Functional Medicine

SAMe Equals Rx Drugs in Treatment of Depression

By Janet Gulland, Contributing Writer

A recent literature review of S-Adenosyl-methionine (SAMe) is shedding new light on this unique compound in the treatment of depression and other neuropsychiatric disorders. In some studies, SAMe was equivalent in efficacy to Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs) and Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) in reducing symptoms and improving quality of life.

To Reverse Alzheimer’s, Seek its Triggers: An Interview with Dale Bredesen, MD

By Erik Goldman, Editor

Alzheimer’s disease is largely preventable, and often reversible. Those are bold statements, especially from a conventionally-trained neurologist. But Dale Bredesen, MD, is used to challenging orthodox views. In this in-depth interview article, Dr. Bredesen shares his perspective–drawn from more than 30 years’ clinical and research experience–on how to avert the “long goodbye” of dementia.

Can Strep Trigger OCD? Two Decades On, A Controversy Continues

By Francie Fitzgerald, Contributing Writer

More than 20 years since it was first described, PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcal Infections) remains controversial.The recent emergence of a new diagnostic test panel has potential to provide biological evidence for the autoimmune process thought to trigger neuromotor symptoms observed in patients that fit the PANDAS/PANS description.

Is “Keto” the Key to Reversing Diabetes?

By Erik Goldman, Editor in Chief

A wave of recent studies show that in many cases, type 2 diabetes is partly or wholly reversible with high fat, very low carb ketogenic diets. But the process requires careful coaching, and should not be undertaken without good clinical guidance.

In Genomics, as in Life, the “80/20 Rule” Applies

By Liz Lipski, PhD, CNS

There’s a lot of hype around genomics these days. From a patient care perspective, it comes down to two basic questions: What types of tests give truly useful information? And, who benefits most from having the testing done? Thought leaders in the field gathered at Maryland University of Integrative Health for a three-day symposium on these issues. 

What the Helminth! Are “Purposeful Parasites” The Next Probiotics?

By Megan Copeland, MS, CNS, Contributing Writer

If the idea of utilizing parasitic worms as therapy makes you squirm, you’re certainly not alone. Sure it sounds strange, but the use of “purposeful parasites” is not as far-fetched as it seems. Researchers like Duke University’s William Parker, PhD, believes certain types of helminths can be helpful in treating immunological, gastrointestinal, autoimmune, and even cognitive disorders.

Probiotics Have Adjunctive Role in Diabetes Care

By Lucy Karanja, PharmD, Contributing Writer

Nearly a decade ago, microbiome researchers began publishing reports suggesting that bacteria in the intestines play a role in glucose metabolism.  Recent studies support that thesis, and provide a basis for use of probiotics as adjunctive treatments for people with type 2 diabetes.