Keebler
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posted
- Natural SLEEP soothers
& ADRENAL Support - LINKS -
[ 10-09-2012, 01:49 PM: Message edited by: Keebler ]
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canefan17
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How about fixing your adrenal glands.
Sleep issue are all related to cortisol!
You need a morning spike of cortisol and a slow decline throughout the day. Should taper off in the evening and by 10-12 you should be asleep.
Fix cortisol issue and worry about natural sleep aids later.
Trust me... I struggled for years and years trying to fix my sleep rhythm. It's a battle you will NOT win with some sleep aids.
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Curcumin Prevents Some Stress-Related Changes (By CP Staff)
Excerpts:
A recently published study investigated the effects of curcumin, a constituent of the botanical turmeric, on changes in cognition and memory caused by stress. . . .
. . . In this new study, researchers investigated the effect of curcumin supplementation on stress-induced learning defects in mice. . . .
. . . In addition, curcumin reversed the stress-induced increase in the levels of serum corticosterone, the primary hormone secreted during the stress response. . . .
. . . The researchers concluded, ``Thus, curcumin may be an effective therapeutic for learning and memory disturbances as was seen within these stress models, and
its neuroprotective effect was mediated in part by normalizing the corticosterone response, resulting in down-regulating of the phosphorylated calcium/calmodulin kinase II and glutamate receptor levels.''
The Potbelly Syndrome: How Common Germs Cause Obesity, Diabetes, And Heart Disease (Paperback) - 2005
by Russell Farris (Author), Per Marin (Author)
Much about stress reactions here. - you can read customer reviews at the link. Attention is given to lyme and other chronic stealth infections however, it does not go into details about solutions.
===========================
This is not a lyme book.
This book has only one reference to lyme (in the historical use of sarsarparilla for another spirochetal infection). However, it is a vital first book to read - or a reference - for anyone interested in understanding nutritional methods.
Search for Ashwagandha; Cordyceps; Siberian Ginseng in this book:
Graciously, much of this book is on line. It can also be purchased from this site or through Amazon where you can look inside the book and see many customer reviews.
The Rhodiola Revolution byt Richard P. Brown, MD and Patricia L. Gerbarg, MD, et.al.
See this at Amazon.
IMO, authors are not truly lyme literate and post some words that are not accurate for all with lyme. Still, there is much good here. Consult with LL doctor for indvidualized guidance. ==================
Adrenal articles - explaining much (but not specifically in regard to lyme patients):
Afternoon naps are often absolutely required, as per Dr. B's self-care guidelines.
Being GLUTEN-FREE can make a huge different with endurance and mood related to adrenal exhaustion. Many LLMD require their patients to be gluten-free, for good reason. -
**edited name of LLMD**
[ 02-09-2013, 11:45 PM: Message edited by: Keebler ]
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Keebler
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posted
- This thread is primarily for those who want to avoid prescription or even some of the strong OTC sleep products. Part of this reason is due to side-effects. While many sleep meds are hard on the liver, here are some notes about one Rx, in particular.
Ambien is a prescription drug. A few here use it and seem to do okay. However, there are considerations:
I came upon these articles a while back and saved them. I tried ambien years ago and had terrible reactions. Some do fine. It's good to read all about it first and try other methods that are safer.
There have been many incidents of "ambien accidents" and drivers being charged DUI for ambien in the bloodstream. Having lyme, and the liver being compromised by that, It might take longer for some of us to process this.
Dallas Sunday school teacher had taken insomnia drug before killing self
- By Ellen Goldberg, NBCDFW.com August 25, 2012 -
[ 08-25-2012, 02:23 PM: Message edited by: Keebler ]
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RZR
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posted
quote:Originally posted by canefan17: Pantothenic Acid Adaptocrine Vit C + Bioflavanoids Adrenal Creams (stim and calm)
My adrenals were SHOT. completely exhausted. But I did this natural route and was amazed it how fast they responded.
Was a big turning point in my recovery. no question. i always just assumed the insomnia and fatigue were because of meds or herxing.
Negative... my adrenals were depleted. And that can mess A LOT of crap up.
Are adrenal creams something you need a prescription for and get at a compounding pharmacy?
-------------------- Tick bite May 2009 Diagnosed June 2009 Posts: 2329 | From SouthEast | Registered: Jun 2009
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Keebler
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posted
- My ND gives me AdrenaCalm but I can also buy it from several different web sites if she is out of town. Pricey, but it works very nicely.
My ND says the adrenal support herbs (Cordyceps, Ashwgandha, Siberian Ginseng) are also still very important. The cream works differently, all working together. But the cream can be used alone, too. Depends on your needs.
At Apex, only doctors can order but there are other sites you can find through Google to order it.
For a customized formula, it has to be ordered by a MD or ND through a compounding pharmacy. But the customized orders are more for other kinds of hormones (as I understand it).
================
Update, I'm now using just ADAPTOCRINE capsules (Apex) and they are the best help I've found. A bit spendy, though, at the top dose. But, their balance of ingredients is just right for me. -
[ 10-24-2010, 12:17 PM: Message edited by: Keebler ]
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As many try 5-HTP for sleep. If that works, fantastic. Your body is likely doing very well with it so continue to enjoy the benefits.
However, if it is a rough ride - at all - don't push it. I tried several times over the years, always with a terrible reaction to even a small dose.
I've know for years that I have two genetic porphyrias - but had been in the dark about 5-HTP. And, it just sounds (on paper) like such a great thing - everything I needed. But my body just could not tolerate it. Then I found out why: ---
Disordered tryptophan can also be a signal to assess porphyria, a deficiency of very specific enzymes made by the liver to help move out a certain classification of toxins that require the Cytochrome P-450 liver detox pathway. Porphyria also involves a disorder in the heme (blood stuff that I can't explain).
** One well-known LLMD estimates that 80% of lyme patients also have a type of porphyria that contributes to their inability(or difficulty) in eliminating toxins - and also trouble metabolizing chemicals and medicines that require the C P-450 set of liver detox pathways.
There are at least 11 kinds of porphyria - Some genetic and quiet until an acute attack that can even be life-threatening; some more chronic, acquired through toxic infections such as lyme or by chemical exposure that damages the liver.
Porphyria attacks with a sudden spike in porphyrin level - or even a lower but chronic level of elevated porphyrins in the body - can cause all the symptoms of lyme (and all the symptoms of a lyme herx).
It can be difficult sorting all this out but that is why liver support is so very essential for all lyme patients - as well as avoiding substances that require or push the C P-450 pathway. Tryptophan is one to avoid. That includes 5-HTP.
Science 2 December 1983:_Vol. 222. no. 4627, pp. 1031-1033 DOI: 10.1126/science.6648517
Science, Vol 222, Issue 4627, 1031-1033 Copyright � 1983 by American Association for the Advancement of Science
L-tryptophan: a common denominator of biochemical and neurological events of acute hepatic porphyria?
DA Litman and MA Correia
Excerpt:
These findings suggest that increased tryptophan and 5-hydroxytryptamine in the nervous system may be responsible for the neurologic dysfunctions observed in humans with acute attacks of hepatic porphyria.
Biochem Pharmacol. 2008 Feb 1;75(3):704-12. Epub 2007 Oct 2.
Hepatic alteration of tryptophan metabolism in an acute porphyria model Its relation with gluconeogenic blockage.
Lelli SM, Mazzetti MB, San Mart�n de Viale LC.
Laboratorio de Disturbios Metab�licos por Xenobi�ticos, Salud Humana y Medio Ambiente (DIMXSA), Departamento de Qu�mica Biol�gica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Aut�noma de Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Excerpt:
This study focuses on the alterations suffered by the serotoninergic and kinurenergic routes of tryptophan (TRP) metabolism in liver, and their relation with gluconeogenic phosphoenolpyruvate-carboxykinase (PEPCK) blockage in experimental acute porphyria.
==================================
J Assoc Physicians India. 2002 Mar;50:443-5.
Respiratory failure in acute intermittent porphyria.
Tyagi A, Chawla R, Sethi AK, Bhattacharya A.
Department of Anaesthesiology, UCMS and GTB Hospital, Shahdara, Delhi.
We report two patients of acute intermittent porphyria (AIP) who presented with acute respiratory failure.
Only one such previous report could be found. Occasionally, neuropathy may be the presenting feature in AIP which may progress to respiratory embarrassment.
The cause of this neuropathy has been hypothesized to be direct neurotoxicity of delta-ALA by interaction with GABA receptor, altered tryptophan metabolism and may be heme depletion in nerve cells.
Keebler
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posted
- MorningSong just posted this at another thread:
A book that was very helpful to me was "Say Goodnight to Insomnia" by Gregg Jacobs. Teaches how to overcome insomnia naturally without medication.
He is a Harvard graduate and runs a clinic to help people sleep. One of the things he states (among many)is to take a bath 2 hours before bed. If you take a bath right before bed, it raises your body temperature and can effect sleep.
He also states that watching TV or being on the computer too close to bedtime can cause insomnia because it effects the bodies production of sleeep inducing hormones.
(MorningSong) =============
Amazon link where you can take a look inside the book and read 80 customer reviews (4.5 out of 5 stars)
[ 03-20-2010, 05:11 PM: Message edited by: Keebler ]
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TerryK
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Evaluation to see if you need a sleep study would be indicated if you have a long term sleep problem. It is not unusual for patients with lyme to develop sleep apnea or some other treatable sleep condition.
quote:Originally posted by canefan17: Pantothenic Acid Adaptocrine Vit C + Bioflavanoids Adrenal Creams (stim and calm)
My adrenals were SHOT. completely exhausted. But I did this natural route and was amazed it how fast they responded.
Was a big turning point in my recovery. no question. i always just assumed the insomnia and fatigue were because of meds or herxing.
Negative... my adrenals were depleted. And that can mess A LOT of crap up.
What is a cheap way to do this? I have no money, seriously, im on my own living with 100 dollars a month to live off of.. what is a even possible cheaper way like if i had to pick one of those supplements?
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Keebler
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posted
- The kitchen spice, Turmeric, might be the least expensive supplement. You can buy it in bulk (but from a reputable source as some can contain lead).
Turmeric is a good helper for the adrenals and an overall good anti-oxidant. A spoonful in a glass of warm water with a little sea salt - 2 or 3 times a day, chase with clear water.
Some cities have naturopathic or acupuncture low-cost clinics that also dispense herbs - there are also some grant programs providing supplements and appointments at even lower cost or (sometimes) gratis for those who qualify according to income.
Turmeric Root - Organic - 1 pound - under $7.00 -
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lightparfait
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posted
Liver and kidney drainage and support help those who suffer from the 3am wake ups. I tried all the other natural things mentined in the above great posts...and nothing helped long term, even adding the cortisol...(which I was lacking) only gave me weight gain.
Allergie Immun therapy cleared those pathways to work naturally and now I have no low cortisol issues. But still wake at 1- 3am when in a liver/kidney crisis.
I am in detox mode so that is what is bothering my organs at this time. Chemicals, metals are moving through my gut and liver/kidney trying to be eliminated and my leaky gut is not completely healed so I am getting a recirculating toxin bulidup.
Those who wake may have the same issues that can heal. It takes time and knowledge how to do this. Worth evaluating so you go down the right path with what you take for what true problem. We all tend to try to treat the symptom first before finding the true root cause and trying to heal that. I am still learning.
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Keebler
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- Lightparfait has a good points about liver and kidney stress being a cause of 3 am wake up calls.
3/4 of the way down page one, there are lots of LIVER SUPPORT LINKS and the same sources can be searched regarding kidney function:
Topic: TINNITUS: Ringing Between The Ears; Vestibular, Balance, Hearing with compiled links - including HYPERACUSIS -
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Keebler
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* Some researchers say the iPad and laptops may alter sleep cycles
* Light from the devices' screens may affect internal clocks when used at night
* No formal research has been done on the subject
* But some doctors still recommend leaving gadgets out of the bedroom
CNN) --
J.D. Moyer decided recently to conduct a little experiment with artificial light and his sleep cycle.
The sleep-deprived Oakland, California, resident had read that strong light -- whether it's beaming down from the sun or up from the screens of personal electronics -- can reset a person's internal sleep clock.
So, for one month, whenever the sun set, he turned off all the gadgets and lights in his house -- from the bulb hidden in his refrigerator to his laptop computer.
It worked. Instead of falling asleep at midnight, Moyer's head was hitting the pillow as early as 9 p.m. He felt so well-rested during the test, he said, that friends remarked on his unexpected morning perkiness.
"I had the experience, a number of times, just feeling kind of unreasonably happy for no reason. And it was the sleep," he said. "Sure, you can get by with six or seven hours, but sleeping eight or nine hours -- it's a different state of mind." Moyer may be onto something.
More than ever, consumer electronics -- particularly laptops, smartphones and Apple's new iPad -- are shining bright light into our eyes until just moments before we doze off.
Now there's growing concern that these glowing gadgets may actually fool our brains into thinking it's daytime. Exposure can disturb sleep patterns and exacerbate insomnia, some sleep researchers said in interviews. . . .
- Full article at link above. -
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Keebler
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For people suffering from sleep apnea, specialized breathing machines are the standard treatment.
The machines use a method called continuous positive airway pressure, or CPAP, which keeps the airway open and relieves potentially dangerous pauses in breathing during the night. But the machines are expensive, and some people complain that the mask and headgear cause uncomfortable side effects, like congestion.
One free and fairly simple alternative may be exercises that strengthen the throat. While they aren't as established or as well studied as breathing machines, some research suggests they may reduce the severity of sleep apnea by building up muscles around the airway, making them less likely to collapse at night.
In a study published last year in The American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, scientists recruited a group of people with obstructive sleep apnea and split them into two groups.
One was trained to do breathing exercises daily, while the other did 30 minutes of throat exercises, including swallowing and chewing motions, placing the tip of the tongue against the front of the palate and sliding it back, and pronouncing certain vowels quickly and continuously.
After three months, subjects who did the throat exercises snored less, slept better and reduced the severity of their condition by 39 percent. They also showed reductions in neck circumference, a known risk factor for apnea. The control group showed almost no improvement.
Other randomized studies have found similar effects. One even showed that playing instruments that strengthen the airways, like the didgeridoo, can ease sleep apnea.
THE BOTTOM LINE
For people with sleep apnea, throat exercises may be a cheap and useful therapy.
(Cutline to photo) Charley Hupp: He had to use this device to keep his airway open at night before Alise Ojay's methods cured his snoring
Last updated at 23:52pm on 25.10.06
Doctors are studying whether a life threatening sleep disorder can be cured by singing after a patient made a full recovery.
Experts are now seeking volunteers for a scientific study how a course in vocal exercises can help those suffering from Obstructive Sleep Apnoea.
American patient Charley Hupp, aged 82, believes his apnoea has been cured by using a regime called Singing for Snorers which was devised by British musician Alise Ojay.
Apnoea is an illness which causes patients to stop breathing suddenly during their sleep, causing serious insomnia and sometimes leading to death.
The conventional treatment is to wear a cumbersome nose and face mask but patients complain they find it difficult to sleep in it.
Alise, from Exeter, Devon, has produced tapes and books which teach how apnoea sufferers and other snorers can strengthen the muscles inside their mouths and throat.
The tapes do not contain recognisable songs but instead a series of scales and voice exercises.
Scientists at Exeter University and Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital are now carrying out a study into the effectiveness of the programme and are still seeking volunteers.
Retired engineer Mr Hupp, from Arizona, is so grateful to Alise he has flown to Britain to thank her for devising the treatment, which he learned about from a BBC World Service programme.
He said: "I felt the effect within a month of starting to do the exercises and now I feel like I am reborn.
"I fell like two million dollars when I wake up each morning and it is all thanks to this remarkable lady."
Alise said: "The hospital are still looking for more volunteers for the trial so anyone who is suffering from apnoea and not receiving treatment should ask their GP to refer them." -
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Keebler
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posted
- See BoxerMom's post in this thread about how d-Ribose, etc. helps relieve insomnia and support day-time endurance. It's a very good post. -----------
posted
Keebler, that was an interesting post about the study on throat exercises and sleep apnea. I followed the link, read the article, followed its link to the study, but nowhere found specifics on the exercises. Am I missing something? I'd really like to try these to see if they help me.
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Keebler
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- " . . . Alise Ojay's methods cured his snoring." - Just Googling the name in the cutline:
A pilot research project conducted by Alise Ojay has suggested that singing exercises can reduce snoring by toning lax muscles in the upper throat. . . .
Listen to NPR's Morning Edition author's interview and singing example -- 2:49 audio
July 6, 2005
Music teacher Alise Ojay has developed exercises that she claims will help many people stop snoring. The Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital is studying her course, which teaches people how to strengthen the throat muscles she says can help reduce snoring. -
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posted
Keebler, I am having trouble spacing out all of the medications and supplements. Its very confusing. You seem to understand all of this very well. would you be willing to help me? sjo
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Keebler
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posted
- sjo,
I'm very sorry. I have no formal training in any of this.
I am overwhelmed just trying to take care of myself. I also have no background in pharmacy, have never been on Rx for very long and I take no pharmaceuticals myself so that's just not something on which I could advise.
(That is not to be interpreted as I'm all well, far from it. I just have no on-going access to a LL doctor - no LLMDs in my state - and I also have major problems tolerating most Rx anyway, so I just do the best I can with occasional guidance from a ILADS-educated LL ND).
Your LLMD should be able to clear up questions. Maybe their office manager or nurse can help field basic questions by phone. I'm sure they'd not mind as they want to be sure you get the best effect from everything you take. You can ask to schedule a five-minute block of time that would work for them.
They may also have an information page they could send you.
If he or she is not well versed in supplements, it's best to see a professional who has had four or more years of medical college coursework with herbs, etc. And one who is also LL.
You can also start a separate thread just for your questions and there are many others here who can offer advice.
I'll share what I've picked up over the years. Keep in mind that what I write below is not written in stone. It's from various NDs, books, or just experience. Others may have different suggestions but be sure to go over your plan with your LL doctor.
How to find an ILADS-educated Lyme Literate Naturopathic Doctor, Acupuncturist, Doctor of Oriental or Ayurvedic Medicine, Massage Therapist, Herbalist, Nutritionist, etc.
===============================
Basic rule. SEPARATE by several hours:
* ABX
* PROBIOTICS (best on empty stomach)
* SUPPLEMENTS - usually, herbs at the beginning of meal, vitamins near the end. Follow your doctor's instructions, though as this is not a hard-fast rule.
HERBAL SUPPLEMENTS - Since they are concentrated foods, most herbs usually work better with a little food. Research the herb in question and read from several sources.
Hot herbs like garlic/allicin, oregano oil (best in a gelcap), ginger capsules, are best with food until you get used to them. Some people can take on an empty stomach, some can't.
As many herbs have some sort of anti-microbial effect, if that includes an anti-fungal property, that can negate probiotics. It's just best to keep all herbs separate from probiotics.
And, as some herbs help the liver to work better (even if that is not their primary property), it's best to take herbs away from Rx so that the liver does not metabolize Rx too quickly.
There can also be other kinds of interactions and it's just best to keep them all separated so they don't develop an identity crisis, so to speak.
NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS / VITAMINS are usually best with food.
However, if ABX need to be taken with food, that can get tricky. See if herbal supplement you take do okay other than at meantime and maybe with a light snack.
Still, Vitamin combinations that include with B-3 are best near the end of a good breakfast or lunch. B-3 is the most energizing of the B's and the one that can cause nausea on an empty stomach.
You might get some colored craft paper - or non-smelly magic markers and write out the name of all you take in color codes for the 3 major groups. Sit down at the table and plot out a chart.
----------------------
ALWAYS take B-COMPLEX WITH FOOD.
B-5, B-6, B-12 can be alone, though.
Never take B-3, niacin, on an empty stomach. Same for Bee Pollen. Always with food.
Sublingual form is best for B-6 and B-12.
B-12 earlier in the day.
B-6 anytime but especally good before bedtime as B-6 is calming.
B-5 is to help support adrenal function but seems to be gently so, if separately, I can take that anytime. But, as it's usually included in a formula, I take that with meals. -
[ 09-13-2010, 02:33 PM: Message edited by: Keebler ]
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Keebler
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- regarding liver stress and how certain drugs may be harder than others (those that require the Cytochrome P-450 liver detox pathway).
Also detailed are supplements that can help reduce the harsh effects of some drugs.
=============================
One book that may help with understanding how the body systems work is:
THE ONE EARTH HERBAL SOURCEBOOK (Tillotson, et.al.)
Through the generosity of the authors, much of it is viewable on-line. Still, I find having the actual book on my desk a valuable asset for additional detail.
MENU on left of page will take you to the BASICS OF HERBS - and beyond.
Amazon also carries it. This book does not discuss lyme or TBI protocol, still it is an excellent resource for so much, especially understand our liver, etc. Diets for certain kinds of illness are suggested.
Repeat: this book does NOT discuss any treatment for lyme (other than a passing reference to sarsaparilla at http://tinyurl.com/2eeqct ).
Still, it is an excellent place to start for understanding so much about human and plant life and how they work together.
My sleep improved within 2 weeks of starting bioidentical hormones.
After that, it has improved even more with consistent use of l-tryptophan and l-theanine at night followed by sublingual melatonin.
I also get off the computer before it gets late and lay down to watch tv in a dark room.
I keep my bedroom dark also.
----------------------
organictexan shares:
I use bioidentical progesterone cream, Dr Wilson's Adrenal Rebuilder and two droppers full of Nutramedix Amantilla, works like a charm! -
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Keebler
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bystander posts the benefits of waking up to a Phillips Wake Up Light instead of a startling alarm clock. -
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richedie
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posted
How do you know your adrenals are in bad shape??? How to know??? I don't really lack energy.
-------------------- Mepron/Zith/Ceftin Doxy/Biaxin/Flagyl pulse. Artemisinin with Doxy/Biaxin. Period of Levaquin and Ceftin. Then Levaquin, Bactrim and Biaxin. Bactrim/Augmentin/Rifampin. Mepron/Biaxin/Artemisinin/Cat's Claw Rifampin/Bactrim/Alinia Plaquenil/Biaxin Posts: 1949 | From Pennsylvania | Registered: Feb 2008
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Keebler
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posted
- Most with lyme suffer some sort of damage to the HPA. That can have various manifestations.
Rhetorical questions:
How do you handle stress? Is anxiety on your menu? Worry? Startle for sudden sounds, etc.?
Do you sleep well throughout the night (without drugs) and awaken refreshed and have equal and a fairly good level of sustained energy throughout the day with maybe only a short afternoon nap?
Does exercise knock you out? Do hot baths? Do any activities cause "pay-back" regarding any physical or brain aspect?
Is weight good? Appetite, too? Are you in a good, balanced mood most of the time? Do things irritate you out of proportion?
Do you get tired in crowds or busy environments? Can you participate in a lively discussion for an hour?
No need to reply, just a few basic questions. The books and articles listed above with ADRENAL LINKS go into more detail. -
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Keebler
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posted
- The effects of STRESS FROM INFECTION can cause other problems, too. This book is specific to lyme and other chronic stealth infections.
The author discusses the endocrine connection and effects of STRESS on a person with such infections. You can read customer reviews and look inside the book at this link to its page at Amazon.
Remember "stress" is not just about minor irritations and if we have a cheery demeanor. Stress effects include the toxic load on all body organs and the damage that infections cause. The adrenals ALWAYS suffer. The entire endocrine system can become exhausted and damaged from a chronic infection.
The Potbelly Syndrome: How Common Germs Cause Obesity, Diabetes, And Heart Disease (Paperback) - 2005
by Russell Farris and Per Marin, MD, PhD
==================
Remember that lyme really messes up the HPA axis (Hypothalamus/pituitary/adrenal network). The pituitary has much to do with weight/growth. Mess up any part of the endocrine system and other parts suffer, too.
See page 4 where Dr. Burrascano describes a bit about the considerations of the dysfunction with the HYPOTHALAMIC-PITUITARY AXIS -
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Keebler
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Topic: How to find a LL ND (naturopathic doctor), acupuncturist, etc.
Includes how to find an ILADS-educated LL ND, an Acupuncturist, a doctor of Oriental Medicine (O.M.D.), or a doctor of Ayurvedic Medicine (D.Ay.), certified herbalists or nutritionists, etc.
Includes many articles and books on complementary / integrative methods - & RIFE links.
BODY WORK links are also included. -
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Keebler
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Haley
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posted
Thanks for bringing this back up.. This is an important thread. I have a copy of it in my file.
Keebler - What do you think is the Strongest natural remedy for sleep? I think you said before that Skullcap is on of the best.
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Keebler
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- I'm not sure what I think is strongest is what most others would think so. I'm a wimp with sleep stuff. And noise from even the next county can interfere with my peace.
Magnesium is always number one.
I also like the idea of allowing sleep rather than demanding it by knocking myself out with any kind of sedative (as I just get so "hung over" from even gentle herbal sedatives. I go for a different approach.
Formulas like Seven Forests Fu Shen &/or their Zizyphus help the body be able to rest. They address the stressed "shen" (heart spirit) in Chinese medicine. I really like both of these formulas for many reasons.
For me, skullcap (scullcap) is the strongest thing that I would use when I need extra help (like around the Fourth of July or other noisy times). And it just takes a couple drops for me. I started with ONE drop in 1/2 cup water.
There are a few herbs that are only good in one form or the other. Although skullcap is often in capsule for or in a capsule formula, according to Tilltson (The One Earth Herbal Sourcebook), Skullcap is only effective as a tincture (alcohol or glycerine).
Its cousin, Scute, is okay either way and while not as sedative as Skullcap, scute can also help with sleep.
MELATONIN seems to be the ticket for many but I can't take it more than 3 nights in a row as it triggers a mood drop (I've tried often, same result).
HOLY BASIL is very nice, tough. Works for me.
ADRENAL SUPPORT by day is a huge help for good sleep, as is liver support so that the liver is not too "hot" and "irritated" for its nighttime detox cycle.
but REALLY, the best thing is to stop all electronics early in the evening and read, etc.
LIGHTS in the eyes, stimulation from TV and computers are the very worst enemy of sleep.
We should go back to singing and swapping stories around a campfire, I think. For those who live with others, this could be done, in a manner of speaking. Even for those who live alone, quiet time is so important before sleep. -
[ 11-30-2011, 04:45 PM: Message edited by: Keebler ]
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Keebler
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To the Natural Order, Keebler ... And it will prevail!
We will go back to singing and swapping stories around a campfire, I know! My education taught me! And Penn State is more than football!
I spend most hours of my day in silence, in stasis. As I said I live under the flight path and when a friggin' huge C130 or bigger floats over the tree tops, I hear PAIN! Jets are even worse! So, yeah, quiet, Silence is Golden to someone who grew up in the ridges and valleys of central PA and had Amish neighbors.
-------------------- ...to the natural order! Posts: 1 | From Poverty Central | Registered: Dec 2010
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Re: link below . . . Yes, this essay is primary about kids and the life-long effects of stress.
Still, also pertains to us, as infection itself - and all that goes along with that for our bodies, our brains, our finances and relationships, etc.
Well, what Kristoff says here is so very important to everyone. Everyone.
Elevated Cortisol is a killer and causes so many problems before it deals its last card. Obesity is very much connected, by the way. And that is just for starters. Brain damage from stress can be very serious, indeed.
I'm glad someone is finally writing about that from the perspective of children.
- with a nine-minute Video -- by: Michael Lam, MD, MPH
Introduction to Adrenal Fatigue
Signs and Symptoms of Adrenal Fatigue
Adrenal Gland Basics
Cortisol Regulation
(and don't stop there. This is a five-page article) -
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Keebler
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- Edited to add on 2-9-13: Minocycline was used by this author so that skews the book and talk a bit. Just know that approaches here are good, but still not enough for lyme.
-----------------------------------
Thanks to HALEY for bringing this to our attention.
Alongside adrenal issues for energy & endurance:
MYELIN SHEATH & MITOCHONDRIA SUPPORT addressed here: ---------
Topic: CARDIAC thread - includes details on what can help, including an explanation of mitochondria issues with lyme and
MITOCHONDRIA SUPPORT -
[ 02-09-2013, 11:42 PM: Message edited by: Keebler ]
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Keebler
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- I thought I had posted this here before but I do not see it now.
Generally, you might ask your LLMD's office to suggest a LL ND for your adjunct care.
That way the LLMD and LL ND's care will be coordinated and you don't have to do all the homework, guessing and experimentation.
It's best to consult with an ILADS-educated LL doctor who has had 4 years of post-graduate medical education in the field of herbal and nutritional medicine -- and someone who is current with ILADS' research and knows lyme inside and out.
Links to many articles and books by holistic-minded LL doctors of various degrees who all have this basic approach in common:
Understanding of the importance of addressing the infection(s) fully head-on with specific measures;
Knowing that support supplements are important, but NEVER enough alone. And knowing which supplements have direct impact, which are only support and which are both.
You can compare and contrast many approaches.
BASIC HERBAL EDUCATIONAL links, and
BODY WORK links with safety tailored to lyme patients,
RIFE links,
BIONIC 880 (& PE-1) links, and
LOW HEAT INFRARED SAUNA detail. -
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Marz
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I was about to post in Support and offer my unopened pump bottle of AdrenaCalm to someone for free.
I was recently muscle tested for it by LLMD and it was not a good test, so she told me to stop. I had ordered two bottles, used one and one unopened.
I'd like it to go to someone who's been using it already and knows they're doing well on it. But willing to send it to anyone who wants to try it if no one else wants it.
Just PM me. I'll put it in a mailer envelope and send it on.
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Catgirl
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Great thread, Keebler! :)
-------------------- --Keep an open mind about everything. Also, remember to visit ACTIVISM (we can change things together). Posts: 5418 | From earth | Registered: Mar 2011
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Keebler
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Thank you everyone for all of your great answers about natural SLEEP help. Wow! 48 posts! OMG! I'm going to go thru all of you guys' suggestions & try 'em all out.
Thank you, thank you, thank you! Your help is invaluable to me... Jennifer
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Keebler
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- HEAL THE HORMONES TO HEAL FROM LYME DISEASE --------------------------------------------
As we know, the HPA-axis can just get clobbered with lyme.
- by Connie Strasheim - Townsend Letter - July, 2010
be sure to scroll down past a section of ads that looks like the end of the article. This is a four-page article.
Excerpt:
. . . Cortisol allergies produce all the signs and symptoms of adrenal insufficiency, but often, adrenal function in people who have these allergies is normal.
Many patients with cortisol allergies cannot tolerate cortisol replacement until they are desensitized to these allergies. . . .
- by James L. Wilson, ND, DC, PhD, Johnathan V. Wright, MD
Page 207, last paragraph, excerpt:
. . . there are herbs you should avoid if you have adrenal fatigue because they can worsen your symptoms, increase your recovery time, or prevent your recovery by further exhausting your adrenals.
These herbs include Ephedra, (or Ma Huang), cola nut [poster's interjection: this is not the same as Gotu Kola, which is not a cola], or strong black teas.
Also avoid any herbs or teas containing stimulants, sedatives, or hallucinogenic substances, and any teas that over stimulate the nervous system or the adrenals. . . . -
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Keebler
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- Another Ambien (Zolpidem) tragedy: ------------------------------------------------
Dallas Sunday school teacher had taken insomnia drug before killing self
- By Ellen Goldberg, NBCDFW.com August 25, 2012
A successful Dallas businessman who tried to stab his sleeping wife before fatally stabbing himself last month was found to have traces of a drug used to treat insomnia in his bloodstream, police told NBCDFW.com.
The autopsy report from the Dallas County Medical Examiner's Office shows that 50-year-old John "Rod" Steele had .05 milligrams of zolpidem in his system. . . .
. . . Possible serious side effects can include ``more outgoing or aggressive behavior than normal, confusion, agitation, hallucinations, worsening of depression, and suicidal thoughts or actions.''
In the aftermath of Steele's July 11 death, friends and neighbors told NBC 5 he was taking prescription pills because he had trouble sleeping.
He had no prior history of violence. He taught Sunday school and Bible study at Highland Park United Methodist Church.
The husband and father of two also sat on the boards of two Dallas area banks.
Steele's family had a note on the door of their Highland Park home asking for privacy.
Zolpidem comes as a tablet (Ambien) and an extended-release (long-acting) tablet (Ambien CR) to take by mouth.
Zolpidem also comes as a sublingual tablet (Edluar, Intermezzo) to place under the tongue and an oral spray (Zolpimist) which is sprayed into the mouth over the tongue . . . -
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posted
.05 is nothing, a dose is 10 mg, Just saying.
-------------------- 3 months Doxy 8 months of Tetra 7 months of Biaxin/Plaq. 4 months Doxy/Biaxin/Plaq. 5 months Biaxin/Plaq. Back on Doxy/Biax/Plaq On the road to recovery. Trying to make people Lyme Aware....... Posts: 289 | From R.I. | Registered: Jun 2009
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Keebler
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- In the comment section, Summer-1597193 writes:
They didn't report how much he actually took. They reported how much was found in his system at the time (of autopsy).
Ambien has a half life of 2.2 +/-0.4 hours. There are things that can alter the half life - those with liver cirrhosis have a longer half life (about 6.6 hours).
5 mg dose of Ambien has a blood level of 0.06 mg in the blood at 1.6 hours after taking the medication, 10 mg dose has a blood level of .12 mg at 1.6 hours after taking the drug.
He could've taken either the 5 mg or 10 mg dose, and had a .05 mg blood level at either 1.6 hours or 3.2 hours after taking the medication. -
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Keebler
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- About the business of sleep. Seems how you get there may have much to do with whether you are an introvert or an extrovert.
Do you need to talk and think out loud when your head hits the pillow - or does your brain shut down right away for the business of sleep?
How you and your partner work with this really matters to your sleep patterns, hence, your health of marriage and of body.
Those who live (or sleep) alone can also learn from this as it provides a few "ah-hah" insights).
Not an issue discussed here, but I think points in this article could be why late night computer sessions (that are so detrimental to us) are our Siren's call.
Just as bed partners need to find the most healthful and helpful ways to achieve a good bedtime, so do those in "relationship" with the web after hours. I know I do.
This is a wake up call for me: tend to communication and expression needs earlier in the day.
Prescription pills can lead to phenomenon known as "sleep driving."
3:45 Video follows driving simulation tests - very cool machine they use for this.
Diane Sawyer: ``Did you know that some sleeping pills can stay in your body for more than 12 hours?''
---------------------
Remember that liver stress & liver dysfunction can increase that time. Some folks just can't tolerate this classification of drug at all and even a full day later can still be dealing with the sedation.
Also consider that one or more other Rx, over the counter product or even some supplements can also increase the time Ambien can take to clear the body.
Infections or other stressors on the body can also slow metabolism time (because the body has so much more to filter out) so such drugs can have an effect for hours longer. -
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Keebler
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- This is very balancing for many with lyme:
Topic: Lithium Orotate,thoughts, experiences? -
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Keebler
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- All this matters, to all systems of the body but especially to the adrenals and nervous system as food additives can be like a very bad drug and "wire" us, spin us around for a wild ride and then spit us out. Even some seemingly good things can be too much for us.
See post: Caution: Aspartate; Glutamine; and Phenylalanine (3 excitatory amino acids that can be wrong for us when added as supplements, beyond a normal dietary level)
Seaweed has its own natural MSG and can be very excitatory
A pulmonolgist [just told me that] "is notorious for causing heart arrhythmias."
Discussion in this thread also touches on the errors and deception in the way side-effects of many drugs are reported - so that they can be approved for market and increase profits.
Antidepressants cause bradycardia and heart block in GD 13 rat embryos in vitro. (April 2012)
Excerpts:
. . . . One drug, trazodone, caused arrhythmia consistent with blockade of the hERG (human ether-a-go-go related gene) potassium channel. . . .
. . . The least margin of safety was seen with the tricyclic antidepressants and the serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor trazodone. . . . (end excerpts) -
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Keebler
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A good night's sleep scrubs your brain clean, researchers find
- by Barbara Mantel & JoNel Aleccia - NBC News - Oct. 17, 2013
New research finds that a newly discovered system that flushes waste from your brain is mostly active during sleep. . . . . -
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Keebler
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- How typical meat from typical grocer or restaurant can cause adrenal function to go haywire.
"Two cousin drugs of ractopamine, clenbuterol and zilpaterol, cause such adrenalin effects in humans they are banned by the Olympics. . . ."
Ractopamine: The Meat Additive on Your Plate That's Banned Almost Everywhere But America
The asthma drug-like growth additive has enjoyed stealth use in the US food supply for a decade despite being widely banned overseas.
- by Martha Rosenberg, AlterNet
Two excerpts:
Have you ever heard of ractopamine? Neither have most US food consumers though it is used in 80 percent of US pig and cattle operations.
The asthma drug-like growth additive, called a beta-agonist, has enjoyed stealth use in the US food supply for a decade despite being widely banned overseas. It is marketed as Paylean for pigs, Optaflexx for cattle and Topmax for turkeys. . . .
. . . In an early Canadian study, monkeys given ractopamine "developed daily tachycardia"-- rapid heart beat.
Rats fed ractopamine developed a constellation of birth defects like cleft palate, protruding tongue, short limbs, missing digits, open eyelids and enlarged heart.
Two cousin drugs of ractopamine, clenbuterol and zilpaterol, cause such adrenalin effects in humans they are banned by the Olympics. . . .
- Full article in much more detail at link above. Please read the entire article. Many very important points that I can't copy & paste and still stay within copyright guidelines.
For those who consume any meats, best to buy only organically raised free-range / grass grazing . . . for so many reasons. And to incorporate more vegetable proteins into diet, too. Also organically grown to be sure. -
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Keebler
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LICORICE ROOT LINKS - a specific kind of logenze here -
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canefan17
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lol It's funny to go back to 2010 and read my own comments
Keebler has so much good stuff in here.
Keebler, Other than Adpatocrine by Apex Energetics... have you found any other good Adrenal/adaptogen formulas?
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CherylSue
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Great adrenal and sleep info. Thanks.
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Keebler
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Keebler, You are an amazing source of Info. THANK YOU ! ! it will take me Weeks and weeks to go through all of this. Health and Happiness, GT44
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Keebler
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- Golf Tick
Hope it helps. Start with Wilson's book.
I just post what others write. A collector of sorts . . . but anyone can do it and many here do pass on great articles, links, etc. It takes a group to help us learn.
Some of us have to (with no LLMD or LL ND). Just be sure that, if at all possible, to stay connected with a LL doctor for the best care. -
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Keebler
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- Canefan,
Vitanica Adrenal Assist
has been what I've been taking the past many months. But I try to stretch it way out to make it last longer. I'm not getting the optimum benefit that way but one in a.m. fits budget.
Therefore, I cannot say if it's as good as it looks. I certainly don't feel that my adrenals are any better but noise is my major downfall and this has been the summer of noise. I'm beyond crispy around the edges.
Even at regular dose for a couple days (usually the day before and day the lawn crew bombards or during the closest road construction this summer), I never noticed any "rocket fuel" effect to it, and that's a major factor.
Very well balanced. I'm impressed with the listing. -
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Keebler
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I order this through Tahoma Clinic in Washington state (with the best Berberine I've found)
but had not realized until I just went to the main site for the ingredients listing (always best to go to the main site & buy from good vendors) that Vitanica is a line of supplements created by an excellent ND whom I have seen in lecture as well as for a couple private consults about other matters (not lyme).
She is not a LL ND, she specializes in women's health and is known around the country as an expert / lecturer. Tori Hudson, ND also has some excellent books on women's natural health. She has an superb reputation locally, in Portland, OR as well.
I feel even better suggesting that Vitanica is a top quality now knowing who makes this.
posted
What is the safest thing I can use on a 2 year old and myself to prevent ticks from getting on us. I have Lyme and Co Infections and I defiantly don't want my grandson to contract it!!!
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Keebler
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- MrsScampi,
You might want to create a whole new thread for this question so you get a full range of answers. It might get lost here in the Adrenal collection. -
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Keebler
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NAPS, SLEEP . . . with TED TALKS & some good fresh articles -
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Keebler
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- Thanks to WPinVA who just posted this in another thread. And we all know about the kinds of toxicity that go hand in hand with lyme . . . so sleep is most certainly a major matter for all of us.
Sleep Could Help Stave Off Alzheimer's And Memory Loss, According To New Study
- By Alena Hall - The Huffington Post -June 2, 2015
Excerpt:
. . . "Sleep is helping wash away toxic proteins at night, preventing them from building up and from potentially destroying brain cells," Walker said in a statement. "It's providing a power cleanse for the brain." . . . -
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