pathways to family wellness - issue #04

ADD/ADHD: Misdiagnosis and Mistreatment

Pulling the Plug on TV

Find a Wellness Minded Pediatrician

Your Child’s Immune System

Fats for Maximum Brain Potential

Mercury Rising

Quarterly Publication of the International Chiropractic Pediatric AssociationWinter 2005

brought to you courtesy of:

i.c.p.a. International ChiropracticPediatric Associationi.c.p.a. International ChiropracticPediatric Association

Chiropractic Family Wellness Lifestyle

ICPA Mission

Our mission is to provide education,

training, and support research on

chiropractic care in pregnancy and

throughout childhood because all

children need chiropractic care.

PathWAYS is a quarterly publication

of the International Chiropractic

Pediatric Association

Editorial Board of Advisors

Bruce Lipton, Ph.D.

Stephen Marini, Ph.D., D.C.

Randall Neustaedter, O.M.D.

Jeanne Ohm, D.C.

Larry Palevsky, M.D.

Jane Sheppard

ICPA

327 N Middletown Rd

Media, PA 19063

www.icpa4kids.com

[email protected]

1 800-670-KIDS

© 2004-2005

Design by Tina Aitala Engblom

Printed by Beard Printing

Cover Photo by Gloria-Leigh Logan

i.c.p.a.

Winter 2005

International ChiropracticPediatric Association

2 ADD / ADHD Misdiagnosis and MistreatmentMonika Buerger, D.C.

7 Whose Diagnosis is It, Anyway? Howard Markel, M.D., Ph.D.

8 Prospective Cohort of ADHD Patients Under Chiropractic CareJoel Alcantara, D.C., MPH, Jim Davis, D.C.

9 ADHD Helped With Chiropractic

10 Pull the Plug! Diane Meyer, D.C.

18 Helping to Find a Wellness Minded PediatricianClaudia Anrig, D.C.

20 Strengthening Your Child’s Immune SystemJane Sheppard

26 Baby Tantrums Elizabeth Pantley

29 Fats for Maximum Brain Potential Renata Anderson, D.C.

32 Breastfeeding is Best Feeding

34 Mercury Rising: Warnings in Pregnancy and InfancyJeanne Ohm. D.C.

38 What Can Chiropractic Do For Your Child?

pathways 1

Health care today is going through a paradigm

shift from a symptom, disease based system to a func-

tion performance based system. Emphasis for care is

being placed on the individual’s ability to regain and

maintain a state of well-being. Practitioners who are in

this paradigm respect the body’s own natural ability to

be healthy and whole. Consumers are actively seeking

providers who are working within this new paradigm.

The following quote by Ronald J. Glasser, M.D. sums up

the health crossroads we now face. This Former Asst.

Prof. of Pediatrics University of Minnesota says, “It is

the body that is the hero, not science, not

antibiotics…not machines or new devices. The task of

the physician today is what it has always been, to help

the body do what it has learned so well to do on its own

during its unending struggle for survival—to heal itself.

It is the body, not medicine, that is the hero.”

True wellness includes all aspects of your life: good

foods, adequate body movement, positive mental atti-

tudes and a nerve system functioning at its peak. It far

surpasses the old thought process that the mere elimi-

nation of symptoms equals health. Achieving true well-

ness includes practices that address your body’s ability

to function at peak performance and the trust and com-

mitment in your body’s ability to be well.

Chiropractic care plays a vital role in your Family

Wellness Lifestyle. As leaders in this health care para-

digm shift, Chiropractors offer

families the means to achieve

the true wellness parents

are now seeking. The very

basic philosophy on which

Chiropractic was founded

includes a deep respect for

the body’s inherent ability to

heal and be well. The science

of Chiropractic is based on the

importance of a functional nerve system—the vital key

to health and well-being. The art of Chiropractic is the

specific adjustment that restores function allowing your

body to express itself fully.

As our society makes the shift into this paradigm of

wellness, we can share our personal experiences with

others so they too can make these life enhancing,

informed health care decisions for their families. Thank

you for your ongoing commitment to the Chiropractic

Family Wellness lifestyle.

Many blessings,

Jeanne Ohm, D.C.

from the editor jeanne ohm,d.c.

ADD ADHDMisdiagnosis and Mistreatment

Monika Buerger, D.C.

ADD and ADHD—such

commonly used diagnoses

in today’s world that they

have virtually become

a part of every teacher’s

vocabulary list. But is this

“mental disorder” as com-

mon as we have been lead

to believe, or is it often a

misdiagnosis?

Psychological Evaluation

Unfortunately, too often parents arebeing intimidated by schools/teach-ers to have their child undergo a psy-chological evaluation either throughthe school district, a pediatrician, or a psychiatrist. Perhaps the child is more energetic, lethargic, or lacksconcentration compared to his/her“normal” peers; therefore, the childis hastily slapped with a label of possible ADD or ADHD and there is a predisposed bias going into suchan evaluation. Parents are made tofeel that such evaluations are neces-sary in order for their child to receivea proper education and are oftenmade to feel guilty if they refuse tohave their child subjected to such an

evaluation. It may be of interest toknow that if a child is diagnosed withADD or ADHD, they are consideredlearning-disabled and the school will receive extra money from thestate and federal government whichis to be used for special learning programs. However, the school is not held accountable for how thatmoney is actually spent Furthermore,the diagnosis may be noted in thechild’s permanent school records asa “mental disorder” and follows thechild throughout life.

Medication Therapy

If the child is diagnosed as havingADD or ADHD, chances are sometype of psychotropic drug will be recommended. However, parentsmust educate themselves as to theside effects and necessity of suchmedications. Methylphenidate, commonly known as Ritalin, wasresponsible for 186 deaths between1990 and 2000 as reported by theFDA MedWatch; a voluntary report-ing program accounting for no more than 10-20% of actual incidences.One of the dangers with this drugis that it causes constriction of the veins and arteries; thus, causing the heart to work harder leading toirreversible damage. Increased heartrate, increased blood pressure, andirregular heart beat, along with other

cardiac disorders can be the result.There have also been studies thatsuggest exposure to Ritalin andother stimulant (psychotropic) prescription drugs makes the brainmore susceptible to addictive drugssuch as cocaine and doubles the risk of cocaine abuse. The increasedrisk of suicide and depression hasalso been linked to the use of Ritalinand other such stimulants.

Conditions that Mimic ADD/ADHD

Before accepting a diagnosis of ADD/ADHD other conditions that mimic thisdiagnosis must be ruled out. Childrenwith allergies and asthma may havedifficulty breathing which could leadto difficulty concentrating. Foods(especially dairy products), molds,and chemical odors such as the smellof tar or perfume are common butunsuspected causes. An abundance of yeast caused by repeated coursesof antibiotic use can also be a prob-lem. Sudden unprovoked aggressionin children can be related to allergiesand is often associated with red earlobes, wiggly legs, dark circles underthe eyes, or a “demonic” look.Behavior may include hitting, biting,kicking, spitting, and punching.

ADD ADHDBefore accepting a

diagnosis of ADD/ADHD

other conditions that

mimic this diagnosis

must be ruled out.

continued on page 4

pathways 3

Monika Buerger, D.C.

Diabetes and hypoglycemia can make the child appear distracted and lacking concentration. Childrenwith hypoglycemia can experiencerecurrent fatigue, irritability, tension, hyperactivity, and aggres-sion. Complex carbohydrates foundin vegetables and whole grains help to avoid hypoglycemia byreplenishing glucose to the body at regular intervals allowing the child to better concentrate. Children with hypoglycemia will often show a pattern of“crashing” between 10:30–11:30 and 3:00–4:00 and willoften “demand” food duringthese times. Most breakfastcereals and fruit juices pur-chased in grocery stores havehigh sugar content and shouldbe avoided. Also, food packedfor lunches or snacks should be chosen carefully and checkedfor sugar contents. Children withseizures, middle ear infections,

visual or auditory perceptionproblems will also have trouble

paying attention or appear frustrat-ed with learning.

Often times following an emotional or physical traumatic event, childrenappear inattentive, distracted, orhyperactive. This may be a situa-tional behavior issue and may need

to be addressed through therapy. Ifthe event was physical in nature such

4 winter 2005

Complex carbohydrateshelp to avoid hypo-

glycemia by replenishingglucose to the body at regular intervals,allowing children tobetter concentrate

Early Use of ADHD Drug Alters BrainRitalin use in preteen children may lead to depression later in life. Ritalin and cocaine have different effects on humans.But their effects on the brain are very similar. When given topreteen rats, both drugs cause long-term changes in behavior.

One of the changes seems good. Early exposure to Ritalinmakes rats less responsive to the rewarding effects ofcocaine. But that’s not all good. It might mean that the drugshort-circuits the brain’s reward system. That would make it difficult to experience pleasure—a “hallmark symptom ofdepression,” Carlezon and colleagues note.

The other change seems all bad. Early exposure to Ritalinincreases rats’ depressive-like responses in a stress test.“These experiments suggest that preadolescent exposure to [Ritalin] in rats causes numerous complex behavioral adap-tations, each of which endures into adulthood,” Carlezon andcolleagues conclude. “This work highlights the importance of a more thorough understanding of the enduring neurobio-logical effects of juvenile exposure to psychotropic drugs.”

my.webmd.com/content/article/78/95700.htm?lastselectedguid={5FE84E90-BC77-4056-A91C-9531713CA348}

Nutritional Considerations for ADHD Two books worth having for yourlending libraries:

Smart Fats: How Dietary Fats andOils Affect Mental, Physical andEmotional Intelligence by MichaelA. Schmidt

Omega 3 Connection by Dr. Stoll

OOO

HN

pathways 5

as a car accident or physical abuse, the child should also undergo a chiropractic evaluation for possible vertebral subluxations as the cause or a contributing factor to their behav-ior as should any child diagnosed withany of the above mentioned conditions.

Sensory Integration Disorder

Children are often misdiagnosed ashaving ADD or ADHD when in fact they have an undiagnosed learning

disorder causing them to be frustrat-ed, angry, distracted, and hopeless.There is a wealth of research on earlybrain development and the effects ofpoor sensory processing and delayedmotor development in relation to one’sability to focus and learn. A child maybe labeled with ADD, ADHD, dyslexia,dyspraxia, or central auditory process-ing problems; again, drugs are com-monly prescribed for these children.However, what is really going on isthat their neurological system is inchaos or is immature. The sensoryinformation the child receives can not be organized by the brain; there-fore, the child will not respond appro-priately to various commands or stim-ulation. In short, the brain and nerv-

ous system are “short circuiting”.Because chiropractic deals directlywith allowing the nervous system to function at its highest ability, it is imperative that these childrenundergo a chiropractic evaluation.Specific exercises either through aDoctor of Chiropractic or OccupationalTherapist are also essential.

Sensory input is received from variousentities. The vestibular system isresponsible for movement and balance.It is the first system to fully developand should be developed by sixmonths after conception. This systemis said to have the most influence on the other sensory systems and onthe ability to function in everyday life.

continued on page 6

Because chiropractic deals directly

with allowing the nervous system

to function at its highest ability,

it is imperative that these children

undergo a chiropractic evaluation.

Inefficient Conversion of ALA (Flax Oil) To EPA And DHAA possible cause for the low fish oil status of the ADHDchildren may be impaired conversion of the fatty acid precursors LA and ALA to their longer and more highlyunsaturated products, such as EPA and DHA (fish oil fats).

It appears that children with ADHD just are not able to chemically convert the plant omega-3, ALA to fish oil very well. The problem is further worsened whenomega-6 fats are consumed and the ideal omega-6:3ratio of 1:1, progresses to the typical standard Americanratio of 15:1. Many of these children have ratios whichare even worse and can be as high as 50:1.

This study provides the research evidence supportingthe use of the omega-3 fats found in fish oils to effec-tively address the underlying deficiency that is presentin most of these children and appears to be contributingto the ADHD.

Consider Fish Oil Over RitalinChildren with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder(ADHD) have problems paying attention, listening toinstructions, and completing tasks; they also fidgetand squirm, are hyperactive, blurt out answers, andinterrupt others.

It is conservatively estimated that 3-5% of the school-age population has ADHD. Although drugs, such asRitalin, are frequently used to treat ADHD, they arefraught with complications. Disadvantages include possible side effects, including decreased appetite and growth, insomnia, increased irritability, and rebound hyperactivity when the drug wears off.

One would not expect to find that a single cause or evena handful of factors could explain why ADHD appears to be so rampant in our society. Because it is acceptedthat both genetic and environmental factors play a rolein ADHD, many other factors—both intrinsic and extrin-sic—could influence an individual’s fatty acid status.

O

It functions like an air traffic controller,telling each sensation where and when it should take off and where to land. The sensoryorgans for the vestibular systemare located in the inner ear andare largely affected by the nervesassociated with vertebral jointsin the upper neck. Therefore, if a misalignment (subluxation)of the upper neck is present, it may interfere with the abilityof the vestibular system to perform its job effectively.

The proprioceptive system is responsible for telling the

brain where the body is inspace. It gathers sensoryinformation taken in fromthe inner ear, eyes, smell,and through hearing. It also relies on informationreceived by the brain fromtactile, kinesthetic and pro-prioceptive sites throughoutour bodies. Proprioceptivenerve fibers are also located

within each vertebral joint. Therefore,subluxations of any vertebral joint maycause disruption of the proprioceptivesystem. Children may fatigue easily and appear inattentive because theyhave to work hard and concentrate todetermine the position of their bodies.They appear clumsy and have difficultyplaying with toys. Their writing can betoo light and difficult to read or muchtoo heavy and laborious. They may alsohave trouble grasping mathematicalconcepts.

The visual system is also an importantsensory input system. Most peoplethink that if a child’s vision is 20/20then everything is fine. However, thereare many sensory functions that mustwork properly in order for one to under-stand and apply the information thatcomes through the eyes. Binocularcoordination, accommodation, and ver-tical movement are some of the func-tions necessary to understand andprocess visual information. Part of theneurological input for proper accommo-dation of the eyes comes from thelower cervical spine and upper thoracicspine. Vertebral subluxation of theseareas may cause difficulty in focusingon objects or complaints of blurredvision. However, school-aged childrenrarely realize that they are not seeingthings clearly. Therefore, it is necessaryto make sure that the lower cervicaland upper thoracic regions are clear of any vertebral subluxations.

The tactile system receives informationfrom cells in the skin all over our bod-ies providing information about light

touch, pressure, vibration, temperature,and pain. Feedback from the tactilesystem contributes to the developmentof body awareness and motor planningabilities. Some children are hypersen-sitive to touch and in turn try to controltheir environment and the tactile infor-mation they receive; thus, appearinganxious, controlling, aggressive, andunwilling to participate in home andschool activities. This will then leaveless energy and attention for learningand interacting. Some children areunder-responsive to touch and seekout excessive touch sensation in orderto satisfy the nervous system’s cravingfor touch. They may touch everything,appropriate or not, and may appear to be impulsive and distractive. Thenervous system must work properly in order for successful integration ofthe tactile system. This enables us tocreate a balance so that we know whatwe are touching is either harmful ordangerous or what touch is satisfyingand pleasurable and should be furtherexplored.

Sensory input and sensory integrationare essential in order for a child todevelop proper motor skills and properlearning skills. Without a correctlyfunctioning nervous system, this is notpossible and an often misdiagnosis ofADD or ADHD is the result. Removingnervous system interference caused byvertebral subluxations allows the childto develop these much needed sensorysystems to their highest ability. In con-junction with a proper diet and specificsensory integration exercises, chiro-practic is a safe, effective, and naturalform of care for these children.

Dr. Monika Buerger teaches the module:History, Physical Assessment, andOrthopedic Considerations of the PediatricPatient for the ICPA’s 360 Hour Diplomateprogram. She authored History andPhysical Assessment of the PediatricPatient, Pediatric Chiropractic byAnrig/Plaugher; 1998. Dr. Buerger haspracticed in Livermore, CA since 1991.

Children may fatigue easily …

because they have to work hard

and concentrate to determine

the position of their bodies.

6 winter 2005

pathways 7

Reprinted with permission from Medscape Pediatrics 6(2), 2004 www.medscape.com/viewarticle/488924?src=sr © 2004, Medscape.

Howard Markel, M.D., Ph.D., George E. Wantz Professor of the History of Medicine, Professor of Pediatrics and Communicable Diseases, Director of the Center for the History of Medicine at the University of Michigan, and author of When Germs Travel, from Pantheon Books.

Disclosure: Howard Markel, MD, PhD, has no significant financial interests or relationships to disclose.

The boy is 14 years old and has one of the most severe cases ofattention deficit disorder (ADD) that I have seen as a pedia-trician. He fidgets; there are nonstop hand gestures, legswinging and tapping. More troubling, he simply willnot pay attention to any adult attempting to engagehim in conversation, placing him in great jeopardyof flunking out of school.

During his first office visit, the boy explained hispredicament to me: “It’s like I’m in a room with 20big screen HDTVs blaring away in surround-sound.And on them are all the newest videos from MTV.The problem is that I can’t decide which one to watch,so I try to watch them all.”

His mother is less focused on her son’s perpetual motionthan on his angry outbursts and what she sees as his refusal to listen to her. The day we met, she had already decided what she wanted to do. I was being told to write a prescription for Ritalin.

As every pediatrician knows, stimulant drugs like methylphenidate(Ritalin) cause most people to speed up their actions and thoughts.But for those with ADD (with or without hyperactivity), these drugs canslow them down, reduce overactivity, increase attention span, and caneven improve relationships between a child and parents or other familymembers. There are, however, some nagging problems: none of us isexactly certain how these drugs work or what their long-term benefitsand risks might be. Sometimes, they cause intolerable side effectssuch as tics and sleep disturbances.

The young man was clearly unhappy with his mother’s decision and letit be known with a slew of scowls and outcries of “Shut up!!” I askedhim why he would prefer not being able to pay attention to his school-work, to which he replied: “You just don’t get it. I’m a lot more funwhen I don’t take Ritalin. I crack great jokes in class and my friendsthink I am really cool. But when I take that stuff, I’m zoned out. I’m likea log. Ritalin ruins my life.”

This description went a long way in explaining why many teachers (and not a few parents) of kids with ADD prefer their charges to bemedicated and why many children resist such attempts. Left untreated,however, many of these kids create problems with disruptive behaviorsand can destroy the normal dynamics of a classroom and at home.

Here was my dilemma: The boy’s mother, and not the young man,wanted the prescription. The law defines a 14-year-old as a minor, but given that his condition was hardly fatal and essentially a behav-ioral issue, to whom should I have listened? The mother, who wants a more controllable child, or the boy, who simply wants to be what he perceives to be his true self? After all, the essence of adolescenceis finding out who you are and figuring out who you want to be. As a pediatrician, I am supposed to be assisting youngsters in thisdifficult process.

That day, I listened to the parent and wrote the standard prescriptionfor 40 mg of Ritalin a day. Like millions of youngsters with ADD, hetakes 20 mg before going to school in the morning and another 20 mgat lunch.

Every month, I see the boy to renew his prescription for Ritalin and to make sure that there are no serious side effects. At each visit, he greets me with a deep-rooted but quiet anger. His fidgeting andoutbursts seem to have diminished, but there has been little improve-ment in his schoolwork. Last year, he barely passed the eighth grade and his mother admitted that 2 of his teachers simply electedto pass him to avoid a repeat year with him. Nevertheless, she isdelighted with the results.

When the boy is on vacation from school, I have noticed a definitechange in his demeanor. Typically, when school is out, pediatriciansgive children with ADD a “drug holiday.” When he does not take hismedication, his fidgeting and inattention are back in full force but he beams with joy, at least when I see him, and tells me that withoutRitalin he can again enjoy cutting up in front of his friends.

But in his mother’s defense, I don’t live with him and have no real ideahow disruptive his ADD behaviors can be at home. In cases like these, I have to listen to the parent that does live with him. I remain terriblyconflicted about pharmacologically altering this young man against hiswill. Using potent pills to treat a disorder we do not completely under-stand flies in the face of prudent medical practice, and yet we pediatri-cians do this all the time with our ADD patients. More than a centuryago, the great physician Sir William Osler observed that “the desire totake medicine is one feature which distinguishes man, the animal, fromthe rest of his fellow creatures.” In the practice of pediatrics, we areoften compelled to include the parent’s desire in that rubric.

But still, I wonder, am I doing the right thing?

Whose Prescription Is It, Anyway? Attention Deficit Disorder and Ritalin Howard Markel, M.D., Ph.D.

8 winter 2005

Joel Alcantara, DC, MPH (1), Jim Davis, DC (2)

1. Research Director, International ChiropracticAssociation, Media, PA, USA and Private Practiceof Chiropractic, San Jose, CA, USA

2. Private Practice of Chiropractic, St. Paul, MN, USA

Introduction: Attention Deficit HyperactivityDisorder (ADHD) is a common behavioral disorder of childhood. Prevalence estimatesindicate that between 3-11 percent of childrenare affected by this disorder (1). The diagnosisof ADHD is based on a subjective evaluationof the core symptoms of impulsivity, inatten-tion, and motor overactivity (2). The most well-studied and effective medical treatmentshave been psychostimulants such asmethylphenidate and dextroamphetamine (3).Given the controversy with respect to the dubious diagnosis of ADHD and thequestionable effectiveness and safety of psychotropic medication in this pediatricpopulation; parents are spurred to consider“alternative” forms of treatment for theirchild with a diagnosis of ADHD. Parallel to the increase use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in adults,CAM use in children has also become more prevalent (4). Chiropractic, with its holisticand conservative approach to patient carehas become the most popular choice of all the alternative therapies. Anecdotes and testimonials abound on the success chiropractic care in patients with ADHD but the scientific literature is virtually non-existent in the documentation of such successes. To the best of our knowledge, we are only aware of the following. In a single subject research design (N=7),Giesen et.al. (5) found five of the seven children showed improvement in meanbehavioral scores from placebo care to chiropractic treatment, four of the sevendemonstrated improvement in arousal levels, and the improvement in the group as a whole was highly significant. Agreementbetween tests was also high in this study.For all seven children, three of the four principal tests used to detect improvement(i.e., parent ratings of activity, motionrecorder scores, electrodermal measures,and X-rays of spinal distortions) were in

agreement either positively or negatively.Recently, Bastecki et.al. (6) described thesuccessful chiropractic care (i.e., symptomimprovement with medical withdrawal of medication) of a 5-yr-old male withADHD and facial ticks. Pre-treatment andcomparative cervical spine radiographsreveal changes from a 12˚ kyphosis (C2-C7) to a 32˚ lordosis. Bastecki et.al.concluded that an improvement in cervicallordosis in patients with ADHD may be adesirable outcome.

To further contribute to the knowledge-base on the conservative care of patientswith ADHD, we present the successful chiropractic care of patients with a diagnosis of ADHD.

Methods: A prospective cohort of pediatricpatients comprised the study population.Inclusion criteria required a medical diagnosis of ADHD and that spinal adjust-ments were not contraindicated. Thepatient population underwent chiropracticcare that may be characterized as a combination Gonstead Technique (7) and a nutritional supplementation program (8).Main outcome measure was a surveyinstrument for parents and teachers ofADHD patients to score a patient’s behav-ior/performance at home and at school (8).Additionally, the types of medication priorto, during and following a period of chiro-practic care were noted.

Results: Nine patients (8 males and 1 female) comprised the study population.The average age of the patients was 9.2years (range: 2–15 years). A parent for eachpatient agreed to perform the questionnaire.Although the patients have variable lengthsof care, ADHD symptoms based on parentsurvey for each patient demonstrate asteady improvement. Comparison of the initial and latest parent scoring for ADHDsymptoms as a group demonstrated a 53%reduction. Teacher ratings were available for 4 of the 9 patients. Similarly to the parentsurvey, teacher ratings of these 4 patientsdemonstrated improvement in ADHD symp-toms over time. Comparison of the initial and

latest teacher ADHD symptom scoringdemonstrated a 45% reduction. Of 5 patientsunder ADHD medication prior to chiropracticcare; 3 patients were no longer on medica-tion due to symptom improvement while the 2 remaining on medication were atdecreased dosages.

Conclusions: The results of this study sug-gest that patients with ADHD may benefitfrom chiropractic care utilizing a combinationof fullspine spinal manipulative therapy andnutritional supplementation. Additionally,this study provides information vital for high-er-level research designs investigating theeffectiveness and safety of chiropractic carein patients with ADHD.

Prospective Cohort of

ADHD Patients Under Chiropractic Care

pathways 9pathways 9

In the October 2004 issue of the peer-reviewedresearch publication, the Journal of Manipulative andPhysiological Therapeutics (JMPT), comes a case studyof a child with ADHD (Attention-Deficit /HyperactivityDisorder), who was helped with chiropractic.

The case was of a 5 year old boy who had been diag-nosed with ADHD at age 2. The child’s pediatricianprescribed methylphenidate (Ritalin), Adderall, andHaldol for the next 3 years. The combination of drugswas unsuccessful in helping the child.

At age 5 the child was brought to a chiropractor to seeif chiropractic care would help. The history taken atthat time noted that during the child’s birth, therewere complications during his delivery process. The

results of this trauma and complications resulted in a4-day stay in the neonatal intensive care unit. Thechild’s mother reported no other incidence of trauma.

The chiropractic examination and x-rays showednoticeable spinal distortion including a reversal ofthe normal neck curve indicative of subluxations.Chiropractic care was begun and the child’s progresswas monitored.

According to his mother, positive changes in her son`sgeneral behavior were noticed around the twelfthvisit. By the 27th visit the patient had experienced

considerable improvement.

The child was brought by the mother to the medical doctor for afollow up visit and questioned the usage of the Ritalin. The med-ical doctor reviewed and examined the child and based on thatassessment and his clinical experience, the MD felt that theyoung boy was no longer exhibiting symptoms associated withADHD. He then took the boy off the medications that he hadbeen taking for 3 years.

The conclusion of the author of the JMPT case study noted, “Thepatient experienced significant reduction in symptoms.Additionally, the medical doctor concluded that the reduction insymptoms was significant enough to discontinue the medication.”

References:

1. Szatmari P: The epidemiology of attention deficit hyperactiv-ity disorder. Child Adolesc Psychiatr Clin N Am 1992;1:361-372.

2. American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and statisticalmanual of mental disorders. 4th ed. Washington (DC).American Psychiatric Association; 2000. p. 86-102.

3. Bennett FC, Brown RT, Craver J, et al: Stimulant medicationfor the child with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.Pediatr Clin N Am 1999; 46:929–944.

4. Pitetti R. Singh S, Hornyak D, Garcia SE, Herr S.Complementary and alternative medicine use in children.Pediatric Emergency Care. 2001;17:165-169.

5. Giesen JM, Center DB, Leach RA. An evaluation of chiroprac-tic manipulation as a treatment of hyperactivity in children. JManipulative Physiol Ther 1989;12(5):353-363.

6. Bastecki AV, Harrison DE, Haas JW. Cervical kyphosis is apossible link to attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. JManipul Physiol Ther 2004;27:525e1-e5.

7. Plaugher G, ed. Textbook of clinical chiropractic: a specificbiomechanical approach. Baltimore: Williams & Wilkins, 1993

8. www.nordicnaturals.com/professional/proefa.asp

a case study

He then took the boy off the medications that he had been taking for 3 years.

ADHD Helped With Chiropractic

10 winter 2005

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pathways 11

Since the 1950’s, sitting in front of the television for

relaxation, entertainment, learning, and for just something

to do, has been an integral part of family life. With the

introduction of TV into the fabric of family homes, research

has been mounting in support of some of its negative

impacts. Implicated in childhood obesity, behavioural

and sleep disturbances, seizures, desensitization, violence,

decreased learning, sedentary lifestyles, learning disabili-

ties and poor food choices, television has become more

than a simple source of distraction.1

continued on page 12

PullthePlug!

Diane Meyer, D.C.

Chiropractors worldwide concernthemselves with the enhancement,optimization and healthy develop-ment of the body through its nervoussystem. Awareness is the key inbeing able to educate Chiropractorsand patients about the potentialdamaging effects induced by televi-sion viewing.

CURRENT TRENDS

The numbers are astonishing! Theamount of television the averageAmerican watches is 3–4 hours perday.2 By the age of 75, a full 9 yearswill have been spent watching TV.3 (1)

The amount of TV a one-year-old

child watches is one hour per day,and ages 2–17 is 2.8 hours per day.4

This is, in spite of the AmericanPediatric Association’s recommenda-tions that children under the age of 2 should not view television and thatviewing for older children should belimited to 1–2 hours of media viewing(this includes video games).5

TELEVISION AND THE BRAIN

The physiological process the brainundergoes while viewing TV, is per-haps a key to its harmful effects.

Television images are created by acathode ray gun scanner, which acti-vates thousands of small phosphor

dots that have been formed into 525lines. The scanner sweeps across thescreen twice in one fiftieth of a sec-ond. The eye receives each dot andtransmits this information to thebrain, which fills in the dots of thepattern. It becomes a type of uncon-scious connect-the-dots. However,this high frequency of 50 waves ofdots every second puts a strain onthe visual system because the eyeand the conscious brain can onlyrecord visual stimuli at 20 impulsesor less, per second. As the eyes andbrain attempt to keep up with thepace of the images, our visual focusis “glued” to the screen.6

12 winter 2005

C

pathways 13

Reeves and Thorson explained thehypnotic state of television by ournatural “orientating response”. This response occurs after perceivinga new auditory or visual stimulusand consists of blood vessel dilationto the brain, a decrease in heart rate, and constriction of blood to the major muscle groups. The bodybecomes still and quiet while thebrain gathers information. This orientating response appears to be activated by the countless cuts,zooms, pans, sounds and actions of

television, as many as 1 per second.(sciam) These rapid movementscause our attention to be intenselyattracted to the screen in an almosthypnotic state that most viewers,find difficult to detach from.7

Thus the “addictive” cycle begins.People report a sense of relaxationand passivity while viewing, howeveronce off; the feeling of relaxationends while the feeling of passivityand lowered alertness continues.8

In essence, during watching the view-er is not actually reacting or focusing.This can explain why the person is leftexhausted and often has difficulty in

recalling what was viewed once thetelevision is turned off.

High frequency television waves also appear to have an effect onbrainwave activity. Within 30 secondsof watching TV, repeated EEG experi-ments observed brainwave patternsto change from beta waves (alert and conscious) to alpha waves (unfocused—a type of subconsciousday dreaming usually occurring onlywhen the eyes are shut).9 Anotherbrainwave EEG study found that aperson watching TV for only a few

minutes had the same brainwaveactivity as someone who is subjectedto 96 hours of sensory deprivation! 10(p46)

In addition, there have also beenreports on the potential deadlyeffects of viewing. In 1997, 700Japanese children were rushed tohospital suffering from opticallyinduced epileptic seizures afterwatching a Pokemon video game.The high frequency of red/blue flashes of color may have inducedthese seizures. Video game manufac-turers now issue warning labels on

some video games. Despite this, the popularity of these games stillincreases.11

TELEVISION AND DEVELOPMENT

There is discussion concerning thetheory that what is being watched isnot as important, as the act of watch-ing itself. In the book “Who’s bring-ing them up?” Martin Large describestelevision as being damaging to children’s development independentof content. He cites the following

developmental effects; artificial lighton children’s eyes, effects on thesenses and brain, sleeplessness,headaches, bad dreams, perceptualdisorders, poor concentration, hyper-activity, language development, and nervous problems.12 A new studyfrom Seattle Children’s’ Hospital andRegional Medical Center supportsLarge’s findings by showing that forevery hour per day a toddler watches television they are 10% more likely to develop an attention disorder.13

Early Television Exposure and SubsequentAttentional Problems in Children Early television exposure is associated with atten-tional problems at age 7. Efforts to limit televisionviewing in early childhood may be warranted, andadditional research is needed.PEDIATRICS Vol. 113 No. 4 April 2004, pp. 708-713

pediatrics.aappublications.org/cgi/content/abstract/113/4/708


People report a sense of relaxation and passivity while viewing,however once off; the feeling of relaxation ends while the feeling of passivity and lowered alertness continues.

14 winter 2005

TELEVISION AND BEHAVIOUR

One Canadian study observed the effects of when television wasintroduced into a no-TV community.Before television, the children of that community scored higher onreading tests, imagination and creativity than TV viewing children.After the introduction of television,the children fared only as well astheir TV viewing comparison group.As well, their aggressive behaviourincreased, beliefs about boys and

girls’ performance became morestereotypical, and participation in community activities decreased. As for the adults, TV was found todecrease creativity and problem solving abilities.14

A study in Pediatrics involving 888grade 2 and 3 students observed thatalong with increased television view-ing there was an increased risk of;withdrawal, social problems, thoughtproblems, attention issues, delin-quent behaviour, and aggressivebehaviour. It was also noted that

the amount of television viewing was increased in children who aremale, are older, and have social and academic issues.15 This predisposes a certain group of children to beingmore exposed to television, and aretherefore at a greater risk of damage.Today’s average youth spends moretime watching TV (1,023 hours) thanat school (900 hours), and has seen200,000 acts of violence by the age of 18.16,17 What kind of impact can thishave on children and can it impactadult behaviour?

An alternative perspective regarding television is not the possiblebehaviour it produces, but the behaviour that it does not produce.

pathways 15


WHAT ABOUTTHE VIOLENCE?

Research has shown that the emo-tional response to implied violenceis actually greater than to actualscenes of violence.18 The implicationof this for even G-rated movies isobvious. Could this be becausetoday’s children are already desen-sitized to violence? Or does themind, left to fill in the blanks for the implied violence, come up with more emotionally chargedmental images?

One study attempted to analyze the desensitization of children andadults while watching TV violence.They found that children and adultmales had a decreased emotionalresponse with a violent programwhen previously exposed to a violentscene.19 This may indicate a protec-tive mental response or it may meanthat with each exposure to violenceour emotional response is lessened.It is also important to assesswhether or not exposure to TV violence has a prolonged effect into adulthood. In a 2003 study, children ages 6–10 were followed fora 15-year period and were assessedwhether or not there was a relation-ship between viewing as a child and adult aggressive behaviour. Theresults clearly indicated, “childhoodexposure to TV media violence pre-dicts young adult aggressive behav-iour”. It was also shown that thosechildren who identified with the vio-lent characters and who perceived TVviolence as realistic, were more likely to be aggressive in adulthood.20

An alternative perspective regardingtelevision is not the possible behav-iour it produces, but the behaviourthat it does not produce. Justobserve a child sitting in front of thetelevision. What you will observe isa blank stare, with little blinking. Ifyou gently try to get the attention ofthe child you may find that the child

appears to have difficulty “comingout of” the gaze. The vibrant, ener-getic and playful child is not found in a TV viewer. It seems as if thechild is somehow subdued or inhib-ited. When observing adults viewingTV, the same behaviour is found. It is as if the thinking, feeling andinteractive human is temporarilysuspended; but gone where?

THE ACT OF TELEVISION VIEWING

Other dangerous effects of televi-sion viewing revolve around thephysical act of viewing. The mental,physical, and emotional impact ofsitting in front of a screen for 3hours a day does not promote ahealthy lifestyle. In fact there areseveral studies which have positive-ly associated television with anincreased risk of obesity by as muchas 17–44%; an increasing problemfor North Americans.21,22 In 1994 thepercentage of North American chil-dren that were seriously overweightamounted to 13%. One study foundthat television viewing actually low-ers one’s metabolic rate.23

Another factor that contributes toobesity includes the type of advertis-ing commonly found during viewing.

Association Between Television Viewing and Sleep Problems During Adolescence and Early Adulthood

A recent study showed that adolescents who watched 3 or more hours of television

per day during adolescence were at a significantly elevated risk for frequent

sleep problems by early adulthood. This elevation in risk remained significant

after offspring age, sex, previous sleep problems, offspring psychiatric disorders,

offspring neglect, parental educational level, parental annual income, and parental

psychiatric symptoms were controlled statistically. Adolescents who reduced their

television viewing from 1 hour or longer to less than 1 hour per day experienced

a significant reduction in risk for subsequent sleep problems. Sleep problems

during adolescence were not independently associated with subsequent television

viewing when prior television viewing was controlled.

The researches concluded that extensive television viewing during adolescence

may contribute to the development of sleep problems by early adulthood.

Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. 2004;158:562-568. http://archpedi.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/abstract/158/6/562

16 winter 2005

The average number of “junk foodads” aired during a 4-hour period of Saturday morning cartoons totalled202. The predominant commercialsinclude those that promote foods high in fat, salt and sugar; with sugary cereals being the most com-mon.24, 25 The number of televisioncommercials viewed in one year bychildren is 20,000! Young minds areeasily influenced and may tormentand affect the buying habits of lessconscious parents.

Another factor incredibly important in maintaining optimal health is sleep.Watching television before bed hasbeen found to negatively impact theamount and quality of sleep.26

In this new millennium we have madegreat strides in the promotion ofhealthy lifestyles, but promotion doesnot equate action. It is obvious thatwhile our “hearts” are in the rightplace, seeking to add exercise, healthy

diets and wellness concepts, ourminds may be controlled by television,which may undermine our efforts.Television as a cause of subluxationincorporates physical, emotional/mental and even toxic aspects.

SO WHAT TO DO?

April 25 to May 1 2005 hosts the annual TV Turnoff Week for NorthAmerica. Last year over 7.3 millionchildren and adults participated inthe event. It is designed for individualsand families to learn more about the impact of television. During theweek, participants are encouraged to leave their televisions off and find other activities in its place.Participants are overwhelmingly surprised at how much more “quality”was introduced into their lives whenthe TV was off. The TV Turnoff Network(www.tvturnoff.org) has accumulatedresearch and supportive informationshowing that television;

1) undermines family life,

2) harms children and hampers education,

3) promoted violence, and

4) promoted excessive commercialismand sedentary lifestyles.

We as parents need to become moreaware of the side effects of this seem-ingly innocent pastime. If TV were adrug it would long be off the shelves.

Diane Meyer, D.C. has been awardedDiplomate status for successful comple-tion of the ICPA’s 360 hour post-graduateDiplomate program. She is a 1994 gradu-ate of Canadian Memorial ChiropracticCollege and practices in Oakville, Ontario.

References can be found on-line atwww.icpa4kids.org/research/references.htm

1 Reduce the time spent watching television; it is obvious that less is better. Anything over 2 hours a day is dangerous.

2 Avoid TV before bed

3 Keep the TV’s out of children’s bedrooms.

4 Engage children in other activities, hobbies,crafts, readings and outings

5 Watch with your children and screen for violence

6 When implied violence is encountered, discuss its emotional effect with your children

7 When violence is encountered use it as an educational tool—a springboard for moral and ethical discussions

8 Use commercials to educate children onhealthy eating and the contents of some advertised foods. This is also an opportunity to teach children to be conscious consumersby discussing the tactics of advertising.

9 Try to encourage movement during watching,i.e. sit on the floor or on an exercise ball, lift hand weights etc… use TV as a stretchingopportunity. Be creative!!!

10 Avoid just sitting and exploring the channels…this can lead to hours of TV babble while notreally watching anything.

11 Pre-frame a show to stimulate retention

12 Mute or turn off commercials—they are noticeably louder than the program to holdyour attention

The following are some parental suggestions to limit T.V. watching:

parents: Ask your ICPA Doctor for additional copies of these cards so you can bring them to your health care

providers, local family oriented meetings (breastfeeding, birth classes, ADHD support groups, etc) in your communities.

Get Online!www.icpa4kids.org

Be Informed:Make knowledgeable health care choices for your family.

Get the Facts:Review the most current research and articles.

Stay Connected: Sign up for our free newsletter: Family Wellness First.

Share the Wealth: Refer other families to discover chiropractic.

International Chiropractic Pediatric Association

All parents want their children to express their fullest potential.

All children function better with 100% nerve system function.

Chiropractic care for children is safe, gentle and effective.

Your Doctor of Chiropractic is a distin-guished member of the InternationalChiropractic Pediatric Association.

Our joint mission is to provide you with the resources necessary in achieving the chiropractic wellness lifestyle for your family.

Parents: Seek healthcare options which support your children’s own natural ability to be healthy…

Get Online!www.icpa4kids.org

18 winter 2005

h e l p i n g t o f i n d a

wellness mindedPediatrician

Ask your pediatrician

if he or she would

like to meet your

family chiropractor;

let them know what

a great asset this

doctor is to your

community.

TToday wellness-educated parents are search-ing to create a “Wellness Healthcare Team” fortheir children. Many parents want to work witha spectrum of doctors and healthcare providersthat suit the ongoing needs of their family.

A growing number of parents, many of them who are bring-

ing their children to a family chiropractor, are also looking

for a pediatrician who would take a holistic approach with

their children and not always write a prescription; but

discuss different options for your child.

One question to ask, “Is my current pediatrician a

wellness-minded doctor, and if not, how do you find

a wellness-minded pediatrician?”

Where does one begin to find a wellness-minded pedia-

trician? For a new referral you might want to start with

someone who is already a part of your current wellness

team. This may be your family chiropractor, midwife,

naturopath or others whose advice you trust.

Interview your current healthcare advisors and inquire

about who they believe are the best and the worst pedia-

tricians (having the latter list will come in handy).

There are several questions that you will need to

address; first, in an assessment of your current

pediatrician, and then, you can restructure the

questions as an interview for potential candidates.

The Meeting Between a Parent and Pediatrician

Once you have a tentative candidate list, contact the

pediatrician’s office and arrange for a consult. A one-

on-one meeting is the only way to walk away with the

answers.

The Questions

Your questions for the meeting can come from the

pediatrician assessment listed above. Remember,

it is highly unlikely you are going to find a holistic

pediatrician in your community. What you are looking

to discover is the philosophy of the doctor regarding

certain health issues. Inform the doctor that you are

looking for a pediatrician who takes a more natural

(wait-and-see) approach and would take a less invasive

approach for your children. Don’t be abrasive or expect

to change a doctor’s belief system of practice.

Claudia Anrig, D.C.

pathways 19

A Relationship with Your Doctor

A relationship of any kind will take time. Don’t expect some

of the pediatricians to embrace you in the beginning. Take

time to slowly introduce information that could cultivate

and broaden their knowledge of wellness. Should you

come upon an interesting article or website, forward it to

them. When you find that there is an issue on which the

two of you strongly disagree, agree to disagree.

For example, you will have very few pediatricians who

oppose vaccinations. Ask them if they are interested

in a continuing dialogue, and if you could order them

a subscription to the NVIC newsletter (www.909shot.org)

as a basis of your discussion.

Do not send literature that is not scientifically referenced.

Remember, these doctors were educated that their proto-

col for care is based on science (even if some of it is bad).

As your relationship builds let them know more about

the other healthcare providers in the life of your family

(i.e. family chiropractic, naturopath, etc). Some doctors

will need to be educated that, for example, your family

chiropractor doesn’t treat a disease or disorder, but

rather assists the body to improve its function from

the state of dis-ease. Develop a new relationship with

your new pediatrician and your wellness healthcare

team. Ask your pediatrician if he or she would like to

meet your family chiropractor; let them know what a

great asset this doctor is to your community.

Remember that every conversation you have with your

pediatrician might be one more seed that you plant for

a wellness future for your children and their children’s

children.

In the best of both worlds, it would be an asset for our

families to have their healthcare team be a healthy part-

nership between the family wellness chiropractor and

the wellness-oriented pediatrician.

Dr. Claudia Anrig has been actively involved in pediatric chiropractic for almost 25 years. As an international instructoron the subject and editor of the first and most comprehensiveChiropractic Pediatric Textbook, Dr Anrig has contributed extensively to the chiropractic profession with her expertise and knowledge.

Assessment of my current pediatrician:

Is my pediatrician a wellness-minded doctor?

Does my pediatrician promotegood nutrition?

Does my pediatrician promotebreastfeeding?

Does my pediatrician routinelyprescribe antibiotics for everycold or suspected ear infection?

When my pediatrician suspectsmy child has an ear infection,do they perform a culture toconfirm the necessity for anantibiotic?

Will my pediatrician take a wait-and-watch approach to a fever?

When you inform your pediatri-cian that you are not interestedin vaccinations for your child,are you still treated warmly?

Will your pediatrician returnyour phone calls in the same day?

How many times has your child received a prescription in their lifetime and why?

How long of a wait do you usually have at their office?

Is there a separate area for sick children?

Is the office clean and kid-friendly?

Is the staff friendly?

Does my pediatrician know that my child is under chiro-practic care (or other wellnesscare individuals)?

If you could have a wish list for a great pediatrician whatwould it be?

20 winter 2005

By Jane Sheppard

When functioning properly, theimmune system fights disease-producing organisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and para-sites. All children are continuouslyexposed to these pathogens, butexposure does not mean a child will get sick. A strong immune system provides a child with power-ful natural defenses against disease.Conversely, a child with a weakenedimmune system is vulnerable ormore susceptible to colds, flu, andmore serious illnesses.

It is virtually impossible to germ-proof your child. Germs are abundanteverywhere, especially in situationssuch as daycare or preschool. Beingexposed to germs is a part of life,and not necessarily unfavorable.Exposure to different viruses andbacteria can actually strengthen achild’s immune system. Furthermore,acquiring innocuous childhood dis-eases such as chicken pox, measles,mumps and rubella can help to buildimmunity and give your child lifetimeprotection against these diseases.Lifetime immunity is important since

Strengthening Your Child’s Immune System

The key to a healthy child is a strong immune system.

pathways 21

these diseases can haveserious negative effects if acquired as an adult.

If your child is overly sus-ceptible to illness, you

may want to take steps toenhance his or her immune

system and make it as strongas possible. Prevention is the

way to avoid subjecting your childto continuing cycles of antibiotics or other medications. The powerfultools of prevention include breast-feeding, good nutrition, nutritionalsupplements, a healthy mental atti-tude and emotional well-being, anontoxic environment, chiropracticcare, avoiding unnecessary antibi-otics and vaccines, low stress, andplenty of rest and exercise.

Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding for as long as possibleis crucial to developing a strongimmune system. Breastmilk suppliesthe factors necessary to protect your baby against disease, as well as all the nutrition he or she needs,including the essential fatty acids.Breastfed babies experience fewerinfections than babies that are bottle-fed. Feeding a baby artificialmilk (formula) deprives him or her of receiving the crucial protectionthat breastmilk provides.

Nutrition &Nutritional Supplements

Good nutrition is essential todeveloping and keeping theimmune system healthy andstrong. Nutritional deficien-cies may be responsible

for chronic immune problems as it iseasier for bacteria or viruses to takehold when important nutrients aremissing. Critical nutrients that stimu-late a strong immune system includevitamins A, C, E and essential fattyacids. The most important mineralsinclude manganese, selenium, zinc,copper, iron, sulfur, magnesium andgermanium. These nutrients can beobtained from an organic whole-foods diet consisting of fresh fruitsand vegetables, nuts, seeds, beans,and whole grains. Unfortunately,most of our food supply is artificiallymanipulated and processed withmany ingredients and additives that contribute to poor nutrition.Processed foods, sugar, and sodacan weaken the immune system.These “foods” add nothing in theway of nutrition, and if your childrenfill up on a lot of them, they are not likely to eat healthy foods withessential nutrients. This can lead to a weak immune system. You maywant to consult a qualified nutrition-ist or naturopathic physician to findout if your child has any deficiencies.

Dietary fats can either enhance orimpair immune function, dependingon the type of fat. The wrong types of fats (hydrogenated oils found in deep fried foods, margarine andbaked goods) can predispose a child to recurrent infections andinflammatory conditions. Essentialfatty acids (the good fats) are essen-tial to normal immune and nervous

system function. They arefound in flaxseed oil,

evening primrose oil,hemp seed oil, borage

seed oil, and fish oil. Cod liver oil is a great way for kids to receiveessential fatty acids.

Sugar has been shown to reducewhite blood cell count, an indicatorof immune strength. The function of white blood cells is to fight anddestroy germs that can cause dis-ease. This is why many kids get sickafter birthday parties or Halloween.Their resistance is lowered due toexcess sugar. Giving your child extravitamin C and the herb echinacea for a few days before and a few daysafter these events may help to pre-vent the onset of an infection.

You may want to consider probioticsupplementation if your child has ahistory of antibiotic use,ear infections, oralthrush, diarrhea, consti-pation, colic, food aller-gies, eczema, intestinalviral infections, candidia-sis or is bottle-fed.Probiotics are the benefi-cial bacteria in the intes-tinal tract that keep the“bad” bacteria from tak-ing over. This bacteriumis essential for healthyimmunity. Acidolphilus isthe probiotic supplementsuggested for childrenover age seven andbifidus for children seven or under.You can find these supplements atyour local health food store.

Herbs have been used safely allaround the world since ancient times to prevent and treat disease.


eat lots of fresh foods and avoid sugary, processed snacks

echinaceamay help toprevent theonset of aninfection

22 winter 2005

Using herbs to strengthen a child’sconstitution can make them moreresistant to illness. Certain herbs,including echinacea, astragalus, and garlic, have been found to haveremarkable immunological effects.These herbs support the body’s ownprocess to stay at the peak of vitalityand prevent development of disease.

Nontoxic Environment

More than 75,000 chemicals are permeating our environment. Chemicalexposures can damage the immunesystem, decreasing the ability to fightoff common infections and serious diseases such as cancer. Poor indoorand outdoor air quality, contaminatedfood and water, and constant, cumula-tive pesticide exposure all contributeto decreased immunity in children.Environmental toxins are everywhere,but there is much you can do to avoidunnecessary exposures and reducethe overall amount of chemicals your

children take in to their bodies. Thereare affordable, nontoxic alternatives to all lawn and garden pesticides,toxic household cleaners and personalcare products. Buying organic foodswill greatly decrease your child’s overall exposure to pesticides andhelp to create a healthier environmentfor all children.

Avoid Unnecessary Antibiotics and Vaccines

Antibiotics are excessively prescribedto children. Antibiotic resistance anddecreased immunity are some of theconsequences of excessive, unneces-sary antibiotic use.

Increasing evidence suggests thatinjecting a child with nearly three-dozen doses of 10 different viral and bacterial vaccines before the age of five, while the immune systemis still developing, can cause chronicimmune dysfunction. The most thatvaccines can do is lead to an increase

use nontoxic or organic products when possible, includinghousehold cleaners, pesticides and personal care products

boo

st im

mu

nit

ybreastfeed

eat nutritiously

create a healthyenvironment

avoid unneces-sary antibiotics and vaccines

consult a chiropractor

increase mentaland emotionalwell-being

in antibodies to a specific disease. They donot provide true immunity against disease;nor do they create healthier children. In fact,the risks of vaccinations can be very high and parents need to become informed beforeconsidering having their children injectedwith toxic vaccines.

I have seen many anecdotal reports from parents that express unequivocally howincredibly strong their unvaccinated children’simmune systems are. My own unvaccinateddaughter is remarkably healthy. She’s been“immunized” with four years of breastmilk, an organic whole foods diet, and plenty of love and attention. She has never neededan antibiotic. I know her immune system is strong enough to fight the so-called “deadly” diseases that kids are vaccinatedagainst. If she does get a serious infection, I am confident her strong immune system will respond quickly to treatment.

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vaccines do not provide true immunityagainst disease

24 winter 2005

laughter and positive thoughts and feelings stimulate the cells of the immune system

Chiropractic for Creating Strong Immunity

The nervous system affects theimmune system and plays an impor-tant role in the immune response.Subtle misalignment of the bones,with tightened muscles and liga-ments can lead to irritation of thenerve system and can alter the abilityof the nerves to supply the tissues,organs and cells of the body withvital communication from the brain.The scientific study of neuro-immunology (the link between thenervous system and the immune system) clearly indicates that nervesystem stress can cause decreasedimmunity and may increase suscepti-bility to disease.

Spinal misalignments can occur dur-ing childbirth, from tumbles or falls,or from any other normal childhoodactivity. A chiropractor can detectspinal misalignments and correctthem by properly adjusting the spine.With proper nerve supply, the immunesystem can function at fuller capacity,allowing the body to naturally defenditself against disease.

Mental and Emotional Well-Being

The best nutrition for the immunesystem is love and attention.Children need to be held, hugged,rocked, massaged, nursed, touchedand kissed regularly. When they feel loved and sense that the peoplearound them love each other, theyare secure and happy. There havebeen many studies done that showthat laughter and positive thoughtsand feelings stimulate the cells ofthe immune system. The more chil-dren laugh and enjoy life, the bettertheir immune function and thehealthier they will be.

Emotional stress and unhappinessmay deplete the immune system and lower a child’s resistance to disease. An important way to guardagainst emotional stress and pro-mote positive feelings in an infant or toddler is by frequent and extend-ed breastfeeding. The comfort theyreceive from this reassures them and can ease the sometimes-stress-ful situation of being a little personin a big world.

Giving your child a massage is another wonderful way to relieve

stress and stimulate the immune system. You can easily learn to massage your baby or child. Find a class in your area or get the book,Infant Massage, A Handbook forLoving Parents, by Vimala SchneiderMcClure.

Plenty of sleep is also essential. Yourchild’s body regenerates and renewsitself while sleeping. In addition, it is important to include “quiet time”as part of your child’s day. Kids caneasily be taught to practice yoga and meditation. A great yoga videofor kids is YogaKids by Living Arts.(800-2-LIVING).

Plenty of fresh air and exercise canmake a big difference in the health ofyour children. Spending a lot of timeinside, breathing stale, recirculatedair, can be a hazard to your child’simmune function. Go for walks, playin the woods and let your childrenclimb, jump, run, and dance. Let them hug trees and run barefoot inthe grass. Mother Nature can be anexcellent immune stimulator.

Jane Sheppard is the editor and publisher of Healthy Child Onlinewww.healthychild.com and the Executive Director of the HolisticPediatric Association www.hpakids.org

Portions of this article were extracted fromSuper Healthy Kids: Strengthening YourChild’s Resistance to Disease, available atHealthy Child Online.

pathways 25

chiropractic adjustments cancorrect spinal misalignmentsand allow the immune systemto function at fuller capacity

relieve stress andstimulate the immunesystem by massagingyour child

26 winter 2005

babytantrumsBy Elizabeth Pantley, Author of Gentle Baby Care

Learn about it

A baby’s first tantrum can take you by surprise. Your baby can really shock you by shrieking, stamping, hitting, or making his whole body go stiff. But don’t takeit personally; baby tantrums aren’t about anything you’ve done wrong, and theyaren’t really about temper, either—your baby isn’t old enough for that. The waysyou’ll respond to your baby’s behavior when he is older are different than howyou should respond now.

Why babies have tantrums and what you can do about it

A baby tantrum is an abrupt and sudden loss of emotional control. Various factorsbring tantrums on, and if you can identify the trigger, then you can help him calmdown æ and perhaps even avoid the tantrum in the first place. Here are the com-mon reasons and ways to solve the problem:

Reason for tantrum Possible solution

Overtiredness Settle baby down to sleep; Provide quiet activity

Hunger Give baby a snack or something to drink

Frustration Help baby achieve his goal or remove the frustration; Use distraction

Fear/anxiety Hold and cuddle baby; Remove baby from difficult situation

Inability to Try to figure out what he wants;communicate Calmly encourage him to show you

Resisting change Allow a few minutes for baby to make adjustment

Overstimulation Move baby to a quiet place

Excerpted with permission by McGraw-Hill/Contemporary Publishing from The No-Cry SleepSolution: Gentle Ways to Help Your Baby Sleep Through the Night by Elizabeth Pantley, © 2002 Website: www.pantley.com/elizabeth

How to prevent baby tantrums

• When baby is tired,put him down for anap or to sleep.

• Feed your baby frequently. Babieshave small tummiesand need regularnourishment.

• Give your baby toysthat are geared to hisage and ability level.

• Warn your babybefore changingactivities (“One moreswing, then we’regoing home”).

• Be patient when put-ting your baby in anunfamiliar environ-ment or when intro-ducing him to newpeople.

• Help your baby learnnew skills (such asclimbing stairs orworking puzzles).

• Keep your expecta-tions realistic; don’texpect more than yourbaby is capable of.

• As much as possible,keep a regular andpredictable schedule.

• When your baby isoverly emotional,keep yourself as calmas possible.

• Use a soothing toneof voice and gentletouch to help yourbaby calm down. He can’t do it on his own, he needsyour help.

Often, you can prevent a baby from losing control of his emotions if you prevent the situations that lead up to this. Here are some things to keep in mind:

pathways 27

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pathways 29


At no other time of life is nutrition as important as during

pregnancy. Pregnancy is a time of great change and growth for the devel-

oping fetus as well as the mother. Everything the mother puts into her

body provides the building blocks for the child’s body and mind.

for maximum

Dr. Renata Anderson

An essential piece to the pregnancy nutrition puzzle is

the proper fats. Fats are very important in everyone’s

diet but especially so for the developing fetus. Fats

are the main building block of the brain and nervous

system. In fact, more than 60 percent of the dry

weight of the brain is fat. The fats in the nervous sys-

tem are required for insulation of the nerves to pre-

serve messages and for connections between the

nerves allowing information to be exchanged (1).

Deficiencies in the proper fats contribute to many dis-

orders such as tremors, learning

problems, numbness, develop-

mental delays, seizures, strokes,

and autism. On the other hand,

proper amounts of the “good”

fats can help both mom and baby

reach their fullest potential.

First of all, there is a major differ-

ence between different types of

fats. The most harmful fats you

can put into your body, pregnant

or not, are trans unsaturated fats.

Trans fats are those unsaturated

fats which have been heated to

change the bonds in the struc-

ture. Trans fats tend to be solids

at room temperature. The reason trans fats are so

harmful is because of their bond structure. Trans fats

cause our cells to become rigid and inflexible. This

means our nerves have a more difficult time passing

information from one nerve to the next. Unfortunately,

you find trans fats in almost every package on the gro-

cery store shelf and in every fried food. Included in

this group of foods loaded with trans fats are our kids’

favorites, french fries. Almost every cracker, cookie,

and cereal you pick up has at least one ingredient list-

ed as fractionated or hydrogenated oil, denoting a

trans fat. Trans fats help retain the shelf life for foods,

give crackers their crispiness, and moistness to cakes.

According to the FDA, there is no safe level for trans

fats as they are so damaging to the body. Trans fats

are also major contributors to clogged arteries, coro-

nary dysfunction, and diabetes. Especially when preg-

nant, trans fats do not provide strong building blocks

for a developing fetal brain and nervous system.

The best choice of fat to build a strong fetal nervous

system and brain are omega 3 polyunsaturated fats

such as docosahexaenoic acid also known as DHA and

eicosapentaenoic acid known as EPA. DHA and EPA

are long chain fats essential for growth and function

of the brain in the fetus and infants (2). DHA is the

heaviest hitter contributing

to improved learning ability due to

proper brain function. Taking in the

correct amount of the omega 3

essential fatty acids allows our

brain to function at a higher level

by ensuring accurate and rapid

communication between nerve

cells. On the other hand, a deficien-

cy in the omega 3 polyunsaturated

fats can adversely affect learning,

behavior, visual acuity, and retinal

function in infants (3).

Throughout pregnancy, maternal

fatty acid blood levels drop. This

results from the growing infant’s need for the fatty

acids to build developing brain tissue. The only way

the developing fetus gets the long-chain fatty acids

necessary to properly develop the neural tissue is

from the mother. This leaves the mother with deplet-

ed stores of essential fatty acids for her own nervous

system health. When her system is depleted of these

fatty acids, they are not easy to replenish. As a result

of this, with each pregnancy, DHA supplies in mother

and, therefore, baby, are decreased (4). Mothers with

low fatty acid levels have been shown to have higher

levels of postpartum depression because of the diffi-

culty the nerves have to pass accurate messages.

Because of this, it becomes even more important for

mom to supplement her EPA and DHA intake during

30 winter 2005

DHA and EPA are long chain fats essential for growth and function of the brain in the fetus and infants

pregnancy, particularly in the 3rd trimester when fetal

brain development is most rapid and proficient (5).

Our bodies are unable to efficiently synthesize the

long chain polyunsaturated fats such as DHA and EPA

needed for fetal and maternal health. Therefore, preg-

nant mothers must take in the omega 3 essential fatty

acids from the diet. The omega 3’s EPA and DHA are

not found in a multitude of sources. Essentially they

are found in deep water fish such as mackerel, sar-

dines, and salmon. Fish, much like humans, have a hard

time synthesizing the beneficial

fatty acids. Therefore, deep-water

fish eat algae which are very good at

carrying the omega 3 fatty acids we

all need. So from algae to fish to

pregnant moms to the fetus and

finally to the developing nervous

system the very important omega 3s

are utilized. Unfortunately, there is

a problem with this chain of life-

pollution. Pollutions such as PCBs

and mercury are found in high lev-

els in those same deep-water fish.

These pollutants have been shown

to have detrimental effects on the

fetus (6). Because of the pollutants

in the deep water fish, a safer way to take in the

omega 3s are in supplement form. When looking for an

omega 3 supplement, one needs to find pharmaceuti-

cal-grade. This denotes the highest level of purity

attainable in these supplements avoiding damaging

mercury and PCBs as much as possible.

The rapid fetal brain development continues from the

last term of pregnancy into the first 12 months of the

infant’s life. Given this, the need for long chain fatty

acid supplementation in the infant remains high. The

infant most obviously must receive these long chain

fatty acids in one of two ways—breastfeeding from a

mother who is supplemented or from a formula forti-

fied with the DHA/EPA complex. Breastmilk is the best

choice for the infant as it provides for the easiest

digestion and absorption of the fatty acids. Until

recently, formulas were not supplemented with the

very important long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids.

Due to recent studies on brain development and the IQ

advantages supplemented children have over non-

supplemented, the larger formula manufacturers

decided to include the polyunsaturated fatty acids into

their formulas. There are several conditions associat-

ed with deficiencies in DHA such as impaired vision,

reduced IQ, dyslexia, and ADD (2).

Fats, for the longest time, have

been thought of as the evils of

diets. There are fats which cause

more damage than good to our

bodies, the worst of these harmful

fats are trans polyunsaturated fats.

However, people of all ages, from

fetus to elderly, need fats to build

the brain and nervous system. The

fats we take in have a major effect

on how well our nervous system

functions. The most beneficial fats

are omega-3 polyunsaturated

essential fatty acids more com-

monly known as DHA and EPA.

These fatty heavy hitters have been shown to enhance

brain development and functions in children. By limit-

ing trans fat intake and enhancing omega-3 consump-

tion during pregnancy and beyond women can give our

children the best opportunity for optimum brain and

nervous system function.

Renata Anderson, D.C. graduated from NWCC in 1999.She has been in practice for 5 years in Onalaska, WI. Shehas just successfully completed the ICPA 360 hourDiplomate program and has been awarded Diplomatestatus. Dr Renata and her husband John have a 16 monthold son, Quinn.


Breastmilk is the best choice for the infant as it providesfor the easiest digestion and absorption of the fatty acids.

pathways 31

Breastfeeding

significantly increases short-term

attentiveness in 4- to 6- month olds, according

to an article in the journal Developmental

Psychobiology. Investigators outfitted 13 infants with limb

movement detectors. The youngsters were watched for a 4-minute

period while a mechanical mobile was switched on and off at 1-minute

intervals. The babies were studied on two different days. On one day they

were observed following breastfeeding, while on

another day they were tested before they

were breastfed.

Investigators noted that, while the

breastfeeding did not i n f l u e n c e

limb activity, it did appear to heighten

attentiveness. Specifically, the infants

looked at the mobile significantly longer after

they breastfed. The study’s authors concluded that

breastfeeding has a significant impact on infants’ atten-

tiveness and interaction with their environment.

Gerrish CJ, Mennella JA. Short-term influence of breast-

feeding on the infants’ interaction with the environ-

ment Dev Psychobiol 2000 (Jan); 36 (1): 40-48

Breast-fed babies’ IQ is higher

than that of formula-fed babies, according to

a meta-analysis of 20 articles.

After adjusting for factors that may influence intellect, including

the mother’s age and intelligence, birth order, race, birth weight, ges-

tational age and socioeconomic status, the study found that breast-

feeding may raise a child’s IQ by more than five. The

enhanced cognitive development was evident as

early as six months and was sustained through age

15. A dose-response relationship was demon-

strated between duration of breastfeeding and

cognitive benefit.

What accounts for breast milk’s brain boosting power?

According to experts, nutrients present in breast milk may have a signif-

icant effect on neurologic development in premature and term

infants.

Anderson JW, Johnstone BM, Remley DT. Breast-feeding and

cognitive development: a meta-analysis Am J Clin

Nutr 1999 (Oct); 70 (4): 525-535

Breastfeedingfor Enhanced

Attentiveness

Breastfeeding

Makes Kids

Smarter

Breastfeeding is Best Feeding

Doctors of chiropractic have

traditionally been strong proponents of breast-

feeding. Now, just-published research shows that doc-

tors should not only encourage mothers to breastfeed, but

should also instruct them to stay at it for at least six months.

According to an article in the Archives of Disease in Childhood, babies

who are breast-fed for at least six months grow to be more intelligent than

their peers who are breast-fed for less time.

The analysis tracked 345 Scandinavian young-

sters. The 17% of subjects who were breast-

fed for less than three months were

more likely to score below average for

mental skills at 13 months and total

intelligence at 5 years, compared with

subjects who were breast-fed for at least six

months. This correlation remained after

investigators controlled for various risk factors of cognitive

impairment, such as maternal age, socioeconomic status, edu-

cation and history of smoking. Duration of breastfeeding did

not appear to influence motor skills.

Angelsen NK, Vik T, Jacobsen G, Bakketeig LS. Breast feeding

and cognitive development at age 1 and 5 years Arch Dis

Child 2001 (Sep); 85 (3): 183-188

Infant formula supplemented

with long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid

(PUFA) does not improve the neurodevelopmental out-

comes of preterm infants, according to a report in the July

issue of Pediatrics.

Breast milk contains long- chain PUFA, which is

found in high concentrations in cell mem-

branes, particularly those of the central nerv-

ous system, and is thought to play an

important role in brain development.

Because standard infant formula does not

contain long-chain PUFA, researchers have

reasoned that formula supplemented with

this fatty acid would benefit preterm infants whose

brains have not fully matured. But studies to date have

yielded conflicting results.

Furthermore, a group of 88 control infants who were

breastfed scored higher on developmental tests

than either group of formula-fed infants.

pathways 33

PUFA-Enriched

Formula Does Not Improve

Neurodevelopmentof Preterm

Infants

Duration of Breastfeeding

Affects IQ

g s Best Feeding

Mercury: a Known Toxin

It has been known for a long time, that mercury is a toxic and dangerous substance

that effects the developing nerve system in an adverse way. Web MD offers this report:

“Mercury is very dangerous to children. Relatively low concentrations

keep a child’s brain from developing normally. Kids with mercury poi-

soning have problems with thinking, language, memory, motor skills,

perception, and behavior. “

The CDC further states:

“Two groups are most vulnerable to methyl mercury: the fetus and

pregnant women. Premature babies are more vulnerable because

they tend to be very small and their brain is not as developed as a

full term baby”.

Richard Weisman, MD, a toxicologist at the University of Miami School of Medicine and

director of the Poison Control Center for South Florida tells us, “There is no doubt that

mercury is one of the worst [toxins affecting the brain].”

Jeanne Ohm, D.C.mercury risingWarnings in Pregnancy and Infancy

How much mercury is your childexposed to?

phot

o by

bra

dley

mas

on

pathways 35

Although warnings of toxic mercuryexposure has gotten significantpress, routine administration of mercury to pregnant women and children has not been as clearlydefined for the consumer.

Mercury in Foods

Cautions about eating too much fishin pregnancy and while nursingbecause of mercury exposure hashad frequent media coverage. MYWeb MD writes, “Fish and shellfishare an important part of a healthydiet, however nearly all fish andshellfish contain traces of mercury.Some studies have found dangerous-ly high levels of mercury in some fishenough to cause harm to an unbornbaby or a young child’s developingnervous system. This is a cause forconcern for the health of women ofchildbearing age, those who are

nursing, and young children. To protect the developing fetus from the effects of mercury in fish, theU.S. FDA advises against eatingshark, swordfish, king mackerel, and tilefish during pregnancy and in women of childbearing age. Somestates also urge expectant moms to limit canned tuna consumption to 7 ounces a week. “ 1

The title “Canned tuna or cannedpoison?” was the teaser for a CBS 2 News “Health Watch” report thatfocused on high levels of mercuryfound in tuna and the possiblehealth risks associated with them.CBS reporter Paul Moniz quoted anumber of physicians, who observedeffects of the toxic substance, “Onceit gets into our bodies, a substantial

part of it will end up in our nervoussystem, in our brains, and it’s therethat it causes a variety of symptoms.”

An interviewed pediatrician said,“We know that high levels of mercurycan impair the cognitive developmentas well as the growth and develop-ment of a young child.” What thereport appears to be revealing is that while overweight Americans may resort to fish to shed unwantedpounds, too much fish in their dietscould reduce the IQ more than thewaistline. 2

Mercury in Vaccines:

Thimerosal, a mercury derivative has been routinely used as a preser-vative in vaccines. For years, grassroots groups have warned about thepotential hazards of vaccine ingredi-ents including the presence of mer-

cury in vaccines. However, until thevaccine/ mercury/ autism relation-ship was officially reported, the pub-lic was virtually clueless about thepresence of this neurotoxin in vac-cines and its adverse effects. Thanksto the continued efforts of variousconsumer groups there have beensignificant strides in educating thepublic and government officialsabout their concerns of mercury invaccines. These efforts have eventu-ally brought forth a wave of aware-ness, new policy and research. 3 ,4

On July 7, 1999, the AmericanAcademy of Pediatrics and theUnited States Public Health Servicefinally issued a joint statement thatbecause of the “neuro-developmen-tal effects posed by exposure tothimerosal”, “thimerosal-containing

vaccines should be removed as soonas possible.” The PHS and AAP rec-ognized that because of thimerosalin vaccines, some children would beexposed to “a cumulative level ofmercury over the first six months oflife that exceeded one of the federalguidelines on methyl mercury.”Hospitals around the countryresponded by halting the administra-tion of the thimerosal containing vaccine for hepatitis B at birth, deferring vaccination until the babywas older and more developed.

In an effort to reduce parental fears,numerous studies were publishedgiving a false sense of security toparents. One study published in the Lancet, November 2003 hit themedia with this misrepresentedheadline: “Mercury Levels inVaccines Are Safe: Study SuggestsInfants Are Not at Risk” 5

This small study examined mercurylevels in the blood, urine, and stool of 40 infants given vaccinations containing thimerosal and 21 infantswho received thimerosal-free vaccinesand showed that in a 60 day period,there was virtually no mercury in the blood.

But Neal Halsey, MD, director of the Institute for Vaccine Safety at Baltimore’s Johns HopkinsBloomberg School of Public Healthhad this warning to heed, “This is a good study, and it helps us tounderstand the metabolism of ethylmercury associated with thimerosal,but one thing we don’t know fromthis study is what the peak levels of mercury are shortly after vaccina-tion.” Halsey cautioned the definitiveanswer to the safety question is at


Thanks to the continued efforts of various consumer groups there havebeen significant strides in educating the public and government officialsabout their concerns of mercury in vaccines. These efforts have eventuallybrought forth a wave of awareness, new policy and research.

36 winter 2005

least several years away. That iswhen results are expected from aseparate government follow-upstudy of children exposed to differ-ing levels of thimerosal.

“Everyone has a small amount ofmercury in their body from differentexposures,” he tells WebMD. “Thequestion is what level is associatedwith harm in young children.” 5

Perhaps a more accurate title for the article would have been “Safetyof Toxic Mercury Levels in ChildrenFollowing Vaccines Remains

Unknown.” Then perhaps parentsand expectant mothers would ques-tion proponents as to why mercuryremains in diptheria, tetanus, menin-giococcus, and flu vaccines.

About the Flu Vaccine:

The product package inserts for theflu vaccine published by the manu-facturers state the disclaimer that“Animal reproduction studies havenot been conducted with influenzavirus vaccine. It is also not knownwhether influenza virus vaccine cancause fetal harm when administeredto a pregnant woman… Although animal reproductive studies have not been conducted, the prescribinghealth-care provider should beaware of the recommendations of the Advisory Committee onImmunization Practices… The ACIPstates that, if used during pregnan-cy, administration of influenza virusvaccine after 14 weeks of gestationmay be preferable to avoid coinci-dental association of the vaccinewith early pregnancy loss…”

Additional reading and phone calls to the manufacturers confirmed thatflu vaccines contain thimerosal, a

mercury deriva-tive preservativebanned by theFDA in over-the-counter drugpreparations

because of questions over safety.6

In spite of the growing concern inthe literature about the relationshipbetween mercury and neuro-devel-opmental effects posed by exposureto thimerosal, in 2002, the CDCannounced their recommendation for flu vaccines for infants under the age of two. 7 Additionally, pregnant women are included in the population advised to get the flu vaccine. However the flu vaccineas stated above currently remainsone of the vaccines with the highestcontent of thimerosal.

The Rhogam Vaccine

What has not been publicized at all is the presence of the mercuryderivative, thimerosal, in the rhogamshot given to RH Negative expectantmothers and its consequentialeffects on her unborn child.

Stephen Marini, DC, PhD informs us “the Physicians Desk Reference 8cautions that the use of rhogam during pregnancy can have adverseeffects on the fetus. The high mercu-ry content of the rhogam preparationcan have serious neurological conse-quences on the developing fetus.Hair analysis of unvaccinated chil-dren born from moms injected withrhogam demonstrate the presence of mercury. First, expectant mothersshould question the rationale forrhogam injections in pregnancy.Second, if rhogam administrationduring pregnancy is absolutely necessary, then expectant mothersshould demand mercury-freerhogam. Mercury-free rhogam isavailable in this country from BayerPharmaceuticals under their productname of BayRoh-D. This mercury freeproduct has been available since1996. Their number is 800-468-0894.” WinRho SDF, made by theCangene Corp., is a freeze-dried prod-uct that contains no preservatives.

Dr. Marini further states, “Duringpregnancy there is no mixing ofmother’s blood with baby blood.Giving mom rhogam after the baby’sbirth is sufficient to reduce the riskof HDN in her next child to about 1-2%. Rhogam is also indicated if themom has an abortion, either naturalor induced, or has abdominal traumaor an amniocentesis. Giving rhogamduring pregnancy can reduce the riskof HDN by less than 1%. It is doubt-ful that the slight benefit acquiredby giving rhogam during pregnancyoutweighs the risks to the fetus fromthe injection.” 9

The high mercury content of the rhogampreparation can have serious neurologicalconsequences on the developing fetus.

pathways 37

Dawn Richardson, President ofParents Requesting Open VaccineEducation (PROVE) did a quick internet search and came up withthis CDC post:

“Q. Who is most vulnerable to mercury?”

“A. Two groups are most vulnera-ble to methyl mercury: the fetusand children ages 14 andyounger.”

Her continued searching on theNational Library of Medicine sitealmost effortlessly produced hun-dreds of articles and studies in med-ical and scientific journals clearlydocumenting the damaging effects of prenatal exposure to mercury. The results of one recent study published in the August 1, 1999 issue of the American Journal ofEpidemiology stated that “the great-est susceptibility to methylmercuryneurotoxicity occurs during late gestation, while early postnatal vulnerability is less”. Ludicrously,this is the precise point in time that ACIP and the CDC recommendswomen to get the rhogam shot. 10

Acquiring the Facts

Since the safety of vaccines remainsunclear, expectant and new parentsmust take on the responsibility ofbecoming informed and making deci-sions for their families accordingly. If vaccines containing mercury are

recognized to be toxic to children,then it seems logical that mothersshould avoid mercury containing vaccines throughout pregnancy and while nursing as well.

It is imperative that parents take on the responsibility of becominginformed by unbiased organizationsthat do not rely on studies fundedand potentially manipulated by selfinterest groups. Not all studies areas objective as we are led to believe.

The CDC’s study released in theNovember 2003 issue of Pediatricswas one such study. On the surface,it appeared to “prove” there was norelationship between vaccines andautism. Press-releases around thecountry smugly announced theresults of the study, as if to disquali-fy all grass roots claims about thetoxicity of mercury in vaccines.

However, when looked at closely,medical reviewers of the CDC studycharged that it was rife with datamanipulation, with the effect to sabotage the results. Congress, Rep. Dave Weldon (R-FL.) reviewedthe study and declared this in his letter to the CDC, “I have seriousreservations about the four-year evolution and conclusions of thisstudy. A review of these documentsleaves me very concerned that ratherthan seeking to understand whetheror not some children were exposedto harmful levels of mercury in

childhood vaccines in the 1990s,there may have been a selective useof the data to make the associations in the earliest study disappear.” 11

It is also important that parents do not allow their practitioners tointimidate them by citing rhetoricand tainted data, either. Parentsmust actively seek providers thatsupport and encourage their right to choose health and lifestyle choices for their families. Your Family Chiropractor has developedrelationships with practitioners oflike mindedness in your community.Additionally, Doctors of Chiropracticare known for their ability to stay on top of a variety of current familyhealth concerns including the debat-able issue of vaccinations. Ask yourDC for national and local organiza-tions where you as parents will beable to find dependable resourceswhen making lifetime choices foryour family’s well-being.12

Jeanne Ohm, D.C., F.I.C.P.A. is theExecutive Coordinator of the ICPAand has offered Chiropractic FamilyWellness Care with her husband TomOhm, D.C., in Media, PA since 1981.


Q. Who is most vulnerable to mercury?A. Two groups are most vulnerable

to methyl mercury: the fetus and children ages 14 and younger.

38 winter 2005

Chiropractic’s purposeis to remove interferences to the natural healing power runningthrough the body. When that poweris unleashed the healing that resultsmay be profound.

Today we find more parents bringingtheir children to chiropractors forday-to-day health concerns we’re allfamiliar with: colds, sore throats, earinfections, fevers, colic, asthma, ton-sillitis, allergies, bed-wetting, infec-tions, pains, falls, stomach-aches,and the hundred and one little andbig things children go through asthey grow up.

Chiropractors Do Not Treat Disease

It’s most important to understandthat chiropractic is not a treatmentfor disease. It’s purpose is to reducespinal nerve stress, a serious andoften painless condition most chil-dren (and adults) have in their bod-ies. Spinal nerve stress interfereswith the proper functioning of thenervous system, can weaken internalorgans and organ systems, lower

resistance, reduce healing potentialand set the stage for sickness anddisorders of all kinds.

When a chiropractor frees the nervous system from spinal stress,the healing power of the body isunleashed: the immune system functions more efficiently, resistanceto disease increases, and your child’sbody functions more efficiently. Your child can respond to internaland external environmental stressessuch as germs, changes in tempera-ture, humidity, toxins, pollen and all the other stresses he/she comesin contact with more efficiently.

So although children with diseasesare often brought to the chiropractor,the chiropractor is not treating theirdiseases but is instead freeing themof spinal nerve stress, thus permit-ting their body’s natural healingpotential to function at its best.

What Exactly Is Nerve Stress?

Spinal nerve stress (also referred to as vertebral subluxations, the subluxation complex, or “pinchednerves”) is a misalignment or distor-tion of the spinal column, skull, hips,and related tissues (the structural

system) that irritate, stretch, impingeor otherwise interfere with the prop-er function of the nervous system(brain, spinal cord, spinal nerves andoutlying or peripheral nerves). Sincethe nervous system controls thefunction of the body, any interferenceto it can have wide-ranging effects.

How Is Spinal Stress Caused?

Spinal nerve stress can be caused byphysical, chemical and/or emotionalstress. Physical stress may start inthe womb, with the baby lying in adistorted or twisted manner. Spinalnerve stress in newborns is morecommon than previously realized.This may be caused by a traumatic or difficult birth which can introducegreat stress to the infant’s skull,spinal column and pelvis.Throughout childhood, the normalchildhood traumas every child expe-riences can be a source of spinal and cranial trauma. Most of the time,the pain from the initial injury “goesaway” however the damage incurredcontinues to affect the future func-tion of the child’s nerve system.

How Does the ChiropractorReduce Spinal Nerve Stress?

This is accomplished first by analyz-ing the spinal column and relatedstructures for balance and properfunction. Where the spinal column is found to be functioning improperly,the Doctor of Chiropractic performsprecise corrective procedures calledspinal adjustments.

Using his/her hands and/or special-ized instruments to gently and

What Can Chiropractic Do for Your Child?

The chiropractor is

permitting the body’s

natural healing potential

to function at its best.

Why do millions of parents bring their children to Doctors of

Chiropractic every year? Is it only for highly dramatic health

conditions? Is it only for when my child is hurting? Not at all!!

More women are discovering the manybenefits associated with chiropractic carethroughout pregnancy. Members of the I.C.P.A respect and appreciate yourspecial needs in pregnancy.

For a quality care provider committed toyour healthier pregnancy and birth, visitthe I.C.P.A. Referral Directory at: www.icpa4kids .orgor call: 800 670 5437

a vital ingredient during pregnancy

specifically correct those abnormalareas, the spine and cranium regaintheir intended state of balance andthe nerve system is freed from stress.

It’s All About Function!

Today’s parents are more concernedthan ever about the adverse effectsdrugs have on their children. Parentsare increasingly asking, when handeda prescription for a child’s recurrentproblem, “Is this really all I can do formy child? Is there a safer alternative?”

Parents are hesitant to merely mask symptoms with drugs and are worried about side effects. Their desire to achieve a state of truehealth—has led parents to seekhealth care options which supporttheir children’s own natural ability to be healthy.

Chiropractic care is one such option.All children function better with100% nerve function. All childrendeserve the right to express theirfullest potential. Chiropractic care for children is safe, gentle and effec-tive. It allows for the opportunity formaximum potential for well-being.

Did you hear about the teacher who was helping one of herkindergarten students put on his boots? He asked for help andshe could see why. With her pulling and him pushing, the bootsstill didn’t want to go on.

When the second boot was on, she had worked up a sweat. Shealmost whimpered when the little boy said, “Teacher, they’re onthe wrong feet.” She looked and sure enough, they were.

It wasn’t any easier pulling the boots off than it was puttingthem on. She managed to keep her cool as together they workedto get the boots back on—this time on the right feet.

He then announced, “These aren’t my boots.”

She bit her tongue rather than get right in his face and scream,“Why didn’t you say so?” like she wanted to. Once again shestruggled to help him pull the ill-fitting boots off.

He then said, “They’re my brother’s boots. My Mom made mewear them.” She didn’t know if she should laugh or cry. She mus-tered up the grace and courage she had left to wrestle the bootson his feet again.

She said, “Now, where are your mittens?”

He said, “I stuffed them in the toes of my boots...”

Her trial starts next month.

Keep Smiling

Scientists have discovered that women who

take pain medication during labor may be

upping their children’s odds of future drug

dependency.

The study compared 69 drug-abusing sub-

jects with 33 of their siblings who did not

abuse drugs. Subjects whose mothers took

three or more doses of opiates or barbitu-

rates during childbirth were 4–7 times more

likely to develop drug abuse problems than

were subjects whose mothers did not rely

on pain medication during their birth.

Nyber K, Buka SL, Lipsitt LP Perinatal medication as apotential risk factor for adult drug abuse in a NorthAmerican cohort Epidemiology 2000 (Nov);11(6):715-716

PREGNANC Y MAT TERS

Drugs During Labor Make Future Addicts

The demands of today’s world

require efforts to create balance

in our families. This cd is an

opportunity or us to meet this

challenge as women and moth-

ers. Listening to this CD will

inspire you to lead your family

into living life fully!

For a $10 tax deductible donation to the ICPA, you willreceive this informative CD.

Please call the ICPA at 1-800 670 5437 and have one sent your way today.

C R E A T EB A L A N C E

MAKE THE CHOICE!

More and more parents are taking an active role in choosing wellness for their families.

Our free e-newsletter brings pertinent research and topics right to your desk so you have the resources to make informedhealth care choices.

www.icpa4kids.org/e-news.htm

pathways 41

Where’s Pathways??No more left in the waiting room?

Can’t sneak anymore issues from your best friend? In high demand at your breastfeeding class?

It’s so popular, we are extending our subscription service to you!Subscribe and get your very own issues of Pathways, your source for chiropractic family wellness. Please tell others.

Call 1 800-670-KIDSor visit our web site:

www.icpa4kids.org/research/participate.htm

For a $25 tax deductible donation, you will receive four issues per year.

Your donation will go towards chiropractic research.

327 N. Middletown Rd. Media, PA 19063

i.c.p.a. International ChiropracticPediatric Association

There are only two ways to live your life.

One is as though nothing is a miracle.

The other is as though everything is a miracle.

Einstein

pathways to family wellness - issue #04

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