American and International Info Resources

No Money in Prevention

I have been recommending a wide variety of dietary supplements to my patients for the past 18 years. Needless to say, this is not the norm for physicians. The medical establishment as a whole is treatment driven rather the prevention driven. There is much more profit in treating illness and disease rather than preventing it. As a matter of fact, the healthcare industry, including the American Medical Association (AMA), medical schools, hospitals, research institutions and drug manufacturers, have made a concerted effort to obfuscate the truth about health supplements and their intrinsic value. What little legitimate research and data, detailing the benefits of supplementation, that actually reaches the general public is quickly dismissed by the medical community as being “unsubstantiated” or “preliminary.” Whenever I relate to a colleague a patient’s recovery from a chronic condition by simply adjusting their diet and prescribing the appropriate health supplements, I often become the recipient of an incredulous laugh or sarcastic comment. At best, I am summarily dismissed with any one of a number of explanations to contradict what I know to be empirical evidence of successful treatment. Supplements can neither treat nor prevent any serious illness or disease according to the vast majority of healthcare providers.

“Only highly trained medical professionals are able to successfully treat chronic illnesses.” This is the mantra of the traditional medical community. The most disturbing aspect of this attitude is that medical students receive little or no education regarding nutrition, dietary supplements or any alternative treatments. There is no curriculum that includes preventative medicine. Similarly, physicians do not augment their education with post-doctoral fellowships in nutrition or alternative treatment research. Additional education or training in this area is non-existent. Again, the primary motivating factor is not the patient’s health and well being, it is treatment. The healthcare system is reactive, not proactive, to such an extent that physicians do not recognize they are, in part, responsible for their patients’ poor health. Physicians wait for symptoms, diagnose the symptoms and then attempt to treat the condition. A more pragmatic and cost-effective approach would be to administer healthcare systemically and organically. Ignoring the importance of preventative medicine contributes to the astronomical cost of healthcare in this country, along with Medicaid/Medicare, frivolous lawsuits and unlimited tort awards. For all these reasons, the average person is woefully misinformed about the benefits that proper nutrition and quality health supplements offer.

Quantifiable Results

Proper nutrition and regular exercise is the cornerstone of any effective health maintenance program. Again, most people do not appreciate the tremendous impact their diet has on their overall health and longevity. There are countless illnesses and diseases that are directly attributable to vitamin and/or mineral deficiencies. It is crucial for you to learn about the nutrients contained in the foods you eat (vitamins, minerals, amino acids, antioxidants, etc.). The only way to accomplish this is to read. There is far too much data to impart to be sufficiently addressed in this article. The Internet is probably the best and easiest venue for obtaining this type of material.

For a nutritionally sound-eating plan, refer to my “Eating for Health, Happiness and Successful Weight Control” (http://www.healthproductsusa.net/free_diet_health.htm) or, for a more structured diet, consider WebMD’s weight loss program (”https://diet.webmd.com/webmddiet/default_main.aspx?referrer=1111_006_0000_0013&secure=1″), which I highly recommend.

Unfortunately, even the healthiest of diets will be somewhat nutritionally deficient due to processing, cooking, and mineral deficient soil. Many food-processing methods, such as pasteurization, destroy essential nutrients necessary for good health. Cooking food also removes many nutritional elements. For decades, our farming soil has been virtually devoid of the 74 minerals necessary to sustain life (see http://www.healthproductsusa.net/govreports_health.htm). Consequently, no matter how much healthful food we eat, without supplementation we are still “starving” for nutrients. Therefore, as part of a comprehensive health maintenance regimen, I recommend that all my patients take a high-quality multivitamin (ingredients will differ for men and women), an absorbable mineral complex (either colloidal or an above-sea coral mineral), CoEnzyme Q10, an omega EFA group, methyl sulfonyl methane (MSM), chondroitin, colostrum and an immune system support supplement (as such beta-1,3D glucan). It is important to note, however, supplements do not replace healthful food. Their function is exactly as their name, “dietary supplements.” Patients that have incorporated a varied, healthful diet coupled with a consistent supplementation program report notably fewer ailments, with the exception of pre-existing conditions.

For patients with pre-existing conditions or new patients with previously undiagnosed conditions, I will, in many cases, prescribe additional supplements based on:
dietary deficiency that may be causing the condition, case history, medical profile, symptomology and test results.
I consider pharmaceuticals a second tier modality and surgery and/or hospitalization a final option unless otherwise indicated. Connective tissue and bone ailments are most easily treated with supplements and have the most dramatic results. Vitamin K1, silica, chrondoitin, MSM, minerals, collagen and elastin are all elements that will facilitate connective tissue and bone (joint) ailment recovery. I could cite a litany of conditions that were markedly improved. Suffice to say, there have been very few patients, whether their condition(s) were minor or chronic, who did not realize at least some relief after taking the recommended supplements for an appropriate period of time. To their pleasant surprise, many patients also experience unexpected ancillary health improvements beyond that of the targeted condition.

Although I have not methodically tracked the recovery success rate, I feel confident in reporting that a significant percentage of my patients have responded well to a nutrition modality. To the extent that the use of more traditional modalities were not required.

For the defintive proof that supplements can heal, read the remainder of Dr. Parsons’ article which can be found at Health Products USA (http://healthproductsusa.net).

Dr. William Parsons is the author of “Eating for Health, Happiness and Weight Control” and “Physicians’ Anti-Supplement Attitude - Conspiracy or Ignorance?” A free condensed versions have been made available to Health Products USA (http://www.healthproductsusa.net).

Flaxseed has been around since the time of the Emperor Charlemagne. Lately, it has received a lot of attention. Studies have shown that flaxseed has many benefits because of its variety of properties. Here are four reasons to consider adding flaxseed to your diet.

Flaxseed contains both soluble and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber, such as that in oat bran, has been shown to lowers LDL or bad cholesterol levels. This contributes to a healthy heart. Insoluble fiber, such as that found in wheat bran, has the capacity to hold water and therefore contributes to regular bowel movements and healthier intestines.

Flaxseed contains both Omega3 and Omega 6 fatty acids. Omega 3’s are found in fatty fish, some hen eggs and flaxseed oil. Flaxseed has been found to have the highest amount of omega 3 fatty acid found in plant form. Omega 6’s are found basically in vegetable oils. In our North American diet, we consume too much of omega 6 and not enough of omega 3. Flaxseed contains the proper ratio of omega 3 to omega 6 fatty acids. Omega 3 has been found helpful in preventing heart disease and stroke. It has also been shown to have protective effects against hypertension and inflammatory disorders. Some studies suggest a correlation between omega 3 and the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease and memory loss.

Flaxseed contains plant lignans. Plant lignans, when acted on by bacteria in the digestive tract, are converted to hormone-like substances. New studies are ongoing, researching the effect this may have in the prevention of cancer, especially breast and prostate cancer.

Flaxseed has a great taste. Flaxseed and ground flaxseed have a delicious, nutty flavor. Ground flaxseed can be used in recipes, instead of oil, in three to one ratio. One cup of flaxseed equals one third cup of oil. To begin to incorporate it into your diet, you can add a little to muffins or baked breads. It is delicious sprinkled on oatmeal.

Because of the variety of beneficial effects, flaxseed is worth considering as an addition to our diets, two to three times a week. Flaxseed has anti-coagulant properties. This can be beneficial in preventing blood clots. However, if you are on aspirin therapy or taking ibuprofen regularly, there may be a risk of bleeding. Herbs, such as garlic and ginseng, may thin the blood as well. If you fall into any of these categories, be certain to consult with your physician on the amount of flaxseed, if any, that should be added to your diet.

Constance Weygandt is an author, speaker and balance mentor. For more information on nutrition and wellness or to sign up for Constance’s newsletter, visit her website at http://www.balancedwellnessonline.com.

You should not be surprised by the latest three studies showing that low-fat diets do not prevent breast or colon cancers or heart attacks (Journal of the American Medical Association, Feb 8, 2006). These studies were designed several years ago when a lot of people believed that all fats were bad. They did not test the newer diets such as the Mediterranean diet, which recommend eating good fats and avoiding the bad ones. You should restrict the bad saturated and partially hydrogenated fats, not the good omega-3 and monounsaturated fats. Even if you restrict the bad fats, your diet will be unhealthful unless you also restrict the bad refined carbohydrates and eat lots of the good carbohydrates found in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and beans.

The main reason that these studies failed to show protection from cancer and heart attacks was that the women on the low-fat diets did not lose weight. That means that they did not eat fewer calories, even though they were instructed to avoid the most concentrated sources of calories. Heart attacks and cancers are associated with excess weight, and many scientists feel that inflammation explains the link. When germs get into your body, your immunity calls out cells and proteins to kill them. However, if your immunity remains active, it attacks and damages your own body to increase risk for heart attacks, strokes and cancers. We now know that full fat cells, as well as lymph nodes, produce the proteins of immunity and cause inflammation.

If you’re trying to lose weight or maintain a healthful weight, reduce your intake of fat found in fatty meats, chicken, dairy products, oils, margarines, fried foods and fatty bakery products; and refined carbohydrates found in sugar added foods, bakery products and pastas. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans and other seeds, and of course, get plenty of exercise.

Dr. Gabe Mirkin has been a radio talk show host for 25 years and practicing physician for more than 40 years; he is board certified in four specialties, including sports medicine. Read or listen to hundreds of his fitness and health reports at http://www.DrMirkin.com

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Vitamin supplement - why is it important?

Vitamin supplement or supplements are very important for us because if we do not intake enough vitamins necessary for our bodies, the vitamin supplement will substitute for the shortage of the amount of vitamins in our system. Many times a good diet will be enough, but when it is not, the vitamin supplement will make sure that you intake enough vitamins for you to be healthy.

Vitamin supplement - vitamin A.

Why is it important to use vitamin A vitamin supplement? Many health sources state that vitamin A plays an important role in vision, bone growth, reproduction, cell division and cell differentiation. Vitamin A can be found in many animal foods like liver and eggs and in some plants. But if you don’t intake enough vitamin A with you foods, the vitamin supplement will definitely help.

Vitamin supplement - vitamin D.

Another important vitamin supplement is the supplement for vitamin D. The major function of vitamin D is to maintain normal blood levels of calcium and phosphorus, helping to form and maintain strong bones. Vitamin D can be found in foods (for example vitamin D fortified milk, fatty fish, and fish oils). Another important source of vitamin D is exposure to sunlight (ultraviolet rays).

Vitamin supplement - vitamin E.

Vitamin supplement for vitamin E is another example of important supplement. Vitamin E is a very powerful biological antioxidant, which plays a great role in preventing cell damage that may contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease and cancer. Vitamin E can be found in, for example, vegetable oils, nuts, and green leafy vegetables. If you do not intake enough vitamin E with your foods, the vitamin supplement will help.

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Our vitamin glossary and charts provide a vast amount of exceptional information at http://www.liquid-vitamins-4u.com

Flax seed oil is considered one of the best vegetable sources of omega 3 fatty acids. Omega 3 fatty acids are a special kind of polyunsaturated fat with many health benefits, which I’m sure you’ve heard about in the health news. When it comes to your training and diet, getting enough omega 3 fatty acids is very important.

Omega 3 fatty acids have far reaching benefits on health and the management of chronic disease. In fact, research has shown that they lower blood levels of triglycerides and very low density lipoproteins (VLDL). Triglycerides are a form of fat found in the blood stream that basically provides the necessary energy for cells to function.

However, high levels of triglycerides can be harmful to the body, and more specifically, your heart. Very low density lipoprotein can be a heart damaging form of cholesterol, which of course, is a bad thing.

To help reduce the effects of high levels of triglycerides and very low density lipoproteins, you must include essential fats in your diet. Why not start enjoying the healing benefit of flax seed oil?

Omega 3 fats lower blood pressure in people with high blood pressure and recent evidence has shown that omega 3 fats may bolster the immune system. You can see that the health benefits of flax seed oil can greatly give you a much needed health boost.

Doctors have long suggested flax seed oil to prevent Prostate and Breast Cancer because it is used to promote the circulation and cardiovascular health, as it is a dietary supplement. For many years, doctors have recommended this oil as it gives benefits to men and women.

Doctors have recommended that the Benefits of Flax Seed Oil is much more because it is a natural dietary supplement instead of taking drugs etc. Americans have, of course, been (for the most part) followers of the Western doctrine of medicine, which says a clinical approach to solving health problems, treated with synthetically produced medications and surgery.

Garlic and flax seed oil have been used as a preventive medicine for many health problems. Though, doctors and health professionals of the West have given new thought to the benefits of alternative medicines like those found in natural dietary supplements. Healers in the East like in China use natural supplements for their proven effects.

Medical professionals have also found links between Omega-3 deficiencies and depression. In addition, children who are afflicted with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are also known to produce low levels of these fatty acids. Taken regularly, flax seed oil may help overcome these deficiencies.

Here are some of the health benefits of flax seed oil:

Benefit of flax seed oil for coronary heart disease - Omega 3 helps reduce cholesterol, blood pressure, plaque formation and cardiac arrhythmia.

Benefit of flax seed oil for Arthritis - With the help of flax seed oil patients can reduce their drug use.

Benefit of flax seed oil for Cancer - Omega 3 kills certain cancer cells without harming normal cells.

Skin problems like acne, eczema and psoriasis are related to Omega 3 deficiency. Omega 3 fatty acids also helps improve your response to stress.

Other health benefits of flax seed oil:

Flax seeds hold twelve percent mucilage making it gentle, natural laxative and perfect for sensitive stomach.

• It acts as a buffer to surplus stomach acids

• It is very helpful in treatment of ulcers and irritable bowel disorders

• It is very useful lubricates and absorbs toxins

• It prevents toxin build up in the bowel

Personally, I use flax seed oil in all my protein drinks. Simply add 1 to 2 tablespoons in your protein drinks and you can start enjoying the healing benefit of flax seed oil. Whether you are training to build muscle or lose weight, I highly recommend that you start using a flax seed oil supplement in your diet.

Blake Bissaillion is the owner of http://www.building-muscle101.com. Building Muscle 101.com offers free weight lifting routines for the advanced and beginning
weight trainer. Also offers free menus, nutritional tips, diet tips and much more including a free 80 page manual on how to build muscle and strength.

Enzymes are the workers in our body that make everything function, by enabling chemical reactions. All living cells contain enzymes. They are hard to visualize, since they are not something tangible, but our lives depend on them.

There are many kinds of enzymes, and they do everything from helping us breath to
our start of life at conception. Eighty percent of our DNA code relates to enzymes.
But the kind of enzymes discussed here relate to our digestion and the food we eat.

In the process of digestion, the digestive enzymes in our bodies break down food
into tiny particles that are easily assimilated by the body into the blood stream.
These are compounds that the body can use for fuel, growth and repair. One food
may take hundreds of different types of enzymes for the body to digest.

Food is naturally filled with enzymes, called “food enzymes”, that help us to digest
that food. The problem is that when we cook or process it, we kill those enzymes.
Temperatures over 118 degrees will destroy the enzymes. A good example of this is
pineapple, which has some very powerful digestive enzymes in it. These enzymes
work so well that when added to gelatin (like Jell-O), the enzymes won’t allow the
gelatin to thicken. So, the only kind of pineapple you can add to gelatin is canned
pineapple, which has been cooked and processed so that all the enzymes have been
destroyed. It is now safe to add to gelatin, but not as good for your body.

Our body can manufacture enzymes, called “digestive enzymes”, in pancreas. But
when we eat a diet that is filled with mostly cooked and processed foods, depleted
of enzymes, the pancreas is forced to work much harder than it was meant to,
manufacturing the enzymes the body needs to digest these foods. So the pancreas
ends up overworking, and the body spends much needed energy and resources on
digestion instead of important things like boosting the immune system, growth,
repairs in the body and fighting disease. Even worse, if the pancreas becomes so
overworked that it shuts down, then bits of undigested food start floating around
the body in the bloodstream, causing all kinds of trouble and illnesses.

The pancreas can be healed in time, with a diet filled with an abundance of
enzymes. A diet that includes raw fruits, vegetables, seeds and nuts, as well as
fermented and marinated foods, will help keep the pancreas from getting that bad
to begin with, and will enable the body to spend it’s energy on more important
processes like boosting the immune system and fighting disease. If your pancreas is
overworked, enzyme supplementation may be a healthy and safe addition. Check
with your health care provider, or naturopathic physician to be sure.

Food enzymes not only help with digestion, but also cleanse the body, breaking
down allergens and environmental products that can potentially be harmful. This is
why it is so vital that we eat a diet containing lots of fresh enzyme filled foods.
Especially in the world we live in today, where we are surrounded by poisons and
cancer causing agents. We need these wholesome foods now more than humans
ever have in the past, to help our bodies stay disease free and functioning properly.

A word of warning: some people advocate eating a diet of all raw foods, but this
may not be the best diet for everyone. An all-raw diet is often good short term for
healing and fasting purposes, but some people have encountered health problems
when staying on a raw diet long term. Truthfully, not all foods should be eaten raw.
Some foods are digested better when cooked, such as starches like potatoes and
grains. In the end, the goal of the Enzyme Health Diet Plan is to be healthy, not to
eat 100% raw food.

Because people are different, they need different foods to fuel their bodies. Just as
an all-raw diet may not work for some, heavy complex carb diets are not for
everyone. Some people need more carbohydrates, some need more proteins and
fats and some just need an equal mix of both of these things. If you don’t know
what metabolism type you are, you need to listen to your body. What foods does it
thrive on? If, after time, you still are having problems figuring it out, check our
recommended books and resources page on our website, Enzyme-Health.com There are some good books offered there
by experts on the subject, that can help your figure out what type you are.

This is an excerpt from the ebook The Enzyme Health Diet Plan by Dianne
Ronnow.

Copyright © 2005 by Mohave Publishing. All rights reserved.

The
Enzyme Health Diet Plan is a FREE e-book that can be found on the Enzyme
Health website at Enzyme-Health.com

If you suffer from arthritis pain, chances are you’ve heard of a
relatively new over-the-counter remedy called Glucosamine. But
what is Glucosamine, and how does it work to relieve arthritis?
In this article, I’ll introduce you to this new treatment and
provide you with the pros and cons of its use. By the time
you’ve finished reading this article, you’ll be able to make an
informed decision on whether or not Glucosamine is right for
you.

What is Glucosamine?

Glucosamine, together with a related ingredient called
Chondroitin, are substances which exist naturally in your body.
It is believed that glucosamine helps to build and repair
cartilage (the soft, spongy material between your joints), while
chondroitin lends to the elasticity and flexibility of joints. A
deficiency of either one can lead to increased wear and tear on
the joint, and cause redness, swelling and stiffness as a result.
When used together, glucosamine and chondroitin act as a
tag-team of arthritis fighters, improving flexibility, soothing
inflammation and reducing swelling caused by achy joints.

Where Can I Buy Glucosamine and Chondroitin Supplements?
You can find these products in virtually any pharmacy or health
goods store. The downside to this is, like other herbal and
alternative medicines, supplements are not regulated by any
governing body. That’s why you’ll need to do a little bit of
research to find the best, most potent brand for your needs.
Here’s what you need to know when comparison shopping for a
glucosamine supplement:

You should expect to pay anywhere from $1-3 per pill when
taking glucosamine daily. Since insurance companies rarely cover
supplements of any kind, you’ll most likely be paying for them
out of pocket.

Read the ingredients label on the bottle to determine the
dosage. Approximately 1500mg of glucosamine and 1200mg of
chondroitin have been safely used in clinical trials. Depending
on your individual medication tolerances and the severity of your
arthritis, you should consult your physicial or rheumatologist to
find the right dose for your individual needs.

Select supplements manufactured by a well-known, reputable
company. Recommended brands include: Osteo Bi-Flex, WholeHealth,
Flex-A-Min, MoveFree and individual pharmacy brands.

Are There Any Side Effects I Should Know About?
As with any medication or supplements, there are a few warnings
you should know:

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, do not use
glucosamine/chondroitin supplements, as no long-term studies have
been done to gage what materials (if any) are passed on to the
baby either internally or through breast milk.

If you are diabetic, chondroitin (a form of sugar) may cause
your blood sugar to rise.

Chondroitin also acts as a mild blood thinner. Therefore, if
you are taking any heart medication or are taking an aspirin
regimen, have your blood clotting time checked more frequently by
your doctor.

Glucosamine/Chondroitin supplements should not be taken by
children since no studies have been done to determine their
effect (if any) on the child’s development.

(Please note: The information contained within this article is
not intended to replace or substitute for that of an experienced
physician. Remember to check with your doctor or rheumatologist
before starting daily glucosamine/chondroitin supplements, and
don’t stop or reduce any of your current medications (whether
they’re for arthritis or not) without first talking with your
doctor).

Emily Clark is editor at Lifestyle Health News and Medical Health News where you can find the most up-to-date advice and information on many medical, health and lifestyle topics.

I first learned of Milk Soy Protein Intolerance (MSPI) in the office of a pediatric gastroenterologist’s office with my seven-week-old son, Max. After the first week of his life Max lost weight and was labeled “failure to thrive.” As an educated mother and nurse I was devastated that this could happen.

That day in the GI specialist’s office, he performed a proctosigmoidoscopy and biopsy on Max. He sat me where I could see him perform the test and told me what I would see. He said that the lining of the bowel would be red, swollen and bleeding, and it was. I just sat there and cried. After the test was over and I could hold Max, Dr. Mack told me that MSPI was indeed what Max had and that I should stop breastfeeding right away and put him on a special formula. He told me that there was a diet I could follow if I wanted to continue breastfeeding, but that it was very stringent and difficult.

Wanting to make the best choice for my son, I stopped breastfeeding that day and started him on Alimentum. The results were dramatic. After one bottle of Alimentum he slept for 2 and 1/2 hours straight; the longest he had ever slept.

After learning all about MSPI with my first son, I was more determined that ever that I would ‘master’ the MSPI diet and breastfeed my second child. So, I set out to the grocery store with a list of forbidden ingredients in my hand. Gradually, after many hours spent standing in the aisles of the grocery store reading labels, I began to find dairy-free, soy-free substitutes for the foods I might normally eat. All the information I collected and recipes I tried, with my husband’s encouragement, were compiled into a book: The Milk Soy Protein Intolerance (MSPI) Guidebook /Cookbook which was published in the fall of 2001. We also have an informational website for MSPI: http://www.MSPIGuide.org.

Milk Soy Protein Intolerance is diagnosed by pediatricians, family physicians and specialists in pediatric gastroenterology. It seems to be more highly prevalent in the midwest, but throughout the country it is given different names, such as: protein intolerance, food protein-induced colitis or eosinophilic gastroenteritis.

MSPI is diagnosed through the history of an irritable infant, or colic-like behavior, poor growth and abnormal (blood streaked) stools. Some infants will exhibit frank blood in their stools. Confirmation of the diagnosis is often made with a biopsy of the intestinal lining which would show an increased amount of eosinophilic cells, eroded intestinal villi and the presence of hemorrhagic tissue.

It is thought that the intestinal lining cannot properly digest the proteins (milk and soy) therefore they are taken up into the blood stream where the body treats them like an antigen and produces antibodies mimicking an allergic response. The intestinal tract then recognizes the ingested proteins as it would an allergen and the intestinal lining reacts by becoming inflamed, often shedding blood into the stool. Some blood may be visible in stools and other blood detected by occult blood testing. The lining of the intestine, then, becomes further damaged as it is continuously exposed to these proteins.

No one really knows why the occurrence of MSPI is prevalent in the United States and especially more prevalent in the midwest region, but one of the theories has to do with our more ’sterile environment.’ We, in the United States are so preoccupied with keeping our environment clean and free of germs. In other countries, especially those of the third world, infants and children are exposed to so many other more serious bacteria, toxins and allergens that their tolerance may become greater due to increased exposure. It also seems that the occurrence of MSPI is congenital; if one child has it, the chances are very high that the subsequent children will have MSPI and that it may be more severe.

Infants diagnosed with MSPI can still be breastfed if the mother adheres to a milk and soy protein-free diet. Many mothers, as I did the first time, choose to stop breastfeeding and place the infant on a specialized formula right away to help them heal faster. Then, if there are subsequent children the mother can start a milk and soy protein-free diet the third trimester of her pregnancy and continue it for as long as she wishes to breastfeed. Though there are many benefits of breastfeeding, with MSPI the avoidance of high formula cost can be the greatest benefit.

The formulas you can buy at most supermarkets or pharmacies are: Alimentum, Progestamil and Nutramigen. These formulas cost $7 to $8 per can which is a 1-2 day supply. Other more specialized formulas, such as Neocate, can be obtained from the pharmacy, or from the doctor prescribing the formula, or at a hospital. These formulas cost anywhere from $31 - $40 per day and up. Of primary issue is cost;can the parents can afford to feed their infant?

I met Chuck Stepanek in Lincoln at a legislative hearing which brought forth the issue of insurance coverage of specialized formulas in the treatment of MSPI. After I testified, he tapped me on the shoulder and handed me his card asking me if I would be willing to write an article for NNA. In the legislative hearing for LB 1047, other families testified that they were finacially devastated by the high cost of formula for their infants. Insurance would pay for the formula only if the infant was hospitalized and fed through a nasogastric tube. Unfortunately, many of these families had to experience this before their infants started thriving. The bill is still alive, but we will probably need to reintroduce it several more times, and get even more support for our cause.

Our sons are now fine; they are happy, healthy little boys. Within one year they outgrew the intolerance and could be started on whole milk. Normally that is the case, but there are a small percentage of infants that continue the intolerance into childhood. I am grateful to the care of our pediatrician who refused to call my sons screaming ‘colic’ and preferred to look for a cause to his pain. I feel so deeply for other parents that go through this. We were very fortunate, in retrospect, fortunate that we could afford the formula that our infant needed, that we could get him the best medical care, that he case was not more severe, that we found our what was wrong early in his life. Others are not that fortunate; it is for those that we will keep working to get information on MSPI to the public and insurance benefits to cover the cost of formula for these infants.

About The Author

Tamara Field is a Registered Nurse and works as the Coordinator for Critical Care and Short Stay at Alegent Midlands Hospital in Papillion, NE. She is also a singer, performing and teaching in the metro area. She holds a Doctorate in Vocal Performance and Pedagogy from the University of Colorado at Boulder. Nursing has afforded the opportunity to have a flexible work schedule and have great variety in her career choices.

Author of The Milk Soy Protein Intolerance (MSPI) Guidebook / Cookbook

For More Information: http://www.mspiguide.org