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Theory
Damage theory is concerned with the damage that
occurs inside the cells over time by free radicals. Free radicals can be
damaging to immune cells, lysosomes which contain digestive enzymes, and
unsaturated fatty acids, causing a variety of illnesses such as atherosclerosis,
c, Alzheimer's disease, cataracts, osteoarthritis, neurological disorders
and immune deficiency. The site of the free radicals is important in pinpointing
how dangerous they are. If the free radicals are located in the mitochondria
then they are not as dangerous as they would be if they are found in the actual
cell membrane. Antioxidants are important in the elimination of free radicals.
Free radicals are found naturally in the body due
to normal cell activity or as a result of stress, but more and more exposure is
environmental from toxic waste, chemicals, pesticides, sunlight, radiation,
cigarette source, coffee, alcohol, fried or barbecued foods. Vitamin C is
important in fighting free radicals. Cells will try to destroy themselves as a
result of free radicals if antioxidants are not used to help destroy them.
Programmed theories involve the idea that the way
a person ages is genetically predisposed. This theory recognizes free radicals
as a major problem but that alone it cannot be the main cause or premature
aging. Theorists argue that DNA and the glands determine life span and
that the heart is programmed to only beat so many times. They believe that
cells have chromosomal clocks that determine their life spans.
The protective caps on the ends of chromosomes
that carry DNA are telomeres. Each cell has 46 chromosomes and 92 telomeres.
Some researchers believe that the length of telomeres is a ruler to measure the
aging of cells. Advocates of this theory believe that the insertion of a gene
for the protein component of telameres into aging human cells lengthens the
cells and they once again become young, healthy cells.
The truth lies within both theories and it is up
to us as individuals to make personal choices which will help us extend our
lives and slow the aging process.
Practitioners Defined
Acupuncture
Originated in China. Ancient Chinese scholars
learned to open energy pathways or meridians, so that healing energy (chi) flows
directly to the point in the body where healing is needed. State requirements
for acupuncturists vary from state to state. Some states require that an
acupuncturist be a medical doctor or osteopath. Acupuncture is specifically
effective for pain management, musculoskeletal problems, nerve and circulatory
problems, addictive behavior patterns. Cost ranges from $50 to $100 per visit.
Chelation Therapist
Originated approximately 25 years ago. Over 1,000
physicians and board-certified cardiologists are using chelation therapy
involving an intravenous drip of the chelating agent EDTA which stimulates the
destruction of free radicals. Ridding or slowing free radicals allows cells to
heal themselves and slows the aging process. Chelation therapy helps the
circulatory system immensely improving vascular circulation in people with
arterial blockages. Costs ranges about $100 per visit. Treatment course usually
includes twenty to forty treatments. People with renal (kidney) disease should
be monitored closely.
Clinical Ecology
The examination of diet in respect to symptoms.
Consumption of food, inhalants and liquids are examined to determine the cause
of a physical or mental reaction. Especially effective for people suffering from
arthritis. Four days of monitoring diet along with a five day fast is the usual
course of treatment. Cost ranges from $100-$500.
Homeopathy
A specific causative agent is given to help the
body rebalance itself. If a person has a common cold, the practitioner would
administer a substance that would cause a cold in a healthy person, but in a
sick person it would help to cure. Treatment is especially effective for fevers,
bacterial infections, toxicity and cumulative effects of alcohol, drugs,
caffeine and sugar. Not recommended for people with immunodeficiency disorders, c
or any other chronic illness. Homeopathy was once the primary form of
medicine practiced in this country, but because of anti-homeopathic campaigns
waged by the American Medical Association and allopathic medicine it was almost
non-existent until recent renewed interest which has made homeopathy again
popular. Licensing requirements vary; in some states, the homeopath must be a
medical doctor in addition to homeopathy specialization. Cost ranges between $45
and $125 per treatment.
Naturopathy
Naturopaths can treat most conditions, but are
not permitted to perform major surgery. This science is botanical at its core
utilizing herbs and tinctures. Naturopaths also use muscular and skeletal bodily
adjustment. They use a much broader basis for diagnosis than conventional
physicians. Licensing requirements vary from state to state. Cost ranges between
$100 to $150 per visit .
Orthomolecular medicine
Focuses on the balance of chemicals that are
natural to the body without using synthetic drugs that might interfere with the
process. Orthomolecular medicine practitioners are conventionally trained
medical doctors who integrate this technology into their practice. Treatment
usually consists of high dosages of vitamins. These practitioners have had much
success treating schizophrenics with huge doses of niacin, vitamin B6 and
vitamin C. Cost ranges are comparable to conventional physician visits.
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