By. Dr. Marlo Swanepoel
M-tech Hom (UJ)

With Autoimmune diseases being a big interest of mine, I thought I would give you a brief and simple overview of how I see autoimmune diseases and hopefully bring some hope as to how it can be managed and treated naturally.
                                                                                                       
What is an autoimmune disease?
To oversimplify this, autoimmune diseases are inflammatory conditions where your immune system attacks yourself.
You see, normally your immune system should protect you from invaders such as bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites by sending out an army of soldiers whose job it is to fight off, kill or neutralise the threat.

Your immune system can normally do this very well and effectively as it can differentiate between foreign or abnormal cells and your own healthy cells, thus it kills off the invaders and leaves your own cells alone. BUT with an autoimmune disease, the body loses the ability to differentiate between normal and abnormal and thus mistakenly start to attach the body's cells.

There are many autoimmune diseases. Although a lot is known about autoimmune diseases many of them are still poorly understood. Some autoimmune diseases will only target a specific organ or system where others will cause a systemic invasion, meaning it goes all over.
 
How does an autoimmune disease occur?
As I mentioned, the exact cause is not completely understood or even known. Your immune system is extremely complicated and, in my opinion, it has more integrated parts than any other system in your body. Although the basic function of an immune system is the same in all humans, not a single person’s immune system is identical.

Think about it, even identical twins will not have the same immune system functionality, for simple reasons like, we were not all exposed to the same things throughout our lifetimes.

Some studies showed that women are twice as likely to develop an autoimmune disease compared to men. Some ethnic groups are more prone to develop specific autoimmune diseases. Some autoimmune diseases run in families, but that being said not all family members will develop the same autoimmune disease and some will not develop an autoimmune disease at all.

So yes, genetics might play a role in this whole debacle, but it most certainly is not the be-all and end-all. In fact, some doctors believe that genetics only play a 20%-25% role in the development of autoimmune diseases. Many of these diseases are increasing in frequency in especially industrialised countries, which brings us to other causes or contributing factors.

These include: environmental factors i.e. toxins, diet, inflammation, infection and so the list goes on. Some studies even hypothesise that the development of autoimmune diseases might be linked to vaccines and antiseptics, as this might cause the immune system to overreact to a harmless substance.?

So, if we don’t really know what causes an Autoimmune disease how do I treat it?
Once again, I oversimplify, but the way I see an autoimmune disease is as an inflammatory process. This inflammation is a direct response of the immune system that never shuts down. You see, acute inflammation is a good thing.

Let say you get the flu. Your immune system will release all kinds of chemicals and recruit all kinds of cells to kill this virus. One of the responses is inflammation, which will lead to a fever. This happens to be one of the best natural ways to kill off any invaders. Once the threat has been neutralised, the inflammatory response will decrease and shut down and continue to patrol the perimeter, until it sees the next threat.

However, with an autoimmune disease, the inflammatory response is never switched off. Yes, the intensity decreases but a low-grade inflammation is present 24/7. This is where and when things go haywire.
So, for me personally in my practice, I treat autoimmune diseases based on 4 pillars.

The Four Pillars of treating an Autoimmune disease
1st you must Remove any possible triggers of the autoimmune disease. This may be food sensitivities, infection, heavy metals, etc.

2nd Control the inflammatory response. Once you stop the continuous inflammatory response the immune system can rest and reboot. I always think about this as someone going to war. If you are sleep deprived and in constant fight mode you might just end up hurting one of your own.

3rd you need to start Repairing your immune system. One of the ways I do this is by diet. Go read my previous article on leaky gut (http://www.naturopathichealthcarecentre.co.za/articles/leaky-gut). Remember 70%-80% of your immune system is located in your gut. This means that if your gut is healthy, your immune system might just be healthy too.  Which is why repair and control goes hand-in-hand.
​
4th I always try to Balance and support your immune system. This might include a few supplements to optimise the immune system functionality, but NEVER forget the power of sleep and exercise. Relaxation is just as curtail, as stress will only cause an increase in adrenalin and cortisol which will result in a tired, overworked and misfiring immune system.  ​

Dr Marike de Klerk M.Tech Hom (UJ)

A holistic consultation might be different from your experience with a general practitioner.

Homeopaths pride themselves on the fact that they have time to spend with a patient. It is a necessity to understand what is wrong with the patient, where ailments might be originating from as well as what the expected outcome could be and what the patient needs from the practitioner.

A consultation is usually an hour long and you can expect the homeopath to ask many questions concerning many aspects of your life and the ailment that brought you to the practice. A detailed history about previous ailments as well as where you grew up and under what conditions will also be essential. The more information you have to offer the homeopath the more directed they can treat, so if you have a diary or can write down a symptom list and bring to the consultation, it will be of great help. A list of medications that are being taken currently needs to be reported as well.

I use biomeridian testing as well as live blood analysis as added tools for a more accurate diagnosis. This does not replace a comprehensive history taking or a physical examination but may offer extra clues to establish a diagnosis.

When your consultation is concluded you should have a much better idea of what your diagnosis is, what might be the cause and most importantly, what is the plan for the future to get you back to your healthy self.
​
Be prepared to spend time in the consulting room, relax and give as much information as you have, never feel silly or that it is not important. A small fact might just give the clue needed to resolve your health issues. Most importantly, we want to be your partner in your health journey, so, what is important to you, is important to us.

By: Dr. Chantell Groenewald
M. Tech Hom UJ
 
Acne, also know as acne vulgaris, is a common skin condition that occurs when the hair follicle and accompanying oil gland becomes blocked by dead skin cells, dried oil secretions and bacteria. This results in either:
1. Non-inflammatory acne: blackheads and whiteheads, or
2. Inflammatory acne: pastules, pimples, cysts and sometimes abscesses.
 
Acne most commonly starts around puberty due to increasing hormone levels, particularly testosterone which stimulates oil glands to produce excessive amounts of oil. Several other conditions that affects hormone levels can also cause acne, this includes:

• Pregnancy
• Menstruation
• Menopause
• Polycystic ovarian syndrome
• 
  

Other factors that contribute to the development of acne include:

• IUD’s and oral contraceptive pills
• Certain medications can either cause or aggravate acne
• Family history of acne (genetic predisposition)
• Stress
• Certain skin care products

 
Here are 10 natural treatment protocols that may be useful in treating acne due to hormonal imbalances:
 
1. Supporting phase 1 and 2 detoxification of the liver. The liver is responsible for metabolising our hormones, so supporting liver detoxification often results in improvement of hormonal imbalances. Some conventional treatment protocols for acne can be hepatotoxic, which can further aggravate hormonal imbalances in the long run.
 
2. Eat 5-7 servings of vegetables per day. Cruciferous and allium vegetables such as broccoli, brussel sprouts, onions, garlic and cabbage contains a substance called sulphorophane which can assist in phase 2 detoxification of the liver
 
3. Anti-oxidants help neutralize harmful metabolites from hormone metabolism. There are various products on the market, however a diet rich in color spectrum vegetables and berries has a potent anti-oxidant effect.
 
4. Herbals such as chaste berry can assists in managing hormonal imbalances.
 
5. Ecchinatia premium can help manage acne with a secondary bacterial infection.
 
6. Anti-inflammatory products such as omega 3 and curcumin can reduce inflammation associated with inflammatory acne.
 
7. Adaptogens such as ashwaganda can assist in stress management.
 
8. Homeopathy. Several homeopathic remedies can assist in the treatment of acne. A remedy can be chosen based on an individuals specific symptom picture.
 
9. A gut healing diet that includes anti-inflammatory foods and plenty of gut healing probiotics can assist in the treatment of acne.
 
10. A natural skin care regime with home made facial products. This should include gentle exfoliation, natural face wash and facial masks as well as applying products that can combat inflammation and infection such as a good quality tea tree oil.
 
The skin is a reflection of our overall health. A glowing healthy skin reflects a glowing healthy system whereas acne ridden skin is often an indication of underlying imbalances which should be addressed. Suppressing acne symptoms can clear your skin but the underlying problem is often not resolved and the acne can return once treatment is stopped. Careful examination of each individual and a holistic approach often yields the most favourable and permanent results.

DR. Chantell Groenewald
M. Tech Hom (UJ)

 
What is PCOS?
 
Polycystic ovarian syndrome is the most common hormonal disorder affecting women of child bearing age. It is a chronic disease affecting the functioning of the ovaries causing excessive male hormones to be secreted and is characterized by:

• Increased androgens (male hormones) as mentioned,
• Insulin resistance (which further exacerbates the excess of male hormones),
• Infrequent or no menstrual cycle,
• Adult acne,
• Accumulation of multiple cysts on the ovaries,
• High cholesterol,
• Obesity and
• Infertility

 
 
What causes of PCOS?
 
The cause for PCOS is poorly understood, but genetic and environmental factors seem to play an important role. There is a hormonal dysregulation at play, which includes

• Higher than normal luthenizing hormone (LH). Produced by the anterior pituitary gland, the LH is required to stimulate the ovarian follicles to secrete oestradiol.  A surge in LH, causes the ovarian follicle to tear and release the ripe egg. Because the LH hormone is already higher than normal in patients with PCOS, there is no LH surge and ovulation does not take place.
• Decreased follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), Also released by the anterior pituitary gland, the FSH is responsible for the growth of the ovarian follicle, as well as secretion of oestrogen,
• Higher than normal levels of testosterone (hyperandrogenism). Testosterone is normally secreted in small amounts by the ovaries as well as the adrenal glands, but in patients with PCOS the ovaries secrete abnormally high levels of testosterone, and
• Elevated levels of insulin. Insulin regulates blood glucose levels, by signalling cells to absorb glucose from the blood stream to use as energy. Insulin is also involved in fat storage.

50-70% of females with PCOS suffer from insulin resistance which exacerbates excess secretion of male hormones by the ovaries. Insulin resistance contributes to obesity, which increases insulin resistance and further aggravates PCOS.
 
What are the diagnostic criteria for PCOS?
 
The current diagnostic criteria for PCOS is at least two of the three following characteristics:

• Infrequent periods (oligoanovulation)
• Increased male hormones (clinical hyperandrogenism)
• Polycystic ovaries on ultrasound (present in only 20-30% of woman with PCOS)

 
What are the signs and symptoms of PCOS?
 
The signs and symptoms of PCOS varies from one woman to the next. Here is a list of the most common symptoms:

• Infertility or difficulty conceiving
• Increased testosterone
• Oligomennorrhea (a woman who regularly goes 35+ days without having a period)
• Insulin resistance
• Gaining weight or difficulty losing weight
• Acne
• Thinning hair (male pattern balding)
• Acanthosis Nigricans (dark patches of skin)
• Hirsutism (abnormal hair growth pattern on a woman’s face or body)
• Hyperlipidemia (High cholesterol)
• Low sex drive (libido)
• Fatigue
• Obesity
• Anxiety and depression

 
What are the natural treatment protocols for PCOS?
 
1. Losing weight
This is vital in controlling insulin sensitivity, reversing insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome (triad of elevated insulin, cholesterol and blood pressure) and will aid in controlling the production of excess androgens by the ovaries. A carefully selected diet may assist in weight loss. There are various options including low carbohydrate, intermittent fasting, anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic eating programs to choose from. The correct eating plan can reduce inflammation and help control insulin levels and manage dysregulation of hormones.
 
 
2. Controlling stress
Excess cortisol produced by the adrenal glands during periods of high stress has a profound effect on our hormones. Long term expose to higher than normal levels of cortisol translate into insulin resistance, weight gain and hormonal imbalances. Getting enough sleep is also vitally important in regulating cortisol levels.
 
3. Supplements
There are various supplements that can aid in controlling blood sugar, reducing excess androgen production and balancing female hormones. A qualified practitioner can prescribe the correct supplements to help manage each individual case. Some supplements that have been suggested to benefit cases of PCOS include:
I.Chaste Tree: May be beneficial in regulating erratic ovulation, acne, oligomennorrhoea and amenorrhoea, ovarian cysts and assist in sleep maintenance.
II.Inositol: specifically, myo-inositol, is a vitamin like substance found in many plants and produced in our bodies. There are various studies that illustrates the beneficial effects of myo-inositol in the treatment of PCOS.
III.Vitamin D: Vitamin D deficiency effects an estimated 60-70% of people. The only way to test if you are vitamin D deficient is by doing a blood test (supplementing without confirmed deficiency is dangerous and should be done under the supervision of a primary health care physician). Vit D plays an important role in maturation of eggs and ovulation.
IV.Folic acid, omega 3, calcium, magnesium, zinc, n-acetylcysteine and chromium are a group of supplements that may be beneficial in the treatment of PCOS.
 
4. Homeopathy
There are various case studies that demonstrates the beneficial effects of specific homeopathic remedies to aid in the treatment of PCOS. Following a consultation, a homeopath can prescribe a remedy that suites each individual case. 
 
 
5. Exercise
Moderate exercise assists in both stress management and weight loss, which aids in controlling cortisol as well as insulin levels.

PCOS is a silent disorder with an estimated 50% of woman being not being diagnosed correctly. The potential long-term health risks of PCOS include sleep apnoea, endometrial cancer, fatty liver disease, type 2 diabetes, cardiometabolic disease and more. There are several ways to naturally balance our hormones and reverse the effects of PCOS

WHAT IS LIVE BLOOD ANALYSIS?
 
LIVE BLOOD ANALYSIS, ALSO KNOWN AS NUTRITIONAL OR DARKFIELD MICROSCOPY , IS IN ESSENCE THE ANALYSIS OF LIVING BLOOD UNDER A POWERFULL MICROSCOPE, CONNECTED TO A CAMERA.
 
Live blood testing enables us to see exactly how one’s blood behaves in the body, giving a clear picture of health at cellular level. The aim of the practitioner is not to make a diagnosis from patterns seen but rather but to see what the biological terrain is manifesting with.

“Terrain” in the blood can be likened to a vegetable garden, the terrain being the soil, where the vegetables will flourish in healthy soil and will be free of disease and parasites. Similarly in the body, if the terrain is healthy, bacteria, fungi and parasites will be repelled, metabolic processes will proceed unhindered and disease will not be enabled. By examining the live blood one can identify aberrations in the terrain, address it and prevent or correct current imbalances and diseases.

The examination of live, capillary blood has been performed by researchers all over the world for many years. It is a quick and efficient way of assessing the health of the patient. A drop of blood is examined under a special microscope which has which has both light and dark field options. Very quickly one can see terrain imbalances such as toxicity, immune disorders, gut issues and cholesterol and so on.

The difference between having blood analysed by a chemical laboratory and viewing live blood, is that one can assess the functioning of  blood cells in a live blood analysis consultation. In contrast the fixed stained cells are analysed in the chemical laboratory, measured against a standard, interpreted and sent to your practitioner whom can than issue a prescription.  Seeing your blood on a live blood screen enables the practitioner to describe your terrain and also for the patient to participate in the discussion.

According to what is viewed, your practitioner will then be able to suggest lifestyle changes, nutritional supplements, homeopathic or functional treatment to correct these imbalances.

Book your free session with Dr Marike de Klerk M.Tech Hom (UJ)
info@nahcc.co.za or call us on 012 460 9216/7/8 

Functional Medicine
By: Dr C Groenewald M.Tech Hom (UJ)
 
Holistic healing focuses on addressing the root cause of a disease and not only the symptom itself, using vitamins, minerals, nutritional medicine, diet, exercise and homoeopathy.
 
The body is an amazing organism, striving continuously towards homeostasis. When homeostasis is threatened, your body will find a way to notify you - in the form of ‘symptoms and signs’.
 
Each sign and symptom has a root cause, for example: if you drink a headache tablet for a headache, you are addressing the symptom only, leaving the underlying cause untreated.  Finding and addressing the cause, will lend itself to a permanent cure.
 
To further illustrate this point, let us look at weight gain, as an example:
 
Underlying causes of unchecked weight gain may include:

• Hypothyroidism;
• Diabetes;
• Insulin resistance;
• Certain medication;
• Female hormonal issues;
• Cortisol hypersecretion;
• Leaky gut;
• Food sensitivities.

 
Trying to correct the weight gain (a sign) with various diets and exercise programmes, will not resolve the underlying cause of the weight gain, and often patients may become very disheartened, when strict lifestyle changes yields little to no results. Find the cause, treat the cause and resolve the symptom.
 
 
Who can benefit from this approach? EVERYONE, including patients who
suffer from:

• Sinus and hay fever;
• Headache;
• Halitosis (bad breath);
• Unexplained weight gain or loss;
• Insomnia;
• Anxiety and depression;
• Unseemly facial and body hair;

• Severe PMS or painful periods;
• Amenorrhoea (lack of periods);
• Low libido;
• Constipation or chronic diarrhoea;
• Bloating and flatulence;
• Erectile dysfunction;
• Infertility;
• Low immunity and or recurrent infection;
• Asthma and allergies;
• Skin eruptions and itchy skin;
• Heartburn and reflux;
• Hot flushes and irritability;
• Low energy.

 
How do you start this journey? Contact us for an appointment which involves:
1.         A 1-hour consultation with a qualified healthcare practitioner;
2.         A complete medical history and health assessment;
3.         Follow up consultation to assess your blood work, set up a treatment plan and      nutritional plan;
4.         Monthly follow up as required.
 
“The highest ideal of cure is the speedy, gentle and enduring restoration of health by the most trustworthy and least harmful way.” -Samuel Hahnemann-