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just ask terry
Terry is happy to provide his opinion on diet and nutrition, supplements and lifestyle choices. This information is for educational purposes only. It is not meant to replace the advice of your physician and is not to be considered medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Should you have any concerns please contact your physician directly.
Q. Dear Terry, “My aunt (age 70) was recently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). I’ve been reading and learning more about it because I want to find something to help her. Do you have any suggestions? I know there is no cure.” Tim S., Des Moines, IA
A. Dear Tim, I am so sorry to hear about your aunt. You are right – there is no cure for this disease. However, there is a lot of new research going on showing that the spice curcumin and vitamin D, when used together, can help reduce the plaques and tangles in the brain that contribute to Alzheimer’s disease. There are new studies just now getting underway to test this in human patients in the early stages of this disease. It may well prove that curcumin and vitamin D in combination can slow the progression of AD. Also, the plant oils from rosemary and Spanish sage are quite helpful for memory and mental function. Both these plant oils help preserve a certain neurotransmitter in the brain called acetylcholine, which is usually deficient in individuals with AD. I suggest a formula that combines all these ingredients. I just wrote about Alzheimer’s disease in a recent newsletter, so check the newsletter archives for more information. Good luck and please extend my best wishes to your aunt.
Q. Hi Terry, “For the last year I have had terrible problems with vertigo. It started with respiratory problems and pain in my left ear, and clogged left sinuses and nostril. I can no longer lie down, have to walk with a cane, and I can’t drive anymore. Can you help?” Joan C., Fort Lauderdale, FL
A. Dear Joan, If you have not already done so, I suggest you see your health care practitioner to get to the bottom of what is causing your vertigo. It can be something very simple and harmless, or something more severe, so make sure you know what you are dealing with. If you find that your vertigo is not being caused by a serious illness, I have some suggestions that may be of great benefit. First, take 120 mg of ginkgo three times daily for three months. Also, you may have a problem with excessive amounts of mucous in the sinus cavities and ear canal, and this could be pressing on a nerve. Therefore, I suggest you try some products to clear the mucous. Take standardized thyme and ivy extract three times daily, and oregano oil extract (chemotyped plant oil), 2 capsules three times daily for 10 days. Stop for a few days and if the sinuses are still clogged, repeat at the same dosage for another 10 days.
Q. Terry, “I am still seeing a lot of ads for acai berry. I thought that this craze was over but the ads are still running everywhere. What is your opinion on acai?” Pete P., Portland, OR
A. Dear Pete, I agree that there has been a craze over acai berry and some outlandish claims have been made for its effects, especially by unscrupulous multilevel marketers. I do think, though, that it is an amazing fruit with good antioxidants. But so are bilberry, grape seed, blueberry, elderberry, black currant, and more. Personally, while I think acai is a great addition to your diet, it should be in combination with a variety of healthy berries, fruits and vegetables.