditions. Do not use the information on this website for diagnosing or treating any medical or health condition. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem or health issues, promptly consult your professional registered / licensed health care provider.
The information contained in this blog and related website should not be considered complete as it is presented in summary form only and intended to provide broad consumer understanding and knowledge of diet, health, fitness, nutrition, disease, infertility and treatment options.

Dr JPB Prinsloo is the oldest, most established homoeopathic practice in South Africa.
The practice, situated in Pretoria, was established in 1956.
To learn more about homeopathy, homeopathic infertility treatment and the legal requirements for practising as a homeopath, visit:
http://www.biocura.co.za/infertility_homeopathy.html

Pregnancy & Childbirth: Episiotomy

Gynaecologist Dr T. Mokaya explains the two cuts you might get while bringing your newborn into this world.

Episiotomy

WHAT IS AN EPISIOTOMY?
An episiotomy is a surgical cut in the area between the vagina and the anus. It is made just before delivery to widen your vaginal opening, allowing the baby to be delivered more easily.

IS IT BETTER TO TEAR NATURALLY OR HAVE AN EPISIOTOMY?
Women who tear naturally generally recover quicker with fewer complications. Women who have an episiotomy tend to lose more blood at the time of delivery, have more pain during recovery, and have to wait longer before they can have sex without discomfort.

WHY I MAY NEED AN EPISIOTOMY?
If your baby is very big and your doctor needs extra room to work.
If your baby’s heart rate is high and he isn’t handling the last minutes of labour well, your doctor may decide that an episiotomy will help speed up the delivery.

HOW CAN I AVOID AN UNNECESSARY EPISIOTOMY?
Five to six weeks before delivery try doing a perineal massage (massaging a pregnant woman’s perineum – the area between your vaginal opening and the rectum). This may help in making it less likely that you’ll tear or need an episiotomy.

HOW IS AN EPISIOTOMY DONE?
Local anaesthetic is used to numb the area around the vagina so you will not feel any pain when the cut is made. After you’ve given birth, you’ll get another shot of anaesthetic to ensure you’re completely numb before the cut is stitched up.

RECOVERING FROM AN EPISIOTOMY
If you’ve had an episiotomy (or a tear), you’ll have stitches and you’ll need time to heal. Your stitches won’t have to be removed though; they’ll dissolve on their own seven to 10 days after delivery.

WHEN CAN I HAVE SEX AGAIN?
Your perineum should be completely healed four to six weeks after delivery. If your doctor gives the okay and you’re up to it, you can try having sex. At first you might feel some tenderness and tightness. Try taking a warm bath and leaving plenty of time for foreplay. Using a good water-soluble lubricant will help make sex more comfortable.

NB: If you try these methods and find that sex is still too uncomfortable, wait a while longer. If the pain continues months after you’ve given birth, be sure to talk to your doctor about treatment.

Caesarean (C-section)

WHAT IS A C-SECTION?
A C-section is the delivery of a baby through a surgical cut that your doctor makes on your stomach and womb. In some cases, a C’section is planned in advance, while with others it's done because of an unexpected problem.

Read more about a C-section here.

Both these cuts are manageable and will heal as long as you take care of the wounds. Contact your doctor if you think there might be a problem while you are still healing.

Cuts of life:Episiotomy
By Amanda Ndlangisa
Bona Magazine

Medical Disclaimer
The content of this website is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended as, nor should it be considered a substitute for, professional medical or health care advice or treatment for any medical or health conditions. Do not use the information on this website for diagnosing or treating any medical or health condition. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem or health issues, promptly consult your professional registered / licensed health care provider.
The information contained in this blog and related website should not be considered complete as it is presented in summary form only and intended to provide broad consumer understanding and knowledge of diet, health, fitness, nutrition, disease, infertility and treatment options.

Dr JPB Prinsloo is the oldest, most established homoeopathic practice in South Africa.
The practice, situated in Pretoria, was established in 1956.
To learn more about homeopathy, homeopathic infertility treatment and the legal requirements for practising as a homeopath, visit:
http://www.biocura.co.za/infertility_homeopathy.html

Pregnancy : Myths vs Facts

MYTH: YOU CAN’T EAT CHEESE
FACT: The concern with eating cheese is the presence of bacteria called listeria found in soft, mould-ripened cheeses (such as brie and camembert). Listeria can cause an illness called listeriosis, which can lead to miscarriage or loss of a baby at birth. You don’t have to get rid of all cheese – just stick to hard cheeses like cheddar, feta and Gouda. Soft, processed cheeses like cottage and cream cheese are also fine.

MYTH: YOU CAN’T CONTINUE TO EXERCISE
FACT: Exercise is good for your health and for your growing baby so keep at it. Activities like walking, swimming, Pilates (a form of exercise focused on core strength and flexibility) and low-impact aerobics are good options. However, if you’re generally not active, pregnancy isn’t the time to start. And even if you’re a seasoned gym-goer, you should avoid exercises where you could slip and fall.

MYTH: YOU’RE EATING FOR TWO
FACT: Yes, you’re eating for two, but that doesn’t mean two adult-sized portions are necessary. The average woman with a normal weight before pregnancy needs only about 300 extra calories per day to promote her baby’s growth. That’s about the number of calories found in a glass of skim milk and half a sandwich.

MYTH: YOU CAN’T HAVE CAFFEINE
FACT: There doesn’t seem to be any relationship between having caffeine and preterm birth (a baby born before 37 weeks). If a pregnant woman drinks less than 200 milligrams of caffeine per day, there’s no clear evidence she faces any increased risk of miscarriage or low birth weight. So enjoy your coffee, but stay within the recommended limit per day.

MYTH: EATING ORANGES GIVES YOUR BABY JAUNDICE
FACT: Jaundice (a yellowish staining of the skin and whites of the eyes) is actually caused by too much bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment that’s produced when original red blood cells are destroyed. This often happens after birth, and not when you’re pregnant. Oranges are an excellent source of vitamin C and are not bad for you to eat when pregnant. They certainly won’t give your baby jaundice either.

MYTH: YOU CAN’T EAT FISH
FACT: Eating two servings of fish per week can be healthy for mom and baby. Coldwater fish (like tuna, salmon and sardines) contains lots of omega-3 fatty acids which help with your baby’s brain development. But you should try to avoid raw fish (like sushi) as they contain parasites and bacteria.

MYTH: DON’T HOLD YOUR HANDS ABOVE YOUR HEAD OR THE BABY WILL GET WRAPPED IN THE CORD
FACT: Baby’s cords being wrapped around their neck happens in about one third of all births. It has to do with the twists and turns that your baby makes while in the womb. About 25% of all babies are born with the cord wrapped around the neck, and many are born with cords around their legs. Some cords are tied into knots. There is nothing that you can do or not do to cause this.

MYTH: BATHS ARE BAD FOR BABY
FACT: Baths are very good for you and is often the most comfortable place to be towards the end of your pregnancy. It’s the temperature of the bath that you need to worry about. Very hot baths are not a good idea as they can cause your body temperature to rise, and this can cause problems for a developing baby, particularly in the first trimester.

MYTH: HEARTBURN DURING PREGNANCY IS A SIGN THAT THE INFANT WILL BE BORN WITH A FULL HEAD OF HAIR
FACT: Heartburn is common in pregnancy and is caused by the hormone that is produced by the placenta. This hormone is meant to cause the muscles of the womb to relax yet it sometimes affects the valve separating the esophagus (tube that carries food, liquids and saliva from the mouth to the stomach) from the stomach and this causes the stomach acids to go back into the esophagus which results in heartburn. This has no effect on your baby’s hair growth.

MYTH: YOU CAN’T COLOUR OR CHEMICALLY TREAT YOUR HAIR
FACT: It’s important that you look and feel good about yourself, but if you’re in doubt, consider whether chemically-treating your hair will make you feel your best, or simply make you worry. If you do decide to continue, it’s best to avoid home hair processing and rather go to a professional. Some moms prefer to avoid the chemicals altogether, while others avoid them during the first trimester and then keep it to a minimum.

MYTH: SLEEPING ON YOUR BACK CAN HURT THE BABY
FACT: For years, pregnant women have been told to place a pillow under one side of the back, because if you sleep on your back the pressure from the baby can cut off your blood flow and possibly kill you. This is not true: A pregnant woman can sleep in any position which makes her feel comfortable. However, in the case of a high-risk pregnancy (if your baby has an increased chance of health problems) sleeping on the left side is sometimes recommended.

MYTH: IF YOU EXPERIENCE ACNE WHEN YOU ARE PREGNANT, THAT IS A SIGN YOU ARE HAVING A GIRL
FACT: No research has proved this. Pregnancy acne has nothing to do with gender and is only a sign of natural hormonal changes in the mother.

MYTH: PREGNANT WOMEN WHO CARRY LOW ARE HAVING A BOY
FACT: How a woman carries the baby depends on her body type and whether she has been pregnant before. It does not show gender. Taller, thinner women appear to carry higher, while shorter and fuller women appear to carry lower. Also, in a second pregnancy, since abdominal muscles may be looser, the pregnancy may appear to be lower.

By Amanda Ndlangisa
Bona Magazine

Medical Disclaimer
The content of this website is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended as, nor should it be considered a substitute for, professional medical or health care advice or treatment for any medical or health conditions. Do not use the information on this website for diagnosing or treating any medical or health condition. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem or health issues, promptly consult your professional registered / licensed health care provider.
The information contained in this blog and related website should not be considered complete as it is presented in summary form only and intended to provide broad consumer understanding and knowledge of diet, health, fitness, nutrition, disease, infertility and treatment options.

Dr JPB Prinsloo is the oldest, most established homoeopathic practice in South Africa.
The practice, situated in Pretoria, was established in 1956.
To learn more about homeopathy, homeopathic infertility treatment and the legal requirements for practising as a homeopath, visit:
http://www.biocura.co.za/infertility_homeopathy.html

Pregnancy at various ages

Pregnancy In Your 20s

THE GOOD NEWS
If you’re healthy at this age group, you’re more likely to experience an easy pregnancy. For starters, you ovulate (release eggs from your ovaries) more often which means you may fall pregnant quickly. There are also less chances of miscarriage as well as less risk of medical conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes.
The other advantage of the 20s being the best age for pregnancy is that you’re still physically active and less likely to be overweight. Being overweight at any age is a serious pregnancy risk as it’s linked with the risk of infertility (inability to have a baby), and if you do fall pregnant the risk of abnormalities, diabetes and high blood pressure is increased.

THE BAD NEWS
However, younger is not always better. At ages 20 to 24 and as a first-time mother, you have a slightly higher risk of preeclampsia (a dangerous pregnancy condition that causes high blood pressure and protein in the urine). Doctors are unsure why some women get preeclampsia. The condition is a serious one, it can slow down the baby’s growth and lead to early delivery. Bad lifestyle choices like smoking and drinking, not getting prenatal care (regular medical care for pregnant women) and a poor diet can be associated with women in their early 20s. This increases the chance of having a baby with a low birth weight (less than 2.5kg). Low birth weight babies also have a greater chance of health problems and disabilities. Fortunately, you can reduce your risk by cutting out smoking and drinking, eating well, taking a multivitamin and getting good prenatal care.

Pregnancy In Your 30s

THE GOOD NEWS
One of the advantages of pregnancy in the 30s is that you tend to be more financially, emotionally and socially stable, all of which are important for a good pregnancy. The 30s can be divided into early 30s and late 30s (35+). There are similar advantages and results of pregnancy in your 30s as in your 20s. However, at this age you may take longer to conceive as you ovulate less regularly.

THE BAD NEWS
Fertility tends to start slowing down in your early 30s. Although many women give birth to healthy babies at 35+, complications for both baby and mother increase. At this age, fertility begins to decrease even faster, and more women in this age group take longer to conceive and suffer miscarriages. If you’re 35+ and struggle to conceive after trying for six months, it’s best to consult your doctor. Many fertility problems can be treated.
Another concern in your 30s is a higher risk of abnormalities (like Down Syndrome and Turner Syndrome). The risk of Down Syndrome is three to four times higher after age 35. Babies tend to be bigger too (often influenced by the mother’s weight), and may have birth complications that call for a Caesarean section (C-section). Early prenatal care and good medical treatment can fix most health issues at this age.

Pregnancy In Your 40s

THE NOT-SO-GOOD NEWS
Although you may still have a healthy baby, pregnancy in your 40s can come with challenges. Similar to the late 30s, you may take longer or even struggle to fall pregnant. After the age of 40, all the problems mentioned in the 35+ age group, such as pregnancyrelated diabetes, increase. Research shows that women over 35 also have an increased chance of having twins, which may further complicate pregnancy, making it even more risky.
You may also have more problems during delivery, such as failure to progress (cervix not dilating or baby not descending) and foetal distress (baby not coping well during birth), which may help explain why first-time moms older than 40 have the highest risk of C-section (43%, according to a recent Harvard Medical School study). Special medical care and treatment is advised for a healthy pregnancy.

When Not To Fall Pregnant?

IN YOUR TEENS: Although physically the body is ready to carry a baby after the start of periods, teenage pregnancy is not a good idea. Pregnancy can have negative effects on the growing teenage body and teens tend to experience many complications, ranging from increased risk of hypertension (high blood pressure) caused by pregnancy, and an increased rate of C-sections. There is also the lack of emotional readiness that may affect the teen mom and baby negatively.

TIP: It’s a good idea to plan your pregnancy. A full physical check-up is recommended in order to make sure you do not have anaemia, high blood pressure, diabetes or heart disease. Also, you should know your HIV status, as there is a risk of infecting the baby. HIV is also the leading cause of maternal deaths in SA. If you are HIV+, you may need to take antiretroviral treatment in the course of your pregnancy.

Pregnancy through the ages
By Sbu Mpungose
Bona Magazine

Additional sources: How Stuff Works (www.howstuffworks.com), Discovery Fit & Health (health.discovery.com).

Medical Disclaimer
The content of this website is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended as, nor should it be considered a substitute for, professional medical or health care advice or treatment for any medical or health conditions. Do not use the information on this website for diagnosing or treating any medical or health condition. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem or health issues, promptly consult your professional registered / licensed health care provider.
The information contained in this blog and related website should not be considered complete as it is presented in summary form only and intended to provide broad consumer understanding and knowledge of diet, health, fitness, nutrition, disease, infertility and treatment options.

Dr JPB Prinsloo is the oldest, most established homoeopathic practice in South Africa.
The practice, situated in Pretoria, was established in 1956.
To learn more about homeopathy, homeopathic infertility treatment and the legal requirements for practising as a homeopath, visit:
http://www.biocura.co.za/infertility_homeopathy.html

Sunday 26 May 2013

Processed Meats Declared Too Dangerous for Human Consumption

The World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) has just completed a detailed review of more than 7,000 clinical studies covering links between diet and cancer. Its conclusion is rocking the health world with startling bluntness: Processed meats are too dangerous for human consumption. Consumers should stop buying and eating all processed meat products for the rest of their lives.

Processed meats include bacon, sausage, hot dogs, sandwich meat, packaged ham, pepperoni, salami and virtually all red meat used in frozen prepared meals. They are usually manufactured with a carcinogenic ingredient known as sodium nitrite. This is used as a colour fixer by meat companies to turn packaged meats a bright red colour so they look fresh. Unfortunately, sodium nitrite also results in the formation of cancer-causing nitrosamines in the human body. And this leads to a sharp increase in cancer risk for those who eat them.

A 2005 University of Hawaii study found that processed meats increase the risk of pancreatic cancer by 67 percent. Another study revealed that every 50 grams of processed meat consumed daily increases the risk of colorectal cancer by 21 percent. These are alarming numbers. Note that these cancer risks do not come from eating fresh, non-processed meats. They only appear in people who regularly consume processed meat products containing sodium nitrite.

Sodium nitrite appears predominantly in red meat products (you won’t find it in chicken or fish products). Here’s a short list of food items to check carefully for sodium nitrite and monosodium glutamate (MSG), another dangerous additive:
  • Beef jerky (Biltong)
  • Bacon
  • Sausage
  • Hot dogs
  • Sandwich meat
  • Frozen pizza with meat
  • Canned soups with meat
  • Frozen meals with meat
  • Ravioli and meat pasta foods
  • Kid’s meals containing red meat
  • Sandwich meat used at popular restaurants
  • Nearly all red meats sold at public schools, restaurants, hospitals, hotels and theme parks

If sodium nitrite is so dangerous to humans, why do the FDA and USDA continue to allow this cancer-causing chemical to be used? The answer, of course, is that food industry interests now dominate the actions by U.S. government regulators. The USDA, for example, tried to ban sodium nitrite in the late 1970′s but was overridden by the meat industry.5 It insisted the chemical was safe and accused the USDA of trying to “ban bacon.”

Today, the corporations that dominate American food and agricultural interests hold tremendous influence over the FDA and USDA. Consumers are offered no real protection from dangerous chemicals intentionally added to foods, medicines and personal care products.

You can protect yourself and your family from the dangers of processed meats by following a few simple rules:
  1. Always read ingredient labels.
  2. Don’t buy anything made with sodium nitrite or monosodium glutamate.
  3. Don’t eat red meats served by restaurants, schools, hospitals, hotels or other institutions.

And finally, eat more fresh produce with every meal. There is evidence that natural vitamin C found in citrus fruits and exotic berries (like camu camu) helps prevent the formation of cancer-causing nitrosamines, protecting you from the devastating health effects of sodium nitrite in processed meats. The best defense, of course, is to avoid eating processed meats altogether.

Source: http://dreamhealer.wordpress.com/2013/05/16/processed-meats-declared-too-dangerous-for-human-consumption/

Medical Disclaimer
The content of this website is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended as, nor should it be considered a substitute for, professional medical or health care advice or treatment for any medical or health conditions. Do not use the information on this website for diagnosing or treating any medical or health condition. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem or health issues, promptly consult your professional registered / licensed health care provider.
The information contained in this blog and related website should not be considered complete as it is presented in summary form only and intended to provide broad consumer understanding and knowledge of diet, health, fitness, nutrition, disease and treatment options.

Dr JPB Prinsloo is the oldest, most established homoeopathic practice in South Africa.
The practice, situated in Pretoria, was established in 1956.
To learn more about homeopathy, homeopathic treatment and the legal requirements for practising as a homeopath, visit:
http://www.biocura.co.za/

List Of That Antidepressants Cause Sudden Death Growing

The list of antidepressants that can cause sudden death is growing exponentially, with citalopram – under the brand names Celexa and Cipramil – the latest such drug to be added, according to a new study.

The research, published recently in the British Medical Journal, revealed that the drug tends to cause a lengthening of the Q-T interval, a part of the cycle of heart beat measured by an electrocardiogram, or what is more commonly known as an EKG or ECG. Indeed, a number of drugs are known for creating this phenomenon, the most notable among them being methadone, which has been documented as causing sudden death in some patients, especially when dosages are increased too rapidly.

“There are no symptoms indicating a risk. A perfectly normal person will literally drop dead,” writes Heidi Stevenson at GaiaHealth.com.

A silent killer

The heartbeat is regulated by a series of electrical pulses, and key points of the pattern printed on an EKG are labeled P, Q, R, S, T. If the time between the Q and T waves is lengthened, it is referred to as “Q-T elongation,” or a prolonged Q-T segment; the only way to know if it is occurring; however, is with an EKG.

“There are generally no external clues, so outside of testing, you would have no way of knowing that you’ve been affected,” Stevenson writes.

Researchers, in their report, were specific about the risk of sudden death associated with Celexa; the larger the dose, the greater the risk. Also, they noted that the Food and Drug Administration has said, “Citalopram causes dose-dependent QT interval prolongation. Citalopram should no longer be prescribed at doses greater than 40 mg per day.”

That claim is supported in Medscape’s drug reference for citalopram. “Doses above 40 mg/day are not recommended because of risk for QT prolongation without additional benefit for treating depression,” says the reference.

In performing their study, researchers examined 38,397 adults who were either taking an antidepressant or methadone at some time between February 1990 and August 2011, a period of more than two decades. Antidepressants taken during that period by the patients involved in the study include citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro), fluoxetine (Prozac), paroxetine (Paxil), sertraline (Zoloft), amitriptyline, bupropion (Zyban), duloxetine (Cymbalta), mirtazapine (Remeron), nortriptyline, and venlafaxine (Effexor).

Each participant received an EKG 14-90 days after they had taken their prescribed medication. Researchers found that all antidepressants affect the A-T interval in some manner, though methadone affected it more significantly by a great amount.

In one drug, however – bupropion (Zyban) – had the opposite effect. The Q-T interval was shortened. But a shorter Q-T interval, by comparison, can also cause heart arrhythmias and fainting, conditions which can also lead to sudden death.

Source: http://www.undergroundhealth.com/list-of-that-antidepressants-cause-sudden-death-growing/

Medical Disclaimer
The content of this website is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended as, nor should it be considered a substitute for, professional medical or health care advice or treatment for any medical or health conditions. Do not use the information on this website for diagnosing or treating any medical or health condition. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem or health issues, promptly consult your professional registered / licensed health care provider.
The information contained in this blog and related website should not be considered complete as it is presented in summary form only and intended to provide broad consumer understanding and knowledge of diet, health, fitness, nutrition, disease and treatment options.

Dr JPB Prinsloo is the oldest, most established homoeopathic practice in South Africa.
The practice, situated in Pretoria, was established in 1956.
To learn more about homeopathy, homeopathic treatment and the legal requirements for practising as a homeopath, visit:
http://www.biocura.co.za/