Showing posts with label Amen Clinic. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Amen Clinic. Show all posts

Thursday, July 7, 2011

Chapter 46: Meridian Tapping

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The side effects caused by antidepressants are worse than being depressed.
Antidepressants cause suicidal thoughts instead of improving them.
Antidepressants cause over 40,000 deaths a year.
High doses of antidepressants can cause heart problems.
You don't need an antidepressant, just "buck up" or "fight it off."
Some antidepressants are so expensive you won't be able to afford them.
Depression is not a chemical imbalance in the brain.
The low serotonin theory in depression is not based on scientific proof.
Antidepressants cause abnormal brain states, not cure them.
Only about 15 percent of people treated with an antidepressant begin to feel better.

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Have you heard or read the previous statements?  Which statements are true?  For some of them it depends on the person.

Well. . .this is my truth. The first part of 2010 I had tried 15 different drug combinations for depression symptoms, and I was not getting better.  Treatment resistant depression is miserable and I did not want suicide to be the result.  I went to the Amen Clinic in Newport Beach, California in March of 2010.  My blog is a history of my journey to feeling good again.  I feel good now.

Much more than medication has been involved in my healing, but this is the medication I am on now:  Neurontin, 300 mg, 4 times per day
          Luvox, 50 mg in the morning, 75 mg in the afternoon
          Effexor XR, 131.25 in the morning. (Yes, this dosage requires me to half a 37.5 
          capsule, but this is the dosage where I feel the best.)
  
I feel good.  If you have read my blog you know I want to go to Dr. Mark Hyman's UltraWellness Center in Lennox, MA, but I can not afford it yet. 

The next skill I want to add to my arsenal for fighting depression is a type of energy therapy, Meridian Tapping Techniques.  There are different kinds, but Meridian Tapping Techniques repair blockages or disturbances in the body's energy system created by negative emotions.  Tapping is done on some of the meridian points used in acupuncture. 

I am now reading the book, Discover the Power of Meridian Tapping - A Revolutionary Method for Stress-Free Living, by Patricia Carrington, Ph. D.  I have already watched the DVD, The Tapping Solution - The Revolution Starts Within.  I believe there is power in meridian tapping.  I am still learning, but I have tried it, like it, and feel it is effective.  This is one more skill I want to add to my "escape from depression" library. 

Quote from Nicolas Ortner, Creator/Producer of the Film The Tapping Solution. 

"Tapping can change the way you feel, release pain in your body and help you let go of limiting beliefs, old hurts and traumas in a matter of minutes.  Use it!  A life of joy, happiness and abundance is waiting for you and it may be just a few 'taps' away!"

This video is The Tapping Solution Trailer.  It will help prepare you to watch the DVD.  Watch the DVD if you can - even if you are skeptical.  It could be one more tool that helps you fight depression. 




Get more information about The Tapping Solution DVD and book, Discover the Power of Meridian Tapping at:  http://www.thetappingsolution.com/


This video is a Demo of the Meridian Tapping Points.  It is narrated by Patricia Carrington, Ph. D., author of the book, Discover the Power of Meridian Tapping.  You will learn the 9 basic tapping points.



Below is information on Dr. Bruce Lipton, taken from http://www.brucelipton.com/about-bruce/.   There are also two videos where he is interviewed about The Tapping Solution.  He talks about the scientific reasons why tapping is effective.  If you are interested in a scientific explanation, you will enjoy the videos.

"Dr. Lipton began his scientific career as a cell biologist. He received his Ph. D. Degree from the University of Virginia at Charlottesville before joining the Department of Anatomy at the University of Wisconsin’s School of Medicine in 1973. Dr. Lipton’s research on muscular dystrophy, studies employing cloned human stem cells, focused upon the molecular mechanisms controlling cell behavior. An experimental tissue transplantation technique developed by Dr. Lipton and colleague Dr. Ed Schultz and published in the journal Science was subsequently employed as a novel form of human genetic engineering.

In 1982, Dr. Lipton began examining the principles of quantum physics and how they might be integrated into his understanding of the cell’s information processing systems. He produced breakthrough studies on the cell membrane, which revealed that this outer layer of the cell was an organic homologue of a computer chip, the cell’s equivalent of a brain. His research at Stanford University’s School of Medicine, between 1987 and 1992, revealed that the environment, operating though the membrane, controlled the behavior and physiology of the cell, turning genes on and off. His discoveries, which ran counter to the established scientific view that life is controlled by the genes, presaged one of today’s most important fields of study, the science of epigenetics. Two major scientific publications derived from these studies defined the molecular pathways connecting the mind and body. Many subsequent papers by other researchers have since validated his concepts and ideas." http://www.brucelipton.com/










Do you think this therapy is valid?  Try it and see what you think.  Please leave me a comment on how effective it was for you.  After I become more skilled at tapping and have used it for awhile I am planning on posting a blog chapter about my results.

Dr. Patricia Carrington is a clinical psychologist, published author, and one of the pioneers in the rapidly growing field of Meridian Tapping.  She is the author of, Discover the Power of Meridian Tapping.  Dr. Carrington said the following quote on the inside cover of her book.

"This book teaches you a remarkable new healing technique based on the ancient art of acupuncture combined with modern psychology.  In these pages, you will learn the story of Meridian Tapping, discover how and why it works, see compelling evidence of its effectiveness, and read numerous true stories that show you how to use it for deep-seated anxieties, pain, addictions, traumas, and a host of other distressing conditions."


Monday, June 13, 2011

Chapter 45: What do YOU think?

What do YOU think about the information Dr. Mark Hyman presents in this video?

It took about a year to make all of the changes my psychiatrist recommended at the Amen Clinic.  The dosages of my medications are stable now and I feel good!  The improvement was slow, steady, and subtle.  I have the desire to do things again.  I look forward to what I have planned each day when I wake up in the morning, instead of dreading it.  If you are new to my blog, Chapter 42 summarizes my road to recovery.

Chapter 42: FROM DARKNESS TO LIGHT

This video was made before Dr. Hyman's book, The UltraMind Solution, was finished.  You know I think the book is great if you have read other chapters in my blog. =)   I think this book is a must read if you have depression symptoms.

In the video, Dr. Hyman talks about 7 things you can do to help improve depression symptoms.

1.  Try an anti-inflammation elimination diet and remove food allergens
2.  Check for hypothyroidism
3.  Treat vitamin D deficiency
4.  Take Omega 3 Fats
5.  Take adequate amounts of B12, Folate, and B6
6.  Check for mercury toxicity
7.  Exercise vigorously for 30 minutes, 5 times per week.

 Why Antidepressants Do Not Work For Treating Depression
Mark Hyman, M.D.




Dr. Hyman acknowledges that some people do not heal completely by using the UltraMind Solution.  In the "Special Considerations" section of the book, The UltraMind Solution, page 387, Dr. Hyman says:

When You Need Therapy

"Sometimes it is not a toxin, allergen, infection, or nutrient-poor diet that makes us depressed or mentally ill.  Sometimes it is just life itself---a divorce, childhood trauma, the death of a loved one, a crazy boss, or a major trauma.
     During those times in life, seeking help from a trained psychotherapist, a social worker, or even a personal coach can be lifesaving and may help guide you through troubled times.
     In traditional cultures, the family and social structure provided a container and meaning for all life's events.  Today, unfortunately, many of us are left alone to struggle through life's transitions and questions.  Getting support can help you heal and recover along with the UltraMind Solution."

When You Need Medication

"As a former emergency room physician, I recognize that extreme times call for extreme measures.  I use and support the intelligent, appropriate use of medication, including psychotropic medications when needed.  They can often be helpful as a bridge for recovery from all the stresses and toxins that affect our brain and mind.
     It may take months or years to heal from damage that has occurred over a lifetime.  In extreme cases, the damage may be so deep that full recovery is not possible using the UltraMind Solution (although most see remarkable results in a few weeks).  In some cases, combining medication with the tools of the UltraMind Solution can give people their lives back.
     Working with an experienced psychopharmacologist who welcomes the integration of nutrition, supplements, exercise, and mind-body therapies is sometimes a necessary step to recovering a whole life.
     Many times medications can be reduced or eliminated after applying the principles found in the UltraMind Solution."

I am one of "the cases" where combining medications with the tools of the UltraMind Solution gave me my life back.  Thank you Dr. Daniel Amen, and everyone at the Amen Clinic in Newport Beach, California.  The psychiatrist I worked with at the Amen Clinic was exceptional!  Thank you Dr. Mark Hyman for The UltraMind Solution.  I learned so much from the book and the changes I made to my diet and lifestyle helped me heal.  Thank you Eckhart Tolle for helping me change the way I think.  Reading the books, The Power of Now, and A New Earth, taught me to live in the moment.  Doing this brings me peace!

I am still saving my money to go to the The UltraWellness Center in Lennox, MA.  I need their help to find out if I could be off medications and still be free of depression symptoms, or if I am one of those people who will still need medication even if my body is balanced. 


Tuesday, May 3, 2011

Chapter 43: SAVING MY MONEY

I AM SAVING MY MONEY!  

I want to go to Dr. Mark Hyman's UltraWellness Clinic.  It is in Lenox, Massachusetts which is not close to where I live.  Once again I am planning a trip out of state to receive medical care.  The two times I have done it before have been excellent decisions.  If you have been reading my blog you know about my trip to the Amen Clinic in Newport Beach, California.  Here are the chapters of my blog about the trip if you are interested in reading them.


At first, I was only going to tell you briefly about my first trip out of state for medical care.  But then I decided it was important to me to share a longer version of the story.  I think it is important for all of us to find the best medical care for us personally, and sometimes this takes research!  

My doctor at home recommended a hysterectomy because of severe pain during my periods.  A second opinion agreed with the first one.  I prayed for guidance in making a decision about this surgery and the answer was no.

After a lot of research, I went to Los Angeles, California to the The Institute for Female Alternative Medicine.  Dr. Tirso del Junco, Jr. founded the institute to provide women with an alternative to hysterectomy.  Dr. del Junco is a skilled surgeon using different types of lasers to make the needed repairs during surgery. 

Female Reconstructive Surgery:  April 3, 2000, in Los Angeles, California 

Myomectomy:  Five uterine fibroids removed
Adenomyomectomy:  Removal of adenomyosis - uterine thickening that occurs when endometrial tissue, which normally lines the uterus, moves into the outer muscular walls of the uterus.  This tissues bleeds each month causing pain.  Dr. del Junco used the SLT contact yag laser to remove the adenomyosis from my uterus.  
Left ovarian cystectomy with reconstruction:  Cyst surgically removed from my left ovary and reconstruction of the ovary.
Aspiration of right ovarian cyst: Fluid removed from the cyst
Uterine suspension:  Repair of a prolapsed uterus - suspension was carried out by using a #3/0 Goretex suture, bringing opposing both left and right round ligaments in accordion fashion and attaching this to the anterior surface of the uterus.
Ventral hernia repairIncisional ventral hernias are defects that appear at the site of a prior surgical incision.  This results in a bulge or a tear in the area where the abdominal muscles have weakened.  I had a previous surgical incision in my abdomen from having my appendix removed.
Endometrial curettings:  Endometrial curettage means taking a sample of tissue from the inside lining layer (endometrium) of the uterus.  A biopsy was done and no malignancy was found. 

This was a follow up procedure three months after Female Reconstructive Surgery: 
Hysteroscopy:  July 28, 2000 in Los Angeles, California

Checking for adhesions from Female Reconstructive Surgery:  No adhesions
Endocervical polypectomy:  A polyp was removed from my cervix
Ablation of endometriosis:   Endometriosis was removed from the dome of my uterus
Endometriosis is when endometrial tissue, which normally lines the uterus, goes into the pelvic area outside of the uterus.  The tissue usually implants on the ovaries, bowel, rectum, bladder, or the lining of the pelvis; but it can occur in other areas of the body too.

Dr. Tirso del Junco, Jr. is interviewed in this video by Jennie Sauder, on a program called "A Healthy Balance".  (The Health Network)
  


This video is the story of a woman who decided to have Female Reconstructive Surgery.  It will give you more information about the The Institute for Female Alternative Medicine and Dr. Tirso del Junco, Jr. 

 

The positive outcomes of this surgery for me were many:

1.  I was able to keep all of my reproductive organs and they began to function normally soon after the surgery.
2.  My doctor here at home said I would probably be going through menopause soon, I was 47 years old, so I could just "do nothing" but be in pain each month until then.  I was 57 years old when I was officially menopausal.  So that would have been 10 painful years!
3.  I experienced pain while the surgery was healing, but my period started one month after the surgery without any extra pain.  After the surgery healed, I had no pain during my menstrual cycles.  I had given Dr. del Junco permission to remove as much of the adenomyosis he needed to ensure the pain would stop.  This left my uterus without enough strength to carry a baby, but my husband and I were not planning on having more children so this wasn't a problem for me.
4.  I felt like I got my life back!  Before the surgery I was in so much pain each month I had to plan my life around not functioning during this time.
5.  I was able to go through menopause naturally instead of it being initiated by a hysterectomy.
6.  I felt better!

If you would like more information about my experience at The Institute for Female Alternative Medicine, please leave a comment on this chapter with your email address.  Thanks!

As you know I am doing better, but I am not finished with the pursuit of getting my body back in balance, functioning well, and feeling good.  In the next chapter of my blog I will explain why I want to go to the UltraWellness Clinic.  I believe Daniel Amen, M.D., Tirso del Junco, Jr., M.D. and Mark Hyman, M.D., are pioneers in their areas of medicine.

Monday, April 11, 2011

Chapter 42: FROM DARKNESS TO LIGHT

I would definitely describe the symptoms of depression as darkness.  To bring the light back in to my body and life has taken all of the following:

Trip to the Amen Clinic in Newport Beach, California:  a higher level of education to diagnose and treat my specific psychiatric disorders.  The SPECT brain scans provided information to help in prescribing medication that had the highest chance of being effective for me.

Chapter 1: Depression, Amen Clinics, Amino Acids
Chapter 2: Back to School, Father Died


Medications 

Generic Luvox:  50 mg morning 75 mg afternoon
Effexor XR:  112.5 mg morning
Generic Neurontin:  300 mg 4 times per day


Effexor XR 

Chapter 15: Clonazepam The Beast, Effexor XR 
Chapter 16: Effexor XR, Live My Life In The Now 
Chapter 19: Effexor XR, Enlightened Relationships 
Chapter 25: Effexor XR, $260.59 or $160.80 Every Month 
Chapter 35: FEELING SOME RELIEF, Antidepressant Medications 


Getting Off The Drug Clonazepam 

Chapter 12: I Hate Clonazepam, Supplements 
Chapter 15: Clonazepam The Beast, Effexor XR 


Supplements

Chapter 10: Detailed Treatment Plan 
Chapter 12: I Hate Clonazepam, Supplements 
Chapter 32: 6,000 mg Of Fish Oil A Day 


Fish Oil, Omega 3 Fatty Acids 6,000 mg Per Day 

Chapter 32: 6,000 mg Of Fish Oil A Day 


Raised My Vitamin D Level from 20 to 45, then to 72  

Chapter 29: Do you know what your Vitamin D level is?


Depression is a Disease  

Chapter 23: Angry At The Disease 
Chapter 24: Effexor XR, Please "Kick In" Soon
Chapter 31: Don't Stop Believing
Chapter 36: Blood Type & Diet, Healing Depression Symptoms 


Exercise & Endorphins

Chapter 33: Endorphins - Natural Morphine 


Reading the Books, The Power of Now, and A New Earth, by Eckhart Tolle.  Changing my thinking and living in the Now.

Chapter 5: A New Earth, Changing The Way I Think 
Chapter 6: Ego, Pain-Body, Live In The Present 
Chapter 14: Normal Day, The Power of Now  
Chapter 16: Effexor XR, Live My Life In The Now  
Chapter 18: "Fulfillment, Peace, Life in all its Fullness." 
Chapter 39: The Constant Chatter In My Mind Is Not Me 
Chapter 40: EGO 
Chapter 41: PAIN-BODY


Enlightened Relationships 

Chapter 19: Effexor XR, Enlightened Relationships  


Reading the Book, The UltraMind Solution, by Mark Hyman, M.D.  This led to food sensitivity testing and diet changes.

Chapter 7: Keys To UltraWellness, Food Sensitivity 
Chapter 12: I Hate Clonazepam, Supplements 
Chapter 21: Healing A "Broken Brain" 


The Link Between Inflammation and Depression 

Chapter 37: Treat INFLAMMATION Ease DEPRESSION?
Chapter 38: Depression and Inflammation ARE Linked 


Mercury Toxicity 

Chapter 26: Is Mercury Toxicity Causing Depression?
Chapter 27: Has the Mercury I Have Been Exposed to Caused Toxicity?




Saturday, January 15, 2011

Chapter 35: FEELING SOME RELIEF! Antidepressant Medications

It has been 9 months since I went to the Amen Clinic in Newport Beach, California.  It has taken this long to make all of the medication changes recommended by my doctor at the clinic.  I am starting to feel better, FEELING SOME RELIEF!  I have an atypical depression that needed to be treated in layers.  The anxiety symptoms needed to be treated first, and I talk more about this in Chapter 9 of my blog.  There is a detailed treatment plan from the Amen Clinic in Chapter 10.

I am now taking 150 mg of Effexor XR in the morning with breakfast.  I have come down from 300 mg because I was not feeling any improvement of depression symptoms, and side effects were not going away.  The higher dose was causing insomnia and anxiety, flushing several times a day, and constipation.  These are the only side effects I have experienced with Effexor XR, and they are just about gone on 150 mg.



 




 


I am also taking generic Luvox, fluvoxamine.  I take 50 mg in the morning and 50 mg in the afternoon.  I was already on this drug when I went to the Amen Clinic and my brain scans showed it was helping to quiet the activity in the deep limbic system; but it was not completely effective.  Depression symptoms originate in the deep limbic system.  I am using fluvoxamine for depression, and I do not have any side effects strong enough to notice.  I have been on fluvoxamine for over a year, and a pharmacist told me the brand Luvox is no longer made. The extended-release capsule is a new medication.

Information on generic Luvox, fluvoxamine from:  PubMed Health - Fluvoxamine

 

Why is this medication prescribed?

Fluvoxamine is used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (bothersome thoughts that won't go away and the need to perform certain actions over and over) and social anxiety disorder (extreme fear of interacting with others or performing in front of others that interferes with normal life). Fluvoxamine is in a class of medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

 

How should this medicine be used?

Fluvoxamine comes as a tablet and an extended-release capsule to take by mouth. The tablet is usually taken either once daily at bedtime or twice daily, once in the morning and once at bedtime. The extended-release capsule is usually taken, with or without food , once daily at bedtime. Swallow the extended-release capsules whole; do not crush or chew them.

Your doctor may start you on a low dose of fluvoxamine and gradually increase your dose, not more often than once every week, depending on how well the medication works for you and the side effects you experience.  It may take several weeks or longer for you to feel the full benefit of fluvoxamine. Continue to take fluvoxamine even if you feel well. Do not stop taking fluvoxamine without talking to your doctor.

If you suddenly stop taking fluvoxamine, you may experience withdrawal symptoms such as irritability; agitation; dizziness; extreme worry; uneasiness; confusion; headache; tiredness; mood changes; difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep; or pain, burning, numbness, tingling or 'electric shock' sensations in the hands or feet. Your doctor will probably decrease your dose gradually.

 

Other uses for this medicine

*Fluvoxamine is also sometimes used to treat depression. Talk with your doctor about the possible risks of using this medication for your condition.  This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

 

What side effects can this medication cause?

Fluvoxamine may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:  drowsiness, difficulty concentrating, dry mouth, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, constipation, indigestion, gas, change in taste, decreased appetite, weight loss, nervousness, weakness, unsteadiness, and changes in sex drive or ability.


I am taking generic Neurontin, gabapentin, to help calm the activity in the basal ganglia where anxiety begins.  I take a 300 mg capsule four times a day,1,200 mg total.  Neurontin is an anticonvulsant medication the Amen Clinic has found to be effective for anxiety.  I started on this drug as soon as I got home from the clinic to help me get off the drug clonazepam.  I have written quite a bit about clonazepam in Chapter 12 - I Hate Clonazepam and Chapter 15 - Clonazepam The Beast.  (I have been off The Beast for 7 months! =)  My doctor at the clinic chose gabapentin for me because of its low side effect profile, but you will see there are many side effects listed for this drug in the following article.  I did not experience any of these side effects.

Information on generic Neurontin, gabapentin from: PubMed Health - Gabapentin

 

Why is this medication prescribed?

Gabapentin is used to help control certain types of seizures in patients who have epilepsy. Gabapentin is also used to relieve the pain of postherpetic neuralgia (PHN; the burning, stabbing pain or aches that may last for months or years after an attack of shingles). Gabapentin is in a class of medications called anticonvulsants. Gabapentin treats seizures by decreasing abnormal excitement in the brain. Gabapentin relieves the pain of PHN by changing the way the body senses pain.

 

How should this medicine be used?

Gabapentin comes as a capsule, a tablet, and an oral solution (liquid) to take by mouth. It is usually taken with a full glass of water (8 ounces [240 milliliters]) three times a day. Gabapentin may be taken with or without food. Take this medication at evenly spaced times throughout the day and night; do not let more than 12 hours pass between doses.

If your doctor tells you to take one-half of a tablet as part of your dose, carefully split the tablet along the score mark. Use the other half-tablet as part of your next dose. Properly throw away any half-tablets that you have not used within several days of breaking them.

Your doctor will probably start you on a low dose of gabapentin and gradually increase your dose as needed to treat your condition. If you are taking gabapentin to treat PHN, tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve during your treatment.

 

Other uses for this medicine

Gabapentin is also sometimes used to relieve the pain of diabetic neuropathy (numbness or tingling due to nerve damage in people who have diabetes), and to treat and prevent hot flashes (sudden strong feelings of heat and sweating) in women who are being treated for breast cancer or who have experienced menopause (''change of life'', the end of monthly menstrual periods). Talk to your doctor about the risks of using this medication for your condition.  This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
   

What side effects can this medication cause?

Gabapentin may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:  drowsiness, tiredness or weakness, dizziness, headache, shaking of a part of your body you cannot control, double or blurred vision, unsteadiness, anxiety, memory problems, strange or unusual thoughts, unwanted eye movements, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, diarrhea, dry mouth, constipation, weight gain, swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs, back or joint pain, fever, runny nose, sneezing, cough, sore throat, or flu-like symptoms, ear pain, and red, itchy eyes.

My favorite website to learn about medications is Crazy Meds! The Good, The Bad, and The Funny.  It will tell you about uses, pros and cons, effects, side effects, and stuff your doctor usually won't tell you.  "Crazy Meds Suck Donkey Dong"  If that quote is offensive to you, you may not like this site.

I hope you are FEELING SOME RELIEF from your antidepressant medication, or will be soon!!



Sunday, November 21, 2010

Chapter 32: 6,000mg Of Fish Oil A Day

The groundbreaking omega-3 antidepression diet and brain program, The Omega-3 Connection, by Andrew L. Stoll, M.D. 

This is an excellent book.  Reading it has kept me motivated to be consistent in taking fish oil.  Quoted from the front flap of the book:

"In his groundbreaking research, Stoll found that omega-3 fatty acids, already known for their importance in preventing heart disease, Crohn's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and cancer, play a crucial role in mental health---regulating and enhancing mood, sharpening memory, and even aiding concentration and learning.  And these remarkable substances, so essential to our health, are found abundantly in common fish oils and other sources.

The bad news is that even though omega-3 fatty acids have played a critical role in our evolutionary past, these extraordinary substances have been depleted by our Western diet and lifestyle, and the resulting nutritional imbalance seems to have led to a sharp rise in heart disease and depression.  By contrast, in Japan and other countries where fish consumption is high, both heart disease and depression rates are low."

Andrew L. Stoll, M.D., is Director of the Psychopharmacology Research Laboratory at McLean Hospital in Boston and an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, as well as the recipient of the 1999 Klerman Award from the National Alliance for Research on Schizophrenia and Depression for the studies described in this book.  He is the author of dozens of academic papers.  This is his first book for the general public.


Part of my depression treatment plan from the Amen Clinic is to take 6,000mg of fish oil every day.  I was taking 2,000mg before I went to the clinic.  This is what I learned about omega-3 fatty acids from the Amen Clinic:

"The brain is 60% fat.  All of our 100 billion nerve cells are lined in essential fatty acids.  Low levels of omega three fatty acids have been found in ADD, depression and dementia.  Omega- 3 fatty acids (found in fish and flax seed oil) taken at a dosage of 2,000 to 6,000mg daily can be a beneficial augmentation for mood stabilization.  High quality fish oil is usually best as it has higher levels than flax seed oil to boost the levels of  omega-3 fatty acids in the brain.  We often recommend NeuroEPA for people who have more ADD type issues, and NeurOmega for people who have more mood or overfocused issues.

Research in the last few years has revealed that diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids may help promote a healthy emotional balance and positive mood, and may help us maintain a healthy mental status in later years.  Researchers speculate that a diet rich in the omega-3 fatty acid DHA, found in fish oil, may help promote a healthy emotional balance and positive mood in part because DHA is a main component of the synaptic membranes in the brain.  Researchers in another study found that people with a healthy emotional balance and positive mental outlook tended to have higher levels of DHA in their red blood cells.  A Danish team of researchers compared the diets of 5,386 healthy older individuals and found that the more fish in a person's diet, the longer the person was able to maintain a healthy mental status.  Here are sources of good and bad dietary fat.

Good fat sourcesanchovies, avocados, Brazil nuts, canola oil, cashews, flax seed oil, green leafy vegetables, herring, lean meats, olive oil, peanut oil, Pistachio nuts, salmon, sardines, soybean oil, trout, tuna, walnuts, whitefish.

Bad fat sources:  bacon, butter, cheese (regular fat) cream sauces, donuts, fried foods, such as potatoes/onion rings, ice cream, lamb chops, margarine, potato chips (fried), processed foods, steak and whole milk."

In the video below, Dr. Mark Hyman talks about getting healthy omega-3 fatty acids without adding mercury poisoning from eating fish.

Can Healthy Omega 3 Fatty Acids Give You Mercury Poisoning


 


Foods Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Dietary Sources of Essential Fats EPA, DHA, and ALA

Aug 28, 2009 Jennifer Murray

The three most nutritionally beneficial omega-3 fatty acids are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). Research suggests these omega-3 fatty acids are better absorbed by the body when obtained from food rather than omega-3 supplements. Although fatty fish is known as the best source of omega-3s, there are many other foods that contain these health boosting fatty acids. 

 

Food Sources of EPA and DHA

EPA and DHA omega-3s are mainly found in fish, especially cold-water, high-fat varieties such as:
  • Albacore tuna
  • Sardines
  • Salmon
  • Mackerel
  • Atlantic herring
  • Swordfish
  • Lake trout

 

Sources of Alpha-linolenic Acid 

Since the body cannot make ALA, this fatty acid must be consumed in the diet.  Approximately 35 percent of ALA found in food is converted to EPA and DHA.  Good sources of ALA include:

  • Flaxseeds and flaxseed oil
  • Soybeans and soybean oil
  • Walnuts
  • Brazil nuts
  • Soy nuts
  • Olive oil
  • Hemp seeds
  • Pumpkin seeds

Read more at Suite101: Foods Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Dietary Sources of Essential Fats EPA, DHA and ALA http://www.suite101.com/content/foods-rich-in-omega3-fatty-acids-a143527#ixzz15xxALUjT


I have been taking 6,000mg of fish oil since I returned from the Amen Clinic on March 14, 2010. This is the fish oil I take; it is recommended by Mark Hyman, M.D.

Metagenics, EPA-DHA Extra Strength Enteric Coated: Serving 2 capsules
2/breakfast  2/lunch  2/dinner
EPA 600 mg, DHA 400 mg sardine, anchovy, herring.


I am hoping the fish oil I have been taking will be part of the puzzle of healing the depression and ADHD symptoms I am experiencing.  After I lowered the dose of Effexor XR to 225mg, the depression symptoms increased.  I am now back on 300mg of Effexor XR, and have raised the dose of Luvox up to 50mg in the morning and 50mg in the afternoon.  

Previously, 300mg of Effexor XR was causing insomnia because of too much norepinephrine; and 50mg of Luvox was not giving me enough calming serotonin to create a balance.  I will see if 100mg of Luvox will give me enough serotonin to equalize the two neurotransmitters.  I am so ready for this to happen! =)



Saturday, October 9, 2010

Chapter 28: Heavy Metals Testing is Extremely Controversial!

This video makes me laugh!  Laughing makes me feel better.

Switzerland's finance minister collapsed into a fit of giggles as he tried to read the unintelligible bureaucratic language in his report while answering a parliamentary question about imports of cured meats. 



Update on my treatment plan from the Amen Clinic:

It has taken seven months to make the needed medication changes in my treatment plan from the Amen Clinic.  I have been on 300 mg of Effexor XR for two weeks and still taking 300 mg of Neurontin 4 times per day.  I have been off the beast clonazepam since May 7, 2010, and still taking supplements.  

I have been talking to my psychiatrist at the Amen Clinic about every 4-6 weeks by phone.  He has recommended I stay on 300 mg of Effexor XR for 8-12 weeks before we decide to increase the dosage.  He has found increasing the dose causes more side effects, without being more effective on the depression symptoms.  

I am having short periods of time I feel a little better.  I am hoping the depression symptoms will improve as this dose of Effexor XR gets into my body.  The thought that it might not help is frightening!


Mercury Toxicity

I thought I wanted to be tested to see if I have mercury poisoning.  The whole issue of metal poisoning and testing is extremely controversial.  There is a blood test panel for heavy metals; it is approximately $105.00.  Medical insurance will pay for this test if it has the code for Alzheimer's or dementia, but usually will not cover this test if it is being done for depression.  This test would probably be recommended by a medical doctor.

Dr. Mark Hyman (The UltraMind Solution) is a Functional Medicine M.D., and his experience has shown that the blood test will be positive if the heavy metal exposure has been recent.  If the exposure has been over a long period of time the metal will accumulate in tissues and bones.  Taking a chelating agent will pull the toxins out of tissue and bone, then a 24-hour urine sample is taken, and the amount of toxins your body excretes will be measured.  This test is usually done by Functional Medicine doctors or doctors trained in detoxification.  Removal of dental mercury or silver fillings should be performed by a biological dentist.  Go to www.iaomt.org to find a biological dentist.

The chelating agents or drugs used to test for and and treat heavy metal toxicity are DMPS and DMSA.  There is a lot of information online about these drugs being toxic themselves.  I have decided I would not feel comfortable using a chelating agent unless I could go to Lenox, Massachusetts and be treated by Dr. Hyman himself or one his colleague's.  I am going to Dr. Hyman's website (www.ultrawellness.com) and see if there is more information about heavy metals testing, or if I can ask a question about it.

The GSTM1 gene is a key gene necessary for the detoxification of mercury and many other 21st Century poisons.  About half of the population in the United States is missing this gene.  Mercury poisoning is more common in people with the apo E4 gene.  About 20% of the population has this gene.  I wonder if it would be better to test for these genes first?  (How much would it cost to have genetic testing?)

I will include some information about heavy metals testing, and some websites if you would like to read more about this subject.  Some people believe the available tests are either inaccurate or will make you sicker than you already are!


Research Article

Diagnostic chelation challenge with DMSA: a biomarker of long-term mercury exposure?

H Frumkin, C C Manning, P L Williams, A Sanders, B B Taylor, M Pierce, L Elon, and V S Hertzberg

Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA. medhf@sph.emory.edu

Abstract
Chelation challenge testing has been used to assess the body burden of various metals. The best-known example is EDTA challenge in lead-exposed individuals. This study assessed diagnostic chelation challenge with dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) as a measure of mercury body burden among mercury-exposed workers. Former employees at a chloralkali plant, for whom detailed exposure histories were available (n = 119), and unexposed controls (n = 101) completed 24-hr urine collections before and after the administration of two doses of DMSA, 10 mg/kg. The urinary response to DMSA was measured as both the absolute change and the relative change in mercury excretion. The average 24-hr mercury excretion was 4.3 microg/24 hr before chelation, and 7.8 microg/24 hr after chelation.

There was no association between past occupational mercury exposure and the urinary excretion of mercury either before or after DMSA administration. There was also no association between urinary mercury excretion and the number of dental amalgam surfaces, in contrast to recent published results. We believe the most likely reason that DMSA chelation challenge failed to reflect past mercury exposure was the elapsed time (several years) since the exposure had ended. These results provide normative values for urinary mercury excretion both before and after DMSA challenge, and suggest that DMSA chelation challenge is not useful as a biomarker of past mercury exposure.

The Full Text of this article is available as a PDF (77K).


ARTICLES: IAOMT Medicine  (A new test to determine mercury toxicity.)




Urinary Porphyrin Profile: A Quantitative and Qualitative Laboratory
Indicator of Mercury Toxicity   John Wilson, MD

http://www.iaomt.com/articles/category_view.asp?intReleaseID=277&month=6&year=2007&catid=35

Did "Doctor's Data" know of "false positives" from mercury tests? (Doctor's Data Incorporated is a lab that is the subject of litigation.)

 

Topic: Heavy Metal Toxicity and Detoxification  (Good information on heavy metal testing and treatment.)

http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?uid=175751934758&topic=12151

 

Heavy Metal Detoxification in the Treatment of ASD (ASD=Autism)

http://www.developmentalspectrums.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=142:heavy-metal-detoxification-in-the-treatment-of-asd&catid=71:detoxification&Itemid=238 

 

MERCURY DETOXIFICATION   The Truth About DMPS  (Reports from people who have become very ill after taking DMPS.)

http://www.dmpsbackfire.com/default.shtml

 

Added on Sunday, October 10, 2010

I looked on Dr. Mark Hyman's website for answers to some of my questions on mercury toxicity.  If you are interested go to, www.ultrawellness.com, click on blog, look on the left side at blog topics (after scrolling down for awhile), click on mercury toxicity.  There is so much information the blogs are divided into sections.

I am still considering mercury poisoning testing, but I would only feel comfortable doing it under the supervision of a well qualified Functional Medicine doctor.



Sunday, August 29, 2010

Chapter 23: Angry At The Disease

I am angry at the disease depression and I need to put the reasons why in writing.

I am tired of:

having withdrawal symptoms from every psychiatric medication I have stopped taking.

having side effects from every psychiatric medication I have started.

having to wait 4-8 weeks to see if a medication is going to be effective.

needing medications that are expensive.

having a psychiatrist who tried 15 different drug combinations in a year and a half with few results; and then didn't support me after I went to the Amen Clinic for help.

"traditional psychiatrists" using an educated guess in determining which medication would be effective for me.  They decided after hearing my list of symptoms.  Other medical fields look at the organ they are treating.

letting things I need to do just sit. 

having everything I do take so much effort.

having to put my life on hold because I don't feel like doing anything. 

having thoughts that come from a brain not functioning correctly, not from anything real.

having things that were important to me lose their value. 

not having any energy. 

not finding pleasure doing things I used to enjoy.

not feeling well enough to attend activities.

my body not creating enough neurotransmitters on its own.

people I love having to deal with this disease.

having a genetic predisposition for depression.

not having advanced medical care in the treatment of depression where I live.  I needed to go to another state.

families and friends losing someone they love because of suicide.

depression causing extreme misery.

available technology not being used with every patient it could help.  SPECT Brain Scans and the research that goes with them gives a psychiatrist more information to diagnose and treat psychiatric disorders.  The Amen Clinics have been using this technology for about 10 years.


Information from, The UltraMind Solution, by Mark Hyman, M.D.
Taken from pages 11 and 12; book published in 2009
  • Psychiatric disorders affect 26 percent of our adult population or more than 60 million Americans.
  • More than 20 percent of children have some type of psychiatric disorder.
  • More than 40 million people have anxiety.
  • More than 20 million people have depression.
  • One in ten Americans takes an antidepressant.
  • The use of antidepressants has tripled in the last decade.
  • In 2006, expenditures on antidepressants soared to over $1.9 billion.
  • Psychiatric disorders like depression and anxiety are expensive.  They are among the top five most costly medical conditions, including heart disease, cancer, trauma, and lung disorders.  The cost to our health-care system exceeds $200 billion a year, which is over 12 percent of total health-care spending.
  • Alzheimer's disease will affect 30 percent (and some experts say 50 percent) of people over eighty-five years old, which is the fastest-growing segment of the population.  It will affect 16 million people by 2050.
  • Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a label we now give 8.7 percent of children between the ages of eight and fifteen.
  • More than 8 million, or one in ten, children now take stimulant medications like methylphenidate (Ritalin).
  • Autism rates have increased from 3 in 10,000 children to 1 in 166 children--an elevenfold  increase--over the last decade.
  • Learning disabilities affect between 5 and 10 percent of school-age children.
  • The indirect costs of all these broken brains to society are mammoth.  They include loss of productivity at school, home, or in the workplace, accounting for a loss of over $80 billion a year. 

Thanks for reading.  My heart goes out to everyone who is angry and tired of depression!