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A Systems Theory Approach To An Expanded Medical Model – Introduction

{A Systems Theory Approach To An Expanded Medical Model was written by Elliott Dacher M.D.} As practitioners, we approach our patients and their problems within the framework of a conceptual model that organizes and defines the questions we ask, the information we seek, the diagnostic and therapeutic options, and ultimately the outcome of our interventions. Because [...]

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What Greek Mythology Can Teach Us About Medicine and Health

The original Hippocratic oath begins with the statement “I swear by Apollo the physician, and Asclepius, and Hygeia, and Panacea, and all the gods and goddesses, that, according to my ability and judgment, I will keep this Oath and this stipulation . . .” Hygeia was the goddess of health, cleanliness and sanitation.  Her father, Asclepius, [...]

Asides

• Nitric oxide (NO) deficiency is a major risk factor for heart disease. NO acts at the inner lining of blood vessels, or endothelium, to increase blood flow, prevent fatty deposits from sticking to blood vessel walls, keep walls from getting too thick and stiff, and prevent the arteries from narrowing. All of the major culprits in heart disease damage the endothelium, and a damaged endothelium doesn't make enough NO, which results in more damage in an increasingly dangerous spiral. Read the full Reader's Digest report >> #
• Theobromine, a substance found in raw cocoa, is more effective than fluoride at strengthening tooth enamel. However, don't expect to get this benefit simply by eating chocolate. The high sugar content of processed chocolate contributes to cavities. Research and development is underway to produce a toothpaste containing theobromine. Arman Sadeghpour, PhD, is leading this research within his biotech company, Theodent. Read more here>> #
• A diet rich in a type of omega-6 fatty acid called linoleic acid was associated with an increased risk of ulcerative colitis. This study found that people who ate the most linoleic acid were 2.5 times more likely to develop ulcerative colitis than those who ate the least amount. In contrast, a high intake of omega-3 fatty acid (DHA) was linked to a lower risk of ulcerative colitis. People who ate the most DHA were 77 percent less likely to develop ulcerative colitis than those who ate the least amount. Read the study>> #
• Yet another study confirms that exercise can boost brainpower. Specifically, the study found that improved aerobic fitness is associated with higher intelligence. The study also found that environmental factors accounted for more than 80% of this association, suggesting that regardless of genetic makeup, the lifestyle that you choose largely determines both physical and mental fitness. Read more at ScienceDaily >> #
• Health care reform is underway, but will it bring real reform to the very foundation of health care, or simply expand coverage for the unsustainable sick care system that we have now? We need to look beyond the limits of disease treatment and work to keep people healthy in the first place. Wellness and disease prevention should be the focus of health reform. One way you can help bring about true reform is to add your voice to the Health Revolution Petition, created by Mike Adams of NaturalNews.com. Adams explains, "This petition lends a voice to all the millions of Americans who believe in disease prevention over disease maintenance, nutrition over pharmaceuticals and naturopathic health care instead of interventionist, orthodox medical care that emphasizes drugs and surgery instead of commonsense self care.” #
• It appears that Australia has now surpassed the US in percentage of population who are overweight or obese. A report from the Australian Associated Press acknowledges that a healthy lifestyle and prevention, not pharmaceuticals, are key to winning the battle against obesity. Genes likely play a very small role in the epidemic weight gain seen over the last few decades. Weight loss drugs are no substitute for regular physical activity and proper diet. Read the report>> #
• Natalie Portman has followed a vegetarian diet since childhood. In an article from The Huffington Post she writes, “The human cost of factory farming -- both the compromised welfare of slaughterhouse workers and, even more, the environmental effects of the mass production of animals -- is staggering.” She also claims, “Factory farming of animals will be one of the things we look back on as a relic of a less-evolved age." Speaking of less evolved, we now turn to the dietary habits of Sarah Palin. She explains “I love meat...I always remind people from outside our state that there's plenty of room for all Alaska's animals -- right next to the mashed potatoes.” While Portman offers the rationale behind her informed choice, Palin clearly isn't thinking at all. She only asks, “If God had not intended for us to eat animals, how come He made them out of meat?" #
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