Minerals Archives

drshawn

19/Jan/2023

Have you ever heard of Shilajit? If not, don’t worry you’re not alone. For centuries, this rock-like substance has been used for its purported health benefits in the Indian subcontinent and surrounding regions. But what exactly is this mysterious stuff? In this blog post, we’ll answer that question and discuss some of the potential health benefits of Shilajit.

What is Shilajit?

Shilajit is a tar-like substance found in the mountains of the Himalayas and other mountainous regions. It is made up of organic plant matter that has been compressed over many years by layers of rock and ice. This dark brown or blackish material can be scraped off rocks in its raw form or purchased as a powder, liquid extract, or capsule supplement.

Shilajit has long been used in Ayurvedic medicine for its purported health benefits, including increased energy levels and enhanced physical performance. The active ingredients are believed to include minerals like iron, zinc, magnesium, and copper; humic substances like fulvic acid; antioxidants; amino acids; vitamins; enzymes; and other phytonutrients.

Potential Health Benefits of Shilajit

Shilajit has traditionally been used to treat a wide range of ailments including diabetes, fatigue, weak bones, low libido, digestive issues, high cholesterol levels, and even depression. While more research needs to be done to confirm these potential health benefits, preliminary findings have suggested that it may indeed be beneficial for certain conditions such as type 2 diabetes and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). In addition to providing energy-boosting effects due to its high mineral content, shilajit may also help reduce inflammation and increase immunity due to its antioxidant content. Let’s take a closer look at some of the clinical research.

Recent clinical studies have shown that shilajit may be useful in treating a variety of health conditions. For instance, in a study published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine in 2018, researchers found that daily ingestion of shilajit for 12 weeks reduced levels of fasting blood sugar, hemoglobin A1C, and urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Similarly, another investigation reported in the International Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism revealed that supplementing with shilajit for 8 weeks improved insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control among CFS patients.

Furthermore, research published in the journal Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications suggests that shilajit has anti-inflammatory properties due to its antioxidant content. Specifically, one study found that it reduced oxidative stress markers such as malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). These findings are consistent with other reports indicating that shilajit may help reduce inflammation by scavenging harmful free radicals from the body.

The mineral content of shilajit may also contribute to its beneficial effects on health. For example, a study published in Evidence Based Complementary & Alternative Medicine showed that supplementation with this substance increased total cholesterol levels while decreasing triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) concentrations among healthy adults. Other investigations have revealed that it may promote better bone health by increasing calcium absorption from food or supplements. Finally, some experts claim that regular consumption of this substance can help boost energy levels by improving mitochondrial function and cellular respiration processes.

Potential Risks

Shilajit can be a great supplement due to its potential benefits, however, there are certain risks and cautions that should be taken into consideration.

For starters, it is important to note that shilajit is not regulated by the FDA and could contain heavy metals such as lead and arsenic if not properly sourced. This is especially true for shilajit products coming from outside of the United States. It is also important to consult with a doctor before using shilajit, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Additionally, people with existing medical conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure should use caution when taking shilajit due to possible interactions with medications they may already be taking.

As with any supplement or herb, it is important to take the recommended dosage in order to avoid any side effects such as nausea, headaches, heartburn and stomach upset. Lastly, because of its detoxifying properties and effect on metabolism, people who are sensitive to change in their diet might want to start slow when first taking shilajit in order to give their bodies time to adjust. Taking all of these factors into account can help ensure the safe use of shilajit and maximize its potential health benefits.

Conclusion

In short, Shilajit is an enigmatic rock-like substance found in mountain regions around the world with a long history of being used in traditional medicine for its purported health benefits. While more research needs to be done before any definitive conclusions can be drawn about its effectiveness as a treatment option for various ailments—including diabetes and CFS—preliminary findings suggest that shilajit may indeed provide useful energy-boosting effects due to its high mineral content as well as anti-inflammatory properties due to its antioxidant content. Ultimately though it’s always important to consult your doctor before taking any new supplements! With that being said—we hope you learned something new about shilajit today!

DoctorShawn

21/Nov/2015

In this months edition we shift gears slightly to focus on a “super-food” most commonly found in the form of a dietary supplement; Spirulina.

Spirulina is a cyanobacteria; meaning that it’s a bacterium which derives its energy through photosynthesis. Cyanobacteria are also commonly known as blue-green algae. Spirulina is commonly made from two strains of cyanobacteria: Arthrospira platensis and Arthrospira maxima. Although now cultivated around the world, spirulina is found naturally growing in only three lakes: Lake Chenghai (China), Lake Chad (Africa) and Lake Texcoco (Mexico).

Spirulina is available at most health food stores in the form of powder, flake or tablet. Much like Quinoa, Spirulina is a complete protein source, containing all essential amino acids. It is also a source of essential fatty acids and is one of the only vegan friendly reservoirs of the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA. Spirullina’s blue-green pigment is an indicator that it is rich in vitamins and other beneficial anti-oxidants. These antioxidants include, but are not limited to: beta-carotene, zeaxanthin, and chlorophyll. The unique blend of antioxidants found in spirulina make it a fascinating health promoting supplement, which has demonstrated benefit in the treatment of HIV, brain health, heavy metal chelation, cardiovascular disease and allergies.

The Journal of Nutritional Science and Vitaminolgy published a paper that investigated the effect of supplementing rats prone to the development of cognitive disease , similar to Alzheimer’s disease, with spirulina. Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by the deposition of amyloid beta-protein, which is thought to “gum up” the functioning of neurons in the brain. The rats studied were bred to be prone to the deposition of amyloid beta-protein. One group of rats received daily supplementation of 50mg/kg spirulina, another group received 200mg/kg spirulina and the third group did not receive spirulina. Analysis of the rat brains (poor rats) demonstrated a reduction in amyloid beta-protein in both spirulina treated groups. There were also lower levels of oxidative damage in the brains of spirulina treated rats. Therefore spirulina may be a beneficial supplement for the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease in genetically prone individuals.

Back in 1998 a paper was published that investigated the effect of spirulina extract on the growth of HIV in human white blood cells. It was found that extract concentrations ranging between 0.3-1.2 micrograms/ml reduced the growth of HIV by 50%. The authors concluded that spirulina may be a potential agent used for the treatment of retroviruses like HIV.

Aside from a runny nose, itchy eyes and sneezing, seasonal allergies are characterized by a relative increase in white blood cells known as TH2 cells. One of the ways TH2 cells increase and cause allergy is by a messenger molecule in the blood called interleukin 4 (IL4). In 2005 the Journal of medicinal food published a study that looked at the blood of individuals with allergic rhinitis before and after supplementing with spirulina. The study was a placebo controlled randomized crossover trial where individuals either received 1g, 2g spirulina or placebo daily for 12 weeks. The blood samples at 12 weeks found that 2g spirulina per day reduced IL4 levels by 32%.

Environmental medicine is an exciting emerging field of medicine that looks at how toxins in our environment effect our health, and more importantly how to protect ourselves from the harmful effects of environmental toxins. There are few natural substances that have demonstrated an ability to promote the excretion of some of these harmful toxins, spirulina is one of them. A study published in 2006 looked at the effect of a spirulina and zinc supplement on individuals in Bangladesh chronically exposed to the toxic metal arsenic. These individuals were given 250mg spirulina extract and 2mg zinc twice daily for 16 weeks. There was a increase in urinary excretion of arsenic (detoxification) at 4 weeks which continued for an additional 2 weeks in individuals taking the spirulina zinc combo. At 16 weeks the spirulina plus zinc combo removed 47.1% arsenic from scalp hair (one of the ways to test for arsenic exposure is through hair analysis), whereas results from placebo were not statistically significant. Other studies have shown that spirulina may also chelate (remove) iron, which can be useful for individuals with toxic amounts of iron in the body but may be counter productive for individuals taking an iron supplement.

It seems that a large part of the health benefits seen through the use of spirulina are due to its unique blend of antioxidants. A laboratory study discovered that cells exposed to harmful chemicals had 4-5 times less apoptosis (cell death) when treated with an aqueous extract of spirulina. Another study demonstrated that a diet supplemented with 0.1% spirulina protects against inflammation and oxidative damage in brain neuronal cells. This same studied showed that spirulina increased the proliferation of neural stem cells which have the ability to replace damaged cells. Spirulina is therefore a promising natural supplement for the field of neural and cognitive health.

A study published in the november 2007 edition of the journal: Lipids in Health and Disease, investigated the effect of spirulina supplementation on cholesterol and blood pressure. Thirty six men and women had blood cholesterol levels and blood pressure measured before the study. They were supplied with 4.5g/day spirulina for 6 weeks. There were no other changes to diet and exercise. After 6 weeks total cholesterol levels decreased by approximately 20 mg/dl, tracylglycerides decreased by approximately 60 mg/dl and HDL (good cholesterol) increased by approximately 10 mg/dl. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure also decreased in participants by approximately 10 mmHg. With all the health promoting benefits of spirulina, it is important to consider a few things before taking this medication. As with every supplement, allergy can occur so be careful to monitor and possible allergic symptoms when taking spirulina for the first time. Spirulina contains the amino acid phenylalanine, which can be harmful for individuals who cannot metabolize this amino acid known as phenylketonuria. Since spirulina is a water born blue-green algae it is important that it is not sourced from a contaminated water source. I would recommend going with a reputable supplement company. Spirulina is a very promising natural dietary supplement whose beneficial effects can be seen in almost every organ system in the body. These effects are likely due to its unique blend of antioxidants. Use this supplement with necessary caution and remember that in nature there exist both beneficial bacteria and harmful bacteria, a naturopathic doctor can help to explain the difference and point you in the right direction toward optimal health.

DoctorShawn

13/Oct/2015

Title: Reduction in symptoms associated with Fibromyalgia at six weeks using Intravenous Vitamins and Minerals (Myers Cocktail).

Running Header: Myers Cocktail for Fibromyalgia

Author: Dr. Shawn Meirovici N.D.

Physio-Logic 96 Scarsedale Road, Toronto, Ontario, M3B 2R7

Disclaimer: Patient consent was obtained

Key words: Intravenous, Vitamins, Minerals, Fibromyalgia

Abstract: Fibromyalgia is a musculoskeletal disorder characterized by widespread pain commonly with one or more coexisting symptoms. Treatment often includes both non-pharmacological and pharmacological therapy. Pharmacological therapy includes the use of antidepressants and GABA derivatives with varying success rates and often with unpleasant side effects. Micronutrient infusion is a newer approach with the majority of use in the field of alternative medicine. To date one placebo controlled pilot study has examined its use in fibromyalgia patients noting statistically significant effects on pain and fatigue. The following is a case study using a similar “cocktail” as the one used in the placebo controlled trial, for 4 treatments using the modified visual analogue scale of the fibromyalgia impact questionnaire (mVASFIQ) as an endpoint measure. Significant reduction in all parameters of the mVASFIQ was noted at 6 weeks, suggesting that micronutrient infusion should be further investigated as a treatment approach for fibromyalgia.

Background: I have a special interest in the treatment of chronic pain. Operating out of a rehabilitation clinic in Toronto, Canada has allowed me the opportunity to work with neurological conditions and traumatic injuries of which chronic pain is often a prevalent symptom. Fibromyalgia is characterized by chronic widespread pain and often involves disruption of many body systems including the gastrointestinal tract. While pharmaceutical intervention is focused on regulating the body’s response to pain, many alternative therapies are focused on restoring function to debilitated body systems. One such treatment is the Myers Cocktail: a intravenous micronutrient therapy that delivers vitamins and minerals directly into the blood stream thereby bypassing the gastrointestinal tract. There is both a review and placebo controlled pilot study demonstrating intravenous micronutrient therapy as an effective treatment for symptom reduction in fibromyalgia. [1] [2]

Introduction: Fibromyalgia is characterized by chronic widespread pain, increased tenderness at specific sites known as “tender points,” un-refreshing sleep, fatigue and cognitive dysfunction not attributable to other disease states. While the etiology of fibromyalgia is not entirely clear, associations with trauma, adverse life events, impaired mood, anxiety, irritable bowel syndrome, cold intolerance, paresthesias and other medical conditions have been described. The pharmacologic treatment of fibromyalgia ranges from antidepressants to analgesics. Here we are commenting on a novel treatment involving the infusion of vitamins and minerals also known as a Myers Cocktail.

Case Presentation: J.M. is a 38-year old female who had been diagnosed with fibromyalgia in 2008. Her symptoms started approximately 10 years ago after enduring a series of traumatic life events. Symptoms included: chronic widespread pain, non-restorative sleep, muscle weakness, morning stiffness, subjective swelling, multiple chemical sensitivities, frequent severe headaches, vestibular dysfunction, TMJ, paresthesia, chronic fatigue, dysmenorrhea, anxiety and irritable bowel syndrome. J.M. had tried a number of GABA derivatives, antidepressants and analgesics with varying degrees of relief but with significant adverse reactions including aphasia, depression and dyspepsia. At initial presentation, J.M. was taking Wellbutrin 300mg XL daily and Tylenol with Codeine as needed. She felt that she was starting to develop a tolerance to Wellbutrin. She was not taking any dietary supplements and was not on any type of specialized diet or exercise program.

J.M. was prescribed an intravenous infusion Myers Cocktail (B-complex 1ml, Dexpanthenol 250mg, Pyridoxine 100mg, Hydroxocobalamin 1mg, Ascorbic Acid 2000mg, Calcium Chlroide 100mg, Magnesium Chloride 1000mg and Sterile Water 46ml) via 60cc syringe with a 24 Gauge butterfly needle at the right median cubital vein, delivered over 15 minutes once per week for 4 infusion sessions. This patient completed a modified visual analogue scale of the fibromyalgia impact questionnaire (mVASFIQ) at initial consult (Image 1) and again after her final infusion (Image 2). She was also prescribed magnesium malate 1.5 grams per day, 1000iu vitamin D per day and 1mg melatonin at night 30 minutes before sleep. However, J.M. was admittedly not taking these supplements consistently during the 4 weeks of intravenous treatment.

The mVASFIQ score at treatment initiation was: (Fatigue 9.5, Insomnia 9.5, Depression 4.5, Anxiety 6.5, Rigidity 8.5, Pain 8.5, Difficulty with work 8.5) at four weeks the mVASFIQ score was: (Fatigue 3, Insomnia 5, Depression 1, Anxiety 3, Rigidity 3, Pain 3, Difficulty with work 3). Besides mild nausea and flushing during the first treatment no adverse effects were reported.

Discussion: Micronutrient infusion delivers vitamins and minerals involved in stress response, muscle contraction and nerve signaling, while able to bypass the need for gastrointestinal absorption. This is an effective delivery method for chronic conditions, such as fibromyalgia, where there is often gastrointestinal disruption as well as the potential for micronutrient deficiencies. The results of this case study demonstrate that micronutrient infusion Myers Cocktail may be an effective treatment for fibromyalgia related symptoms as indicated by a decreased in symptoms score on mVASFIQ at 6 weeks post treatment. This joins the small collection of evidence for the validity of this treatment for fibromyalgia. More study into this treatment for fibromyalgia is warranted.

Confounding Factors: As was outlined in the treatment plan, J.M. received a few dietary supplements on initial consult; however, J.M. admitted to not taking these consistently throughout the 4 intravenous treatments. The patient received all 4 infusions by myself and was not blinded to the treatment. There was also no placebo control. Additionally, the patient may have been influenced by the doctor patient relationship or through placebo effect. However the significant improvement observed within a relatively short time helps to validate the results of this study.

[1] Intravenous Micronutrient Therapy (Myers’ Cocktail) for Fibromyalgia: A Placebo-Controlled Pilot Study, Ather et al., The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, Volume 15, Number 3, 2009, pp. 247-257

[2] Myers’ Cocktail, Dr. Alan Gaby M.D., Alternative Medicine Review, Volume 7, Number 5, 2002.

Image 1

mVASFIQ for J.M. on July 18^th 2015 (patient incorrectly marked X in box rather than a check through the appropriate line, therefore, results have +/- 0.5 confidence interval.

Image 2

mVASFIQ for J.M August 28^th 2015.

What is Shilajit and Why You Should Know About It

What is Shilajit?

Potential Health Benefits of Shilajit

Similarly, another investigation reported in the International Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism revealed that supplementing with shilajit for 8 weeks improved insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control among CFS patients.

Potential Risks

Shilajit can be a great supplement due to its potential benefits, however, there are certain risks and cautions that should be taken into consideration.

Additionally, people with existing medical conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure should use caution when taking shilajit due to possible interactions with medications they may already be taking.

Conclusion

Spirulina, a truly super supplement!

Vitamin and Mineral Infusion for Fibromyalgia: Case Study

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