Dr. Taz MD’s Guide to Living Healthy, Naturally Newsletter Issue Twelve

*costs are merely monthly estimates and column information is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any medical condition

Beauty Buzz
DIY Exfoliant for your Face

Spring is almost here and it’s time to shed that layer of dead dry skin cells from winter’s cold days and brighten your face. Instead of using an exfoliant with harsh toxins, try making this one by green skincare expert, Sophie Uliano.

Ask Dr. Taz MD

Q: I have just survived a case of the shingles. Yikes. From what I have heard my case was fairly light. Nevertheless, very uncomfortable. What supplements or steps should I take to insure a stronger immune system. Or is there anything I can do to achieve better balance in my body?

A: Shingles outbreaks are signs of a weakened immune system. It is very uncomfortable. I usually recommend boosting the immune system by taking the amino acid lysine, 1-gram 3x’s per day. Using astragalus, a well-known Chinese herb, acts as anti-viral, anti-bacterial and an immune booster. High dose vitamin C is also helpful (3-5 grams per day). For severe cases, I also recommend IV vitamin C infusions. 

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Living Healthy Tip
Prep for Allergy Season with Pineapple 

One way to prevent allergies this spring is to load up on foods rich in bromelain. This enzyme can be found in the deliciously sweet pineapple. According to the Univ. of Maryland Medical Center, bromelain may help to reduce cough and nasal mucus when associated with sinus conditions. It also may be an effective way of reducing inflammation and swelling due to hay fever. For more than ten years, Dr. Taz MD has recommended that her patients incorporate pineapple into their diets, as a natural antihistamine, before and during seasons with soaring pollen counts. 

Eating Disorders
Dr. Taz MD: How to Support

I think the best way to support someone with an eating disorder is to focus on their mental health and teach them to shift away from focusing on food as an outlet. Dealing with the emotional root first, then rebuilding gut function slowly, replacing key minerals are first steps. Once this is done, then a nutritionist or a meal plan will be more successful. While counseling can be helpful, I find that acupuncture, Cognitive behavioral therapy or craniosacral therapy are better at dealing with the emotional root of this unfortunate disease. Many people suffering from an eating disorder have also been subject to some form of trauma; whether it is divorce between their parents, death of a loved one or a highly stressed environment or a history of abuse- either physical or sexual, which indirectly teaches and imprints a self-loathing of the body.

(read more click here)

Stress Warning Signs
What are Yours?

Here are just a few common warning signs of stress. . . 

• Using alcohol, drugs or cigarettes to relax 
• Worrying, inability to focus and heart palpitations 
• Overeating, skipping meals or no appetite 
•  Tension headaches  
•  Constipation or diarrhea
•  Restless or inability to sleep soundly  

(read more here)

Goal of Dr. Taz MD’s Living Healthy, Naturally

With gratitude, 
Dr. Taz Bhatia MD