The Thyroid Problem that

ALMOST Stopped Her

in Her Tracks

Great Day Houston’s

Winter 2012 volume 1 issue 2

What is PostTubal LigationSyndrome?

DeborahDuncan

10 Herbs Every medicine cabinet should have

ExaminingRx Drug Costs without Insurance

Both my husband and I did a 40 day round of the Fat Burner Program and we each

lost over 25 lbs. The staff was supportive and helpful. Our energy level and mood levels were great and we were so glad to

see the weight come off so quickly!

Overall, I lost over 45 lbs. It has been amazing! I have recommended it and the Lisanne Wellness Center to many friends

who have commented on how good I look.

Rachel Y.- Houston, Texas Lisanne Wellness Center Patient

Rachel lost over 45 lbs.

713-461-WELL

Purchase must be made by March 31, 2012. Must present voucher at time of purchase. No cash value. Restrictions apply.

Present this voucher for oneFree Consultation and $50 towards Fat Burner Program

$50

Actual Patient not pictured

.com | Winter 2012 | 3

2218

2410 1404

06

08

10

eDitor’s note

Get ACtive CAlenDAr

CAuses For HeAltH

on tHe Cover: DeborAH DunCAnDeborah’s determination to treat her problem and not her symptoms led her to a healthy solution to her thyroid problem. Let her story inspire you to become your own health advocate.

WHAt is Post tubAl liGAtion synDrome?

PresCriPtion DruG Costs WitHout HeAltH insurAnCeSurprising facts about the prices Americans pay for prescriptions.

AlmonDs AnD CAnCerHelpful tips to improve your health and community.

is ACuPunCture eFFeCtive on miGrAines?

14

15

18

20

DiD you knoW?Helpful tips to improve your health and community.

An HerbAl meDiCine CAbinetTen useful herbs and essential oils for treating common symptoms.

treAtinG HyPertension How to lower your blood pressure with two dollars and a glass of water.

HeAltH CrossWorD

21

22

24

30

Contents Winter 2012

4 | Winter 2012 | .com

lisA benJAmini-AllonPublisher & Editor-in-Chief

JiliAn ryAnGraphic Designer

Debbie PorterContributing Photographer

mimi GreenWooD kniGHtWriter

ADDitionAl PHotosistockphoto.com

HeAltH CrossinGs10901 Katy FreewayHouston, TX 77079

713-461-9355713-467-9499 Faxinfo@healthcrossings.comwww.healthcrossings.com

Health Crossings is a free, quarterly published magazine that discovers the importance of the combination of traditional and complementary medicine with an emphasis on wellness. Health Crossings is not responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. Health Crossings Magazine reserves the rights to images and articles submitted to the magazine. Advertisers assume all liability for advertising and photo content. This publication may not be reproduced or transmitted in part or in whole without written consent from the publisher.The content of this publication is for educational and informational purposes only. Statements have not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration.

Dear Readers,Thanks for your overwhelming response to our first issue. Like with any new venture, we approached it with a mixture of excitement and trepidation. The message we heard from you, our first readers, confirmed what we believed. We’re not the only trying to find a balance between traditional and alternative medicine; between seeking cures for the symptoms we’re experiencing and making the lifestyle changes necessary to remain symptom-free in the first place. Thank you for taking this journey with us.

We hope you’ll let us know what questions you have about your medical, mental, physical and emotional health and those of the ones you love. What topics can we explore for you? What subjects do you feel are being under reported? Health, fitness, diet, beauty, travel, home, fashion, volunteerism—if it’s important to you, we want to cover it in Health Crossings.

In this issue we consider the link between Almonds and Cancer. You might be surprised by what this much-celebrated food can and can’t do for your health. And I know I’m not the only one overwhelmed when I reach the herbal remedy aisle of my pharmacy or natural food store. In Your Herbal Medicine Cabinet we look at what Mother Nature has to offer—from all-natural Athlete’s Foot remedies to relief from an upset tummy, from achieving that elusive good night’s sleep to quieting an unruly blood pressure—and which remedies we should be sure to keep on hand.

And speaking of blood pressure, if you’ve recently heard the word hypertension (Yikes!) from you healthcare provider, you’re going to want to check out Lower Your Blood Pressure with Eight Dollars and a Glass of Water. Blood pressure health may be simpler than you thought. In an economy where most of us are feeling the pinch, it’s disheartening to realize how many families are trying to make it without even the most basic health insurance. Average Annual Prescription Drug Costs without Health Insurance discussing the toll this is having on them and on the country as a whole.

We were delighted this month to make the acquaintance of Deborah Duncan, host of Good Day Houston who shared her story of the health challenge that almost stopped her in her tracks. And if you’re one of the 700,000 American women who underwent a tubal ligation last year, you’ll want to know the information in Post Tubal Ligation Syndrome.

lisA benJAmini-AllonPublisher & Editor-in-Chief

Making a stand for the health of millions of women and adolescent girls.

Save the Date for PCOS!

PCOS SymposiumJune 2012

Free Support GroupsEvery 3rd Wednesday

6:30 pm at the Allon Health Center

Houston Stair Runner 5K for PCOSSeptember 2012

Downtown Aquarium

WED 6/2012 9/2012

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) affects up to 10% of women (an estimated 7 million in the U.S.) PCOS also affects 11-26% of adolescent girls. Less than 50% are diagnosed. Most women diagnosed lack the education and resources to

manage their symptoms and prevent long term health risks.Some symptoms of PCOS:• Inability to lose weight• Insulin resistance• Enlarged ovaries• Multiple cysts on ovaries• Pelvic pain• Excess facial and/or body hair

• Irregular menstrual cycles• Infertility• Thinning hair• Acne• Fatigue Some risk factors of PCOS include: Diabetes, Cancer, Heart disease and Stroke.Helping the PCOS Foundation

gives women a chance to live happier, healthier lives. The PCOS Foundation’s out-reach program helps lead women to early diagnosis and gives them the much needed education to prevent long-term health risks.

About PCOS

The PCOS Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization dedicated to serving the needs of women and adolescents living with PCOS. Its mission is to spread awareness though public and professional education programs in order to improve diagnosis and decrease or eliminate the life-time risks associated with PCOS.

About the PCOS Foundation

Donate Online Today!

Connect with us: pcosfoundation.org • 713-487-PCOS (7267) •

1-22

14

15

21

21

28

29

tHe iCe At DisCovery GreenNov 24 - Jan 22Discovery Greendiscoverygreen.com/ice

u.s. olymPiC mArAtHon triAlsJan 14 - 8:00 amGeorge R. Brown Convention Centerhouston2012.com

CHevron Houston mArAtHonArAmCo Houston HAlF mArAtHonel PAso CorPorAtion 5kJan 15 - 7:00 amGeorge R. Brown Convention Centerchevronhoustonmarathon.com

10tH AnnuAl roCket runJan 21 - 7:30 amRockets Center Court

CHili PePPer QuiCk steP 5k Jan 21 - 9:00 amFloat Pool & Patio Bar, Galvestonyagaspresents.com/chiliquest

bill CreWs remission run Jan 29 - 8:30 am Carl Barton Jr. Park, Conroeremissionrun.org

mirACle mAtCH mArAtHon Jan 29 - 7:30 amS. University Parks Dr., Wacomiraclematchmarathon.org

6 | Winter 2012 | .com

05

11

11

11

18

19

25

koAlA’s GAlveston mArDi GrAs mArAtHon AnD HAlF mArAtHonFeb 5 - 7:30 amSaengerfest Park, Galveston galvestonmardigrasmarathon.com

orPHAn HoPe mArAtHonFeb 11 - 8:00 amHuntsville State Parkorphanhopeintl.org/marathon

JAil breAk runFeb 11 - 7:00 amBaytown Police Departmentjailbreakrun.org

DoWntoWn love run 5k AnD 3k Fun runFeb 11 - 9:00 amBryanjlbcs.org/Fundraisers/Downtown-LoveRun

buFFAlo WAlloW Cross Country 6kFeb 18 - 8:00 amBuffalo Bayou Linear Parkhoustonharriers.com

rHytHm AnD blues HAlF mArAtHonFeb 19 - 7:00 am Sam Houston Park rhythmandblueshalfmarathon.com

ConoCoPHilliPs roDeo runFeb - 6:00 amTexas Avenue and Smith Streetconocophillipsrodeorun.com

22 19 17

Get ACtive CAlenDAr Winter 2012

JAnuAry FebruAry mArCH

03

03

04

10

17

17

18

24

riDDle riDeMar 3 - 12:00 pmwww.riddleride.net

WooDlAnDs mArAtHonMar 3 - 7:00 amLake Robbins Drive, The Woodlands thewoodlandsmarathon.com

ArmADillo DAsH HAlF mArAtHon & 5k Mar 4 - 7:00 amVeterans Park and Athletic ComplexCollege Stationarmadillodash.com

bAyou City ClAssiC 10k rACeMar 10 - 8:00 amLouisiana Street, Houstonbayoucityclassic.org

DAsH oF tHe titAns Mar 17-18 - 8:00 amRio Bravo MotoCross Parkdashofthetitans.com

sHAmroCk strutMar 17 - 7:30 am2855 Gramercy at Bromptonhoustoneye.com/foundation

seAbrook luCky trAil mArAtHonMar 18 - 5:30 amMeador Park, Seabrookseabrookmarathon.org JoHn J. eikenburG lAW Week Fun run Mar 24 - 8:00 amSam Houston Park

photo John Gronberg

25

Get ACtive!Train, walk or meet with friends at these local parks:

stuDe PArk1031 Stude StHouston, TX 77007Neighborhood: The Heights

memoriAl PArk6501 Memorial DrHouston, TX 77007Neighborhood: River Oaks

HermAnn PArk1500 Hermann DrHouston, TX 77004Neighborhood: Museum District

sAm Houston PArk The Heritage Society1100 Bagby StHouston, TX 77002Neighborhoods: Downtown

riCe university6100 Main StHouston, TX 77030Neighborhood: West University

terry HersHey PArk15200 Memorial DrHouston, TX 77079Neighborhood: Energy Corridor

buFFAlo bAyou PArk18-3600 Allen Pkwy & MemorialHouston, TX 77246Neighborhood: Fourth Ward

beAr Creek3535 War Memorial DrHouston, TX 77084Neighborhood: Addicks/Park Ten

merCer Arboretum22306 Aldine Westfield RdHumble, TX 77338

kArl younG PArk7800 Stella Link RdHouston, TX 77025Neighborhood: Braeswood Place

Community PArk1700 Glenn Lakes LnMissouri City, TX 77459

Hunters Glen JoGGinG trAil1522 Texas PkwyMissouri City, TX 77489

oyster Creek PArk4033 State Highway 6 South Sugar Land, TX 77479

TuemArCH every montH

run 4 tHe CHilDrenMar 24 - 9:00 amThe Fellowship at Cinco Ranchrun4thechildren.org

run For tHe roseMar 25 - 8:00 amReliant Stadiumrunfortherose.com

memoriAl HermAnn suGAr lAnD HAlF mArAtHon Mar 25 - 6:45 amSugar Land Town Squareslfinishlinesports.com

muDDer DAsH: 5k ADventure muD runMar 31 - 8:00 amSam Houston Park Waymudderdash.com

texAs inDePenDenCe relAyMar 31 - Apr 1Bastrop State Park to San Jacinto State Park (203.37 miles)texasindependencerelay.com

3rD AnnuAl liver liFe WAlkMar 31 - 8:30 amTerry Hershey Parkgo.liverfoundation.org

bellAire trolley run 5kMar 31 - 8:00 amBellaire City Hallsignmeup.com/site/online-event-registration/73810

24

25

25

31

31

31

31

If you have an event you would like featured in our

Get Active Calendar, please e-mail event information and

photos to: info@healthcrossings.com

City Centre runninG ClubEvery Monday 5:30 pmRuggles Green FREEccrunningclub.com

briAn o’neill’s run GrouPEvery Tuesday 6:00 pmBrian O’Neills FREEbonrunningclub.com

bloCk7 runninG ClubEvery Wednesday 6:30 pmBlock 7 Wine Company FREEfacebook.com/pages/Block7-Running-Club/228676230520476

m

t

W

Sign up to get a digital copy:

Like us onFacebook:

8 | Winter 2012 | .com

AmeriCAn liver FounDAtionliverfoundation.orgIts mission is to facilitate, advocate and promote education, support and research for the prevention, treatment and cure of liver disease.

liver liFe WAlkMar 31 - 8:30 amTerry Hershey Park

best buDDies texAsbestbuddiestexas.orgExists to establish a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated em-ployment and leadership development for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

best buDDies FrienDsHiP WAlk Mar 31 - 11:00 am FreeUniversity of St. Thomas

CAnCer ForWArDcancerforward.orgSurvivors, caregivers, family members, friends, health and wellness experts and writers united in the mission to connect, educate and share information among cancer survivors.

#iCAnGoForWArD: tHe sPirit tHAt insPires Luncheon Celebrating Cancer SurvivorshipFeb 28 - 11:30 amHilton Americas Hotel

CAnDleliGHters CHilDHooD CAnCer FAmily AlliAnCecandle.orgProvides emotional, practical, and educational support to children with cancer and their families.

eAster seAls GreAter Houstoneastersealshouston.org Provides services to individuals with disabilities.

HAts oFF to motHers lunCHeonMar 20 - 11:30 amRiver Oaks Country Club

Fort benD HAbitAt For HumAnityfortbendhfh.orgHabitat for Humanity works by faith to change lives and empower families by building homes in partnership with God and people from all walks of life.

youtHbuilD CHAllenGeMar 31, 2012 12:00 pm Sugar Land Town Square

Homes For our trooPshomesforourtroops.org A national non-profit whose mission is to build specially adapted homes for service members who have been severely wounded in combat operations since September 11, 2001.

Houston liberty FestivAlJan 27 & Jan 28 - 10:00 am FreeAmerican Shooting Centers

Houston reGionAl Hiv/AiDs resourCe GrouPhivresourcegroup.orgMaximizing all possible medical, psycho-social and educational resources to help persons affected by or at risk of HIV/AIDS nationally with primary focus in east and southeast Texas.

tHe roCkn’ reD bACHelor AuCtion Feb 16 - 7:00 pmRuth Chris Steak House

Junior leAGue oF bryAn-ColleGe stAtionjlbcs.orgWomen committed to promotingvolunteerism, developing the potential of women and improving our community.

DoWntoWn love run 5k AnD 3k Fun runFeb 11 - 9:00 amDowntown Bryan

lAurA reCovery Centerlrcf.orgThe Laura Recovery Center exists to prevent abductions and runaways and to recover missing children by fostering a Triangle of Trust among law enforcement, community and a missing child’s family.

lAurA reCovery Center mAsQuerADe CHArity bAllMar 9 - 8:00 pmPelazzio

CAuses For HeAltH Winter 2012

mAsQuerADe CHArity bAllHAts oFF to motHersyoutHbuilD CHAllenGe

PArks

.com | Fall 2011 | 9

leGACy Community HeAltH serviCes legacycommunityhealth.orgProviding low-cost or no-cost healthcare services to nearly 40,000 Houston area men, women and children.

CAbAret For A CureHilton Americas HotelJan 21 - 6:30 pm

literACy ADvAnCe oF Houston literacyadvance.orgTransforming lives and communities through the doorway of literacy.

tHe reADer CuP: lArry Dierker Celebrity GolF tournAmentFeb 27 - 8:00 amBlackhorse Golf Club

memoriAl HermAnn FounDAtionmemorialhermann.org/foundation Exists to advance the mission of Memo-rial Hermann by promoting its programs, facilities, physicians, research and projects in the community with the goal of attaining philanthropic support.

unDer tHe boArDWAlk event beneFitinG CHilDren’s memoriAl HermAnn HosPitAlFeb 24 - 7:00 pmBayou City Event Center

PCos FounDAtionpcosfoundation.org Spreading awareness and education about polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) to women and adolescent girls with the goal of preventing future health risks.

PCos suPPort GrouPJan 18 - 6:30 pm FreeAllon Health Center3rd Wednesday of every month

texAs CHilDren’s HosPitAl texaschildrens.orgAn internationally recognized full-care pediatric hospital providing pediatric patient care, education and research.

Pin oAk CHArity Horse sHoWBenefiting Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston’s Ronald McDonald House Family Rooms, and Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Family Alliance. Mar 21 - Apr 1Great Southwest Equestrian Center, Katy

tHe rosethe-rose.orgThe Rose’s mission is to reduce deaths from breast cancer by providing screening, diagnostics and access to treatment for all women regardless of their ability to pay.

run For tHe roseMar 25 - 8:00 amReliant Stadiumrunfortherose.com

HeAltH observAnCes

JAnuAry

Cervical Health Awareness Month

National Glaucoma Awareness Month

Thyroid Awareness Month

National Birth Defects Prevention Month

National Radon Action Month

National Folic Acid Awareness Week

FebruAry

AMD/Low Vision Awareness Month

Prenatal Infection Prevention Month

Heart Month

National Children’s Dental Health Month

National Wear Red Day (3)

Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week (7 - 14)

mArCH

National Endometriosis Awareness Month

Save Your Vision Month

Workplace Eye Wellness Month

National School Breakfast Week (5 - 9)

National Poison Prevention Week (18 - 24)

World Tuberculosis Day (24)

American Diabetes Alert Day (27)

National Nutrition Month®

Trisomy Awareness Month

World Kidney Day (8)

Brain Awareness Week (12 - 18)

run For tHe rose Pin oAk CHArity Horse sHoW

If you have an event you would like featured in our Causes for Health Calendar, please e-mail event information and photos to: info@healthcrossings.com

Photography by Kat Yares Debbie Porter

Great Day Houston’s Deborah Duncan

The Thyroid Problem that ALMOST Stopped Her in Her Tracks

Remember the Army slogan, “We do more before 9:00 a.m. than most people do all day”? That wouldn’t be far from the truth for local TV celeb and mom, Deborah Duncan. Few who watch the vibrant host of Great Day Houston in action would imagine the battle she has fought against an unhealthy thyroid that left her depressed, lethargic (to the point of falling asleep at stoplights) and unable to shed excess pounds.

Health Crossings slowed Deborah down just long enough to ask her about her struggle and the bioidentical hormones she said made all the difference.

tHe ProblemWhen Deborah became a mom at age 41, she began experiencing disturbing symptoms. She was unable to lose weight, no matter how diligent she was about diet and exercise. She had no energy, falling asleep during the day but unable to sleep at night. She became depressed. Her hair even started falling out.

Deborah sought a diagnosis from more than one doctor each of whom medicated her symptoms without doing much to get at their root cause. One doctor tried to prescribe Adderall and Glucophage, but Deborah knew it would not address the real problem. She wanted to find a doctor who’d do more than treat her symptoms, someone who would ferret out and eliminate their cause. She found just such a doctor in an unlikely place.

.com | Winter 2012 | 11

continued on page 12

by Mimi Greenwood Knight

12 | Winter 2012 | .com

“I struck up a conversation with a doctor at Starbucks,” she laughed. “He explained that, although my doctors had checked my thyroid levels, each individual has their own range of levels which is considered ‘normal’ for them. Mine could be out of line for what is normal for me and still be within a medical norm.”

tHe AnsWerDeborah began taking a prescription for bioidentical thyroid hormones T3 and T4, hormones similar to the ones her own body should have been producing. “In only a few days, I was no longer depressed, had renewed energy and started sleeping through the night,” she said. “I take two doses a day of bioidentical hormones and my symptoms are GONE!”

At one point Deborah switched doctors. The new doctor prescribed a synthetic thyroid hormone replacement. “I could tell right away it wasn’t working,” she said. “The dose it came in was either too much or too little for me. Compounded medicines allow you to adjust your levels, through trial and error, until you find the levels that are perfect for your body’s needs.”

A neW DAyOnce her stamina returned, Deborah sought the help of a professional trainer and lost twenty-five pounds in just six weeks. “My thyroid prescription gave me a level playing field again,” she said. “Now my body was able to lose weight. My trainer takes a very personal approach and I’ve been thrilled with the results.”

tHe 411One thing Deborah learned through her ordeal is that each of us has to be our own medical advocate. Through extensive research she found that a thyroid problem is basically a diminishing of hormones, very common after women give birth and as they age. “I had both of these factors working against me,” she said. Thyroid problems can lead to other issues like infertility, and are often the culprit when a woman finds herself unable to get pregnant after already giving birth.

DeborAH’s ADviCe“Each of us should listen to our own bodies,” Deborah said. “No one knows your body like you do. Partner with your doctor giving him or her all the information about what’s normal for you.” If your doctor is content merely medicating your symptoms rather than looking for the root cause, Deborah suggests finding a doctor who’ll evaluate your health based on your body, not treat you based on a documented average or norm. “And any women—no matter her age—shouldn’t underestimate the importance of hormones,” she concluded. ■

Deborah was beautiful before, but now she is slimmer, happier and healthier since treating her thyroid problem.

beFore

AFter

Are You Fertile?Find out: Rapid Semen Analysis with

Results in 24 Hours.

•Quick and Painless•Results in 24 Hours•Easy Scheduling

Call to schedule your consultation today:

713-467-4488 ext. 40

Omni-Med Laboratories | Houston, Texas

After having a tubal ligation women will begin to experience changes in their bodies. Some of the symptoms that occur are:• Irregular menstrual cycles with heavy bleeding.• Insomnia• Unexplained weight gain.• Depression• Muscle aches and pains.• Flu-like feelings.• Feelings of doom.• Hopelessness• Extreme mood swings. This can be going from crying one moment to rage the next.• Painful intercourse.

The above list is just a few of the symptoms that women report experiencing following tubal ligation. The problem is that they are searching for answers and not finding what they need.

Those who suffer from PTLS want one thing; they want to feel “normal” again. They want to feel that they are back in control of their lives. Is it just the how they feel that is causing their frustration? No, it isn’t. Combine the fact that they cannot get their physicians to acknowledge this happens to women. Seeing doctor after doctor and having many medical tests run only adds to the frustration.

Have women found relief from Post Tubal Ligation Syndrome? Yes and relief has been found with tubal ligation reversal surgery. Women that have had the surgery are reporting significant improvement almost immediately.

Having Post Tubal Ligation Syndrome is hard enough. Having physicians tell you that this syndrome doesn’t exist can send sufferers into a downward spiral. Finding a physician, or just anyone, to believe that this is actually happening is a great relief.

Do you know someone that is or has suffered with Post Tubal Ligation Syndrome? Has it been a battle to get those in the medical field to believe you? If so, you are not alone.

What is Post Tubal Ligation Syndrome?When you hear “Post Tubal Ligation Syndrome” what do you think of? There are many who hear these words and often wonder. Post Tubal Ligation Syndrome is something that strikes women after they have had a tubal ligation. Tubal ligation is a surgical procedure that blocks the fallopian tubes so that pregnancy cannot occur. Each year in the United States approximately 700,000 women undergo tubal ligation.

14 | Winter 2012 | .com

Year after year, prescription drug costs continue to rise and health insurance companies require higher and higher co-pays from those with prescription drug coverage. Many choose to forego prescription drug coverage and simply pay out of pocket when they need to take a prescription. Others, such as the very sick, poor and elderly, need prescription drugs but cannot afford them.

Americans spend a staggering $200 billion per year on prescription drugs, according to Marcia Angell’s book “The Truth About Drug Companies.” This cost continues to climb at a rate of over ten percent per year; it includes prescription drug co-pays by the insured as well as drugs purchased by those without insurance.

The average cost of prescription drugs in 2007 was just under $70. That includes both brand name and generic. The average cost of generic prescription drugs in 2007 was only about $35, but brand name prescription drug

costs averaged almost $120. This average is based upon a one-month supply. People with no insurance coverage pay full price.

The world’s prescription drug companies routinely charge Americans much higher prices for the drugs than any other nation in the world, according to researchers at the Boston University School of Public Health. In the 1990s, Americans were charged on average 32 percent more for the same pills from the same factories than Canadians. In addition, as insurance companies negotiate discounts for prescription drugs for their members, the companies shift the cost of the drugs to those with no insurance, thereby raising the average annual cost of prescription drugs for the uninsured.

One way patients with no insurance can reduce their average prescription drug spending is to opt for generic drugs. The average cost of a generic drug is much lower than the average cost of a brand name drug. According to

the Food & Drug Administration (“FDA”), “All generic drugs approved by FDA have the same high quality, strength, purity and stability as brand-name drugs. And, the generic manufacturing, packaging, and testing sites must pass the same quality standards as those of brand name drugs.” So it seems that the only difference between brand name and generic prescription drugs is the price.

Americans are charged higher prices than any other nation in the world.

Average AnnualPrescription Drug Costs Without Health Insurance

$200 billion

32%

$120

Amount Americans spend per year on prescription drugs

Average Americans pay more for prescriptions than Canadians.

Average cost of brand name prescriptions in 2007

Prescriptions by the Numbers

.com | Winter 2012 | 15

16 | Fall 2011 | .com

ACE

WWW.ENTRUSTINC.COM

HEALTH. PLANNED.

FOR A FREE INITIAL CONSULTATIONContact David at Business Development281-368-7878 extension 196

Cost competitive health plans creatively designed to meet each client’s specific needs.

CALL TODAY FOR A FREE CONSULTATION281-368-7878 extension 196

Treating the Cause of Spinal and Joint Pain

Experience long term benefits Instead of only short term relief

seen with other treatment

Prolotherapy is an injection technique that is intended to

help the injured spine heal itself.

Talk to Steven Sacks, MDProlotherapy Center of Houston:

832.545.4093

Intrauterine InseminationIn-Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) Support

Egg Donors Needed Donor Sperm

Get started today: Call (713) 467-4488 ext. 60 to schedule your infertility

consultation.Financing Available. Visit us at

www.infertilityanswers.com or one of our six Texas locations:

Memorial City | Katy Texas Medical Center |Cy FairThe Woodlands | College Station

Life is complete,thanks to you!

Dr Stephan Krotz, Mary Turner, NP,Dr. Michael Allon, Dr Dmitri Dozortsev

“I strongly recommend the Advanced Fertility Center of Texas as a first rate fertility clinic and so much more. Through some of our

darkest days, their faith in miracles continued to inspire me to keep moving. I look forward greatly to a continued relationship with Dr. Allon and his amazing A+ staff. Thank you all for the gift of my son and the opportunity to be parents. Life is complete, thanks to you!”

- The Listis

Many people wonder about the possible cancer-preventing characteristics of almonds, mainly due to misconceptions about laetrile, which was heavily promoted as a cancer cure in the 1970s and 1980s, and still sold over the internet, despite being ineffective. Raw almonds do not have strong, specific cancer preventative or curative characteristics, although they do have general health benefits. Two small studies conducted at St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto suggest that almonds may have a positive role in preventing heart disease. It is possible to plan a diet with a registered dietitian that substitutes almonds and almond milk as healthier alternatives to foods containing saturated fats and cholesterol. Such a diet may reduce the probability of your developing cardiovascular disease and certain cancers. Before making changes to your diet, consult with a health-care provider.

nutritionAl CHArACteristiCs oF AlmonDs

One ounce of raw almonds contains 164 calories, of which 130 are from fat; more than 90 percent of these fat calories are the good or unsaturated type. Raw almonds have no cholesterol and very little sodium. One ounce of almonds also contains 3g of fiber and 6.2g of protein as well as 23 percent of your dietary requirement of vitamin E and several important trace minerals. Despite their high caloric and fat content, raw almonds, in moderate quantities, are a healthy and nutritious component of a well-balanced diet.

Almonds also contain many phytochemicals, which are being studied for their possible

health-promoting benefits. Some studies indicate that quercetin, one of the phytochemicals in almonds, may have a role in preventing cancers, but the evidence is not, at this time, conclusive.

CAuses oF CAnCer

It’s impossible to predict with absolute certainty who will and who won’t get cancer. Genetic predisposition, environment and lifestyle are all factors. Your food and lifestyle choices can increase or decrease your cancer risk, but won’t make it disappear entirely. According to the National Cancer Institute, the main factors that increase your risk of cancer are age, specifically being over 65; tobacco; ultraviolet radiation, including sunlight; ionizing radiation; certain chemicals; some viruses and bacteria; certain hormones; genetic predisposition; alcohol; poor diet; lack of physical activity; and being overweight.

lAetrile: ineFFeCtive AnD sometimes Poisonous

The almonds you normally buy in the grocery store are the nut of the sweet almond tree. Another type of almond is the nut of the bitter almond tree. Bitter almond nuts and apricot kernels contain amygdalin; laetrile, a synthetic form of amygdalin, was heavily marketed in the 1970s and 1980s as a miracle cure for cancer. Not only is laetrile ineffective for cancer, but it can cause cyanide poisoning. If you have concerns about cancer, you should consult a licensed health-care provider rather than relying on unproven remedies.

Almonds and Cancer

20 | Fall 2011 | .com

If you suffer from migraine headaches, you’re in good company. Migraine headaches are thought to affect up to a quarter of the general population at some time in their lives. Mi-graine headaches are a common cause of lost productivity and work time and can cause sig-nificant pain and suffering. Unfortunately, the medications used in the treatment of migraine, although effective, can carry significant side effects. This makes interest in an alternative treatment for migraine quite appealing. One alternative migraine treatment that’s shown some promise is the use of acupuncture treat-ment carried out according to the principles of traditional Chinese medicine. Is traditional acupuncture effective for treatment of mi-graine?

Although previous studies looking at acupunc-ture as an alternative migraine treatment have shown mixed results, a new study published in the journal Headache, suggests that traditional Chinese acupuncture may play a role in treat-ing migraine symptoms. This study showed that patients taking the prescription drug Rizatriptan for treatment of migraine had a reduced incidence of migraine symptoms when traditional Chinese acupuncture was added to their treatment. Rizatriptan is a commonly

used migraine medication that alters levels of serotonin believed to play a role in precipitat-ing migraine symptoms. Patients who were given acupuncture for treatment of migraine were able to reduce the level of migraine medication used.

A previous study published in the British Medical Journal in 2004 also showed that acupuncture may be effective for treatment of migraine headaches. This study demonstrated that treating adults with chronic migraine headaches using acupuncture therapy signifi-cantly decreased the number of headaches the patients experienced as well as the amount of medication they used and the number of days they missed from work. The British research-ers concluded that acupuncture is a cost effec-tive approach for treatment of migraine.

Previously, results of studies assessing the effectiveness of acupuncture for treatment of migraine have been called into question because of the “sham effect”. Sham acupunc-ture is where needles are placed in areas on the body where they wouldn’t normally be placed in traditional acupuncture. This is done to determine if the results are actually due to the acupuncture procedure or due to the

placebo effect where patients improve because they believe they’re getting treated. A German study published in Lancet online showed that sham acupuncture was as effective as a real acupuncture treatment and both seemed to pro-vide benefit. The most recent study published in the journal Headache showed that actual acupuncture using traditional Chinese medi-cine techniques was most effective, suggesting that real acupuncture provides better migraine relief than sham acupuncture.

If you have frequent migraine headaches, should you consider acupuncture as an alterna-tive migraine treatment? There’s certainly some evidence suggesting its effectiveness for relief of migraines. Plus, use of acupuncture is associated with few side effects and is gener-ally not cost prohibitive for most people. If you experience frequent lost days from work due to headache and have difficulty tolerat-ing traditional migraine prescription medica-tions, acupuncture may be worth a try. For the best chance of symptom improvement, find a reputable acupuncturist who uses traditional Chinese medicine principles for treatment of migraine. ■

Is Acupuncture an Effective Treatment for Migraine Headaches?

.com | Fall 2011 | 21

Did you know...

Learn how to get included in our “Did you know...” section by emailing us at: info@healthcrossings.com

...it’s GooD to eAt FAt?Just make sure it’s the healthy kind. Fat helps your body absorb nutrients, helps the transmission of information in your nerves, and keeps your cell membrane healthy. Get your healthy fats by eating whole plant-based foods like nuts, seeds and avocados. Then, work to minimize (or eliminate) the amounts of extracted oils and pro-cessed fats you cook with on a daily basis (like margarine). Try this healthy fat recipe found on Whole Food’s website:

AVOCADO AND GRAPEFRUIT SALAD RECIPE - Serves 4- 2 grapefruits - 2 avocados, peeled, pitted and chopped - 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced - 1 head Bibb or butter lettuceUsing a large knife, carefully peel grapefruits, making sure to remove all of the white pith. Working over a large bowl to catch any juice, cut along the side of each membrane to release the segments and let them drop into the bowl. Add avocados and onion, and toss well. Arrange lettuce leaves on a platter, spoon salad over the top and serve.

This information and other recipes can be found at wholefoodsmarket.com

...eAtinG too mAny sWeets Does more tHAn ADD extrA PounDs?Treating yourself too often will:- zap your energy- disrupt your concentration and focus- impair your immune system- elicit mood swings- accelerate the aging process- increase cravings- contribute to weight gain

Your Holiday Sweet Survival Guide:1. Have a Sweet Treats PlanThe best way to not blow it is to plan ahead and know when you will treat yourself. 2. Do Not Skip MealsSkipping meals to “save room” for your sweets treats will only slow your metabolism down, so the fat storing impact of sugar has a greater effect on your body’s ability to gain holiday pounds. 3. Avoid Sugary DrinksIf you want to keep your sugar level in check, don’t waste your consumption on a soda, juice or fancy coffee.4. Check your Self-TalkRid yourself of self-sabotaging views – such as “I need to eat this, it’s the holidays, they only come once a year.” Instead think about what you can do to keep you fat loss efforts in check.5. The most important tip: Practice Moderation!

This information is from Holly Rigsby, Busy Mom Fat Loss Expert and Author FitYummyMummy.com • ClubFYM.com

An HerbalMedicine Cabinet

Once you discover how wonderful herbal remedies can be, you may go over-board stocking your medicine cabinet with herbs you will probably never need. In your efforts you may overlook the basics of what

teA tree oil. This essential oil is an anti-bacterial, anti-viral and an anti-fungal all rolled into one. Use this for ringworm, lice, athlete’s foot and any other bacterial or fungal ailment.

eCHinACeA. This herb works by

strengthening the immune system. If

taken by either tincture or brewed into a tea at the first sign of a

cold, the duration of the illness will be

shortened.

GArliC. While many may not consider garlic an herb, it has

been proven to help lower blood pressure. Garlic also works to keep the intestinal track clean

and free of parasites.

you should have. There are ten herbs and essential oils that every medicine cabinet should have.

With these herbs in your medicine chest, most common ailments can be treated

simply and naturally. Before taking any herbs, consult with your doctor, especially if you are on any type of prescription medication.

There are many books available on the subject

of herbal remedies. Many websites have extensive information available also. With a bit of research, you can have the abundance of Mother Nature to help relieve almost any illness you may contract.

st. JoHn’s Wort. Taken

correctly this herb is known as an anti-depressant.

German researchers have proven it

works as well as many pharma-

ceuticals on the market. Care must

be used that this herb is not used

with any other prescription anti-

depressants.

CHAmomile. This herb brewed into a tea will calm an upset stomach in both babies and adults. It will also act as a sedative, allowing you to relax and let go of the day’s stresses. Chamomile essential oil added to a bath will calm both children and adults.

vAleriAn root. If you can get past the smell of this stinky herb, it will act as a sedative and an anti-depressant. Taken before bedtime, it will help guarantee a good nights sleep.

lemons. This can be either essential oil or fresh lemons. Use this for insect

bites, rashes or combine with honey for a natural cough

suppressant.

GinsenG. This comes in three varieties, American, Siberian and Oriental. American ginseng is said to be cooling and will help balance out emotions. Oriental ginseng or panax is said to be warming and will give extra energy. Siberian ginseng is not really ginseng at all, but a plant with the same properties of panax.

Ginko bilobA. The extract from this tree is said to help improve memory, benefit the eyes and aid in circulation. A

rticl

e w

ritte

n by

Kat

Yar

es

.com | Winter 2012 | 23

Aloe verA. This is the one plant that you keep in the kitchen. Perfect for reducing the

blistering effect of burns, the gel from this plant’s leaves can also lessen the pain of sunburn.

TreatingHypertension:

Neither your doctor nor your friends are happy with you. Your blood pressure has risen and your doctor has warned you that you’re endangering your health. The word “hypertension” is supposed to refer to the pressure on your arterial walls, but it’s starting to feel like there’s “hypertension” between you and your family.

Happily, you can lower your blood pressure with fish oil. Researchers have found that fish oil can significantly reduce hypertension, sometimes within a matter of weeks. In a seminal meta-analysis, researchers from Harvard’s School of Public Health assessed the ability of fish oil to lower blood pressure. After carefully grouping and analyzing 32 studies, Harvard’s researchers concluded that fish oil reduces blood pressure in people suffering from high blood pressure, but not in people that were healthy. Interestingly, the more fish oil a patient consumed, the more his

blood pressure was likely to drop. Some patients took as much as 15 grams of fish oil a day, and these patients realized larger improvements than patients that only took 3 grams or less a day. This study has served as the basis for many other studies and has been widely cited in the years since its publication.

Doctors use fish oil to treat several serious conditions: patients with hypertension, clinical atherosclerotic disease or hypercholesterolemia can all realize significant health improvements after taking fish oil.

Unlike most clinical drugs, there are no significant side effects associated with fish oil, and you can begin taking it without a prescription. Patients need not take the oil from a spoon – these days, most people ingest fish oil in tablet form. The only cost is about $2 a day for pharmaceutical grade fish oil pills, plus the cost of a

glass of water. Some people prefer enteric coated fish oil tablets, which take several hours to dissolve in the stomach and can prevent the fish breath that some people experience after ingesting non-enteric tablets.

Fish oil’s beneficial effects can be attributed to its high levels of omega-3 fatty acids. Researchers believe that in addition to lowering blood pressure, Omega-3 fatty acids can prevent heart disease. Omega-3 fatty acids are the primary reason that Inuit (Eskimo) people living in Greenland experience very little heart disease, despite a fattening seafood diet.

So, for only eight dollars and a glass of water, you can significantly reduce your blood pressure. Best of all, no doctor’s prescription is required. Make fish oil a regular part of your life, and you’ll find that you, your doctor, and your family reap substantial rewards.

Lower Your Blood Pressure with Two Dollars and a Glass of Water

References: Circulation, 88:523-533, Does Fish Oil Lower Blood Pressure? A Meta-Analysis of Controlled Trials, 1993. Epidemiology/Population Studies, 50:313-319, Food Omega-3 Fatty Acid Intake of Individuals (Total, Linolenic Acid, Long-Chain) and Their Blood Pressure, 2007. Am J Clin Nutr 28 (9): 958–66, Fatty Acid Composition of the Plasma Lipids in Greenland Eskimos, 1975

.com | Winter 2012 | 25

Trouble falling or staying asleep?Have afternoon headaches or headaches when under stress?

Hard to get out of bed in the morning?Gain weight under stress?

Store fat around your belly?

Lisanne Can Help

Working with your underlying causesto help you feel better.

713-461-WELL (9355)

I had my thyroid removed yesterday.no scar.

roboticthyroid.comTexas ENT and Allergy

*Person shown not actual patient

877-377-4ENT (toll free) 1730 Birmingham Drive College Station, TX 77845

Located at the Allon Health Center:10901 Katy Freeway • Houston, TX 77079

Your first consultation and supplements. Purchase must be made by April 30, 2012. Reference code HC1012

at time of purchase. No cash value. Restrictions apply.

RECEIVE 20% OFF

713-461-9355 orinfo@healthcrossings.com

healthcrossings.com

Advertise with us

Inquire about our great rates: info@healthcrossings.com

Pharmaceutical Grade Fish Oil Vitagenis.com

• ADD/ADHD• Allergies• Aging• Alzheimer’s Disease • Arrhythmias • Asthma• Autoimmune Disorders• Cardiovascular Disease• Chronic Pain• Colitis • Depression • Disc Herniation• Fibrocystic Breast• Immune Disorders• Inflammation• Insulin Sensitivity

• Hypertension• High Triglyceride/ HDL Ratio • High LDL • Poor Memory and Cognition • MS • Mood Swings • Emotional Disorder• Hormonal Disorders • PMS • Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome • Skin Disorders • Schizophrenia • Many other disorders

Essential fatty acids probably represent the most wide spread nutritional deficiency in the United States. Lack of EFA’s are involved in and contribute to:

Scan this to see this issue’s ads online!

The American College of Embryology (ACE) is an organization of reproductive embryology practitioners. Reproductive embryology practitioners create human embryos and provide care for them before embryos are transplanted into women during In Vitro Fertilization treatment. ACE’s mission is to assure that the knowledge and skills of every embryology practitioner in the United States meet a minimum standard demonstrated by passing a theoretical and practical exam in embryology.

Check if your fertility clinic has an ACE certifiedReproductive Embryologist on staff:

www.embcol.org

Call for a Free Consultation: (855) 587-4450

Business Accounting and Consulting

1800 St. James Place, Suite 100, Houston, TX 77056Local Phone: 713-954-2002

www.abipcpa.com

Over 20 years of experience serving Houston businesses:

Professionals

Technology

Energy

Healthcare

Oil and Gas

Real Estate

Service Industries

Construction

ManufacturingScott Irvine, CPA Gil Alonzo, Jr., CPA

crossword

.com | Winter 2012 | 30

ACross4. Cable TV host undergoing double mastectomy6. Good cholesterol7. High blood pressure12. Bones that make up the spine14. Endocrine gland located on the neck essential for the regulation of growth and metabolism15. Unit of measurement for food energy17. Plant used to help heal sunburns18. Feeling observed by a person indicating the presence of disease or abnormality

DoWn1. Fruit sugar2. Branch of medicine that cares for infants and children3. Nutrient essential for proper functioning of the heart, kidneys, muscles, nerves, and digestive system and found in bananas, cantaloupe, nuts and spinach

1

3

8

4

5

9

14

17

16

18

15

13

106

11

12

2

7

DoWn Cont.5. Prescription used to control symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder7. Chemical released by a cell or a gland that sends out messages that affect cells in other parts of the organism8. Occurring or present before birth9. _____-rich food contains many vitamins and minerals but few calories.10. Exercise that conditions the heart and lungs by increasing the efficiency of oxygen intake by the body11. Style of coaching that helps people identify and achieve personal goals13. Consumer protection agency regulating human and veterinary drugs, biological products, medical devices, our nation’s food supply, cosmetics, and products that emit radiation16. Popular TV doctor

S Q U A T

D E H Y D R A T I O N

M O L DR I C E

A T H L E T EP A C E

M O T I V A T I O N

C A R D I A C

B E N D

C

IS

NE

M

M

RIA

C H ORG

N

C

E

DURANC

ZUM

A

C

P

G

NGE

B

UX

SM

Fall Crossword Answers

Your doctor says you’re not ovulating. We say, You can still get pregnant with

your own eggs.

713-467-4488 ext. 60www.infertilityanswers.com

If your doctor has recommended donor eggs due to your age or lack of ovulation, we may be able to help you conceive with your own eggs using a mild stimulation treatment cycle.

Call to schedule a consultation with our experienced fertility specialists today. Don’t forget to ask about our current programs and promotions. Mention code EGG12.

Dr. Nir BinurCosmetic Surgery Center

Sugar Land (713) 962-9701 | Port Arthur (409) 727-3900www.drbinur.com

Breast AugmentationBotox®

Tummy TuckLiposuction

Eyelid SurgeryFaceliftFillers

(Restylane, Juvederm, Radiesse)

Laser Treatments