Letter from the Publisher

Estrogen Metabolite Ratios: Time for Us to Let Go
by Jacob Schor, ND, FABNO
For the past 30 years, we have relied on the theory that particular estrogen metabolites stimulate hyperproliferation in the hormone-sensitive tissues of the breast and uterus and so increase risk of cancer development. Recent studies call this theory into question; it is time to assess whether we should still rely on these ideas for judging patient risk and, more importantly, guiding patient treatment.

Enhanced Testing for Gluten and Food Sensitivity: Aristo Vojdani, PhD
An interview with Nancy Faass, MSW, MPH
There are challenges involved in managing gluten sensitivity and celiac disease, and the percentage of individuals with celiac disease who develop autoimmune conditions is estimated at 1 in 3. Given the virtual epidemic of autoimmune disorders, Dr. Vojdani is committed to developing highly reliable evaluations for gluten and food sensitivities and celiac disease. He discusses the protocols in this article.

Urinary Neurotransmitter Testing: A Powerful Tool for Assessing Nervous System Function
by Bradley Bush, ND
Assessing neurotransmitter levels has significant potential as a clinical tool to assess nervous system function and allow health-care providers to monitor and treat many widespread clinical conditions. There are several ways to measure neurotransmitters; for many clinicians, the preferred method is urinary, due to its stability, sensitivity, and noninvasiveness. Also, current literature provides evidence that neurotransmitters excreted in the urine may effectively serve as biomarkers of nervous system function.

Evaluation of the Iodine Loading Test: Urine Iodine Excretion Kinetics after Consumption of 50 mg Iodine/Iodide
by Theodore Zava
This test is based on the theory that, following oral consumption of 50 mg iodine/iodide, all iodine not excreted within a 24-hour period is retained and utilized by the body, with an arbitrary cutoff of 90% excretion used to determine whether a patient has reached whole body iodine sufficiency. This goal of this study was to investigate whether the test provides a realistic assessment, as well as whether it was reasonable to expect 90% of the dose to be excreted within 24 hours after ingestion.

Measuring Blood Viscosity for Earlier Detection of Cognitive Decline
by Pushpa Larsen, ND
Understanding blood viscosity, its effect on cognitive function, how to test for it, and how to alter it are essential to the practice of anti-aging medicine. It is easily modifiable with existing functional medicine therapeutics and improving blood viscosity can preserve health and save lives. Patients with signs of cognitive decline should be high on the list of those appropriate to test, as early detection and treatment are most effective at preventing the descent into dementia.

'Why Don't They Just Get a Job?' Potential Solutions for the Chronically Homeless
by Ann S. Petersen
The author discusses how underlying medical conditions and malnutrition can play a large contributing part to a homeless person's emotional, cognitive, and behavioral issues. Speaking from personal experience, she addresses the dire need for improved nutrition, dietary choices, and natural health care for this population.

Townsend Calendar

. . . the regular features, commentary and opinions we can count on each month from our distinguished columnists.