Tuesday, September 30, 2014

Which Thyroid Medication Do I Need?

There are many thyroid preparations available.......Synthroid, generic levothyroxine, Cytomel, Armour thyroid, Nature-Throid, WP Thyroid and several others. Depending on the reason for your thyroid replacement needs, your doctor may choose one or a combination of the ones above. With BioTE bio-identical hormone replacement therapy, Dr. Trussell prefers Nature-Throid or WP Thyroid. Read below to discover the benefits of these two preparations.            




  •  Nature-Throid is a natural dessicated thyroid medication that contains both T4 (80%) and T3 (20%)
  • Nature-Throid only utilizes hypoallergenic inactive ingredients and is free of all dyes and coloring agents.
  • Nature-Throid also contains trace amounts of T1, T2, Iodine and Calcitonin because it is derived from a natural source (porcine thyroid).
  • A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, May 2013, revealed that 48.6% of people chose natural dessicated thyroid over synthetic T4 (Synthroid) and lost 4 lbs more during treatment AND reported significant reductions in their hypothyroid symptoms.
  • Nature-Throid is available in 13 different dosage strengths so you can have a dose tailored to your needs. 

  • WP Thyroid is a natural dessicated thyroid medication that also contains T4 (80%) and T3 (20%) hormone
  • WP Thyroid is formulated with only 2 inactive ingredients...inulin (from chicory root) and medium chain triglycerides (from coconut)
  • WP Thyroid is available in 8 strengths
Neither of these preparations have ever been recalled by the FDA or voluntarily recalled for inconsistent hormone content. Both are blended to meet a +/- 2% variance in hormone content instead of the +/- 10% variance the U.S. Pharmacopeia allows. Both are gluten free and hypoallergenic. Currently there are no synthetic thyroid medications that contain both T4 and T3.




This cartoon characterizes some of the symptoms you may have with hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid). It is important to get a complete panel of thyroid lab, not just the TSH that so many doctors use to determine whether you need replacement. These labs are part of the endocrine panel with our BioTE program. The pictures below show what people, and a poor dog, may look like before and after treatment for hypothyoidism.
                                


So obviously treatment for hypothyroidism can make a big difference in the way you look AND definitely the way you feel. Your entire endocrine system works together, therefore it is important to have a complete panel of blood work. Call today if you would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Trussell to discuss  BioTE bio-identical hormone replacement therapy.

501-228-6237



Thursday, September 25, 2014

VIPeel Deal!

 
  
$275 plus FREE face wash!!

ViPeels are $25 off PLUS you get a free face wash of your choice.....Obagi, Aloe Source, ViDerm or Sonya Dakar! So for $275 you get a fantastic VIPeel AND a free face wash! Call us today! 501-228-6237








 
Offer Expires: October 30, 2014




Wednesday, September 24, 2014

Raffle benefiting the Children's Tumor Foundation


As many of you know I run on the NF Endurance Team for the Children's Tumor Foundation. Our mission is to raise awareness of NF (neurofibromatosis) and raise research funds for NF research. NF occurs in 1:3000 births and causes tumors to grow on nerves anywhere in the body. Some tumors become cancerous and there is no cure. I will be running the Big Sur International Marathon in 2015. I am doing a raffle (see below) to support the Foundation. 1st prize valued at $2000!! Tickets are $1 each, 6 for $5, or 20 for $10. (cash or check only)

Monday, September 22, 2014

FDA Approves New Weight Loss Drug.....Contrave.

The FDA has just approved another weight loss medication called Contrave.  It is a combination of buproprion (an antidepressant) and naloxone  (an anti-addiction drug). This is the third medication for weight loss approved by the FDA since 2012, behind Qsymia and Belviq.

Contrave works by taking away hunger and cravings for food, but the manufacturer, Orexigen, isn't exactly sure how this combination works for weight loss. The medication is approved for patients with a BMI of 30 (by definition this is obese), or a BMI of 27 (which is overweight) and comorbid conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes or elevated cholesterol which put patients at higher risk of stroke or heart attack.


So who CAN NOT take Contrave? No one with a seizure disorder; those who are pregnant, trying to get pregnant or are breast feeding; anyone with bulimia or anorexia; anyone who is already on a buproprion containing medication (like Wellbutrin); those who take opiates (such as hydrocodone or oxycodone and some others; those who are being treated for addiction with buprenorophine (Suboxone, Zubsolv, or Subutex for example) or methadone. Alcoholics may not take Contrave either.

How much weight can you expect to lose? First let me say that as with all weight loss medications, you absolutely MUST modify your diet and start exercising. No excuses....you CAN eat better and you CAN do some type of activity. At Sei Bella we will soon have a certified nutrition coach who can help you with meal plans. With that said, studies show the average weight loss is 5-10% of body weight. And Contrave helped patients keep the weight off up to a year.



And what about side effects? In clinical trials, nausea was the most common side effect, reported in 34% of people. Other side effects that were reported in much lower percentages included headache, constipation or diarrhea, dry mouth and dizziness. The FDA has also required post marketing research to look at heart and stroke outcomes and potential for interaction with any other drugs.

The cost is expected to be $180 to $210 per month retail. This will vary from pharmacy to pharmacy. It is likely the marketing company, Takeda, will provide coupons to offset the price. It's not known yet if any insurance companies will have it on their formularies.

Call today to make your weight loss consultation appointment and we can help determine which medication my be right for you!.......501-228-6237

Anne R Trussell MD
owner/physician

Thursday, September 18, 2014

Nutraceuticals...Where Do I Start?

     In this busy, fast-paced world we don't always eat right. Many of us struggle with weight and fatigue, skin issues or fears of cancer. The right nutraceutical can help balance our system while we try to live a healthier lifestyle running between ballgames, dance lessons, school and work. Below are the current nutraceuticals we offer. This list will be expanding soon!



1. Detox Pack- This can be used as part of a 30 day detoxification program. These packs contain ingredients carefully selected to synergistically support the body's normal detoxification process. Taken once a day. A properly done detox program can increase your energy, get rid of excess waste, help with weight loss, and improve your skin.   $60                                                                

2. Executive Stress Formula- a comprehensive combination of vitamins, minerals, enzymes, herbals and other nutrients carefully formulated and specifically designed to support and boost the body's defenses against stress. This proprietary blend includes ginkgo biloba, silymarin, Co Q-10, L-glycine , L-methionine and other beneficial ingredients.  $35

3. De-Mer-Tox- contains several vitamins and other dietary supplements that support heavy metal detoxification and may protect against the toxic results of amalgam filling removal. Local fish often has high levels of mercury and arsenic also.   $29

4. Ultra HNS (Hair, Nails and Skin Formula)- supplies high dose biotin, vitamin C, zinc, and Cynatine HNS, a patented solubilized keratin clinically shown to support the strength, brightness and appearance of healthy hair, nails and skin.    $38                  

5. Brain Energy- supplies essential nutrients carefully formulated to provide nutritional support for increased brain energy. Contains DL-phenylalanine, L-tyrosine, Rhodiola rosea, L-methionine, and Octacosanol.  $28

6. Nopal Cactus- the leaves of nopal cactus have the unique ability to bind and trap fat and certain sugars you eat in a meal and prevent their absorption in the body. Reducing the amount of fat and sugar absorbed during a meal may play a key role in cholesterol metabolism as well as weight reduction. Chitosan, a common dietary supplement, exhibits similar actions, but is derived from shellfish. Nopal cactus offers vegetarians and those allergic to shellfish an effective alternative to chitosan.  $23

7. BioTE Iodine Plus- 74% of healthy adults do not consume enough iodine. Iodine regulates cortisol and contributes to normal immune function. It is necessary for proper thyroid function as well. Iodine deficiency is rapidly emerging as a major risk factor of breast cancer. $49

8. DIM- Diindolylmethane makes estrogen metabolize down a safer pathway which has a lower risk of breast, uterine and prostate cancer. It frees up bound testosterone and acts as a natural aromatase inhibitor balancing estrogen and testosterone. Good for everyone but specially formulated to go with our BioTE bio-identical hormone replacement pellets.   $64.82

9. A-D-K 10- All three vitamins are essential for bone structure, density and integrity, proper bone remodeling, calcium utilization, and cardiovascular function.   $31

10. BioTE Evening Primrose Oil- often thought to just relieve the symptoms of fibrocystic breast disease, evening primrose oil is also being used to treat chronic headaches due to its phenylalanine component. It also contains a fatty acid called GLA which is essential for cell structure and skin elasticity. Also supports nerve health and premenstrual needs.  $30

Thursday, September 11, 2014

Are GMOs Dangerous?

"GMO" is an abbreviation for "genetically modified organism", a phrase that describes foods and food additives that are genetically engineered. It means that a foreign gene has been introduced into a plant or animal. GMO ingredients are now in more than 75% of foods in America. GMOs began to appear on the shelves in 1994.



GMO crops are genetically altered to resist insects, produce higher levels of certain nutrients, and resist herbicide toxicity. This also leaves a more toxic residue within the plant, which is passed on to us when we eat it. Most GMOs come from five plants.......soy, sugar beets, corn, canola and cottonseed. French and Italian researchers published a study in the journal Food and Chemical Toxicology which found that death rates were five times higher in male animals fed GMO corn, and six times higher in the female animals fed GMO corn. The females, especially, very rapidly developed massive, cancerous tumors. Although the impact of GMOs on humans isn't fully known, they have been banned in 30 countries around the world, including Australia, Japan and all the countries in the European Union.

For our family, we are trying to eliminate as many GMOs as possible because I have read too many reputable studies showing the health risks. So what are some ways to avoid GMOs? Buy organic! By law, organic foods can not contain GMOs. Look for one of the non-GMO seals shown below. Avoid synthetic hormones!!! Although fish and animals for human consumption are not currently generically engineered, the food and hormones they are fed are frequently GMOs.



The little stickers on produce with a series of numbers are called PLU codes. This tells you if a fruit or vegetable is organic (GMO-free), conventional (might be GMO due to pesticides, herbicides or fungicides), or GMO..... Many stores non carry non-GMO foods, with Walmart being America's biggest seller. Some other larger stores in the central Arkansas area include Whole Foods Market, Costco, Kroger and Target. 


As I said earlier, meats and fish are currently not GMO, but the foods and hormones fed to them can be, so buy USDA organic meat and poultry. Purchase wild-caught fish, because farmed fish typically eat GMO feed. Even canned tuna can be packed in GMO oil. Wild game typically don't eat GMO crops, but they could be eating GMO corn from corn feeders that hunters put out each fall. Labels that say Certified Grass-Fed Meat or 100% Grass-Fed Meat are often safe as well.

Where do you find the most GMOs?..... PROCESSED FOODS!....... cereals, nutrition bars, chips, crackers, cookies, canned veggies and soups, soda, candy and cooking oils. You also have to think about condiments....mayonnaise, salad dressings, ketchup, soy sauce, etc. Even nondairy milks like soy milk, unless it's certified organic, contain GMOs. Almond, rice and coconut milks are generally GMO-free. Non dairy creamers and protein powders/shakes are also fraught with GMOs. And finally, GMO whey is in processed cheeses, spreads, meats, chili, sausages, soups, gravies, sauces, stews, salad dressings, snack foods, candy, beverages, bakery products, mixes and frozen desserts. SO read your ingredients!

This is just a brief overview of GMOs. I encourage you to look further into them and decide for yourself, but I personally think they are harmful in a cumulative sense, and although it would be almost impossible to eliminate them from our busy family life, we can certainly do better in avoiding them in our diet. 

Anne R Trussell MD
owner/physician




Monday, September 8, 2014

BioTE Bio-identical hormones for Alzheimer's Prevention

We all have a friend or family member with Alzheimer's Disease. Alzheimer's Disease cases will triple by 2050. The cost to treat this disease will increase 500% to $1.1 trillion dollars by then. Alzheimer's patients spend three times more on healthcare than other people. There are several trials underway to try to prevent Alzheimer's, but for now, there is no cure, and we only have medications to treat this disabling disease. However, there are things that can be done to help prevent or slow the progression, one of which is bio-identical hormones.



Let's talk about what happens in Alzheimer's disease exactly.....Normal, healthy brain produces something called Tau protein which protects the brain's nerve cells (neurons) from breaking down. In Alzheimer's Disease this protein goes haywire and the brain's nerve cells (neurons) form neurofibrillary tangles. These neurofibrillary tangles produce beta-amyloid which in turn cause the plaques seen in the brains of Alzheimer's patients.


The Cache County Utah Study, published in  Neurology Oct 2012, reviewed 1800 patients. There was a 30% reduction in Alzheimer's cases if hormone replacement therapy was started within 5 years of menopause and especially if used for more than 10 years. However, we've all heard we shouldn't be on hormones any longer than necessary to deal with hot flashes. Well this is because of the increased risk of breast cancer, stroke and heart disease associated with synthetic hormones. This does NOT refer to bio-identical hormones, specifically BioTE bio-identical hormone pellet replacement therapy. 


Dr.Suzanne de la Monte has done years of research and has widely published on Alzheimer's disease. It is known that women are affected more often than men and that the incidence increases with age. Her research has shown that estrogen selectively benefits the brain's nerve cells, called neurons. However if the estrogen is given AFTER cells have started to degenerate, the estrogen can be harmful. If beta-amyloid (the abnormal protein found in brains of Alzheimer's patients) is present, then estrogen actually increases cell death. Low testosterone in men AND women increases the risk of Alzheimer's disease as well. Moral of the story....treat early in menopause or andropause (men) and treat correctly!!

BioTE bio-identical hormone replacement pellets are safe and effective. The company actually voluntarily submits their pellets to the FDA for inspection. Your dose of estrogen/testosterone/progesterone is individualized to you based on your lab work. In addition to checking those hormones, I also check your Vitamin D, thyroid, blood sugar, lipids, etc. to get an overall picture of your endocrine system because they all have to be balance in order to be healthy. Call today for your consult....501-228-6237

Anne R Trussell MD
owner/physician                                                                   

Friday, September 5, 2014

Join us at Dr. Trussell's Event!

Dr. Trussell has used all the products advertised! She has a couple syringes of ArteFill in her chin and smile lines. She has replaced her old skin care regimen with the new Vibrance system including the day and night Regenica creams plus nightly Refissa. And of course she has treated those frown lines with Botoix and Xeomin! Call to grab your spot at this event. We will have refreshments and you will have the opportunity to talk with Dr. Trussell and get your own free consult! But call soon!...501-228-6237

Thursday, September 4, 2014

BioTE bio-identical Hormones and Osteoporosis Prevention

There are various causes for osteopenia (bone thinning) and osteoporosis (bone loss). Smoking, hyperthyroidsm, excessive alcohol use and long term corticosteroid use are a few examples. The #1 cause of osteopenia/osteoporosis however is aging and loss of hormones such as testosterone and estrogen as people enter menopause and andropause. . A study published in the American Journal of OB/GYN in 1990 by J WW Studd,  et al showed that testoserone is a bone builder.  The study also demonstrated that testosterone replacement resulted in a four-fold increase in bone density vs. oral (i.e. synthetic) estrogen and a 2.5 times increase in bone density compared to patches. Specifically:

                          8.3% per year increase in bone density for bio-identical pellet therapy
                          3.5% per year increase in bone density for patches
                          1-2% per year increase in bone density for synthetic oral estrogen

                                                                   

We've all seen the lady above walking around in the grocery store. You don't have to be that person! 

Another study done by Savvas, M.,  published in the British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology in 1992 showed that testosterone therapy with subcutaneous pellets combined with estrogen therapy has an additive effect on bone density compared with estrogen alone.

During normal bone turnover, bone is torn down and rebuilt by your body which makes them very strong. Cells called osteoblasts build new bone. Osteoclasts tear down old bone. The reason medications like Fosamax and Boniva are causing fractures in unusual places is because they shut down normal bone turnover. The osteoblasts continue to build bone on top of old weak bone because the osteoclasts are shut down by the medications. 



So how do bio-identical hormones protect your bones? A simple way to look at it is that estrogen decreases bone reabsorption and testosterone helps build up new bone. This is not to say that you won't need a medication like Fosamax or Boniva at some point, but you can prolong the time until you need it and you may be able to limit the time you have to take it.

Combining weight bearing exercise with proper hormone balance and nutritional supplementation is crucial for good bone health. With BioTE bio-identical hormone replacement pellet therapy we test for and balance your estrogen, testosterone, progesterone, thyroid, Calcium, Vitamins A,D, K and B12, because your entire endocrine system works together for proper overall health, including your bones.

Call us today to schedule your consult.....501-228-6237... You may also watch some VERY informative videos at www.bhrtvideos.com 


Anne R Trussell MD
owner/physician
501-228-6237

Wednesday, September 3, 2014

What's the Hype about Omega-3 and Omega-6?

As I have focused on transitioning out of general internal medicine and treating diseases, into a health and wellness practice helping people prevent diseases, my scope of reading has also changed. My family and I are focusing on being more healthy. Some of the changes we've made include removing artificial sweeteners from our diet, supplementing our diets with iodine, eating less junk food (at least as much as we can with teenagers), increasing the Omega-3s in our diets, and exercising more. Last night I was reading Holistic Primary Care and came across a couple articles about Omega-3/Omega-6 fats. I've summarized some of the key points below.




Healthier people consume about equal amounts of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fats. In industrialized countries, like the U.S., Omega-3s with smooth and repair, tend to be low in our diets whereas the Omega-6s, which activate inflammation are high.  Americans consume 50-100 times more Omega-6 than Omega-3.  High intake of vegetable oils like safflower, soy, sunflower, corn and sesame seed combined with a low intake of Omega 3s which are found in fish, flax, and algae throws our balance off. Omega-6 excess combined with Omega-3 deficiency is strongly associated  with many common chronic inflammatory disease including cardiovascular disease and autoimmune diseases.

                                                           
 
We are the product of our choices: what we eat, drink, think and do! Diets that I particularly like (if you're one who needs to follow a diet) are the Greek Mediterranean and Paleo. If you like seafood and sea vegetables, the Japanese, Okinawan (The Okinawan Plan by Makato Suzuki and Bradley Wilcox) is also quite good. Even small changes in diet can have have a huge beneficial effect on your health. Switching from soy, corn and other vegetable oils  to better oils like extra virgin olive oil, grape seed and organic peanut oil is easy to do. Cut down on sodas, especially diet ones. Exercise! My husband and I are both half marathon and marathoners runners, but you don't have to go to those extremes. Just walk or get in a pool or a stationary bike or a recumbent bike. The important first step is to quit using your illnesses, fatigue, joint pain, etc. as excuses NOT to exercise. Everyone can do something!! Start slow!



What about Omega-3 capsules? Dr. Jorn Dyerburg is a Danish investigator who has extensively studied Omega-3s. Lovaza is a prescription fish oil in what's called an ethyl ester form. Lipomar is a not yet available formulation of  fish oil in the triglyceride form. He did a study comparing these two to a placebo (olive oil). While both Lovaza and Lipomar raised what's called the Omega-3 Index, the triglyceride form (Lipomar) performed better. So when choosing supplements look to see what form your Omega-3 capsules are in. The Omega-3 Index, included in our Berkeley Advanced Lipid and Genetic testing, shows a strong inverse correlation with cardiovascular risk (heart attack and stroke). There is a 90% reduction if you get the Omega-3 Index up to 8.2%. Unfortunately, most Americans are well under 4%. If this seems confusing, no worries. I review and explain all you labs and genetic testing to you at your Berkeley Heart Program consult. In addition you will have access to a live nutrition educator to help with your food choices. Call today for more information...501-228-6237

Anne R Trussell MD
owner/physician