FEATURED RESEARCH
Cherry juice vs. sleeping pills
Do you have trouble falling asleep? Past research suggested that taking melatonin might help you get to sleep faster. A new study focuses on assessing the reported high levels of melatonin in Montmorency cherries and the effects of these cherries on sleep quality. The study participants, who received tart cherry juice concentrate every night for a week, had significantly higher melatonin levels than the control group. These individuals reported significant improvement in sleep efficiency and total sleep time. For details, check out the article, " Drinking Tart Cherry Juice May Improve Sleep Quality," from the December, 2011, issue of Natural Standard's Integrative Medicine Newsletter. Another natural alternative to consider.

FEATURED ISSUE
The wonders of HBOT
Are you aware of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT)? Most people have heard of using this treatment to help divers who surface too quickly and get the bends. Through the years, research has revealed how the body responds to breathing 100 percent oxygen in an increased atmospheric pressured environment. The resulting increased amount of oxygen in your blood supply promotes healing and fights infection.

Although recent research on the use of HBOT for brain injury and stroke has had some remarkable results, patients who need this treatment keep hitting a wall of refusal. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which regulates the use of the hyperbaric chamber as a medical device, says that research for approving HBOT for brain injury and stroke patients is inadequate.

The practitioners and advocacy groups who are most vocal about expanding the use of HBOT include those working to get it approved for use with wounded veterans.

General information on Hyperbaric Medicine from Wikipedia

Issue: Should HBOT be restricted to only FDA-approved uses?

In our search for websites that support your learning more about this topic, we found that many sites share positive results for the use of HBOT for brain injuries, post traumatic stress disorder, and strokes, but few that oppose this use of HBOT. As readers of our reports are likely, now or in the future, to know someone with a brain injury or a stroke, being aware of this treatment option may be vital.

PRO
FDA approved uses for Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (4/6/11)
WOUND SOURCE

Conditions Treated With and Costs for Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)
by Rashmi Gulati, MD
Patients Medical

CON
A Phase I Study of Low-Pressure Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Blast-Induced Post-Concussion Syndrome and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (1/1/12)
Journal of Neurotrauma

New Study Reaffirms: Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Should be Standard Treatment for Veterans (12/6/11)
Alliance for Natural Health USA

FAQ or Frequently Asked Questions about HBOT and Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Harch Hyperbarics

You can post your comments on our blog at ahhablog.org

FEATURED AHHA RESOURCE
How can you find a progressive physician?
Are you searching for a medical doctor who delivers care with more than just drugs and surgery? Checking referral programs with holistic associations is a good way to start. But if this does not bring forth someone in your geographic area, our Practitioner Referral Sources list is a useful next step. Our list includes a wide variety of organizations that give referrals, many of which are exclusively for medical doctors. Physicians who are affiliated with the organizations on our list are definitely the open-minded, progressive ones who have gone beyond drugs and surgery. Where else but with AHHA can you zero in to identify so many of these special physicians so easily?

FEATURED RESEARCH
Reduce gut stress
It can be frustrating for those suffering with the abdominal pain and cramping from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) because responses to treatment options differ from one person to another. There is a new approach to consider. Recent research studied the effects of hypnotherapy sessions on patients with IBS and found significant, long-term improvement in the symptoms. For details, check out the article, "Hypnotherapy May Improve IBS Symptoms," from the November, 2011, issue of Natural Standard's Integrative Medicine Newsletter. Could the mind-body connection explain how mentally reducing stress might make the intestines less sensitive?

FEATURED ISSUE
Airport x-ray cancer risk
How much air travel do you do? One of the new technologies to protect the safety of air travelers includes the full-body scanners at airport security. However, this backscatter x-ray machine is getting widely divergent health safety reviews because it emits ionized radiation. Some medical sources report that the airport x-rays have enough energy to cause a DNA mutation that might trigger cancer. Airport x-ray machines were recently banned in Europe because of the potential health and safety risk for passengers. The U.S. Transportation Security Authority (TSA) maintains, however, that backscatter x-ray scanners emit such low levels of radiation (said to be equivalent to the radiation you'd get in about two minutes of flying) that any resulting increase in cancer risk would be negligible. In early November, the head of the TSA testified at a senate hearing that a new, independent study on the safety of x-ray body scanners would be done. But now there are indications that this will not be happening.

Issue: Are airport backscatter x-ray scanners safe?
Below are some web sources to assist you in researching this matter.

PRO
Safety - Advanced Imaging Technology
Transportation Security Administration

Airport Full-Body Screening: What Is the Risk? (6/27/11)
By Pratik Mehta, BA & Rebecca Smith-Bindman, MD
Archives of Internal Medicine

Products for Security Screening of People - Risk/Benefits (12/23/10)
U.S. Food and Drug Administration

Rapiscan Secure 1000® Series Safety Features (6/14/11)
Rapiscan Systems

CON
New airport x-ray machines could pose cancer risk (11/2/11)
Envirothink

U.S. Government Glossed Over Cancer Concerns As It Rolled Out Airport X-Ray Scanners (11/1/11)
By Michael Grabell
ProPublica - Journalism in the Public Interest

TSA Attempts to Cover Up Cancer Threat From Its Airport X-ray Machines (11/29/11)
Alliance for Natural Health USA

Europe Bans Airport X-Ray Scanners. Should the U.S. Follow Suit? (11/21/11)
By Meredith Melnick
Time - Healthland

You can post your comments on our blog at ahhablog.org.

FEATURED AHHA RESOURCE
Gift of knowledge
Looking for a special gift to motivate a loved one to get more involved in enhancing his/her quality of wellness? AHHA members have written a number of books (and created CDs and DVDs) with personal health tips. You can check these out at Health-related Books, CDs, DVDs...and the Books/ Other Media section of the AHHA Organizational Member list.

FEATURED RESEARCH
Lavender for pain relief
Are you dealing with intense pain? Are you looking for non-drug options for pain relief? Have you tried lavender oil aromatherapy? If not, check out the article, "Lavender Oil Aromatherapy for Pain," from the September, 2011, issue of Natural Standard's Integrative Medicine Newsletter that reports study results with significant reduction of pain.

FEATURED ISSUE
Vaccine safety studies false?
On Friday, September 30, 2011, Brian Hooker, PhD, filed a lawsuit (see bolenreport.com/ Geier/hookersuit.pdf) in federal court in Washington, DC, against the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) demanding that the CDC quit stalling on his Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests and provide him with the public information he is looking for. Hooker has been making specific FOIA requests to the CDC since March 11, 2005, on the subject of the CDC's five "Thimerosal in vaccines studies" that he feels omitted important information and/or included false data.

The CDC has presented numerous studies to prove the safety and efficacy of thimerosal and that there is no link between thimerosal and autism. These are being challenged by Dr. Hooker.

Below are links where you can read up on what will be in the news very soon.

PRO
Links to the studies CDC uses to prove safety of thimerosal and vaccines:
Thimerosal and the Occurrence of Autism: Negative Ecological Evidence From Danish Population-Based Data (2003)
Pediatrics

Autism and thimerosal-containing vaccines: Lack of consistent evidence for an association (2003)
American Journal of Preventive Medicine

Association Between Thimerosal-containing Vaccine and Autism (2003)
The Journal of the American Medical Association

Safety of Thimerosal-Containing Vaccines: A Two-Phased Study of Computerized Health Maintenance Organization Databases (2003)
Pediatrics

Thimerosal Exposure in Infants and Developmental Disorders: A Retrospective Cohort Study in the United Kingdom Does Not Support a Causal Association (2004)
Pediatrics

Prenatal and Infant Exposure to Thimerosal From Vaccines and Immunoglobulins and Risk of Autism (2010)
Pediatrics

CON
Tim Bolen has released three parts of a five-part series providing the data compiled by Brian S. Hooker:
The CDC Has Known All Along How Dangerous Vaccines Are - And Has Covered It Up... (Part One) (10/4/11)
Opinion by Consumer Advocate Tim Bolen

The CDC Has Known All Along How Dangerous Vaccines Are - And Has Covered It Up... (Part Two) (10/13/11)
Opinion by Consumer Advocate Tim Bolen
This report includes Brian Hooker's critiques of all five of the original CDC studies, plus his analysis of the CDC's 2010 study.

The CDC Has Known All Along How Dangerous Vaccines Are - And Has Covered It Up... (Part Three) (10/22/11)
Opinion by Consumer Advocate Tim Bolen

You can post your comments on our blog at AHHAblog.org

FEATURED AHHA RESOURCE
Weekly inspiration
It is important to be self-sufficient during these challenging times. One positive step you can take is to assume more responsibility for the every-day actions you take that impact the quality of your health. AHHA has an online collection of Self-Help Articles that presents a multitude of ideas you can consider incorporating into your daily life. Making just one simple change in your daily routine can raise your level of wellness. Why not check out the articles and be inspired?

AHHA offers ongoing weekly inspiration. Go to Free Stuff and sign up to receive weekly eAlerts with the Featured Article of the Week and the Featured Video of the Week.

FEATURED RESEARCH
Gals - eat your veggies!
A recent study suggests that women who maintain a diet rich in fruits and vegetables may have a reduced risk of breast cancer. The article, "Vegetable-Rich Diet Linked to Reduced Breast Cancer Risk," from the September, 2011, issue of Natural Standard's Integrative Medicine Newsletter, goes into detail explaining positive and negative female hormone receptor conditions and the impact of diet choices on the level of risk for breast cancer.

FEATURED ISSUE
Will GM foods will soon be labeled?
Two major actions were initiated this month to force a change in government regulations to require labeling of genetically modified (GM)/ generically engineered (GE) foods in the United States. On the federal level the Center For Food Safety filed a legal petition with the Federal Department of Agriculture (FDA) demanding that the agency require the labeling of all food produced using genetic engineering. On the state level, the Organic Consumers Association is supporting grassroots activities in the State of California to get an initiative on the 2012 ballot for California to be the first state with food laws mandating GM labels.

Are you part of the 96% of the U.S. citizens who want to know if the food they eat has been genetically modified? If you are, you will want to keep track of what happens in the upcoming months. The following links will help you get your education on this matter started.

Genetically modified food
Wikipedia

PRO
Adoption of Genetically Engineered Crops in the U.S.
United States Department of Agriculture, Economic Research Service

Genetically modified crops get boost over organics with recent USDA rulings (3/23/11)
By Lindsey Layton
The Washington Post / Post Politics

Why Aren't G.M.O. Foods Labeled? (2/15/11)
By Mark Bittman
The New York Times / The Opinion Pages

CON
Tell the FDA: Just Label It! (10/5/11)
Organic Consumers Association

Groups File Legal Petition With FDA Demanding Labeling of Genetically Engineered Foods (10/4/11)
Center For Food Safety

California May Require Labeling of GE Food Products! (10/4/11)
Alliance for Natural Health-USA

Death blow to GMOs? California ballot initiative calls for mandatory labeling of all genetically engineered foods (10/3/11)
by Mark Adams
NaturalNews

Do you believe genetically modified foods should be labeled? (2/25/11)
MSNBC / health

FEATURED AHHA RESOURCE
Knowledge Is Power
Some patients need to research the treatment options available for their condition so they can better understand which healthcare professionals they need on their healthcare team. Health Information Search Services is a unique list that includes organizations whose experts can research treatment options for any health condition, plus other health questions. You can specify conventional medicine and/or alternative approaches. If you know of someone dealing with a life threatening or debilitating diagnosis, please let him or her know about this valuable support option.

FEATURED RESEARCH
New benefit from yoga?
According to a new study, therapeutic yoga used in combination with conventional treatment may benefit patients with schizophrenia. Patients in the study that received the yoga therapy showed significant improvements in quality of life. For details, see "Yoga for Schizophrenia" from the July, 2011, issue of Natural Standard's Integrative Medicine Newsletter.

FEATURED ISSUE
Mandatory vaccines?
The controversy over the safety of vaccines may become moot if vaccines become mandatory. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has unveiled a new National Vaccine Plan "to enhance coordination of all aspects of federal vaccine and immunization activities." Public perception is that the goal is to have all vaccines mandatory despite scientific indications of dangerous side effects from many vaccines.

Some view government funding of vaccines, along with mandatory use of these vaccines, as favoritism that provides huge profits for the vaccine manufacturers. Couple this with the Supreme Court ruling absolving drug manufacturers of responsibility for injury or death as a result of being vaccinated, and many feel that consumer safety is being compromised.

Parents are complaining how difficult it is to become informed about the safety and/or dangers of vaccines. Some aspects to be researched:
· What are the odds of contracting a disease/condition if my child does not have the vaccine?
· How effective is the vaccine to prevent this disease/condition?
· What side effects are known from the vaccine?
· Any there any reports of injury or death related to vaccine?
· Are any reviews of existing research selective or are they truly representative of findings?
· Is this an issue of freedom of choice vs. a government mandated requirement for the vaccine?

Are you curious to learn more about the opposing views on the safety of the new National Vaccine Plan? Here are a few sites to get you started.

PRO
U.S. National Vaccine Plan (2/16/11 )
U.S. Department of Health & Human Services

The National Vaccine Plan: Ten Years of Future Opportunities for State Immunization Programs (2/16/11)
Scientific Technologies Corporation

The Politics of Health care: HHS Unveils New National Vaccine Plan (2/18/11)
By Frank Irving
Healthcare POV

CON
A New Federal Vaccine Plan-and a Bad State Bill (9/6/11)
Alliance for Natural Health USA

Scientists and Drug Companies Scheme to Avoid FDA Scrutiny and Exploit US Vaccine Programme Immunity Against the Public Interest (5/20/11)
By John Stone
Age of Autism

A botched battle in the vaccine safety wars (8/31/11)
By Erika Check Hayden
The Last Word on Nothing

FEATURED AHHA RESOURCE
Do you have a personal healthcare team?
Whether your team is one individual or a diverse group of practitioners, the ideal team is one in which you and your physicians and other professionals function as partners and everyone espouses a holistic (whole person) approach to creating optimal wellness. If this isn't happening in your case, consider making some changes. A great place to start your search is the AHHA Practitioner Member list.

FEATURED RESEARCH
Do green veggies make you smarter?
According to a new study, adolescents who consume high quantities of folate in their diets may have increased academic success. Natural sources of folate include leafy vegetables, such as broccoli, spinach and lettuce, and fruits, such as bananas and melons. For details, see "Folate Intake Linked to Academic Achievement" from the July, 2011, issue of Natural Standard's Integrative Medicine Newsletter.

FEATURED ISSUE
Is fluoride falling out of favor?
Since the 1940s there has been a gradual increase in the treating of public drinking water, until today two thirds of U.S. public drinking water is fluoridated. A January, 2011, report by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is being quoted as both supporting this trend and also as cautioning about the inherent dangers from exposure to fluoride. How can the general public know what to believe?

Is fluoride a health benefit? Has it enhanced the dental health of the American public? Or is fluoride a toxic substance that not only has not reduced tooth decay, but also causes the pitting of teeth and increases the risk of brittle bones, fractures, and crippling bone abnormalities?

To assist you in determining what you chose to believe, AHHA has compiled the following online articles that present pro and con information.

PRO
"EPA and HHS Announce New Scientific Assessments and Actions on Fluoride / Agencies working together to maintain benefits of preventing tooth decay while preventing excessive exposure" (1/7/11)
United States Environmental Protection Agency
(This is the report that is being interpreted in varying ways.)

"Community Water Fluoridation" (1/6/11)
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

"Fluoride Facts from the American Dental Hygienists' Association" (1/6/11)
Advanced Family Dental

CON
"FDA: Fluoride Supplements Never Found Safe or Effective" (7/29/11)
New York State Coalition Opposed to Fluoridation, Inc.

"EPA: Fluoride Must Be Phased Out" (7/13/11)
Bob Tuskin Show

"The Case Against Water Fluoridation" (8/12/11)
Small Footprint Family

FEATURED AHHA RESOURCE
Are you on the Social Network?
AHHA now has a blog! Go to ahhablog.org to see the new way we get to communicate with the world. AHHA will continue sending out via email our weekly Featured Video of the Week and Featured Article of the Week alerts, plus the monthly AHHA Special Update eReport. However, now we will ALSO share the same information on the blog, plus a new Facebook page and a Twitter page. Please share these with your friends who prefer playing in the social media arena.

FEATURED RESEARCH
Benefits of pets
A recent study suggests that young children who have an indoor pet during their first year of life may be less likely to develop pet allergies. For details review the article, "Pets During Childhood May Reduce Risk for Allergies" in the June, 2011, issue of Natural Standard's Integrative Medicine Newsletter.

FEATURED ISSUE
Are your supplements in danger?
Most people in the U.S. are confident that their access to dietary supplements is protected by the 1994 law Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA). However, one matter not clearly defined in DHSEA may be a fatal flaw. In order to provide the missing clear definition of what is a "new dietary ingredient (NDIs)," the recent "Food Safety Modernization Act" included a requirement that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) must publish guidelines clarifying this NDI definition.

On July 1, the FDA released "Draft Guidance for Industry: Dietary Supplements: New Dietary Ingredient Notifications and Related issues." Wow, is this generating reactions! As the FDA has invited comments (due by October 3, 2011), it looks like they should expect to receive a high volume of feedback. Maybe some from you?

Here are some comments that show concern about this matter:
* These restrictive regulations will be in the hands of the FDA, which wants supplements and drugs to be handled in the same way.
* Requirements applicable to NDIs are more restrictive than the statutory language contemplates and would create substantial hurdles for manufacturers.
* If fully implemented, could ban virtually all dietary supplements in the USA that were formulated after 1994.

There will be more and more aspects of the proposed legislation coming out in upcoming months. Here are some sites where you can begin your research:

PRO
Draft Guidance for Industry: Dietary Supplements: New Dietary Ingredient Notifications and Related Issues
July 1, 2011
U.S. Food and Drug Administration

FDA seeks to ease confusion on supplements
July 6, 2011
Emily Stephenson, Reuters

Let the Fireworks Begin! FDA Publishes its Long-awaited New Dietary Ingredient Draft Guidance
July 7, 2011
Riette van Laack, FDA/ Law Blog

CON
FDA's New Sneak Attack on Supplements
July 5, 2011
Alliance for Natural Health USA

FDA's scheme to outlaw nearly all nutritional supplements created after 1994 would destroy millions of jobs and devastate economy
July 7, 2011
Mike Adams, Natural News

New Durbin Bill and FDA Guidance for Dietary Ingredients
July 8, 2011
National Health Federation

FEATURED AHHA RESOURCE
What did I miss?
If you are a new subscriber to our monthly AHHA Special Updates eReports, you may be wondering what you've missed in earlier updates. We have an AHHA Special Updates eReport Archives. Check out the interesting research and reminders of matters about which to be vigilant.

FEATURED RESEARCH
Value of breakfast
According to a recent study, eating a high-protein healthy breakfast may help you stay full until lunchtime. If you are trying to lose weight by skipping breakfast, check out the article, "High-Protein Breakfast May Prevent Hunger" in the May, 2011, issue of Natural Standard's Integrative Medicine Newsletter.

FEATURED ISSUE
When antibiotics are not the answer
The discovery of antibiotics 70 years ago offered healing to patients with bacterial infections. Unfortunately, through the decades more and more bacteria are becoming resistant to antibiotics. Many feel this is due to the overuse and misuse of antibiotics by physicians, plus the use of antibiotics in animals grown for humans to eat. Developing new antibiotic drugs turns out to not be a viable option. Because of the serious side effects associated with use of antibiotics, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is reluctant to approve new ones.

Why should you want to become better informed about this entire matter?
· Verify the dangers to your own satisfaction
· Research other treatment options - such as natural solutions
· Take preventive measures

The following links have been selected to get you started in your research:

Killer Super Bugs - The Result of Antibiotic Misuse
Healthy Lifestyle

Antibiotic Resisting Bacteria The Rise of Superbugs
By Dr. Burt

UN health agency cautions on drug-resistant disease-causing germs
UN News Centre

'Superbug' spreading to Southern California hospitals
Los Angeles Times

Drug developers explore vitamin D benefits without the vitamin
Nature Medicine

Superbugs: Will Millions Die Needlessly Before We Act?
Alliance for Natural Health USA

FEATURED AHHA RESOURCE
Researching schools for a career change?
AHHA Organizational Members offer products, services, and educational opportunities you can use to enhance your health and well-being. The category Education-Professional has a list of educational institutions appropriate for individuals considering a career in the healthcare field. Check here to check things out.

FEATURED RESEARCH
Gluten sensitivity documented
Scientists at the University of Maryland School of Medicine's Center for Celiac Research have proven that gluten sensitivity is different from celiac disease at the molecular level and in the response it elicits from the immune system. The research, published online in BMC Medicine, provides the first scientific evidence of a different mechanism leading to gluten sensitivity. It also demonstrates that gluten sensitivity and celiac disease are part of a spectrum of gluten-related disorders.

FEATURED ISSUE
How to get CAM coverage?
Have you ever investigated Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) or Flexible Spending Arrangements (FSAs)? A HSA is a savings account owned by an individual. Funds in this account can be used for health/wellness products and services. At the time the funds are deposited into the account, they are not subject to federal income taxes. FSAs, which allow employees to be reimbursed for medical expenses, are usually funded through voluntary salary reduction agreements with the person's employer. No employment or federal income taxes are deducted. These two programs are popular with individuals who use over-the-counter drugs and complementary and alternative therapies not covered by regular insurance.

There are currently bills in the U.S. Senate (S. 312) and House of Representatives (H.R. 605) that could protect HSAs and FSAs from being gutted by the healthcare reform act, especially if they are passed with important additional amendments.

AHHA is bringing this matter to your attention for several reasons:
· You may want to learn more about HSAs or FSAs for your personal use
· You may already have a HSA or FSA and need to understand how the terms might change
· You may want to take action to influence the pending legislation to conform to what you feel is best.

The following links have been selected to get you started in your research:
H.R. 605: Patients' Freedom to Choose Act
Govtrack.us

S. 312: Patients' Freedom to Choose Act
Govtrack.us

Help Us Rescue Two Health Savings Programs that We Really Need
Alliance for Natural Health USA

Health savings account
Wikipedia

Flexible spending account
Wikipedia

For additional information, you might try Googling "Patients' Freedom to Choose Act."

FEATURED AHHA RESOURCE
Power of your everyday choices
More and more diseases are being documented as being the result of poor everyday lifestyle choices. AHHA's booklet, Wellness From Within: The First Step, reminds you of the power of the decisions you make throughout each day. Take time to review the options included in this booklet. Choose to do one thing in your everyday routine differently. Various formats of the booklet are available online. Free!

FEATURED RESEARCH
Natural option proved better than drug
Are you concerned about your blood pressure? Are diet and exercise not working to keep yours within a healthy range? Are you investigating non-drug options? If you answered yes to any of these questions, check out some newly published research on a natural option. This research is presented in an article titled, "Olive Leaf for Hypertension", in the March, 2011, issue of Natural Standard's Integrative Medicine Newsletter. Olive leaf tea has been used in the Middle East for centuries to treat high blood pressure and a number of other conditions. In a recent trial, patients in the olive leaf extract group got the same level of benefits as the drug group, However, only the olive leaf group also experienced significant reduction in triglyceride levels. If you are interested, hand this article to your physician.

FEATURED ISSUE
Another chance to learn the truth
Are you aware that the U.S. Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act defines anything that cures, treats, mitigates, diagnoses or prevents disease as a drug? The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is using this definition to prohibit food producers and dietary supplement manufacturers from letting you know about nutritional benefits that might benefit the quality of your health. Every year or so, legislation is introduced to change FDA regulations so that legitimate, peer-reviewed scientific studies can be referenced without changing the foodÕs regulatory category to an unapproved drug. This just happened on April 5, 2011, as HR 1364, the "Free Speech About Science Act" was introduced. Will this get passed this time?

Issue: Should the FDA allow the general public to learn of a food's health-benefits-related scientific research results without that food being reclassified as a drug by the FDA?

PRO
Chaffetz and Polis introduce the Free Speech About Science Act
Congressman Jason Chaffetz website

Free Speech About Science White Paper
Alliance for Natural Health USA

H.R. 1364: To amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act concerning the distribution of information on...
Govtrack.us

CON
Guidance for Industry: Structure/Function Claims, Small Entity Compliance Guide
U.S. Food and Drug Administration

IOM Report Recommends Framework to Evaluate Science Behind Health Claims for Foods and Drugs; Calls for Equal Rigor in Assessing Food Claims and Drug Approvals
Institute of Medicine of the National Academies

Help end criminalization of vitamin, supplement makers in America
Mike Adams of Natural News This article explains the FDA position that "anything that cures, treats, mitigates, diagnoses or prevents disease as a drug."

FEATURED AHHA RESOURCE
Non-personal health resources are available, too
While most people come to the AHHA website searching for resources to enhance their personal wellness, many people also come for information related to their business or career. On the AHHA home page there are three special "portal" boxes. The third one (on the right) leads you to the Wellness Research section with details for how AHHA has special tips for journalists, owners of health-related businesses, healing centers, students, and career searchers.

FEATURED RESEARCH
What your child eats IS important!
What parents have long suspected has now been proven. Some ordinary, seemingly healthy foods can have adverse effects on your child. A recent study removed wheat, eggs, tomatoes and dairy products from the diets of 100 children ages four to eight with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). There were significant improvements in their ADHD symptoms. This research is presented in the article, "Testing Diet and ADHD Link" in the February, 2011, issue of Natural Standard's Integrative Medicine Newsletter. Interested parents may want to share this research with their physicians.

FEATURED ISSUE
Is chronic Lyme disease real or medical myth?
Are you aware of the dramatically opposing camps in the medical field regarding whether there is a real condition called chronic Lyme disease or if it is "all in your head." On one hand, the International Lyme And Associated Diseases Society reports that "a preponderance of evidence indicates that active ongoing spirochetal infection with or without other tick-borne co-infections is the cause of the persistent symptoms in Chronic Lyme Disease." On the other hand, the Infectious Disease Society of America insists that there is "no convincing biologic evidence for the existence of symptomatic chronic B. burgdorferi infection [the pathologic agent in Lyme disease]..." This latter view is accepted by the Centers for Disease Control.

Those experiencing the painful and debilitation symptoms of Lyme disease will tell you the symptoms are real. They will also tell how difficult it is to find medical professionals who can figure out what is wrong and how to help them.

The following articles have been selected to help you get better informed about chronic Lyme disease:

PRO
Basic information about Lyme disease
International Lyme And Associated Diseases Society

Lyme 101
California Lyme Disease Association

Lyme Disease: Misdiagnosed, Underreported and Epidemic
Alliance for Natural Health USA

CON
Frequently Asked Questions About Lyme Disease
Infectious Diseases Society of America

Chronic Lyme Disease Exemplifies What's Wrong With Playing Doctor On The Web
Forbes - David Whelan

Dispelling the chronic Lyme disease myth
MM Kemperman, JS Bakken, GR Kravitz

FEATURED AHHA RESOURCE
Video clips with power
AHHA is thrilled to introduce a new addition to our resource lists: Self-Help Videos. You are linked to educational videos (created by AHHA members) that offer information and suggestions for enhancing your health and well-being.

FEATURED RESEARCH
Your eyes are important
Glaucoma (an increase in internal eye pressure that can lead to damage in the optic nerve and eventually cause blindness) is a common condition that can start showing up about the same time as retirement. If one wants to enjoy one's "golden years," it's important to maintain one's eyesight. Recent research indicates that adding auricular acupressure to a treatment program for glaucoma does improve the intraocular pressure. Something to check out with your ophthalmologist? This research is presented in the article, "Acupressure for Glaucoma", in the December, 2010, issue of Natural Standard's Integrative Medicine Newsletter.

FEATURED ISSUE
Organic future threatened?
This is an alert. The US Department of Agriculture has made two major decisions this month to deregulate genetically engineered (GE) alfalfa and sugarbeets that have "built in" resistance to pesticide. Organic farmers have fears that wind-blown pollen from the GE crops will contaminate organic fields.

Read the following articles and decide if you are concerned about this.

PRO
Beet growers optimistic about USDA decision on genetically modified seed (2/8/11)
Times-News magicValley.com

USDA Announces Decision to Fully Deregulate Roundup Ready Alfalfa (1/27/11)
United States Department of Agriculture

Genetically modified alfalfa environmental statement out (12/23/10)
AG Weekly

CON
USDA Says Yes to Genetically Engineered Sugarbeets-Kiss "Organic" Goodbye! (2/8/11)
Alliance for Natural Health USA

USDA Approves Genetically Engineered Sugar Beets (2/4/11)
Rodale - where health meets green

USDA Completely Deregulates Genetically Engineered Alfalfa-It is Time to Demand Congressional Hearings! (2/1/11)
Alliance for Natural Health USA

USDA stance on GM alfalfa threatens "fabric of organic industry" (Jan 2011)
The Organic & Non-GMO Report

FEATURED AHHA RESOURCE
Change a life
AHHA offers a single sheet that introduces the powerful concept of the "holistic approach"-and it is available for free! Check out our "Gift for a Better Life". Who do you know who could benefit from receiving a copy of this sheet? Download, print out double-sided, share with a friend, and empower a life.

FEATURED RESEARCH
Run to survive
Research verifies the correlation between exercise and recovery from disease. The specific research in the article, "Exercise May Improve Prostate Cancer Survival, as presented in the January, 2011 issue of Natural Standard's Integrative Medicine Newsletter, focuses on men dealing with prostate cancer and how any level of exercise improved their recovery rate. If your doctor says you are fit enough, get up off the couch and start walking. Picture yourself literally moving toward your goal of enhanced health.

FEATURED ISSUE
Is intravenous vitamin C a drug?
Our issue this month is to alert you to a developing action by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ban the manufacture and distribution of several natural nutrients in injectable form. In December, the FDA sent a letter to one manufacturer and put the company on notice that its products for (1) vitamin B-complex injection, (2) magnesium chloride injection, and (3) ascorbic acid (vitamin C) injection are considered drugs and must be approved as such. The reality is that the expensive process to gain approval of a non-patentable natural item will never happen, as the company could never recoup the costs.

The online articles related to this matter are focusing on intravenous vitamin C. Recent private research showing the success of using intravenous vitamin C in treating a number of diseases makes the threat of this substance becoming unavailable of concern to a number of advocates of natural treatments.

The issue appears to be whether or not the FDA should be designating natural nutrients as drugs. Here are a few articles that present what is currently happening in some detail:

PRO
FDA letter to McGuff Pharmaceuticals
(See section on Unapproved New Drug and Misbranding Violations section)
U.S. Food and Drug Administration Department of Health and Human Services

CON
An Important Update on IV Vitamin C
Alliance for Natural Health USA

Vitamin C
care2 make a difference

You are urged to join the conversation. Register your opinions on this issue. Post new, current web articles you find. Participate in AHHA's interactive Issues Forum at ahhaissuesforum.org. Note that the instructions for how to post are available on every page.

FEATURED AHHA RESOURCE
Career resources
More and more people are contacting AHHA to gain information about a career in holistic health. They want to help others learn the tools for making wise lifestyle decisions that will result in a higher level of wellness. In response to these queries, AHHA has compiled a special section of our website, For Career Research, with links to valuable resources for those developing their career plans. Share this resource with friends who may be contemplating a career change to healthcare.

FOLLOW-UP
S.510 passed
Using some unorthodox legislative approaches, the controversial bill titled the Food Safety Modernization Act (S.510/H.R. 2751) passed the Senate and House in December. The bill was signed into law by President Obama on January 4, 2011.

Obama signs bill to improve nation's food safety
By Darlene Superville and Mary Clare Jalonic
The Washington Post

Bill Summary & Status 111th Congress (2009 - 2010) H.R.2751
The Library of Congress

The "Food Safety" Saga: Our Job Is Just Beginning
(Timeline history of this bill)
Alliance for Natural Health USA

FEATURED RESEARCH
Tomato Juice for Healthy Bones?
Osteoporosis is a condition afflicting a major portion of the elder population. One possible preventive or healing option that has not previously been studied concerns the positive effect of the antioxidant lycopene on bone health. It is encouraging to report that scientists have completed and published research demonstrating this antioxidant. Natural sources of lycopene include tomato juice. For further details, check out the article, "Lycopene and Osteoporosis", as presented in the December, 2010, issue of the Integrative Medicine eNewsletter.

FEATURED ISSUE
How much vitamin D will you take?
Vitamin D is reported to have a long list of benefits, including boosting immunity. The recommended amount of vitamin D experts say we need is increasing. Unfortunately, the research results for how much we need are widely divergent, ranging from 600 IU to 1200 IU per day. How will you decide how much you will take, especially during flu season? Will you follow the position that few people are deficient in vitamin D? Or will you get yourself tested, because you go for the research that says most people are severely deficient?

Position: Those living in North America have healthy intakes of vitamin D

PRO
Dietary Reference Intakes for Calcium and Vitamin D
Institute of Medicine of the National Academies

Report Questions Need for 2 Diet Supplements
The New York Times

CON
Vitamin D recommendation rises
ConsumerSearch

Randomized trial of vitamin D supplementation to prevent seasonal influenza A in schoolchildren
The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition

You are urged to join the conversation. Register your opinions on this issue. Post new, current web articles you find. Participate in AHHA's interactive Issues Forum at ahhaissuesforum.org. Note that the instructions for how to post are available on every page.

FEATURED AHHA RESOURCE
Gift of knowledge
Looking for last minute gifts for your loved ones? Consider the gift of a book, CD, or DVD with personal health tips. AHHA's website has two resources that list some inspiring options. Check out the Health-related Books, CDs, DVDs... list and the Books/Other Media section of the AHHA Organizational Member list.

FOLLOW UP
Latest on S.510
In the November, 2010 issue of AHHA Healthy Updates eReports we alerted you to concerns about Food Safety Bill S.510, which was up for a vote in the Senate. This bill passed in the Senate, but major revisions removed many of the concerns. The bill now goes back to the House of Representatives. Some assert that the Senate bill contains a revenue-raising (i.e., taxing) provision that is unconstitutional. Watch for how this is handled.

FEATURED RESEARCH
New Mind-Body Connection?
A recent study found that if older adults exercise regularly for at least a year, this has measurable improvements in brain functions such as memory and attention. Encourage your favorite senior citizen to make a habit of walking. For further details, check out the article, "Aerobics for the Brain", as presented in the September, 2010, issue of the Integrative Medicine eNewsletter.

FEATURED ISSUE
Food Safety Rules Unequal?
As the U.S. Senate goes back into session this week, one bill being watched carefully is Senate Bill S.510 - FDA Food Safety Modernization Act. This is a bill to amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act with respect to the safety of the food supply. There are numerous groups that feel this bill, whose purpose is to amend existing rules, needs to include an amendment to protect small farms. You are urged to read the following articles so that you can be aware of the fine print in this bill.

Is S.510 fair to small farms?

PRO
S.510: FDA Food Safety Modernization Act (111th Congress 2009-2010)
Govtrack.us

FDA Food Safety Modernization Act - S.510
Eat Drink Better

S.510: A Study in How Much You Trust Government
by Jill Richardson Food Safety News

CON
Shutdown of two small cheesemakers raises more doubts about food-safety legislation
Grist

Coalition Pushes for Amendment to Controversial Senate Food Safety Bill
Common Dreams

Raw Cheese Ordered Destroyed-With No Evidence of Contamination
Alliance for Natural Health USA

You are urged to join the conversation. Register your opinions on this issue. Post new, current web articles you find. Participate in AHHA's interactive Issues Forum at ahhaissuesforum.org. Note that the instructions for how to post are available on every page.

FEATURED AHHA RESOURCE
Connect with your Spiritual Self
The whole of you is an integrated union of your physical, mental, emotional and spiritual selves. AHHA offers a brand-new resource, a list of books compiled to support you in having a richer relationship or connection with your spiritual self. Take a look at the books on the Connecting to Your Spirituality list, then check your local library or bookstore for the books that speak to you.

FEATURED RESEARCH
Is asthma a result of vitamin D deficiency?
Vitamin D is known to be necessary for the body to be able to absorb the essential minerals, calcium and phosphorus. It is also important for immune system functioning. Recent published research looked at vitamin D deficiency contributing to airway inflammation and decreased lung function. These findings appear to encourage people with respiratory problems and asthma to make sure their vitamin D levels are high enough. If they are not, these people could consider changing their diet to include more eggs, fish, and fortified milk or adding vitamin D supplementation. For further details, check out the article "Vitamin D and Asthma", as presented in the September, 2010, issue of the Integrative Medicine Newsletter.

FEATURED ISSUE
Are the offspring of cloned animals normal?
This is to alert you about something in the food supply that not everyone is aware of: the offspring of cloned animals are being considered to be "normal", not cloned. Because of this, governments are not requiring any labeling of milk or meat from the offspring of cloned animals.

U.S. biotechnology companies are cloning animals that give high yields of milk and meat and using them as breeding stock, which are being sold all over the world. Their offspring are thus infiltrating the food supply.

Should the offspring of cloned animals be considered "not cloned"?

PRO
Food Products From Cloned Animals And Their Offspring Are Safe, But Regulated
Food Trends 360

U.S. gives blessing to food from cloned animals
Environmental News Network

CON
Are Meat and Milk From Clones in the Food Supply?
The Epoch Times

Meat from offspring of cloned cows consumed in UK triggers controversy
Merco Press

You are urged to join the conversation. Register your opinions on this issue. Post new, current web articles you find. Participate in AHHA's interactive Issues Forum at ahhaissuesforum.org. Note that the instructions for how to post are now available on every page.

FEATURED AHHA RESOURCE
Is one of your loved ones dealing with sickness?
AHHA offers a special portal labeled "Sick?" linked off the top of the ahha.org home page. This special section is designed to make it quick and easy for someone who is dealing with an acute, painful, or life-threatening illness or a chronic condition to discover what the AHHA website has to support them as they work to promote healing and improve the quality of their life.

FEATURED RESEARCH
Importance of fruit
Great news - new research is proving that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables may help lower the risk of developing breast cancer. Has prevention ever been so tasty and so easy? For full details check out this article, "Fruits, Veggies May Cut Breast Cancer Risk," as presented in the March, 2010, issue of the Integrative Medicine Newsletter.

FEATURED ISSUE
Is genetically modified salmon coming to your dinner table?
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is close to ruling whether to approve for human consumption Aqua Bounty Technologies Inc.'s genetically engineered salmon. This "product" has been bioengineered by adding the Chinook salmon growth hormone gene to Atlantic salmon, plus an antifreeze protein gene from the ocean pout. The commercial value is that the genetically modified salmon grows twice as fast as traditional Atlantic salmon.

Because this is new ground for the FDA and there are no regulations concerning genetically engineered animals, this product is being evaluated as if it were an animal treated with drugs. Any specific scientific data that might support material differences in this genetically modified salmon will not be released until from two weeks to two days before the FDA hearing in mid-September. Some argue that this is not enough time for thorough outside scientific evaluation. Others note that the approval process and related documentation is not open to the public.

Keep in mind that if the genetically modified salmon is approved, that means activation of efforts to get approval for other genetically modified fish and animals that are waiting in the wings.

Are genetically modified fish and animals safe for human consumption?

PRO
Genetically modified salmon safe to eat, FDA report says
Los Angeles Times

Biotech salmon safe for eating: FDA
By Lisa Richwine
Reuters

CON
Genetically Modified Frankenfish!
Alliance for Natural Health USA

GMO Salmon Near FDA Approval - Public's Input Not Wanted
Before It's News

You are invited - no, urged to join the conversation. Register your opinions on this issue. Post new current web articles you find. Participate in AHHA's interactive Issues Forum at ahhaissuesforum.org. Note that the instructions for how to post are now available on every page.

Note: A separate but equally important issue is that on September 21 there will be a public hearing about whether the label for this salmon must indentify it as GMO.

FEATURED AHHA RESOURCE
Expand your healing team
How many different healing modalities have you experienced along your healing journey? The dozens of modalities on our Practitioner Referral Sources list offer numerous options, most of which are referral programs to professional modality associations, so they are also an excellent resource for learning about healing options.

FOLLOW UP
Expand your healing team
AHHA president, Suzan Walter, will be interviewed on September 8 at 1:00pm Eastern time (10:00am Pacific time) on the Internet radio show, "Spirit Walker," on VoiceAmerica. Click here for details.

FEATURED RESEARCH
Non-drug arthritis option
Those dealing with disabling and painful rheumatoid arthritis may be interested in learning more about the natural option of vitamin B6 for reducing inflammatory markers, as opposed to the anti-inflammatory drugs approach. Recently published research is detailed in "Vitamin B6 and Arthritis," as presented in the July, 2010, issue of the Integrative Medicine Newsletter. If you are interested, you might share this option with your physician.

FEATURED ISSUE
Is fluoride safe?
Fluoride is back in the news. You may find this a good time to consider which set of research you want to guide your choices. One set insists fluoride is safe and beneficial, whereas another set raises the issue of multiple serious side effects. How do you answer the question, "Is fluoride safe?"

PRO
Water Fluoridation
Wikipedia

Community Water Fluoridation: Safety
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Fluoride Information: Is Fluoride Good To Have In Your Drinking Water?
Fluoride Information network

CON
Fluoride Could be Contributing to Early Puberty, Studies Show
Fluoride Action Network

Fluoride: Adding Fluoride to our Water Supplies
Ultimate Alternative Health Solutions

Poisoned Water
by Ilya Shur; Sott.net

You are invited no, urged to join the conversation. Register your opinions on this issue. Post new current web articles you find. Participate in AHHA's interactive Issues Forum at ahhaissuesforum.org. Note that the instructions for how to post are now available on every page.

FEATURED AHHA RESOURCE
Learn more about AHHA
We are pleased to announce an important opportunity to let people know about the American Holistic Health Association. One of our AHHA members, the ParalellVision Holistic Health Center, has an Internet radio show, "Spirit Walker," on VoiceAmerica and has invited AHHA president Suzan Walter to be the featured guest on the September 8 show at 1:00pm Eastern time (10:00am Pacific time). See www.voiceamerica.com/voiceamerica/vshow.aspx?sid=1750 for details. What do you want to know about AHHA? You can email or call in your questions during the show.

FEATURED RESEARCH
Retinopathy solution?
Researchers report that a patented extract made from the French maritime pine may help prevent eye problems associated with diabetes. Those in the study using this product had significant improvements in vision. If you know people dealing with this serious condition, you may want to recommend that they and their doctors review the article, "Pycnogenol® for Retinopathy," as presented in the December, 2009, issue of the Integrative Medicine Newsletter. The authors suggest that the beneficial results from using this product may be attributed to the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and capillary-protective effects.

FEATURED ISSUE
Is your food harming you?
Are you concerned about how the animals you consume were raised? Does the meat and poultry you are eating contain antibiotics? Probably. Is the level of antibiotics allowed to be fed to animals by current government regulations safe for the humans who eat them? Those who insist that there is no danger may need to take note that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is starting to talk about establishing limits.

Are current antibiotics levels fed to meat and poultry safe?

PRO
Animal Antibiotics and Food Safety: What You Should Know
Food Insight: Your Nutrition and Food Safety Resource

USA - More on antibiotics in farm animals
Meat Trade News Daily

CON
Guidelines Issued For Antibiotic Use in Animals
CBS Evening News with Katie Couric

Antibiotics for Farm Animals - Is the FDA Serious?
Alliance for Natural Health USA

You are invited no, urged to join the conversation. Register your opinions on this issue. Post new current web articles you find. Participate in AHHA's interactive Issues Forum at ahhaissuesforum.org. Note that the instructions for how to post are now available on every page.

FEATURED AHHA RESOURCE
Knowledge Is Power
Have you discovered our Health Information Search Services list? This unique list includes organizations whose experts can research information and treatment options for any health condition. One organization even will find which doctors are successfully treating your specific condition. Imagine how much more confident you could be with knowledge about what both conventional medicine and alternative approaches have to offer. This type of support is especially important for someone dealing with a life threatening or debilitating diagnosis.

FEATURED RESEARCH
Spicy pain reliever
Are you one of the growing number of people adding a vigorous workout to your daily life? Then you're probably dealing with some sore muscles. A new study suggests that ginger may offer you some relief. Check out the article, "Ginger for Muscle Pain", as presented in the June, 2010, issue of the Integrative Medicine Newsletter.

FEATURED ISSUE
Water is vital. Look who wants to add stuff to it.
With so many people hooking expensive filters and other devices onto their household water supply to remove minerals, it is interesting to hear talk that the World Health Organization is advocating the addition of calcium to municipal water supplies. When considered from a strictly health benefit perspective, this proposal appears to focus on just one or two minerals and ignore the need for synergetic balance when we supplement our mineral intake.

How do you feel about an expanding trend to deliver minerals in the public water supply?

PRO
Calcium and Magnesium in Drinking-Water: Public health significance
World Health Organization

CON
Fluoride is Not Enough-Now They Want to Add Calcium to Our Drinking Water!
Alliance for Natural Health

You are invited no, urged to join the conversation. Register your opinions on this issue. Post new current web articles you find. Participate in AHHA's interactive Issues Forum at ahhaissuesforum.org. Note that the instructions for how to post are now available on every page.

FEATURED AHHA RESOURCE
How do YOU define "holistic"?
Have you discovered that others are not defining the term "holistic" the same way you do? AHHA has always recommended that when you are talking about holistic concepts, it's wise to define terms and make sure you and the person you are talking to are on the same page. AHHA offers you some articles on this vital topic. See What is Holistic?. Perhaps these articles will help you clarify your own thinking.

FEATURED RESEARCH
Mind-body connection proven again
Those of us favoring a holistic approach to health are always gratified when scientific research establishes a relationship between a person's mental or emotional state and a physical disorder. Another example recently reported is research on how behavioral therapy impacts a patient's irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms. For details on this research finding, check out the article, "Behavioral Therapy May Improve IBS," as presented in the May, 2010, issue of Integrative Medicine Newsletter.

FEATURED ISSUE
Is the food on your store's shelves safe?
What is your view of genetically modifying foods? Genetically modified (GM) plants and animals have had specific changes introduced into their DNA by genetic engineering techniques. The U.S. government has maintained that GM foods are safe. Many other countries strongly disagree. How do we know if GM foods are safe? Many scientists claim that absolute proof either way does not exist. You need to do your own research.

PRO
Plant Biotechnology for Food and Feed: FDA's Biotechnology Policy
U.S. Food and Drug Administration

Genetically modified food risks
Choice

GM foods are safe, says expert
The Hindu (India's National Newspaper)

CON
The Effects of Genetically Modified Foods
by Dr. Edward F. Group II
Global Healing Center

Monsanto's GMO Corn Linked to Organ Failure, Study Reveals
The Huffington Post

Russia says genetically modified foods are harmful
The Voice of Russia

Those choosing to not include GM foods in their diet are hampered in the U.S. by the lack of labeling requirements to identify GM foods. It has been estimated that 60 to 70 percent of food products in retail stores already contain genetically modified ingredients.

You are invited no, urged to join the conversation. Register your opinions on this issue. Post new current web articles you find. Participate in AHHA's interactive Issues Forum at ahhaissuesforum.org. Note that the instructions for how to post are now available on every page.

FEATURED AHHA RESOURCE
Does your iPod include our booklet?
The AHHA booklet, Wellness From Within: The First Step, is posted online in MP3 format. When you go to ahha.org/MP3.asp, you will see the option to download this recording to your computer, listen to the audio presentation online, or transfer it to your personal iPod. The wonderful message of this booklet is very special when read, but even more powerful when listened to. It's our gift to you.

FEATURED RESEARCH
Does mental order improve focus?
Psychosocial intervention has proved to have a robust effect on reducing the severity of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). A research study provided adults who met criteria for having ADHD with support in improving their time management and organizational skills. If you know someone who might benefit from this intervention, consider directing them to the article, "Behavioral Therapy for ADHD," as presented in the April, 2010, issue of Integrative Medicine Newsletter.

FEATURED ISSUE
You can't live without B6, but can you get it?
There is extensive research documenting the importance of vitamin B6 for maintaining good health and preventing disease. Major sources of vitamin B6 in your diet include numerous vegetables, nuts, and whole grains.

But you may not be able to find vitamin B6 on the shelf of your local health food store. In case you have not been following the conflict between pharmaceutical companies and dietary supplement manufacturers for control of B6, we have compiled the following information to help you understand what is going on.

Pyridoxamine is a chemical compound in the vitamin B6 family, which includes pyridoxal, pyridoxine, and pyridoxamine. Pyridoxal 5'-phosphate, called P5P or PLP, is the form into which all B6 (natural or synthetic) must be converted for the body to use it.

Two pharmaceutical companies have petitioned the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to give them exclusive rights to the natural substances pyridoxamine (B6) and P5P, respectively. The request for B6 rights has been successful. The request for P5P rights is still pending. Success means that the natural substance is banned (except for use by the drug company). Any dietary supplement product with this substance can therefore be considered adulterated and illegal by the FDA. And so it disappears from the store shelves.

In 1999, the pharmaceutical company, BioStratum, petitioned to have sole use of pyridoxamine, which was the only active ingredient in a drug they were developing to prevent the progression of diabetic nephrothapy (kidney disease). Despite challenges, in January, 2009, the FDA declared pyridoxamine to be a drug. Specifically, the FDA determined that products containing pyridoxamine dihydrochloride or any other compound containing pyridoxamine are not dietary supplements within the meaning as indicated by DSHEA and "may not be marketed as such." The reasoning here appears to be that the FDA considered the initial request by BioStratum for use of pyridoxamine in an investigational drug to have precedence over any rights to use it in a dietary supplement product. Implementation of this ban on pyridoxamine recently took effect.

In November, 2007, a pharmaceutical company, Medicure Pharma, applied to the FDA for sole rights to pyridox,al 5'-phosphate for use in developing a drug using this substance. As of 2010 the company has not marketed a drug that contains P5P, but it continues to petition the FDA to rule that their company be protected from competition from any dietary supplement product with P5P. The petition asserts that P5P is a new dietary ingredient which has neither been present in the food supply as an article used for food in a form in which the food has not been chemically altered, nor has it been the subject of a new dietary ingredient notification prior to their original application to the FDA. It is ignoring the fact that P5P, the natural and bioactive form of B6, has existed in food for as long as anyone knows and has been available as a supplement for many years.

Again, when a natural substance is designated a "drug," it cannot be used in a dietary supplement product. Your only options would be to eat foods with the nutrient or get a prescription for the drug that contains it.

Should the FDA have the right to ban an essential natural nutritional substance found in nature? What do you feel about losing your rights to purchase vitamin B6 (as pyridoxamine) as a dietary supplement?

PRO
Citizen Petition To Prohibit the Marketing of Dietary Supplements Containing Pyridoxal 5'-phosphate (P5P)
Medicure Pharma

Capitol Comments: FDA's Pyridoxamine Decision
Nutraceuticals World

CON
Big Pharma and the FDA: Suppress the Science, Ban the natural Substances, Sell the Drugs!
True Health Is True Wealth!!

Alert: Protect Your Right To Natural and Bio-available Vitamin B-6!
Alliance for Natural Health USA

You are invited no, urged to join the conversation. Register your opinions on this issue. Post new current web articles you find. Participate in AHHA's interactive Issues Forum at ahhaissuesforum.org. Note that the instructions for how to post are now available on every page.

FEATURED AHHA RESOURCE
Who needs an uplifting message today?
AHHA offers you a unique opportunity to send Get Well(ness) messages to someone you care about. On our Get Well(ness) Messages page there are special messages on attractive backgrounds. Pick the appropriate one and email the URL to your loved one.

FEATURED RESEARCH
New version of eating flowers?
Red clover is considered to be one of the richest sources of isoflavones, which are water-soluble chemicals that act like estorgens. It is often used for hot flashes. Recent research found an additional benefit. Taking red clover also reduces the symptoms for post-menopausal depression and anxiety. If this interests you, check out the article, "Red Clover for Depressive Symptoms," as compiled by the Natural Standards Research Collaboration (http://naturalstandards.com) and presented in the March, 2010, issue of Integrative Medicine Newsletter. As always, check with your physician for any potential side effects.

FEATURED ISSUE
Without your consent!
Is it just a matter of time until most U.S. citizens will have their private medical information as part of a centralized electronic record system? There are many aspects of this important issue that need to be addressed. As you research "electronic medical records," pay attention to the following issues:
Convenience of accessing all records on a patient.
Impact on quality of care.
Security protecting patient privacy.
Choice in participation, patients and physicians.
Cost to hospitals and physicians, initially and in the future.
Financial impact on the healthcare industry.

Do the benefits of electronic medical records outweigh the problems?

PRO
Electronic Health Records Overview
National Institutes of Health National Center for Research Resources

Electronic Health Records Frequently Asked Questions
ehrCentral

Moving forward with electronic health records
by Katherine Harmon Scientific American

CON
Proposed Rule on Electronic Health Records (EHRs) Threatens Privacy
Institute for Health Freedom

Electronic Health Records: Concerns About Potential Privacy Breaches Remain an Issue
Science Daily

Top Hospitals Questioned In Electronic Health Records Probe
The Huffington Post

You are invited--no, urged to join the conversation. Register your opinions on this issue. Post new current web articles you find. Participate in AHHAÕs interactive Issues Forum at ahhaissuesforum.org. Note that the instructions for how to post are now available on every page.

FEATURED AHHA RESOURCE
Power of your everyday choices
More and more diseases are being documented as being the result of poor everyday lifestyle choices. AHHA's booklet, Wellness From Within: The First Step, reminds you of the power of how you live each day. Take time to review the options included in this booklet. Pick one thing to do differently in your everyday routine. Click here to review the various formats of the booklet.

FEATURED RESEARCH
Natural, no side effect option.
The dietary supplement, omega-3 fatty acids, may have still another claim to fame. Recently published research results show promising findings that omega-3 fatty acids may be beneficial in preventing a psychotic illness. If you have adolescents and young adults in your family who are at risk of developing psychotic disorders, you and your physician might want to review the details in the article, "Fish Oil and Psychotic Disorders," as compiled by the Natural Standards Research Collaboration (http://naturalstandards.com) and presented in the February, 2010, issue of Integrative Medicine Newsletter.

FEATURED ISSUE
Urgent for all who take dietary supplements.
There is an expanding program in Europe for government control of which food supplements can be legally sold and, further, at which potency levels. This dovetails with the Codex Alimentarius international trade guidelines, which can impact trade disputes between countries. (See codexinfo.org for background on this matter.) In the U.S., we have felt secure that we would continue to have freedom of access to the natural dietary supplements of our choice because of the provisions in our Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994 (DSHEA).

A new bill, S.3002, The Dietary Supplement Safety Act (DSSA), has been introduced in the Senate and co-sponsored by senators John McCain (R-AZ) and Byron Dorgan (D-ND). While the original motivation for this bill seems to have been protection from tainted over-the-counter products, this bill also has provisions that would eliminate the supplement access protections contained in DSHEA and allow the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) arbitrary authority to make drastic changes that would impact all aspects of the dietary supplement industry and public access to supplement products.

We particularly draw your attention to the provision that would allow the FDA to create a list of which supplements can be sold and at what potency levels.

Should the FDA have the power to determine which dietary supplements you can buy and at what potency levels?

PRO
The Dietary Supplement Safety Act of 2010: A long overdue correction to the DSHEA of 1994?
Science-Based Medicine

John McCain Introduces Dietary Supplement Safety Act
Nutritional Outlook

Dietary Supplement Safety Act Introduced by Sen. McCain
Team USA

CON
New Bill Seeks to Ban Consumer Access to Dietary Supplements
by William Faloon Life Extension

Update: Senator McCain Cosponsors a New Bill That Threatens Your Access to Supplements and Repeals Key Sections of the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act
Alliance for Natural Health

Take Action Now To Protect Your Supplements!
National Health Federation

You are invited no, urged to join the conversation. Register your opinions on this issue. Post new current web articles you find. Participate in AHHA's interactive Issues Forum at ahhaissuesforum.org. Note that the instructions for how to post are now available on every page.

FEATURED AHHA RESOURCE
It's more than just not being sick.
Have you checked out the three special portal boxes at the top of the AHHA website home page? This month we invite you to visit the Healthy? box. Take a brief, intimate journey to connect with our key resources appropriate for those who are not sick, but know there is lots of room for achieving a higher level of wellness.

FEATURED RESEARCH
Could we start saying, "A pomegranate a day keeps the doctor away"?
Pomegranates are becoming a popular subject of research for prevention and treatment benefits for a wide range of conditions. Pomegranates are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, but could there be synergetic actions from other aspects of this fruit? The most headline-catching research is detailed in "Anticancer Effects of Pomegranate" as compiled by the Natural Standards Research Collaboration and presented in the January, 2010, issue of Integrative Medicine Newsletter. You and your physician might find this information worth reading.

FEATURED ISSUE
Don't throw the baby out with the bath water.
As consumers are becoming more health conscious, major food manufacturers are increasing their use of health benefit claims to market their products. Unfortunately, many of these claims are either misleading or unfounded or both. They are leading to problems for products with legitimate claims of nutritional benefits. The Center For Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) is campaigning for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to tighten restrictions on health claims by all food and supplement manufacturers in order to protect the "uninformed consumer" from health claims that are not "scientifically supported." Could this be a good thing, or could the pendulum swing too far the other direction? Some people are concerned that the U.S. could end up with rules similar to those being adopted in Europe, where even a doctor is not allowed to educate patients about "unapproved" nutritional information.

Currently in the U.S., only a drug company selling an FDA-approved drug is allowed to make the claim that a product will help prevent or treat a health condition or disease. Food and dietary supplement product manufacturers have the option to present nutritional information as long as they use the qualifying "may" in the text. This option is what the campaign wants to eliminate.

The FDA and CSPI seem to be in agreement that food, supplements, and drugs should all be treated the same. If they get their way, food and dietary supplements would be required to go through a very expensive approval process (up to $1 billion for a single product) to give us some idea of the nutritional and health correlation for their products. Manufacturers of non-patentable food or supplement products cannot afford to pay for expensive approvals for inexpensive, competitive products. With only drug-related health benefit information allowed, consumers could end up having only scientific journals as their source for learning about the health benefits of foods and supplements. Is this too drastic a solution?

This issue was selected because of the lack of media coverage for what might be a significant loss in your access to nutritional information. You have the right to be aware of what is developing. There is very little attention being paid to this issue in the U.S., even on the Internet. Here is a bit on each side of the issue.

PRO
CSPI Urges FDA Crackdown on False & Misleading Food Labeling
Center for Science in the Public Interest

CON
CSPI Asks FDA to Abolish Food and Supplement Health Claims
Alliance for Natural Health

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