June 2012 Classical Medicine Health and Wellness Journal

 

  

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June 6, 2012

 

Our northern neighbors may be onto something big from the tiniest of the tiny. The Canadian Forest Service's investment in "transformative technologies," technologies that create "core rather than marginal changes," has led to some startling developments in the field of nanotechnology...yes, nanotechnology may prove a boon to sustainable forestry. It has to do with "buckyballs," a super-strong molecule comprised of 60 carbon atoms in an arrangement that looks surprisingly like a soccer ball (and/or, Buckminister Fuller's famous dome). A 16 year old Canadian student won the 2012 BioGENEius Challenge for binding tiny particles in tree pulp (nano-crystalline cellulose) to buckyballs to create a "super anti-oxidant compound" that works like a vacuum to "suck-up and neutralize free-radicals." Put less scientifically, it's just possible that the fountain of youth may be flowing through the trees all around us and tiny, tiny nano vacuum cleaners -- crafted from carbon and tree pulp -- may someday erase the effects of aging.

 

But until the Nano Fuller Brush Man comes to the door, diet can boost health and vitality. A handy summary of benefits, expected and not, from a host of common herbs was the #1 most-read CMJ story in May. First published in the Daily Mail, the original story presents the information not unlike a popularity contest. Follow the link at the bottom of our post for some cross-cultural journalistic voyeurism. Don't miss the other most-read food story detailing new research the proves you need -- yes, need -- to eat almonds, macadamias, pistachios, walnuts and cashews. The benefits of nut consumption (ie, moderate snacking) range from lower BMI to lower risk of heart disease and diabetes. Now will you move cashews off the guilty pleasure list?

 

Finally, in honor of Queen Elizabeth's Diamond Jubilee, we call your attention to a new story with some light-hearted insight into the practical precautions the Queen takes to maintain her health and composure during her busy schedule of non-stop duties. Of course, there's a plug for homeopathy in the mix but there are also some charming details of the wisdom gained from a life of spectacle and service.

 

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April 2012 Classical Medicine Health and Wellness Journal

 

  

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4 April 2012

 

"It's all in your head."

 

Who hasn't heard -- or said -- those words in a multitude of circumstances? When you're on the receiving end, this is sometimes a comforting concept. But sometimes, it sounds pejorative or dismissive. It might also be factual. According to the Tampa Bay Times, new evidence in brain scan technology is showing that meditation changes the brain's reaction to pain. So the pain from the brain can be tamed ... with a lot of practice, focus and perseverance. Still, an encouraging idea and for dedicated meditators, life-altering. Must be why this was the #2 most-read Classical Medicine Journal story in March.

 

What held that #1 spot? Thanks to the vagrancy of the Internet, a story we ran last March about The Who front-man Roger Daltrey crediting homeopathy with saving his son's life. Some celebrities have an eternal shelf life and it's always nice when one voices support for a non-mainstream alternative. Their words resonate.

 

A handful of the other top stories were focused on "don'ts." No one likes a know-it-all so we're glad readers forgave us a bit of crowing about our early reports on some statin complications (new FDA warnings); and kept reading even though the news discouraged diet soda consumption (potential link to heart disease); and even pushed through a study on the perils of eating red meat (increases risk of heart disease and cancer by 20%).

 

But don't let this news keep you up at night. No, really; don't. Because another new study warns of the danger of consistent use of sleeping aids thought safe until very recently. Reactions among MDs are mixed but it's well worth a read if you or anyone you love uses the products on a regular basis.

 

Looks like there's only one answer: we need to grow our own vegetables, eat no meat, drink no diet sodas and above all else, meditate. If the Debbie Downer news we share today isn't sufficient motivation to practice the latter, watch a classic except from Bill Moyers' ground-breaking special on China that features a qi gong demonstration by Master Shi. There is no trick photography at work here. The slight elderly man is literally up-ending the young bucks with a flick of his wrist. If that.

 

If you're in the Tampa Bay area and want to learn a little qi gong for yourself, class info is here. If you want to veg, check out PCRM's Kickstarter Plan. But above all else, vow to make this your summer quaff:

Cheers!

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For appointment information or to send a message to Martin Keane, AP, CCH

please call (727) 821-7771 or write