Category: Nutritional Supplements

Nutrient Depletion: Acid Blockers

October 8th, 2012 by Paula Gallagher

One of the most prescribed categories of drugs is acid blockers. These include Pepcid and Prevacid. Used to treat heartburn, gastric (stomach) ulcers, duodenal (intestinal) ulcers, reflux esophagitis, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), these drugs can also have a slew of side effects, many of which are associated with nutritional deficiencies.

Here are some of the nutrients that you may be deficient in if you are taking an acid blocker.

  • Iron – Stomach acid is needed for iron absorption and people with ulcers may be iron deficient due to blood loss.
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Chill Out with Relaxation Support

August 29th, 2012 by Paula Gallagher

Stress is part of our lives, especially noticeable at this time of year when the lazy days of summer start to come to an end. Kids go back to school (or start school), traffic starts to get worse, and most people’s lives start to get a lot busier.

Pathway Relaxation Support combines a soothing blend of relaxing herbs, vitamins, minerals and amino acids. It contains Relora®, a patented blend of Magnolia officinalis and Phellondendron amurense, studied for its calming and focusing effect as well as stress-induced weight management problems. SunTheanine® is also incorporated in the formula, which aids in relaxation. We also include calming herbs, such as chamomile, lemon balm, valerian, skullcap, hops and passionflower.

Have a safe and enjoyable Labor Day weekend! AND RELAX!!

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Nutrient Depletion: Oral Contraceptives

August 28th, 2012 by Paula Gallagher

Many people do not know that prescription medications can deplete your body of important nutrients, leaving you susceptible to other heath problems. Every week, I will post a blog about a commonly prescribed drug and what depletions it may cause.

First off, oral contraceptives. Prescribed to prevent pregnancy, regulate menstrual cycles and, for some women, provide relief of painful periods. Whatever the reason, these tiny tablets can rob women of critical vitamins, minerals and nutrients.

Nutrient Depletion

Folic acid – works closely with vitamin B12 in the metabolism of amino acids, and the synthesis of proteins, vital to healthy cell division and replication and to tissue growth, plays an important role in cervical health and preventing birth defects.

Magnesium – activates hundreds of enzymes, plays a role in healthy bones and teeth, muscle health, mood and sleep, cardiovascular and menstrual health.

Continue reading “Nutrient Depletion: Oral Contraceptives”

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Men and Fertility

August 22nd, 2012 by Paula Gallagher

Fertility is not just a women’s issue. Statistics show that 35-40% of infertility issues are male related. So it makes sense to look at how men can improve their chances for conception, as well.

Stress, alcohol and smoking are the most common culprits when dealing with male-related infertility, but there are many other factors that can lower testosterone, decrease sperm concentration, limit motility or even damage sperm, including:

· Obesity

· Prescription medications: talk to your doctor to see if the medications you are taking affect fertility

· Heavy metals, such as lead and mercury

· Hot baths, hot tubs, saunas, steam rooms and laptops Continue reading “Men and Fertility”

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How to Handle Ear Infections at Home

August 14th, 2012 by Paula Gallagher

By the time your child has reached the age of 5, he or she may have already suffered through at least one ear infection. And according to The American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS), ear infections account for 25 million office visits annually with direct costs for treatment estimated at $3 billion.

Antibiotics are still the most recommended solution to ear infections for children under the age of 1, even though most ear infections are caused by viruses. A study from the Archives of Otolaryngology showed that 88% of children with ear infections never needed antibiotics, and antibiotics did not shorten the lifespan of the illness. Many doctors have started to use a wait and see option for children over the age of 1, basically waiting to see if the ear infection clears up on its own, letting the body’s own immune system do the work in clearing the infection.

Still, as most parents know, ear infections can be painful and we want to protect our children from them as much as possible. If your child has an ear infection, treat the symptoms with the following tips, to help provide relief.

1. Place a warm compress over the infected ear to relieve pain.

2. Gentle massage around the ear may also provide some relief. Continue reading “How to Handle Ear Infections at Home”

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Our Bloggers

  • Paula Gallagher
    Paula Gallagher
    Paula is a highly qualified and experienced nutrition counselor on the staff at Village Green.
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  • Margo Gladding
    Margo Gladding
    Margo's impressive knowledge base is the result of a unique blend of educational and professional experience.
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  • Dr. Neal Barnard
    Dr. Neal Barnard
    Dr. Barnard leads programs advocating for preventive medicine, good nutrition, and higher ethical standards in research.
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  • Joseph Pizzorno
    Dr. Joseph Pizzorno
    Dr. Joseph Pizzorno, ND is a pioneer of integrative medicine and a leading authority on science-based natural medicine.
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  • Debi Silber
    Debi Silber
    Debi is a registered dietitian with a master’s degree in nutrition, a personal trainer, and whole health coach.
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  • Teri Cochrane
    Teri Cochrane
    Teri is a is a Certified Coach Practitioner with extensive certifications and experience in holistic medicinal practices.
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  • Dr. Rav Ivker
    Dr. Rav Ivker
    Dr. Rav Ivker is a holistic family physician, health educator, and best-selling author.
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  • Susan Levin
    Susan Levin
    Susan writes about the connection between plant-based diets and a reduced risk of chronic diseases.
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  • Rob Brown
    Dr. Rob Brown
    Dr. Brown's blended perspective of healthcare includes a deeply rooted passion for wellness and spiritual exploration.
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Other Contributors

Caroline Blazovsky
Heather Gunn
Jared Rice
Ellen Kittredge
Naz Amini
Carmen Ugas
Steve Stillwater
Farzin Farid
Joe Ailts
Scott O’Dell
James Brodsky, MD
Christine M. Gonzales
Beth Ritchie
Jim Fox

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