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. 

Chapter 44: I WANT TO GO TO THE ULTRAWELLNESS CLINIC!

Institute for Functional Medicine

I read the book, The UltraMind Solution, by Mark Hyman, M.D., and started making changes in my life to help heal depression symptoms.  I wanted to do everything I could to assist the effectiveness of the medication I was taking.  There is more detail about Dr. Hyman and The UltraMind Solution, in my blog Chapter 21: Healing A "Broken Brain".

The UltraMind Solution is a Six-Week Basic Brain-Boosting Program for Everyone:  A Simple Approach to Optimal Brain Function and Health.  There are some additional steps, called the Self Care Plan, to optimize key systems in the body.  Dr. Hyman says that eighty percent of people will thrive by following the six-week UltraMind Solution and adding the additional Self Care Plan.  The other 20 percent may need further care.  "If you don't experience the level of optimization you expect following The UltraMind Solution and the Self Care Plan in Part IV of the book, then you may need some laboratory tests and medical treatment.  I outlined the primary tests I recommend and some of the treatments you might pursue with your doctor in the book.  To do the tests recommended here and get the care you need, you will most likely have to find an experienced practitioner of Functional Medicine or Integrative Medicine.  Most conventional doctors simply will not give you these tests."

If you buy the book, The UltraMind Solution, you will also receive the Ultra Mind Solution Guide to download on your computer (free).  I believe what I have learned from Dr. Hyman has helped me feel better, along with my medications.  There is too much valuable information in the book to include in my blog.  The information below is for the 20% of us who have done the six-week UltraMind Solution Program and still do not feel completely well.  Receiving medical care from an experienced practitioner in Functional Medicine is the next step for me, and I have not been able to find one in my home area.  I am saving my money to go to the UltraWellness Clinic in Lennox, MA.

The information below in black and teal print are taken from the book, The UltraMind Solution, by Mark Hyman, M.D.  The writing in dark red is what I have done personally in each of the 7 Keys of the UltraMind Solution.

KEY #1:  OPTIMIZE NUTRITION
The Key to Mental Health and Brain Health

"We are made of the stuff we eat.  Our biology, biochemistry, and physiology need certain raw materials to run optimally--the right balance and quality of protein, fats, carbohydrates, the right vitamins and minerals in the correct dose for each of us and all the colorful pigments in plant foods, called phytonutrients, that support our well-being and function.  Nearly all of us are nutritionally imbalanced in one way or another."  
page 35

Medical Care Plan

Methylation Testing (B6, B12, and Folate Insufficiencies)

Vitamin D Testing

Magnesium, Zinc, and Selenium Testing

Essential Fatty Acid Testing

Urinary Amino Acids and Plasma Amino Acids

Red Blood Cell Minerals

Urinary Organic Acid Testing

Testing for amino acids and neurotransmitters can help identify your particular imbalances more accurately.  Further customization of amino-acid therapy is possible based on testing and your 
symptoms.

Testing for omega-3 fats, vitamin D, magnesium, zinc, and selenium can be helpful in identifying the need for additional supplementation.  Testing for methylation problems with homocysteine and methylmalonic acid is often very helpful in optimizing doses of folate, B 12, and B 6.

a.  I no longer buy products that have high-fructose corn syrup or trans fats in them.  I threw away all the products in my kitchen containing these two things.

b.  I eat foods with white sugar only occasionally.  I was addicted to sugar, so this was a hard one for me.  Larabars helped me accomplish this goal.  They satisfy a sugar craving, but only a few of the bars actually have sugar in them.  They contain dates, fruit, nuts, raisins, and spices, and they are delicious!  Thank you Larabars. =)

c.  I had the IgG Comprehensive Food Sensitivity Assay blood test done, also known as the ELISA test. After receiving the results I eliminated or cut back on all of the foods I am sensitive to. I believe this has helped reduce the inflammation in my body, helped heal my brain, and contributed to me feeling better.  

Chapter 7 of my blog will give you detailed information about my ELISA results.  

Chapter 7: Keys to UltraWellness, Food Sensitivity

I eliminated the following from my diet:  white flour, wheat, all dairy, eggs, yeast, bread, and most oils other than olive oil.

d.  I drink water and occasionally have fruit juice with no sugar or high fructose corn sugar added.  I don't like beverages with caffeine or alcohol, so I wasn't drinking those anyway. 

e.  I started taking the supplements Dr. Hyman recommends in The UltraMind Solution Essentials Kit: 

Multivitamin/mineral, ProThera, MultiThera 1 Capsule Formula: Serving 6 capsules
2/breakfast  2/lunch  2/dinner 

Calcium/magnesium, ProThera, OsteoThera Capsule Formula: Serving 2 capsules
2/breakfast  2/dinner  

Vitamin D3, Pure Encapsulations, Vitamin D3 1000 IU: Serving 1 capsule   2/breakfast

Methylation, Designs for Health, Homocysteine Supreme: Serving 2 capsules
1/breakfast  1/dinner 

Omega-3 fats, Metagenics, EPA-DHA Extra Strength Enteric Coated: Serving 2 capsules
2/breakfast  2/lunch  2/dinner

Probiotics, Metagenics, UltraFlora Plus DF Capsules: Serving 2 capsules
1/breakfast  1/dinner

If you would like to know the ingredients of the supplements, go to: 
Chapter 12: I Hate Clonazepam, Supplements

f.  I have been taking 6,000 mg of fish oil a day since I returned from the Amen Clinic in March of 2010.  For more information go to Chapter 32: 6,000 mg Of Fish Oil A Day.  

g.  I raised my vitamin D level from 20 to 45, and then up to 72.  I have needed to take a 50,000 IU tablet of vitamin D every two weeks.  This is a prescription vitamin D I have taken in addition to the 3,200 mg daily included in the The UltraMind Solution Essentials Kit.  For more information go to Chapter 29: Do you know what your Vitamin D level is?

KEY #2:  BALANCE YOUR HORMONES

"Our hormones, including insulin, thyroid, sex hormones, stress hormones, and many more, are a symphony of molecules.  They have to work in harmony for you to be healthy."  page 35

Medical Care Plan

Testing for Insulin Resistance

Basic Testing for Thyroid Dysfunction

Additional Thyroid Testing If the Basic Testing Does Not Provide Clear Answers

Testing for Sex Hormone Imbalances 

A two-hour glucose-tolerance test measuring both insulin and glucose may be needed.  A cholesterol profile measuring the size of cholesterol particles, which are smaller in insulin resistance and more prone to clog your arteries.  C-reactive protein, which measures inflammation that is associated with insulin resistance.  Liver function tests with GGT that identify the fatty liver associated with insulin resistance.  

Testing for thyroid problems should include all the thyroid hormones (TSH, free T3, and free T4) and thyroid antibodies (TPO and antithyroglobulin antibodies).  Most doctors just check TSH, which is inadequate to identify mild problems.  

Testing of blood, urine, or saliva can often be helpful in identifying hormonal imbalances such as too much or too little of various hormones.  This can guide a doctor's therapy.  Bioidentical Hormone Replacement:  Hormones interact directly with the brain and affect mood and cognition.  Occasionally, despite lifestyle therapies, diet, exercise, stress reduction, nutrient supplementation, and herbs, hormone therapy can be lifesaving, as well as mood- and brain-saving.  Only a physician knowledgeable and experienced with bioidentical hormone therapy should prescribe them.  The only hormones that should be used are ones that are identical to those made by your body.  They have very specific actions when they bind to their hormone receptors on your cells.  Synthetic or animal hormones typically have unwanted side effects and dangers.

a.  My thyroid was checked for TSH and free T3, which came back in the normal level.  I have never been tested for free T4 or the thyroid antibodies.

b.  In 2008 my hormones were tested by the saliva method.  I have used the cream and the troche during this time, and have had my prescription changed several times to get my hormones balanced.  Two months ago I was tested and my estrogen and progesterone had a healthy ratio, so my prescription stayed the same.

KEY #3:  COOL OFF INFLAMMATION

"We must protect and defend ourselves from foreign invaders or abnormal cells inside our own body.  When this is over - or under active, illness occurs.  Inflammation of the brain is a central theme for almost all psychiatric and neurologic conditions, as well as most chronic disease.  If you have a broken brain it is almost certainly inflamed."  
page 35

Medical Care Plan

High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP)

Gluten Allergy/Celiac Disease Testing

IgG Food Sensitivity (Special Antibody Tests Against Food)

ELISA/RAST IgE (Testing for Mold and Environmental Allergies)

Hidden Infections

Testing for inflammation may include C-reactive protein (a generalized marker for inflammation), autoimmune markers (ESR, anti-CCP, TPO, ANA), or food allergies (IgG or IgE), and celiac or gluten testing.  Testing for hidden infections, including viruses, bacteria, parasites, and yeast, may also be helpful.

Specific treatments for infections or more aggressive treatments for autoimmunity and allergies may be needed.

a.  The ELISA IgG Comprehensive Food Sensitivity Assay blood test showed a +1 (low) sensitivity to wheat, but I am not gluten intolerant.
Chapter 7: Keys to UltraWellness, Food Sensitivity 

KEY #4:  FIX YOUR DIGESTION

"Digesting, absorbing, and assimilating all the food and nutrients we eat is critical for health.  Our digestive systems must also protect us from internal toxins, bugs, and potential allergens, as well as eliminate wastes.  Breakdown anywhere in this process creates illness."  page 36

Medical Care Plan

General Gut Health, Bacterial Balance, and Parasite Testing

Conventional Tests for Causes of Acid Reflux

Remove any offending factors, including potential food allergens; overgrowth of bacteria, yeast, parasites; and toxins such as heavy metals.  Replace missing or weakened enzymes, acid, and fiber or prebiotics to help fertilize the healthy bacteria.  Reinnoculate with probiotics or beneficial bacteria.  Repair the intestinal lining with healing nutrients.

Special Note - Treating Bugs:  Bugs that affect the gut come in three main varieties.  1. Bacteria  2. Yeast  3. Parasites  Each type of bug needs different treatment.  Testing can identity which bug or bugs are a problem for you.  Herbal therapies can often be helpful, but most of the time a short course of curative medication is necessary and dramatically effective. 

a.  I have removed food allergens.

b.  My blood test for heavy metals came back with "no traces" in my blood.  Dr. Hyman believes this test will be positive only if exposure has been recent.  He recommends taking a chelating drug that pulls heavy metals from bone and tissue.  Then urine samples are taken to measure the amount of heavy metals your body is excreting.   
Chapter 26: Is Mercury Toxicity Causing Depression?
Chapter 27: Has the Mercury I Have Been Exposed to Caused Toxicity? 
Chapter 28: Heavy Metals Testing is Extremely Controversial! 

KEY #5:  ENHANCE DETOXIFICATION

"Our bodies must eliminate all of our metabolic wastes and toxins, which we take in from the environment through our food, air, water, and medications.  The toxic burden in the twenty-first century is overwhelming and often our bodies can't keep up.  This leads to illness."  page 36

Medical Care Plan

Genetic Testing for Detoxification Capacity or Weakness

How Is Your Detox System Functioning?  The Detoxification Challenge Test

Measurement of Detoxification Enzymes and Molecules

Heavy-Metal Testing

Toxin Exposure

Chemical Testing

In a medically supervised detoxification program, many other nutrients, herbs, and phytonutrients may be used, including alpha lipoic acid, bioactive whey protein, amino acids such as taurine, glycine, glutamine, calcium-D-glucarate, and methionine.  Specialized tests, which assess your body's detoxification system, including genetic testing for detoxification enzymes, and tests for heavy metals, including tests of blood, urine, and hair, may be necessary.  Detoxifying from heavy metals is an important step on the road to health for many and needs to be done with an experienced and qualified health-care practitioner.

Special Note - Detoxifying From Heavy Metals:  Aside from addressing hidden food allergens and helping people balance their blood sugar and consume a whole-foods diet, one of the most powerful ways to correct many chronic health problems is a medically supervised heavy-metal detoxification program.  Proper testing, preparation, and care are needed in order for safe and effective heavy-metal detoxification.  I want to reinforce that this must be done with a qualified health-care practitioner.

a.  I am curious if I have mercury toxicity. 

KEY #6:  BOOST ENERGY METABOLISM

"Life is energy.  Once no more energy is produced in your cells, you die.  The process of extracting energy from the food you eat and the oxygen you breathe is the most essential process of life.  Keeping that metabolic engine running smoothly and protecting it from harm are essential for health.  Loss of energy is found in almost all brain disorders."  page 36

Medical Care Plan

Damaged DNA By-products

Lipid Peroxide Assays in Urine or Serum or TBARS

Advanced Specialty Testing for Oxidative Stress

Specialty Testing for Mitochondrial Function

There are a number of tests, including those of organic acids and cardiometabolic stress testing as well as tests for oxidative stress (8 OHDG, or lipid peroxides), that help your doctor personalize treatment and monitor your progress.  Additional supplements, including creatine, NAC, sulfate, and reduced glutathione, may also be recommended.  

Resveratrol derivatives or extracts are powerful mitochondrial energy boosters and are in drug development now (Sirtris was just purchased by GlaxoSmithKline).  Your doctor may prescribe additional energy-boosting treatments and exercises such as interval training. 

a.  Part of my treatment plan from the Amen Clinic is aerobic exercise every day.  I have not reached that goal yet, but I do have more energy when I exercise on a regular basis.
Chapter 33: Endorphins - Natural Morphine 

KEY #7:  CALM YOUR MIND

"A life of meaning and purpose, a life in balance with connection, community, love, support, and a sense of empowerment, are essential for health.  The overwhelming stresses of the twenty-first century, including social isolation, overwork, and disempowerment, create enormous strain on our nervous system, leading to burnout and breakdown."  page 36

Medical Care Plan

An Adrenal Stress Index

DHEA:  Cortisol Ratio

IGF-1

AA-to-EPA Ratio

Heart Rate Variability

Your doctor may recommend testing for stress hormones or heart rate variability.  Occasionally hormonal treatment with DHEA or low-dose cortisone can be helpful if you have adrenal burnout. 

a.  When my hormones were first tested (2008) my adrenal glands were functioning at a very low level.  Low DHEA and cortisone.  They are functioning in the low end of normal now.

b.  Changing my thinking to living in the moment, instead of focusing on the past, or trying to solve a future that isn't here yet, has been a powerful way for me to calm my mind.
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 19: Effexor XR, Enlightened Relationships 
Chapter 39: The Constant Chatter In My Mind Is Not Me 
Chapter 40: EGO 
Chapter 41: PAIN-BODY

"The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, join the dance."

- Alan Watts -

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.

Chapter 8: Amen Clinic, Newport Beach, CA 

Chapter 9: Three Days At The Amen Clinic

Chapter 10: Detailed Treatment Plan 

Chapter 11: My Brain Scans; Outside Surface View 

Chapter 13: My Brain Scans; Inside Active View 

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 repair:  Incisional 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.

Chapter 37: Treat INFLAMMATION Ease DEPRESSION?

"By 2020, depressive disorders are projected to be the 2nd leading cause of worldwide disability. The burden of Mood Disorders is rising both for the individual, the family, and for the society. Currently, most people who are treated for depression are partially responsive or non-responsive. New tools are needed. One of these tools involves a focus on the inflammation, immune dysfunction, and infections that are often associated with depression."  

Above quote by:

Robert J. Hedaya, M.D., D.F.A.P.A., a Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at the Georgetown University Hospital and Founder of the National Center for Whole Psychiatry; from an article he wrote for, Psychology Today, published on March 31, 2009, called Depression, Inflammation, Immunity and Infection.

I agree that many people treated for depression are only partially responsive or non-responsive, and new treatment tools are needed! I believe the research in inflammation, immunity, and infection could lead to new types of therapy for depression.  What do you think?

The following disorders are caused by immunity-inflammation:  Heart disease, diabetes, Crohn's disease, autoimmune diseases, cancers, HIV, and Multiple Sclerosis.  Depression is a second condition that goes along with these diseases.

I believe the information in the article written by Dr. Robert J. Hedaya is so important I have included all of it in my blog.

"The brain and the immune system talk to each other, and the communication is bi-directional. This means that inflammation (such as that which occurs due to infection) affects the brain. It also means that changes in brain immunity and inflammation affect the body. A meta-analysis of several studies on this issue found that several cytokines (hormones of the immune system) and markers of inflammation (C-reactive protein, interleukin 1 and 6) were positively correlated with depression. This means the more depression there is, the more inflammation there is. Cytokines seem to trigger a quick onset of what is called ‘sickness behavior'-meaning malaise and fatigue, as well as a delayed onset of depressed mood. One study found the same very close correlation between certain cytokines, mood, anxiety and memory. 

Reducing inflammation may help alleviate depression: In a randomized placebo controlled trial of a COX-2 inhibitor -celebrex-(celecoxib-blocks pro-inflammatory eicosanoids) with reboxetine (a noradrenergic-reuptake inhibitor antidepressant) augmentation with celecoxib was superior to placebo.

A second randomized double blind placebo controlled study showed that etanercept (a TNF-tumor necrosis factor-blocker) reduced depressive symptoms in people with psoriasis, independent of improvement in the psoriasis. This is consistent with elevated levels of plasma TNF elevations found in depressed patients.

Of further relevance is the fact that the core stress response system in the brain activates and regulates the adrenalin-immune connection in the body (this includes the bone marrow and the thymus gland), as well as secondary immune organs (spleen and lymph nodes). Thus, through this pathway (and there are others), stress affects immune function. On the other hand, not only do the brain stress circuits affect the immune system, but the hormones of the immune system-the cytokines referred to above-are known to make the stress circuits of the brain more sensitive.

Another interesting linkage path between the immune system and the brain is the vagus nerve. This nerve system, when activated, opposes the adrenalin system. When it is activated it stimulates the motivational centers in the brain directly, and through the brain's own immune cells (called microglia) increases nor-adrenalin and serotonin.

Chemicals of inflammation, the cytokines I referred to above, can be released by the brain microglia, causing a shift in the balance between helping neurons to grow, and putting them to death. When shifted in the wrong direction, these microglia actually stop the brain from making serotonin, and in that case, any medication that works on serotonin-such as Prozac, Zoloft etc-can not work. (This is part of the reason for ‘Prozac poop out', and this is why I regularly tell my patients that if an anti-depressant has worked for you for 6 months, and then stops working, something else is going on.) The brain production of serotonin does not return to normal for months after an infection.

How can you know if inflammation, infection, or immune dysfunction are playing a role in your depression? Ask yourself these questions: Yes answers imply immune/inflammatory/infectious processes. The more ‘yes' answers the higher the likelihood.

Do I have a physical sense of ‘brain fog'?

Do I have a recent reduction in ‘room-to-room' memory (short term memory)?
Do I have trouble finding words?
Do I sometimes feel confused?
Do I have learning disabilities, or neurodegenerative disorders (e.g.,Alzheimer's is an inflammatory disorder)
Do I feel that if I had plenty of energy my depression would be gone?
Do I have a lot of muscle or joint aches?
Do I feel swollen, puffy?
Do I have a lot of pain?
Do I have gastrointestinal problems?

What to do? Get your doctor to work you up for inflammatory processes, and then try to get to the underlying causes. You will notice an improvement in your depression, if you are on medication it will work better, and many of your symptoms will clear gradually. Remember inflammation is like a smoldering fire. When you treat it, it can take several months for the fire to go out. But the juice is worth the squeeze-you will not only have less depression, but your risk for a host of other diseases will go down."

To Life,

Robert Hedaya, DFAPA
WholePsychiatry.com

Mark Hyman, M.D. also has strong feelings about inflammation causing depression symptoms.  I talked about Dr. Hyman and his book, The Simple Way to Defeat Depression, Overcome Anxiety, and Sharpen Your Mind-The UltraMind Solution-Fix Your Broken Brain By Healing Your Body First, in Chapter 7 and Chapter 22 if you are interested in looking at them.

I want to have the C-reactive protein (CRP) (and the interleukin 1 and 6 if my doctor recommends) blood tests done.  C-reactive protein measures general levels of inflammation in the body.  A CRP test will not show exactly where the inflammation is located or what is causing it. Other tests are needed to find the location and cause.

 

I recently had my blood drawn to check my vitamin D level, and to see if I have had recent mercury exposure from silver lined dental implants. So I will probably wait for a little while before I have the CRP test done. I finally got my vitamin D level up to 72. Find out more about vitamin D and depression in Chapter 10 and Chapter 29.  Find out more about mercury toxicity and depression, and the controversy about testing in Chapter 27 and Chapter 28.

 

To get my vitamin D level up from 45 to 72, I have been taking a 50,000 iu tablet (prescription) every two weeks, and 3,400 mg in daily supplements. I will continue this regimen to keep the level up. I don't absorb vitamin D very well, but I need to be in the sun more often. =)

 

I am going to ask my psychiatrist about having the CRP and interleukin 1 and 6 blood tests done.  If my results are high (normal CRP levels vary from lab to lab, but generally there is no CRP detectable in the blood) I am going to ask him if I could try an anti-inflammatory drug to see if it helps my depression symptoms. Dr. Hedaya (quoted above) said if I am on medication it could help it work even better!

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 sources:  anchovies, 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! =)

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

This is funny!  Best_DUI_Ever

Do you know what your Vitamin D, 25-Hydroxy level is?

In November of 2007 I had some blood work done and found out my Vitamin D, 25-Hydroxy level was 20, LOW. The huge normal range is 30-150, and a toxic level for most people is above 150. At the time I was surprised because my diet was pretty healthy. After doing some reading about the subject, I am not surprised because I wasn't spending 15-20 minutes in the sun everyday without sunscreen. (Or with sunscreen either!)

I started taking 2,000 IU of Vitamin D a day and had good intentions of getting more sun. Then, December of 2007 came around and I made the fateful decision to come off my antidepressant, Zoloft, and try an amino acid therapy for depression. Well, the rest is history (a miserable one) and has already been documented in previous blog posts. For the next year my Vitamin D level was not a high priority for me. I felt there was a long list of things I "should" do, and didn't feel well enough to do very many of them.

In March of 2009 I had blood work done again and my Vitamin D level was 26. Yeah, I know it didn't come up much. The amount of Vitamin D I was taking and feeling depressed and sick in the house wasn't very effective. My doctor started me on a 50,000 IU capsule of a prescription Vitamin D, the generic for Drisdol, that I took once per month. In February of 2010 I started taking the supplements Dr. Hyman recommends (See Chapter 12:  I Hate Clonazepam, Supplements) so I was taking 3,200 IU of Vitamin D each day, and 50,000 IU once per month.

In April of 2010 my blood work showed a Vitamin D level of 45. In the gigantic normal range! Maybe I don't absorb it very well. =) My psychiatrist at the Amen Clinic recommended I get my level up to at least 70, because it has a good chance of improving my mood. My doctor here at home is helping me and I am now taking a 50,000 IU capsule every two weeks and 3200 IU every day. I will be tested again in January of 2011; if I am not up to 70 I will begin taking the 50,000 IU capsule every week. I know it would help if I spent some time in the sun, but you know I don't have a good track record for this. I am going to try!

I am hoping a higher Vitamin D level will be one more thing contributing to overcoming the depression symptoms. One more piece of the healing depression puzzle. For me this puzzle has been difficult. I will keep you posted.

I am in the process of reading the book, The Vitamin D Solution, A 3-Step Strategy to Cure Our Most Common Health Problem, by Michael F. Holick, Ph.D., M.D., Foreword by Andrew Weil, M.D. Dr. Holick says having enough Vitamin D can prevent and treat Osteoporosis, Heart Disease, Cancer, Autoimmune Diseases, Depression, Insomnia, Arthritis, Diabetes, Chronic Pain, Psoriasis, Fibromyalgia, and Autism. . .as well as other diseases, chronic conditions, and mild ailments. Wow, it is important. Is the sun out today?

Review of the book, The Vitamin D Solution, A 3-Step Strategy to Cure Our Most Common Health Problem.
http://livinlavidalowcarb.com/blog/review-the-vitamin-d-solution-by-dr-michael-holick/9144%20

Michael F. Holick, Ph.D., M.D., is called the "Pioneer In Vitamin D Research."  This is a video of a speech he gave at a Diagnosis and Treatment of Vitamin D Seminar. This seminar was called, "D-Lightful Vitamin D; Bone and Muscle Health and Prevention of Autoimmune and Chronic Diseases."  It is long, 58 minutes and 52 seconds, but entertaining.

This Vitamin D Quiz is in, The UltraMind Solution, by Mark Hyman, M.D.  It may help you determine if you have a vitamin D deficiency.

VITAMIN D QUIZ

I have seasonal affective disorder.

I experience a loss of mental sharpness or memory.

I have sore or weak muscles.

I have tender bones (press on your shin bone--if it hurts you are vitamin D deficient).

I work indoors.

I avoid the sun.

I wear sunblock most of the time.

I live north of Florida.

I don't eat small fatty fish such as mackerel, herring, or sardines (the main sources of dietary vitamin D).

I have osteoporosis.

I have broken more than two bones or had a hip fracture.

I have autoimmune disease (i.e., multiple sclerosis).

I have osteoarthritis (vitamin D deficiency weakens bones and leads to deterioration).

I have frequent infections.

I have prostate cancer.

I have dark skin (any race other than Caucasian).

I am sixty years old or older.

SCORE:  0-8 Yes Answers---You may have a slightly low level of vitamin D.

                 9 And Above Yes Answers---You may have a severely low level of vitamin D.

I recommend these videos.  They share good information about vitamin D.

Dr. Oz on Good Morning America -- Vitamin D, Swine Flu, Cancer, and the Sun. 

 

 

The Real Story on Vitamin D 

Dr. John Cannell, Vitamin D Council, and Bill Sardi, Knowledge of Health, Inc. 

 

This is an article written by Dr. John Cannell on the history of depression and vitamin D research.  It is called, "Vitamin D and Depression."  Dr. Cannell

http://www.vitamindcouncil.org/depression.shtml

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.)

http://www.examiner.com/special-education-in-mesa/did-doctor-s-data-know-of-false-positives-from-mercury-tests

 

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.