Dear KRS,
I think I am suffering from OCD. I have read that low serotonin levels are related to OCD, and that sunlight (and chocolate?) may be of some help. Also, would it be a good idea for me to take vitamin D? 
OCD Concerns

Dear OCD,
Although I haven't read any studies proving that sunlight, chocolate or vitamin D affect OCD, there are theories that there may be a relationship between OCD and low serotonin levels. If that is true, it would make sense to get a daily dose of sunlight (vitamin D) since sunlight absorbed through the eyes is said to be a source of serotonin. Along the same lines, we do know that sunlight can positively affect the brain (and thus the chemicals produced by the brain) as evidenced by Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) where people get depressed if not exposed to enough sunlight and mood improvement when exposed to sunlight. 

By the way, if you’re getting enough sunlight (20-30 minutes/day) you may not need additional vitamin D, unless you’re in your 40-50s when your need for vitamin D may be increased due to hormonal changes. 

Meanwhile, consider working on the OCD issue behaviorally with a professional experienced in this area (if you aren't already). OCD builds on itself, so working consciously toward modifying your behavior (the manifestations of your drivenness) can help. Set specific small goals to ease off the behavior. For example, if you generally check the door to see if it’s locked “6” times before leaving the house, resolve to check it only 5 times the first week, then 4 times, 3 times….and so forth.

I use meditation techniques that help dissolve compulsive urges. For example, if you learn to go inside to the place where the drivenness begins and "relax into" the physical sensations of drivenness before acting on them, you can eventually desensitize your internal reactions and resulting external actions - from the inside out. Feel free to listen to my audios for free on my site.
KRS

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Dear KRS,

I am hypothyroid, have severe PMS, am chronically tired and depressed, and hypoglycemic. I have been ill-served by allopathic medicine and have decided to be proactive and find a way to regain my health. I am now suffering from information overload. I started with links connecting hypothyroidism to diet and selenium deficiency and have ended up at candida and parasites. I am finding it very hard to develop a game plan for processing and eliminating. I am asking a lot, but would be grateful for your advice.

Multiple Symptoms


Dear Multiple Symptoms,

Whenever I see this many symptoms I start with the "big picture" rather than chasing after each one of them individually. Without knowing more about your situation, I would make a guess that some aspect(s) of your life is out of balance and is causing you stress. 

Stress, of course, wears one down "from the inside out," starting with the adrenal glands. The body can handle it for awhile and then it just can't keep up any more, and that's when you start noticing external symptoms. Everyone is different and has different genetic and psychological weaknesses, so the symptoms vary person to person. 

Since I am not a doctor, I must advise you to first get checked out by a skilled professional, preferably someone with knowledge of alternative/integrative medicine. Most importantly, be sure this professional listens to you patiently and doesn't rush through the appointment. 

Request that you talk with the doctor personally by phone before making your first appointment. Mention that this conversation will be less than 5 minutes and that you just want to be sure you feel comfortable with the doctor before you put your life in his/her hands. If the doctor is too busy to talk with you on the phone for 5 minutes, find one that will take the time. 

In the interview, briefly describe your problem and see what sort of feedback you get. Don’t get caught up in being sure the doctor knows absolutely everything about your case. Don’t get lost in trying to find out the resolution to your problem in this phone interview. Your goal in this interview is to get a good feel for the doctor’s personality and knowledge-base in a few short minutes, which can be done if you conduct the interview efficiently. 

Notice that I used the word "interview." Yes, it is an interview - you are hiring this person to work for you and you are the boss, in that you have the option to hire him or not. Too many people, especially the older generation, still have a certain reverence about doctors and thus are often too intimated to ask all their questions. One client in her 80s recently said to me “I don’t want to bug my doctor with too many questions – he might ‘kick me to the curb’.” Incredible.

My point in concentrating on the art of finding the right healer is that this person is a vital component on your road to health. The wrong healer(s) can steal months or years from your healing process and/or life. 

I also advise you to look at your life and determine those areas that need balancing and simplification. Then, take the necessary steps to restore that balance. 

Practice relaxation/meditation techniques everyday. Also do some healing visualizations. Your body wants to recover and is hungry to hear positive affirmations from you. Start by visualizing cleansing waters washing through your body, carrying away all toxins and stress, leaving you with clean-flowing energy.

KRS

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Hi KRS,

I am on a diet to get rid of Candidas also known as a yeast overgrowth. This diet seems to be making me crazy. I crave sugar so badly but I am not supposed to have any. Do you think I can indulge in something like cake occasionally when I am on this diet? My birthday is approaching so I am hoping I can indulge in sweets once in a while.

Sugar Craving with Candida

Dear Craving Sugar,

Candida Albicans is a natural yeast living in the intestines and vagina. Candidiasis has become one of the more popular and over diagnosed illnesses in recent years, but certainly worth knowing about. Antibiotic overuse destroys the "good" bacteria responsible for controlling bacterial and yeast overgrowth. [Always supplement with acidophilus if you must take antibiotics.] Sugar and refined carbohydrates create a candida-friendly "home" in your intestines. The more you can "starve" this home, the better.

Unfortunately, we often crave that which is worst for us, so think of yourself in battle with sweets when the cravings arise - and vow to win by starving the Candida. Eat some protein as quickly as possible to help your resolve by stabilizing your blood sugar levels. Keep fresh fruits and naturally sweetened hard candies around for craving emergencies.

Choose your "slips" wisely and sparsely. The more time that passes without sweets, the easier it will get. The more you indulge the craving for sweets, the harder it will be and the longer you will prolong the battle. The good news is that with this healthier diet, you will probably notice a positive redistribution of body weight. Hang in there - you are giving yourself the best possible birthday gift!

KRS

Dear KRS,

I love your column and am so pleased to have discovered you. I am a health professional and have finally come to knowing how very little I actually know.

I have taken myself in hand and have started a good exercise and eating program. I am peri-menopausal and have trouble with PMS and taking chemically produced progesterone. I looked around the net and after reading lots of information, I have started taking vitamins, as well as using a progesterone (natural) trans-dermal cream.

I am now feeling great and doing really well. I am taking a calcium, magnesium, boron combination pill, a good multi-vitamin, CoQ10 and have just recently added Black Cohosh. I keep reading about Primrose Oil and or Vitamin E. Is there a point of too much or where the combination doesn't make sense anymore?

Thank you for some wonderful advice. I shall be reading your column regularly.

- Taking Control of Hormones

Dear Taking Control -

Congratulations on seeking alternative ways to balance your changing hormones. If you are feeling great, I would stop experimenting (adding more supplements). More is not always better. Alternative medicines and supplements are powerful and, used inappropriately can cause uncomfortable side effects.

Primrose Oil and vitamin E are both excellent supplements but, like all supplements, are not necessarily for everyone, everyday. What’s the solution? Ideally, I’d learn how to use muscle testing (applied kinesiology) or periodically see a practitioner who uses AK to find out exactly what your body needs at that particular point. Learning to use a pendulum is also a wonderful tool for self-assessment. You might find that you need vitamin “X” only 3 days a week, vitamin “Y” 5 days a week and vitamin “Z” not at all, for example. Needs continually shift, so it’s a good idea to shift your intake accordingly, customizing it to your body.

We learn new things as life hands us challenges, and hormonal balancing seems to be the Baby Boomers’ puzzle to figure out, evolve from and…to pass on to the next generation (currently living in sweet oblivion of this “puzzle”).

You're doing a great job taking control of your changing life. Good work.
KRS

Dear KRS,
I have just recently quit smoking and now I need to start working out again, but I am having trouble staying motivated.  Is there anything out there that can help me? I am usually good for a week, but that is about it.  
- Just Quit Smoking

Dear KRS,
I am hypothyroid, have severe PMS, am chronically tired and depressed, and hypoglycemic. I have been ill served by allopathic medicine and have decided to be proactive and find a way to regain my health. I am now suffering from info overload. I started with links connecting hypothyroidism to diet and selenium deficiency and have ended up at candida and parasites. I am finding it very hard to develop a game plan for processing and eliminating. I am asking a lot, but would be grateful for your advice.
Multiple Symptoms

Dear Multiple Symptoms,
Whenever I see this many symptoms I start with the "big picture" rather than chasing after each one of them individually. Without knowing more about your situation, I would make a guess that some aspect(s) of your life is out of balance and that is causing you stress. Stress, of course, wears one down "from the inside out," starting with the adrenal glands. The body can handle it for awhile and then it just can't keep up any more, and that's when you start noticing external symptoms. Everyone is different and has different genetic and psychological weaknesses, so the symptoms vary person to person. 

Since I am not a doctor, I must advise you to first get checked out by a skilled professional, preferably someone with knowledge of alternative/integrative medicine. Most importantly, be sure this professional listens to you patiently and doesn't rush through the appointment. In fact, I would ask to talk with him or her personally on the phone before making the appointment. If they are too busy to talk on the phone, find ones that will. Tell them (or the assistant) that your conversation will be short, but that you want to be sure that you feel comfortable with them before making the appointment. Then, once they're on the phone be brief but spell out your problem and see what sort of feedback you get. You can get an excellent idea about someone in a short time if you conduct the interview efficiently. Notice that I used the word "interview." Yes, it is an interview - you are hiring this person to work for you and you are the "boss," in that you have the option to hire them or not. Too many people, especially the older generation, still have almost a sense of reverence around doctors and too often don't ask enough questions and don't demand answers (for medication, etc). My point in concentrating on this aspect of your road to health is that it will require finding the right healer and you must take the responsibility of finding the right one for you.

I also advise you to look at your life and determine the area(s) that need balancing, if any. Then, take the responsibility to restore that balance and simplify your life a bit. Practice relaxation/meditation techniques everyday. Do some healing visualizations. Your body wants to recover and is hungry to hear positive affirmation from you. Start by visualizing cleansing waters washing through your body, carrying away all toxins and stress, leaving you with clean-flowing energy. 
KRS 

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Dear KRS,
I seem to need at least 9-10 hours of sleep a night.  Is there really such thing as getting too much sleep?
Too Much Sleep?

Dear Too Much Sleep,
If you feel best with that amount of sleep, that is the amount, for now, that you should get.  Americans average about eight 1/4 hours of sleep per night.  Some people need less and some need more.  If you find that you are sleeping to escape, are depressed or have any other unusual symptoms, check with your doctor.  Otherwise, enjoy your sweet, healing slumber guilt free.
KRS

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Dear Krs,
I am a hypochondriac....I try to not make a big deal about every little ache. However, I am 21 and obsessed with developing a major disease and dying. At first it was just a little odd but now it's causing major stress in addition to that which is placed on me from school work. I am a student at Bryn Mawr. Could you please help!
Hypochondriac

Dear Hypochondriac,
Every obstacle is a lesson in disguise.  It carries a message.  All we need is the courage and some skills to walk through it with eyes (and consciousness) wide open.   Obstacles never come at a convenient time.  I know it's "hell on earth," but I wouldn't deprive you of what you can gain from working through it.   (If it's any solace, I once used up an entire insurance policy, running from doctor to doctor.)

You are correct not to shove this obsession aside any longer, as it will only escalate if unattended.  What is in the mind manifests in the body, so we misdirect our energy by focusing on the symptoms rather than the root cause of the problem.  Obsessions are our way of preoccupying ourselves with something other than the real issue. In the same way that people drink alcohol, overeat or take drugs to numb out/not FEEL, we also develop "more sophisticated" diversions such as becoming phobic.  The worst offense is that this obsession is keeping you from your true self and fully experiencing life. Interestingly, many times the fear of dying is actually the fear of living; of fully engaging in life.  Sound familiar?

Two suggestions to begin your journey home to your true self.  First, a psychological exploration.  Often erroneous messages, such as perfectionism, are instilled at a very young age forming our "railroad track" that then commences to carry our "train" (self) in the wrong direction - until we 1) discover the false message and 2) rebuild the faulty track.  A professional in this particular field can help.  

Second, be willing to fully experience/BE with the physical sensations of your fear/obsession.  A mindfulness meditation technique I teach has you sit still with the obsession and allow every physical discomfort arising from the obsession to "complete itself."  Your only job is to surrender, to get out of the way and be there with it, even though at times it may feel like you are going to explode or even die.  You won't, but you will be permanently altered from this practice.   In a sense, it teaches you to walk right into death (real and perceived) and come out the other side more alive than you've ever been.  When death does come, having "dress rehearsed it," you will welcome it, unafraid.  Let me know how it goes.
KRS

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Dear KRS,
I know exercise will be your answer for a healthier lifestyle, but what is your opinion about such diet pills?
Do Diet Pills Work?

Dear Diet Pills,
There are frequently negative and even dangerous side effects from taking "weight loss" drugs.  At best, pills are a very short-term solution. Statistically, the weight will come back, usually accompanied by a few extra pounds.  That's why I often joke that diet pills are a great way to GAIN weight!

Most importantly, you don't learn anything by trying to take the easy way out.  I know there's probably a dance on Saturday night (or the metaphoric equivalent), but aren't we here to learn life's lessons and evolve?  The line of least resistance seems so tempting until we realize (hopefully sooner than later) that it's actually an illusion.
KRS

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Dear KRS,
I am 5 feet 5 inches tall and 27 years old.  I've always been pretty healthy.  I've also been very thin since 2nd grade.  I had a blood test that ruled out a thyroid problem.  I eat three meals a day and take vitamins.  The only time I've gained weight is when I worked out (gained 15 pounds) or took a prescribed medication that made me extremely hungry (gained 10 pounds). 

It's been suggested I have a high metabolism.  I know my plight to gain is probably senseless to the average woman but I do wish to reach a healthy weight for my size, age and stature.  I've noticed Alfalfa Tea helped me gain 5 pounds in a week.  But I lost it all with the flu.  I'm currently 100 pounds now, which is where I always seem to stay.  Any advice?  I'm not unattractive but could stand a few pounds!
Trying To Gain Weight

Dear Trying To Gain (or should I say "Lucky"),
As long as you have been medically checked out and feel good, I would readjust the picture inside your head and learn to appreciate what you've got. Meanwhile, if you like, continue with the healthful ways you've found to gain the weight (working out and Alfafa Tea).   Skip the medication.  Also, if you are a vegetarian, adding some protein may help.
KRS

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Dear KRS,
I recently went on the patch to quite smoking.  I've been on the patch for 14 days and I still have a craving for cigarettes.  Can you tell me any other way to stop the cravings?
Craves Cigarettes

Dear Craves Cigarettes,
It's important that you approach quitting with a healthy mindset.  Instead of thinking, "I'm a bad/weak person for smoking and I've got to quit," think of quitting as a challenge, just like running a marathon.  The only difference is that a marathon is a physical challenge while quitting smoking, after the first few days, is primarily a psychological challenge. 

The technique that I most successfully use for addictions is a mindfulness meditation called vipassana.  It teaches you to go TOWARD unpleasant sensations and experience them fully instead of running from them.  When you feel the uncomfortable body sensations that make you want to light up, you simply try to "be" with the sensations, go limp to them, surrender to them.  No matter how intense they get, stay with it.  "Run your marathon" not by gritting your teeth and toughing it out, but by opening to the sensations even if it feels like you may explode.   Eventually the sensations will break up and the craving will pass.  Each time you get a craving from then on, your "marathon" skills grow, you trust the process more and soon - no more cravings.  Even better, you have learned a new skill for dealing with negative feelings, so you don't have to smoke (or switch to other self-destructive habits such as eating) to try to numb out feeling.  Should you want personal guidance, you might try my "Defeat Pain" audios. Let me know how it goes.  Our readers love success stories.
KRS

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Dear KRS,
Recently I had bulimia. I have stopped but now I'm having problems with my knee.   I get muscle spasms and my knee is constantly cracking.  Would that have anything to do with my eating disorder?
Former Bulimic

Dear Former Bulimic,
If your bout with bulimia was somewhat extended, you may have created an imbalance in your system (particularly in regards to minerals).  Such an imbalance could affect muscle functioning to some degree (spasms, etc.). Muscles that are in spasm can pull your skeletal system (i.e. knee) out of alignment.  It could also be that you simply pulled a muscle in that leg as anybody might, and it is consequently affecting your knee.   (You didn't mention which muscles spasm).  In either case, be sure you are taking a good vitamin/mineral supplement and do some gentle, slow back and leg stretches daily (with warm muscles).
KRS

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Dear KRS,
I'm 46 and I've recently gone through menopause (no periods for over a year). I started having terrible mood swings and my doctor put me on Prozac, which caused me to gain weight and have no sex drive.  My question is - what would help me with my mood swings without the side effects that Prozac gives?
Going Through Menopause

Dear Going Through Menopause,
Thankfully, the subject of menopause is fast becoming an openly discussed "acceptable" subject, thanks the massive boomer population involuntarily becoming acquainted with it as early as age 35.  And, thankfully, many are demanding more acceptable, natural solutions. 

Sometimes I wish I could turn the medical and alternative health clock ahead 25 years.   We would laugh (or cry) at the unnecessary ill health and needless suffering we endured.  But we must try to embrace our role in this ongoing, ever-evolving, journey.

St. John's Wort is an herb gaining popularity for easing depression.  Exercise will also help with depression/mood swings as well as weight gain.  Walk 20-30 minutes, 3-7 times a week and break a sweat.  Wild yam creams can help with hot flashes and adding soy products to your diet can help balance hormones. Consider seeking out an alternative practitioner who specializes in menopause and related problems.  Get more informed by reading a book such as Dr. Susan Love's Hormone Book: Making Informed Choices About Menopause.
KRS

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Dear KRS,
Can drinking coffee before swimming decrease my performance?
Avid Swimmer

Dear Swimmer,
If anything, the stimulating effects of coffee may increase your performance a bit. Caffeine tends to temporarily increase energy so I wouldn't worry about it ruining your performance. However, I want to warn against using caffeine or any other stimulant for the purpose of boosting exercise performance.  Let your body use its own wisdom to do what it can and set its own natural limits.
KRS

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Dear Spa Search,
Going away for a few days to a health spa/retreat can really give you a great start for getting out of old ruts, reprioritizing and starting fresh. It's not only what is accomplished in those few days that is so valuable, but it's also the motivation and resolve you take back with you to continue that way of life.

There are some very reasonable packages (including my own Weekend Spa Retreats, if I may say) that offer a lot for relatively little. Start saving a little every week towards your next retreat. Americans waste so much money on various little things that it is surprisingly easy to save it once you realize where it is going.

Here is an idea for you:   Fodor's "Healthy Escapes" (book)

- If you want to be updated on my Spa Retreats, relaxation audios and health books, just e-mail me your street address.
KRS

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