The problem with stress is that it has very real physical downstream effects we treat like a psychological condition. And unlike a virus forcing you into bed, or a broken limb requiring a cast, stress is a chronic, daily part of your life that can go unchecked for years.

Even if you are committed to a natural lifestyle to stay healthy, you may still reach first for the occasional Tylenol or Advil if you have a headache. After all, most of us grew up believing these over-the-counter pain relievers are harmless and effective.

But the truth is, they do have side effects. And in many cases, there are natural alternatives that will work just as well, and sometimes better, for both acute and chronic pain.

Here are a few suggestions you might want to try...

A new patient came to me after suffering with her first kidney stone, saying she was determined it would be her last. She shared that she had four children, yet the pain of passing the stone far surpassed any of those births!

She was right to come in. Usually, when there is one kidney stone, there are more to follow.

But it doesn't have to be such a curse. There are a few steps you can take to minimize your risk of getting your first – or 50th – kidney stone.

Distilling or filtering your drinking water is the first, but not only, step in your water purifying endeavor.

In fact, the level of toxins you get in a hot bath or shower can be exponentially worse for you than what you ingest through drinking tap water. The American Journal of Public Health reports that up to two thirds of harmful chlorine exposure comes through skin exposure and inhalation while showering.

Every day, when you do your dishes, flush the toilet, or take a shower, you probably don't wonder whether the water will come out of the tap or not. You assume it will be there. That isn't the case for 884 million people in the world – roughly three times the population of the United States – who lack access to clean water. But even here in the US, the definition of "clean" is under scrutiny.

In this final edition of the 3-part series on pomegranate, I want to tackle a pretty big issue: aging. If there is an aspect of health attracting the most unscrupulous quacks and cons, it's the anti-aging business. Or racket, as some might call it. Too often, we confuse youth and health. As if they're synonymous. But millions of people make unhealthy choices every day in their quest for youth.

Whether it is a simple and routine procedure, or something more complicated, surgery can be scary. And it makes most of us nervous. It may be tempting to surrender to conventional medicine completely – and get back to your routine of using natural health solutions once you've mended. But I would urge you to resist that temptation...

You Can't Have What You Paid For

Imagine if your tax dollars went to fund the schools in your neighborhood… but you couldn't send your children there. And you couldn't drive on the highways built on your dime. Or check out a book from the public library your taxes support. Well, that scenario's exactly what two members of Congress are proposing…

Why "To Flax or to Fish?" is The Wrong Question...and The Right Answer

While the debate between fish oil vs. flaxseed oil rages on, I’d like to tell you today why it’s the wrong question… and how you can use a few key pieces of data to find the right answer for you. The basic premise behind the recommendation to supplement with fish or flax oil is this: your body needs essential fatty acids, but doesn’t produce them on its own. Which means you must get them either through your diet or your supplements. Achieving a balance between the two types – omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids – is the key.

The Five Pounds You Don't Want To Lose

So, are we bacteria having a human experience? It’s seems quite possible. Though perhaps not how we like to see ourselves. One thing is certain though, we should treat our microscopic cohabitants with a measure of respect for all they do for us. Our health would be seriously compromised without the 3-5 pounds of bacteria living in our gut.

The Boogeyman Lives in Your Corn Chips

All Natural. That’s right. Frito-lay, which uses GM corn from Monsanto, had the nerve to label their chips all natural. And finally, activists who have been looking for a chance to at least throw a stone at the Goliath of the world food market… got one in. They are bringing a class action suit against Frito-Lay in California, where label laws will be put to the test by voters in November 2012. With the trickle-up target, of course, being Monsanto.

The Story About Bedtime

While it's true that we need less sleep as we get older than we did as children and teens, it is also true that we aren't as good at bedtime as we were when we were young. And we could be paying a high price for losing what might seem like a childish routine.

8 Ways to Stop a Hangover Before it Starts

If it seems like you have less tolerance for alcohol as you get older, it's not your imagination. But that doesn't mean we never want to have a drink or two more than usual…especially around the holidays or on a special occasion. Following these few steps of caution – before, during and after a little overindulgence – will radically improve how you feel the next day.

Easy Relief for Holiday Blues

Just about every major religion has a Sabbath day – a day of rest and reflection – built into the week. And yet, we keep our digestive system on the clock day-in, day-out, year-round…without a break. Or worse, we torture our gut with yo-yo diets, processed foods, and especially in a holiday season like now, bigger meals, rich desserts, and a reduced amount of exercise. Give your gut a break, already! Here’s how…

Give Your Gut the Day Off

Just about every major religion has a Sabbath day – a day of rest and reflection – built into the week. Before agriculture became agri-business, it was customary to let a field occasionally go fallow so the nutrients in the soil had time to become renewed and fortified again. And even today, most farmers understand the wisdom of crop rotation.And yet, we keep our digestive system on the clock day-in, day-out, year-round…without a break.

7 Foods That Fight Fatigue

Whether it’s due to a sleepless night or an overly-packed schedule, there are always those inevitable days when your energy seems to vanish into thin air.

Before you reach for a cup of coffee or overly-caffeinated energy drink to help you muddle through the day, try my healthy strategy for staying awake:  Snack on fatigue-fighting foods.

8 Myths About The Water You Drink

Everyone knows that water is essential to life-and that our bodies are made up of 70% water. But there's a lot about water that's, well, pure myth.The truth is, much of what we think we know about H2O is nothing more than guesswork.But when it comes to hydration and good health, it takes more than guesswork. It takes some myth-busting facts.

The Common Problem Most Doctors Miss

Are you often tired for absolutely no reason? Do you often suffer from cold hands and feet, even when the temperature is soaring? Does that excess weight refuse to budge no matter how little you eat or how much you exercise? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you might be part of a growing epidemic.

Make This a Regular Part of Your Day

Most of us tend to think of fiber as something that keeps us "regular,” but that's only part of the picture. In fact, I'm firmly convinced fiber is an often overlooked anti-aging medicine. And I'm not alone in this belief.

This Could be the Healthiest Food You Eat

It seems like every other week headlines tout some new superfood supposedly endowed with miraculous healing powers. Blueberries make you smarter; pomegranate protects against cancer; açai berries keep you young.

But there’s one food that really CAN make you healthier from your head to your toes—and it’s one as old as time. It also happens to be one of my favorites.

Banish the Burn

Ever since the invention of antacids, stomach acid has gotten a bad rap. But, the truth is, our digestive system would shut down without it.

Is Your Home Killing You?

While I enjoy my time on the road, nothing is better than coming back home to my own house, my own bed. After all, home is a place of respite and calm; a place where I can retreat and recharge. But for many folks, home contains a hidden health risk.

Rebuild Your Health with These Core Nutrients

There are some nutrients that can benefit everyone. The following 7 supplements cover all the basics regardless of your gender, age or current health status. And taking them can be the first step in your journey toward optimal health.

Wine & Dine Your Way to Good Health

There’s nothing I like better than a nice glass of red wine with dinner. Fortunately, it’s an indulgence that’s not only relaxing—it’s healthy, too. And that’s thanks to its resveratrol content.

The Prescription Danger No One Talks About

Nearly half of American adults take at least one prescription drug every day.Nearly all of these drugs have benefits and risks. And in general, the stronger the drug, the greater the side effects. But one thing no one ever mentions is the impact these drugs have on the nutrients we need to stay healthy.

To Stop Hormone Exposure, Use This

All plastic bottles are made with chemicals known as plasticizers. One of the chemicals in plasticizers, Bisphenol A (BPA), mimics the female hormone estrogen. It's suspected of causing neurological and behavioral problems in babies and children.

Natural Advice for a Painful Problem

If you're among the roughly 90% of adults who had childhood chickenpox, you might be among the 1 million people who develop shingles every year. If you do come down with a case of shingles, a number of natural remedies can ease your symptoms and speed healing.

8 Tips for Stopping Jet Lag

Whether I’m traveling around the United States or flying overseas, I’ve found the more time zones I cross (especially when I “lose time” flying east to west), the more my circadian rhythms are disrupted. And that usually means I’ll likely be suffering from a nasty case of jet lag before my trip is through.

6 Simple Strategies for Bladder Control

Anyone who suffers from urinary problems can tell you it’s incredibly embarrassing. And you can imagine how this poor woman must have felt to be singled out. But she’s certainly not alone with this problem. Maybe you’ve experienced this inconvenient and embarrassing problem, too.

What Your Doctor Won't Tell You About Heartburn Drugs

Did you know that drugs for heartburn and indigestion are among the most frequently prescribed medicines in America? Sure, these drugs can temporarily cool that burning sensation. But here’s what your doctor probably doesn’t tell you. All those antacids, proton pump inhibitors and H2 receptor antagonists might just be doing more harm than good..

Minimize the Effects of Radiation

In all my years as a physician I never imagined I'd be writing about exposure to nuclear radiation. But since the Japanese earthquake- and tsunami-related disaster at the Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant, I've been asked to share some empowering information.

Allergy Relief Without Prescription Drugs

Judging from the number of sneezing and congested folks streaming into my office lately, it’s shaping up to be quite a year for allergies.
If you’re among the suffering, you don’t need to stock up on antihistamines or other allergy drugs. There’s a simple remedy that helps soothe your symptoms.  Plus, it will help boost your immune system too.

Are You Getting Too Much D?

Vitamin D has been in the news a lot over the past few years. And as more benefits are discovered, it seems like taking more is definitely better. Yet not everyone seems to be on the vitamin D bandwagon. The Institute of Medicine’s Food and Nutrition Board (FNB) recently put out a report saying that taking more than 800 IU of this amazing nutrient is unnecessary and might even be harmful!

The New Power Couples

Over the years, there have been a lot of “power couples”. Hepburn and Tracy, John and Yoko, Bill and Hillary. But pairing two powerhouse entities isn’t limited to film, music, or politics. There are also some nutrient duos that can help keep you healthy.

Is This Organ Optional?

First it was the appendix. Then the tonsils. Now it seems that many conventional doctors are more than happy to throw yet another body part out the window!

Just Say No to GMO

Maybe you’ve noticed when I talk about eating soy, I always tell you to choose organically grown soy. There’s a reason for that.
Most of the soy grown in the U.S. these days has been genetically modified—and it’s a big deal.

Stop Headache Pain Naturally

The pain of a headache can be so intense, you aren’t able to think straight. Sound, light, and even moving can be pure agony.

Take Control of Your Digestion

It might begin with a little gas or bloating. Or perhaps your favorite foods suddenly start disagreeing with you. Sometimes eating anything at all can cause cramping and heartburn. Over time, you might even develop chronic unexplained diarrhea or constipation.

The Health Food You'll Absolutely Love!

The heart healthy habits I normally recommend involve getting more exercise as well as trading in fatty, sugary foods for fresh fruits and vegetables. But there's one sweet, decadent food you may have heard about that boasts high levels of the antioxidants that help keep your heart strong.

Do You Suffer From The Vegas Buffet Syndrome?

If you’ve ever been to Vegas, I’m sure you’ve seen those mile-long all-you-can-eat buffets that are a staple in just about every casino. While they advertise lots of food for a very reasonable price, they conveniently forget to tell you about the pain you’ll suffer later.

Build A-mazing Health

My patients often ask me about the benefits of one trendy supplement or another that’s been in the news. And while some, like vitamin D or green tea, can offer a wealth of healthy benefits, you shouldn’t ignore tried and true nutrients that aren’t getting press.

6 Ways To Prevent Kidney Problems

If you’re like most of my patients, you actively try to take steps to promote good health. Preventing chronic diseases like diabetes and Alzheimer’s while boosting your heart health is one of your top priorities. But when was the last time you thought about your kidneys? If you can’t remember, maybe it’s time you start.

Avoid This Modern Killer

There’s a disturbing trend I’ve been following for the last 10 years. It’s not a new disease. It’s a cluster of health problems that, taken together, send your risk of diabetes and heart disease through the roof.

3 Simple Ways To Banish The Winter Blues

This seasonal depression—also known as seasonal affective disorder or SAD—happens in many of us as the days become shorter.

The Great Corn Sugar Hoax

High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is suffering from a serious image problem. As researchers uncovered the sweeteners dark side, it fell out of favor with consumers and sales slumped.

Attention, Please

It’s called “adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).”  And about 60 percent of all children with ADHD, grow up to have adult ADHD.

Follow Your Gut

Chron’s disease is a chronic disorder that causes inflammation of the digestive tract. A related disorder – ulcerative colitis can cause ulcers and open sores in the colon.

Simple Ways To Guard Against Deadly Superbugs

Over the past decade, MRSA has spread like wildfire. And because this strain of bacteria isn’t affected by antibiotics, conventional medicine doesn’t have any weapons to attack it.

Make A Toast To Better Health In 2011

If you’re planning to ring in 2011 with a glass of wine or other alcoholic beverage, you might be wondering about those highly touted claims that alcohol is good for you.

Soothe Seasonal Stress Naturally

As wonderful as the holiday season can be, it can also be a time filled with stress and anxiety.

Help For The Holidays

Most holiday treats—from Aunt Hannah’s fudge to that glass of wine—are packed with simple carbohydrates that are high on the glycemic index. Simple carbs are more easily converted into glucose (sugar) because their molecular structure breaks down faster in the stomach and small intestine.

5 Supplements That Can Save Your Life

In these tough economic times, I hear a lot about healthcare. But no matter what your opinion on the new healthcare laws, the truth is that modern medicine still focuses on disease instead of wellness.

In From The Cold

New research suggests that relieving cold symptoms may be easier than ever. In fact, according to a study which will appear in the British Journal of Nutrition, a daily dose of a micronutrient-dense concentrate of fruits and vegetables can reduce cold symptoms by up to 20 percent, even if they are severe. 

Out Of India

In the laboratory, turmeric—or more specifically curcumin—impacts virtually every tumor biomarker. Scientists at the University of Alabama found that curcumin inhibited prostate cancer cells from expressing a protein linked to tumor formation while increasing a protein linked with natural cell death.

Hooked!

The risks and benefits of caffeine are mixed, but its negative impact on bone mass and density, as well as blood sugar makes it worth cutting back. Research also suggests that caffeine, which is found in everything from chocolate to medications, can cause fertility problems or even miscarriage.

The New Dirty Dozen

Mainstream media thrives on fear, especially if it involves a health scare. I was reminded of this after a recent copy of Consumer Reports landed on my desk warning readers of The 12 Most Dangerous Supplements.

Solve The Mystery Of Migraines

Imagine an excruciating headache that manifests as a spectacular light show, pulsating and exploding in sync with the pain in your skull. Or perhaps it’s an incessant stabbing coupled with nausea and narrowed vision.

Are You Excited?

Your food can be a killer—and I don’t mean just the junk food. The main culprits are the additives monosodium glutamate (MSG) and aspartate (a component of NutraSweet) that lace our foods to enhance their taste.

Acid Trip

Is your body burning to tell you something? If you suffer from frequent heartburn, it may be. In functional medicine, practitioners consider the health of your digestive system to be as crucial as the health of your brain.

The Power Of Glutathione

By now, I’m sure you know that I am a huge fan of antioxidants. Vitamins A, C, and E are critical in the war against those errant and damaging molecules known as free radicals.

The Heat Is On

The summer has truly been a scorcher—dangerously so. With temperatures topping 100 degrees, cities throughout the Midwest and up and down the Eastern Seaboard are setting up cooling stations and doing everything they can to keep air conditioners humming.

A Gut-Wrenching Problem

If the slightest upset or worry sends your digestive tract on a roller coaster ride, you may be one of the 60 million Americans with irritable bowel syndrome. Eating certain foods, known as “trigger” foods, can just make mattes worse.

On The Road Again

I love to travel, which is good since I must often head for far-flung places to attend medical conferences and seminars. But the actual mechanics of getting from Point A to Point B isn’t always easy—a fact I was reminded of during a recent trip to Europe.

Help Save Your Supplements

Last week, a few anti-supplement/pro-drug special interests tried to cast a shadow on the safety of the supplements you take every day.

Should You Go Gluten Free?

It seems like I can’t go to the grocery store without seeing yet another gluten-free baking mix or gluten-free package of cookies or crackers.

Supplements Under Fire: Part 2

A collective sigh of relief. That’s what was heard among natural healthcare providers, consumers and supplement makers after Wednesday’s hearing on dietary supplements.

Supplements Under Fire, Again!

Television’s hit show Dateline isn’t the only place you’ll find undercover investigations. Now, the U.S. government has gotten into the act and it just might affect your access to the vitamins and herbs you rely on for good health.

Smart, Safe, And Sweet

Not long ago, a patient asked me about the safety of sugar substitutes. Recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, this woman has been successful in controlling her disease without drugs by losing weight and making smart dietary choices—but she misses those sweet treats she used to enjoy.

The Pollen Problem

Typically, allergy season is history by now. Not this year. Thanks to the torrents of rain that hit many parts of the country last winter, pollen counts are still extremely high.

Soothe RLS Symptoms

All you want is a good night’s sleep. But if you suffer from restless leg syndrome (RLS), sleep can become just a dream. Many people with RLS say that, when they sit or lay down, it can feel like there are bugs crawling around inside their muscles.

Ironman

Are you feeling run-down and exhausted? It could be anemia, the most common blood disorder in America. According to the Mayo Clinic, more than 3.4 million Americans suffer with some form of anemia.

The Power Of 3

Have you had your fish oil today? If you want to ensure good health and delay aging, it’s a habit you should consider adopting. Fish oil supplements are a rich and convenient source of those all-important omega-3 fats.

Understanding Your pH

If you are a frequent reader, you are no doubt concerned with your health. You take supplements, perhaps you exercise and you try to eat healthfully.

Banish Bladder Infections

Bladder infections can be an inconvenient and painful experience, but you have the power to prevent them by making a few simple changes to your diet and daily routine.

Fight Allergies With Folic Acid

With spring fast approaching, allergy sufferers are beginning to gird themselves for yet another season of misery.

Soothe Away Stress With Magnesium

If you’re feeling more stressed out than usual, join the club. Many of my patients report that they are feeling more stressed than ever thanks to the economy, job losses, even relationship issues.

Super Sulfur

What do garlic, glutathione, N-acetyl cysteine, alpha-lipoic acid and MSM have in common? Sulfur—a compound that helps the body in a variety of ways, from maintaining healthy joints to boosting the immune system.

Pump Up Your Protein

Are you getting enough protein? If you said yes, you may be wrong. According to a new study, you just might need twice the amount recommended by the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. The current U.S. recommendation states that adults should consume between 10 and 35 percent of their calories from protein.

Calm Down With Kava

I often hear from people, both professionally and personally, who want to know if there is anything they can do to soothe their stress levels. It’s a question I am hearing more and more over the past year. I’m not surprised. After all, we live in very uncertain times.

What Your Gums Say About Your Health

For years now, modern medicine has known about the strong influence that gum disease can have on the rest of your body. And yet, I’d venture to guess that many people still don’t realize how vital healthy teeth and gums really are.

Make A Toast To Your Health

New Year’s Eve is almost here—and for many of us, that means tipping back a few drinks to ring in 2010. But before you pop that cork, let’s finally settle the argument. Is alcohol a health tonic or a poison?

Clear and Plastic Danger

‘Tis the season for leftovers—lots of them! But what do you store your leftovers in? If you’re like most people, you probably use plastic. But that isn’t the healthiest option.

Cranberry Smart

Cranberries are a favorite accompaniment to most holiday feasts. But if you think beyond that red gelatinous cylinder that is passed with the turkey and dressing, you’ll find that these little red berries offer up a host of health benefits.

5 Ways To Tame Holiday Stress

Even though it’s just once a year, holiday stress can have some very damaging effects to my health. You too. When you’re under stress, your body releases the hormone cortisol as part of the fight-or-flight response.

Fighting A Fatty Liver

If you hear the term liver disease, you probably have visions of an alcoholic who has spent years taxing his or her liver with copious amount of liquor. If so, you might be surprised that many people who don’t even drink can find themselves suffering from a condition called nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

The Calcium Conundrum

Calcium is thought to be the primary nutrient needed by our bones. It’s wisdom that’s been drummed into our heads for years by doctors, advertisers and even our mothers. But the latest research shows that our bones need more than just calcium.

Hydrate You Way To Good Health

The human body is made up of approximately two-thirds water. About 75 percent of the brain is water, 75 percent of muscle, and more than 90 percent of blood. As a result, nearly every body function depends on water.

Lighten Up Your Lymph

Want vibrant health? Many practitioners recommend cleansing, an age-old practice used in holistic medicine. But when you mention cleansing, most people typically think of eliminating toxins from the liver and colon. Yet, as important as that is, there is another, much-overlooked system in the body that also benefits from the occasional detox—the lymphatic system.

What's Really In That High Fiber Food?

I never thought I’d see the day when fiber was sexy. But, sure enough, recent ads on TV and in magazines are promoting fiber as a way to “beautify the inside.”

Benefits of Aerobic Exercise

But this study review found that aerobic activity, such as vigorous walking, can not only slow but reverse that decline. And the longer you keep at it, the greater the gains in turning back the hands of time—at least in terms of your body’s oxygen capacity.

Pills that Kill

The truth is that an estimated 106,000 hospitalized patients die each year from adverse drug reactions. And these are drugs that are properly prescribed and properly administered.

The Lowdown on Thyroid Health

Hypothyroidism is estimated to affect 11 million Americans, and nine million of them are women. Since the thyroid gland is responsible for regulating many functions in the body, including metabolism, it makes sense that the underproduction of thyroid hormones would lead to a host of symptoms ranging from weight gain and fatigue to high cholesterol levels and possibly even infertility.

Staying Well While Traveling

If you are planning a trip—or even if the economy has limited your vacation to a “staycation”—it’s wise to plan ahead for the common maladies that can ruin your holiday.

Tinnitus- Ringing Ears

The problem is, no one really knows what causes tinnitus. Some scientists speculate that the culprit is nerve irritation from an unknown source. Luckily, for most of us, tinnitus isn’t permanent or serious.

Ward Off The Formation of Kidney Stones and Gallstones

Experts estimate that five percent of Americans develop kidney stones at some point and 10 to 15 percent develop gallstones. And, although these stones don’t always pose problems, when they do the symptoms can make you miserable.

Children Being Treated With Statin Drugs

Like most specialty medical groups, the AAP gets a large part of their funding from drug companies. There may also be personal connections – not an uncommon scenario between industry and medicine.

Mad Cow Disease

Mad cow disease, and its human counterpart Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, are fatal diseases that cause sudden, progressive dementia, depression, behavioral changes, impaired vision and a loss of coordination.

Coffee's Health Benefits

New research suggests that coffee offers many health perks while protecting against a number of diseases.

Regain Bladder Control

Bladder problems can cause any number of symptoms—from slightly painful to highly embarrassing. And they only seem to get worse with age.

Natural Heartburn Relief

GERD is a growing problem. In fact, more than 35 percent of Americans are thought to suffer from this burning issue.

How to Combat Yeast Overgrowth in the Body

Yeast often silently multiplies in unhealthy numbers deep in the intestines. If you have symptoms of candida overgrowth or need to take antibiotics, here’s what you can do to avoid pesky health issues.

Natural Ways to Improve Digestion

Frequent symptoms of weak digestion may simply be your digestive system’s cry for help. Thankfully, the enzymes we may be lacking as we age are also available in supplement form.  

Ticked Off

Lyme disease, caused by a bacteria transmitted to people by the bite of infected ticks, affects about 100,000 Americans every year. And summer is the prime season for it to rear its ugly head. Learn how to help protect yourself from this disease.

Dangers of Coke

Experts have issued a warning against drinking large quantities of cola and other soft drinks, saying it could lead to muscle problems, an irregular heartbeat, and bone weakness.

Protecting Yourself Against Lyme Disease

Lyme disease, caused by a bacteria transmitted to people by the bite of infected ticks, affects about 100,000 Americans every year. And summer is the prime season for it to rear its ugly head. Learn how to help protect yourself from this disease.

Safety of Genetically Engineered Animals

Genetically engineered animals are on their way to a supermarket near you. How safe are they? There are many environmental, safety, and health questions still unanswered. And if the FDA has its way, consumers won’t know if the foods they buy are from these animals or not.