Women’s Health

Black Cohosh Is Back; Soy Nuts Shine

By Tori Hudson, ND | Contributing Writer - Vol. 8, No. 4. , 2007

Two new studies reassert the value of Black Cohosh in managing menopausal symptoms and depression. A separate study indicates that a handful of roasted soy nuts per day can reduce blood pressure as well as menopausal symptoms. Dr. Tori Hudson reviews the data and offers her opinions on the findings.

Obesity in Women: Conjugated Linoleic Acid, Calcium May Be Valuable Allies

By Tori Hudson, ND | Contributing Writer - Vol. 8, No. 3. , 2007

Obesity is especially common among women. Recent studies show that women can lose small but clinically meaningful amounts of weight through the Atkins, Zone, Ornish or LEARN diet regimens. Conjugated linoleic acid may be a valuable ally in weight loss. Calcium supplementation may also help.

Going Against the Flow: Botanical Allies Help Mitigate Urinary Incontinence

By Stephen Siegel, MD & Joanna Cohen | Contributing Writers - Vol. 8, No. 3. , 2007

Urinary incontinence is common, and incidence will only increase as the population ages. Conventional drugs often have unwanted side-effects. Fortunately, there are a number of herbal allies like rosehips, saw palmetto, and teasel, as well as homeopathic remedies that can help strengthen urinary tract smooth muscle and reduce involuntary urine flow.

Perinatal Probiotics Benefit Preemies, Cesareans & Other Little People

By Erik L. Goldman | Editor in Chief - Vol. 8, No. 3. , 2007

A number of recent studies show that probiotic supplements and fermented dairy products can prevent or even treat colic, atopic dermatitis, and many other common allergic and infectious problems in infancy. Lactobacillus and bifidobacteria, the two main classes of “good bugs” can greatly improve the health of premature babies and those born via cesarean section. Plus, Perinatal Probiotics: A Research Review, and Choosing & Using Probiotics.

Endocrine Disruptors, Precocious Puberty & Reproductive System Cancer

By Erik L. Goldman | Editor in Chief - Vol. 8, No. 4. , 2007

Estrogenic and hormonally-active environmental toxins from plastics, pesticides, animal feed, and cosmetics play a key role in precocious puberty—on the rise in young girls—as well many forms of cancer, says Dr. Devra Lee Davis, of the University of Pittsburgh’s new Center for Environmental Oncology.

Fibroids, Endometriosis & Breast Cancer: Treating Systemic Estrogen Toxicity

By Janet Gulland | Contributing Writer - Vol. 8, No. 2. , 2007

According to Dr. Joel Evans, a holistic gynecologist, these three disorders are far more related than many doctors realize. All reflect maladaptive responses to systemic estrogen, and all are related to obesity and insulin resistance. Rather than focusing on the tumors, physicians ought to be working with women to lose weight, reduce insulin levels, improve estrogen metabolism, and lower inflammation.

Decrease in Breast Cancer Has Experts Asking, WHI?

By Tori Hudson, ND | Contributing Writer - Vol. 8, No. 2. , 2007

The recent National Cancer Institute report showing a major downturn in breast cancer rates in 2003 had a lot of people saying “I told you so,” and attributing the downturn to a drop-off in hormone replacement therapy. But it may not be that simple. Dr. Tori Hudson offers her thoughts on this hot topic.

Are Bisphosphonates Really Necessary for Osteoporosis Prevention?

By Tori Hudson, ND | Contributing Writer - Vol. 8, No. 1. , 2007

Recent reports of jaw osteonecrosis have marred the reputation of these anti-osteoporosis drugs. The reality is, for most early menopausal women, they are unnecessary. Many women will do just fine with dietary modifications, calcium and mineral supplementation, and exercise. A recent metanalysis suggests that Vitamin K may be better and safer than the bisphosphonates.

Rethinking Hyperlipidemia and Natural Treatment Options for Women at Risk

By Tori Hudson, ND | Contributing Writer - Vol. 7, No. 3. , 2006

A recent metanalysis is challenging the notion that soy protein and soy isoflavones can improve women’s cholesterol profiles. But the study did not account for the fact that some women convert soy isoflavones into equol, a powerful phytoestrogen, while others do not. In a separate study, German researchers found that policosanol, a sugar cane derived substance, had no meaningful effect on lipid profiles or cardiovascular risk.

Inflammation, Autoimmune Reactions Underlie Many Common Thyroid Problems

By Janet Gulland | Staff Writer - Vol. 7, No. 3. , 2006

Effective management of thyroid problems requires an approach that goes beyond simply manipulating thyroid hormones. Many thyroid problems are related to underlying inflammatory processes, environmental toxin exposure and dietary factors. A guide to assessing and treating thyroid disorders from a holistic viewpoint.