Simply throw three or four large dryer balls into your dryer with wet clothes and turn on your dryer. No dryer sheet needed

Benefits

• Cost-effective compared to dryer sheets
• Reduce energy used by helping clothes dry 20-30% faster
• Made of naturally sourced, non-toxic materials.
• Can be reused
• Can be used with essential oil to add natural fragrance

Your health, your wallet and the planet will thank you.

Wool Dryer Ball Spray

• 300ml spray bottle
• 1 cup water
• 1tsp witch hazel
• 3-5 drops essential oil (caution with too much oil and high heat dryer)

Although, there is no cure for the common cold or the flu, there are ways to help prevent viral infections and treat symptoms at home. Weather it is RSV, Rhino, flu, covid and/or other cold viruses; each have similar symptoms and can be treated at home.

Prevention

We have an immune protocol here at the Bello house. Not only do we take most of these on a daily basis, but in the event we get sick, we up our prevention during an illness. 

• Elderberry is used for flu, colds and other ailments by boosting immunity and reducing inflammation. Here is a more in depth explanation and usage.
• Vitamin D3 is known to boost immunity. This is a major reason why the flu season subsides when the weather gets warmer. Not only does the heat kill most viral pathogens but people go outside more and get their Vitamin D. We are all a little Vitamin D deficient to some degree (unless you work outside everyday) and this can pose as a small risk factor for sepsis and inflammatory disorders. Here is more Vitamin D info.
• Zinc is required for normal white blood cell functioning and is known to increase cell production that can boost immunity and reduce inflammation. It also is known to impair the replication of RNA viruses such as influenza and covid-19. Here is more information on how zinc works and acts on the immune system.
• Vitamin C is a powerful anti-oxidant and can help prevent oxidative damage minimizing the cytokine storms impact we mentioned above. Some studies suggest high dose of Vitamin C is beneficial during a virus. Link to more Vitamin C benefits.
• Probiotics help keep your gut and immune system healthy. 
• Hydration Drink! Drink! Drink! This will help detox and flush all the bad out of your body. Salt baths are also beneficial to help with this process.
• Balanced diet this is the most important aspect of creating a healthy body. 
• Other Rest, Decrease stress, Exercise

Treatment

You have the flu so now what?

In conjunction with the prevention of an illness,  here are a few ways to treat the symptoms during a viral illness. 

• Echinacea treats symptoms associated with cold and flu. It acts as an antimicrobial to viral pathogens. Here is more information for benefits and usage of Echinacea. 
• Vitamin A helps make antibodies, a barrier against pathogens. Here is more information on the benefits of Vitamin A. 
• Salt water rinse- If you experience a sore throat start salt water gargling. Here is why… A cold (mucus) will sit in your throat and replicate. Ask yourself why do we usually start with a sore throat and then other symptoms proceed. Salt water is known to kill bacteria and allergens. 
• Anti-pyretics- A fever is your body’s defense mechanism against an illness because it burns up the pathogen. Remember we said warm weather kills most viruses. I try to avoid giving my kids anything for fevers unless they are uncomfortable or their temperature goes above what their pediatrician recommends.
• Cough- If you start to experience a cough, be proactive. Here is more information to my post regarding at home remedies for coughs. 
• Honey has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties used to treat throat pain and calm a cough. Do not use for children under the age of 1 due to allergies and choking hazard.
• Over-the-counter cold and cough medicine is not recommended for children ages 4 and under unless under the direction of your child’s physician. There are high risks for serious side effects for littles
• Hydration helps flush out the bad, thins out the mucus and dehydration can raise your body temperature. 
• **Do not allow your child to lay flat with drainage and coughing. This can be a choking hazard. 

When to seek medical attention

Generally, viruses can be treated at home with rest and liquids but there are times complications can arise. 

If your child is lethargic, has a fever for more than a few days, is having trouble taking liquids, contact your pediatrician.

If your child is having shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, becomes unresponsive, vomiting excessively, appears dehydrated (decreased urination, dry lips, sunken eyes, crying without tears for infants) then this warrants a trip to the ER. Either way, a quick call to your child’s pediatrician will help determine which course is appropriate.  

Lately, I have received a lot of emails and questions about how to prevent and manage a virus this flu season.  

Although, there is no cure for the common cold or the flu, there are ways to help prevent viral infections and treat symptoms at home. Weather it is RSV, Rhino, flu, covid and/or other cold viruses; each have similar symptoms and can be treated at home.

Prevention

We have an immune protocol here at the Bello house. Not only do we take most of these on a daily basis, but in the event we get sick, we up our dosage during an illness. 

• Elderberry is used for flu, colds and other ailments by boosting immunity and reducing inflammation. Here is a more in depth explanation and usage.
• Vitamin D3 is known to boost immunity. This is a major reason why the flu season subsides when the weather gets warmer. Not only does the heat kill most viral pathogens but people go outside more and get their Vitamin D. We are all a little Vitamin D deficient to some degree (unless you work outside everyday) and this can pose as a small risk factor for sepsis and inflammatory disorders. Here is more Vitamin D info.
• Zinc is required for normal white blood cell functioning and is known to increase cell production that can boost immunity and reduce inflammation. It also is known to impair the replication of RNA viruses such as influenza and covid-19. Here is more information on how zinc works and acts on the immune system.
• Vitamin C is a powerful anti-oxidant and can help prevent oxidative damage minimizing the cytokine storms impact we mentioned above. Some studies suggest high dose of Vitamin C is beneficial during a virus. Link to more Vitamin C benefits.
• Probiotics help keep your gut and immune system healthy. 
• Hydration Drink! Drink! Drink! This will help detox and flush all the bad out of your body. Salt baths are also beneficial to help with this process.
• Balanced diet this is the most important aspect of creating a healthy body. 
• Other Rest, Decrease stress, Exercise

Treatment: You have the flu so now what?

In conjunction with the prevention of an illness,  here are a few ways to treat the symptoms during a viral illness. 

• Echinacea treats symptoms associated with cold and flu. It acts as an antimicrobial to viral pathogens. Here is more information for benefits and usage of Echinacea. 
• Vitamin A helps make antibodies, a barrier against pathogens. Here is more information on the benefits of Vitamin A. 
• Salt water rinse- If you experience a sore throat start salt water gargling. Here is why… A cold (mucus) will sit in your throat and replicate. Ask yourself why do we usually start with a sore throat and then other symptoms proceed. Salt water is known to kill bacteria and allergens. 
• Anti-pyretics- A fever is your body’s defense mechanism against an illness because it burns up the pathogen. Remember we said warm weather kills most viruses. I try to avoid giving my kids anything for fevers unless they are uncomfortable or their temperature goes above what their pediatrician recommends.
• Cough- If you start to experience a cough, be proactive. Here is more information to my post regarding at home remedies for coughs. 
• Honey has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties used to treat throat pain and calm a cough. Do not use for children under the age of 1 due to allergies and choking hazard.
• Over-the-counter cold and cough medicine is not recommended for children ages 4 and under unless under the direction of your child’s physician. There are high risks for serious side effects for littles
• Hydration helps flush out the bad, thins out the mucus and dehydration can raise your body temperature. 
• **Do not allow your child to lay flat with drainage and coughing. This can be a choking hazard. 

When to seek medical attention

Generally, viruses can be treated at home with rest and liquids but there are times complications can arise. 

If your child is lethargic, has a fever for more than a few days, is having trouble taking liquids, contact your pediatrician.

If your child is having shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, becomes unresponsive, vomiting excessively, appears dehydrated (decreased urination, dry lips, sunken eyes, crying without tears for infants) then this warrants a trip to the ER. Either way, a quick call to your child’s pediatrician will help determine which course is appropriate.  

Here are 5 ways to promote pool safety

1. LEARN to swim– Swimming is a life saving skill. Teach your child how to swim. Educate them on what to do if they fall in the water, how to doggy paddle, how to blow bubbles when they go under water and how to float. We always taught our girls repetitively to find the wall if they fall in so it becomes a muscle memory. If they get tired from trying to find the wall, we taught them how to float.
2. Learn CPR– The first 4-6 minutes is crucial in regards to irreversible brain damage from drowning. CPR is the most important life saving class you can take when you have kids. Once you’re CPR certified, make sure to keep your certification current for up-to-date skills. CPR classes are usually available through many hospitals, community centers, and/or by the American Red Cross.
3. Provide physical barriers– Walls, fences, barriers, alarms and covers are the first line of defense and can be lifesaving devices. In our area, a fence surrounding the back yard is required. A fence has to be at least 4 feet in hight. Doors should have self-closing, self-latching devices and locks that are too high for children to reach. Also, there should not be any openings or protrusions that a young child could use to get over, under, or through. Pool covers are also a good idea to consider while the pool is not in use. Lastly, alarms are important to utilize for your back door leading out to the pool area. There are also alarms you can purchase for in the pool that sounds when something or someone falls in water. The alarm should sound very distinct from other sounds in the home. They even have alarms now that connect to an app.
4. Drains– Stay away from pool and spa drains that can create underwater suction with enough force to trap even strong swimmers below the surface. Never enter a pool or spa that has a loose, broken or missing drain cover. Most newer pools and community pools should be regulated to have a drain cover; however, some older homes may not have this feature.
5. Provide pool rules for your children such as….Never swim alone, walk dont run, and what to do if someone get hurts and/or falls in.

It is also important to note, always watch children when they’re in or near water, and never leave them unattended.

How do you handle pool safety in your home?

GERMS!!!

In the 1800s, French chemist Louis Pasteur, popularized the Germ theory suggesting that pathogens are the cause of illness. The idea is that germs are bad and they cause disease and sickness. “Killing germs” would be the solution to both treating and preventing a state of disease. This explains the widespread use of vaccinations and antibiotics. This theory paved the way for antibiotics. Don’t’ get me wrong, antibiotics are not all bad; however, they should be used as a last resort because antibiotics kill both good and bad gut bacteria. This theory goes along with the idea that there is a pill for everything. And then there is even a pill to fix that pill.

This theory is accurate in that germs can cause illness. However, can a pathogen truly survive in a host that does not supply an optimal environment? The answer is No. To better explain this, If the AC in your home is not working, do you A) sit inside, endure and/or possibly die from heat stroke or B) Get the heck out of there and find a better environment to thrive in?

Create an environment from within that a pathogen will not survive in, let alone even consider sticking around for long.

Pathogens tend to survive in an acidic environment. I mentioned this before in our SIBO blog. Acidity comes from the foods we eat. Protect your gut microbiome and you will have the tools to maintain a healthy body.

Well balanced body

On the other hand, it was physiologist Claude Bernarnd, that popularized the Terrain theory arguing that if the body is well balanced then germs can’t survive. Germs can only survive if it’s an ideal host of poor health. Microbes can’t cause infection unless conditions within the body encourage their growth and reproduction. When exposed to pathogens, we become ill if our defenses are weakened by deficiencies or toxicities. 

This theory explains why in a pandemic, some recover, some die, and some only have minor symptoms. This is the same idea with the flu. You tend to hear “I felt like I was hit by a bus” while others mention of just having cold like symptoms. The same virus yet each person reacts different.

It is argued that the terrain of the body is more important then the pathogens that infect it. It was Pasteur himself (the guy who originated the germ theory) whom admitted….

“Bernard was right; The pathogen is nothing, the terrain is everything”.

For almost hundreds of years, health experts continue to ignore the terrain theory, focusing on ways to kill-viruses, thus the covid vaccine you see now. Why do we spend so much time, money and effort on creating a vaccine rather than educating and giving the proper tools to promote preventive healthcare? There is very few recommendations on how to strengthen the immune system to protect you from an illness or pandemic. It is very pharmaceutical driven. While some have become paralyzed by fear with the use of masks and social distancing, others have taken this as a wake up call to improve their overall health status. Here are a few ways to strengthen your immune system.

• Eat real food- Changing your eating habits is the hardest challenge because it is more then just saying you want to verse actually doing it. Meal planning has always helped me. I try to have more items from produce in my cart and I stay away from boxed items as much as possible because these tend to have a ton of refined sugar (AKA bad sugar). No one is perfect but here is more info on reading labels and meal planning. I am a big believer in moderation.
• Vitamins, Minerals and botanicals- Antioxidants play a huge role in boosting your immune system. You know how they say the aftermath of covid is the worst for some folks?… This is because of the cytokine storm and oxidative stress. Well, some vitamins are ANTI-oxidants. These eat the bad stuff so-to-speak. I have information on Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Zinc, Iron on my blog. Elderberry and Echinacea are considered a botanical. These are excellent examples of supplements to utilize during a virus to boost your immune system. 
• Sleep and exercise- Optimal sleep will allow your body time to heal and exercise reduces stress. This goes without saying but important to mention.
• Oxygen status- The better the air you breathe, the better your blood flows and your heart pumps to optimize your oxygenation status. In other words, people who smoke have a hard time fighting colds compared to non-smokers.
• Balance your nervous system. Chiropractic adjustments help balance your nervous system. The majority of Americans live in a constant state of fight-or-flight causing stress on the body. Stress can reduce your immune response. Here is more information on how chiropractic adjustment can help your health.

There is no pharmaceutical product, supplement or other intervention you can incorporate that will guarantee an infection free life but the above mentioned steps present you with the best defense against pathogens.

So now why mask vs no mask debacle

Now that you know the difference between each theory, this is why we’re seeing people view mask usage differently. People have beliefs that germs are bad and these masks will protect them from germs. A lot of the germ belief is fear driven. You don’t need a mask, antibiotics or a vaccine to be healthy. This is what we are told. They are a bandaid solution to help prevent disease and or illness. Our number one defense is creating a healthy body. How many people do you know that still get sick while wearing a mask, getting their vaccine and social distancing?

To better inform you, masks that protect from respiratory droplets are labeled as N95 and must be fitted by professionals who have the proper equipment. PERIOD. A surgical mask is for during surgeries or coming into contact with certain patients in a hospital. Cloth masks are for environmental hazards such as sun and cold. This is the purpose of each mask. It is important to understand the purpose of each mask and the mode of transmission when considering masks. In other words, it is important to understand how you can become infected by a pathogen to determine effective PPE gear. Most PPE gear are for professional use. Non-medical professionals do not have the education to effectively use a mask or any other PPE gear aseptically.  Medical professionals are trained and checked off on skills of proper PPE usage. The best defense against any virus is to wash your hands, especially prior to eating or handling food.

The covid vaccine is a personal decision but I encourage you to look at my vaccine blog here to do your own research on vaccines in general. The covid vaccine is still an experimental drug that is not fully understood and is still not approved by the FDA.

Now, I am by no means telling you to not do these things. It is your body, your choice. Both theories are in fact important in addressing health and wellness. If our bodies do not have a strong enough immune system to deal with pathogens naturally, then we need assistance to address the situation but again, as a last resort. The problem with the germ theory is overuse and resulting in a first resort response to an illness.

To sum it up, according to some, “Germs bad”; your body, the terrain is everything; antibiotics and vaccines are bandaids; and leave PPE usage to the professionals.

So which theory do you agree with?

Key words

Autonomic nervous system– Controls the automatic functions of the body such as breathing, heart and digestion… Things that occur without thinking. This system is made up of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system.

Parasympathetic nervous system- Is your Rest-to-digest response. This allows your body to relax while your stomach does the work to properly digest.

Sympathetic nervous system- Your fight-or-flght response. When you feel stressed, your body reacts. Your heart rate increases and your digestion decreases.

Enteric nervous system– The main controller of digestion. This is the part of the nervous system that controls your gut including peristalsis (moving food) along the digestive tract. Some say this is “the second brain” in the body.

Stay with me here…..

The longest most utilized nerve of the nervous system is the vagus nerve. It plays a major role in your bodily functions by sending signals from your brain down to the digestive system including the heart and lungs. This nerve is a major component in the parasympathetic nervous system. The vagus nerve has many responsibilities, it regulates heart rate, plays a vital role in blood pressure, and can improve gastrointestinal function.

When your body is stressed, your fight-or-flight is always turned on which will not allow for rest-to-digest thus prohibiting proper digestion and optimal nutrients. This is why they say, stress and mental health can affect your physical health. Chronic stress can affect your immune response. Your body’s first response to handling something that is stressed or injured is to repair the body, the location site with inflammation. Temporary inflammation is a normal bodily function. The parasympathetic nervous system kicks in and calms everything down.

However, if the nervous system is not working properly and you enter this cycle of chronic stress and inflammation, this can lead to all types of problems such as decreased immunity (sick often), anxiety, depression, etc. Once the cup is full and over flows, big problems start to occur.

But this is where chiropractic care can help because they can correct that fight-or-flight response. Chiropractors can align the spine and adjust your atlas (in the neck). If the atlas and vertebrae are misaligned, this can cause a lack of blood supply going to the vagus nerve. Remember the vagus nerve is the pathway between your brain and gut. The lack of blood supply can interfere with the proper functioning of the vagus nerve, thus decreasing the communication to the digestive system, resulting in a sluggish response such as decreased peristalsis (digestion).

Chiropractors are able to access the vagus nerve without surgery or medication to balance your nervous system, improve digestion, protecting your microbiome, thus improve your immune system.

Adverse Effects

If your nervous systems are not balanced, and your vagus nerve is not functioning properly, it can cause many types of adverse health conditions and disease associated with chronic inflammation. Some of these conditions include….

• Decreased immune function making you more susceptible to illness/infection
• GI issues such as constipation, acid reflux, IBS
• Skin conditions
• Chronic pain, brain fog
• Heart disease, high blood pressure
• Osteoporosis, arthritis

In addition, chiropractic care is not limited to just adults. We take our children each year before the school year starts. Our chiropractor is the single, most amazing provider I have ever met. Chiropractic care is preventative wholistic care and should be a part of your annual health care practice or as needed.

Causes

SIBO is not yet well understood. Here are a few causes resulting in over growth of bacteria.

• Poor nutrition, diet
• The PH in your gut changes
• Poor immune system
• The muscular function in your intestines are not functioning properly. Also known as slow motility. This can result in bacteria overgrowth from undigested food
• Over use of PPIs (AKA medication for reflux)
• Antibiotic usage- It only takes one course of antibiotics to throw off your gut microbiome.

Common health conditions associated with SIBO include:

• Viral (stomach bug)
• IBS, Celiac, Crohn’s
• Gastroparesis
• Hypochlorhydria
• Nerve damage (Chiropractors are your best friends)
• Cirrhosis and portal hypertension
• Strictures or adhesions

Risk Factors

Chronic health conditions that slow the gut motility are a major risk factor. These include Crohn’s, Parkinsons, diabetes, hypothyroidism, and medications such as narcotics. Heavy alcohol usage will increase your risk as well.

Symptoms

SIBO symptoms mostly affect the gut. However, the more chronic the condition, the more broad the symptoms can be. Initially you may feel digestive issues such as pain especially after eating, bloating, cramps, diarrhea, constipation, indigestion, gas, and/or feeling full. If you dont address SIBO, this can lead to some if not all of the following symptoms….

• Food allergies/ sensitivities
• Skin issues such as rashes, acne, eczema
• Chronic sinus infections
• Fatigue, brain fog
• Swollen, painful joints
• Hormonal disruptions
• Gallbladder

Diagnosis

The ‘gold standard’ for non-invasive SIBO testing is a hydrogen breath test. This test measures levels of hydrogen and methane gas in your breath.

Positive Intestinal Permeability Test measures the ability of two nonmetabolizing sugar molecules mannitol and lactulose getting through the digestive lining. This is measurable via a urine sample.

Zonulin is another test that can be utilized. Zonulin acts like a patch for holes in the intestinal lining. If zonulin is present or elevated, it indicates the body is producing more to repair the leaky spaces in the small intestines.

Food antibody tests are also utilized and can be indicative of SIBO or leaky gut.

Very often SIBO is missed. Many people can go for years with out a proper diagnosis. At this point, many symptoms are occurring. One common confusion of SIBO is acid reflux. Before you start acid reflux treatments, discuss symptoms of a possible SIBO diagnosis. PPI’s and acid reflux medication can worsen SIBO symptoms. If you’re experiencing symptoms, keep pushing for answers.

Treatments

When addressing any type of symptoms, it is essential to find the root cause that may be contributing to the illness. Whether it is the migrating motor complex, structural issues such as adhesions or any of the above mentioned causes, the root cause needs to be addressed so healing can occur.

However, A good place to start would be an elimination diet of removing irritating substances such as reactive foods or imbalanced gut bacteria.

Keeping a food journal. Sometimes it can take a couple days for your body to react to an aggravating food. Keep an journal of the foods you eat and how you feel after each meal. Also, jot down when you use the bathroom.

The next step would be to look at your nutritional status. A good nutritional guide to utilize during this time is low FODMAP foods, short for fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols. Which is basically high in fiber and low in sugar. Sugar feeds bacteria!

Keeping your gut PH in balance will help keep the good bacteria and rid of the bad. Most common acidic foods include high refined sugar, lactose, Wheat gluten, alcohol, NSAIDs.

Digestive enzymes help break down and absorb foods you eat. There are other forms of digestive enzymes that also help supplement your HCL levels, the acid in your stomach. Remember stomach acid breaks down food. Be cautious on usage because it can be too much causing adverse affects of dumping syndrome leading to malabsorption. Digestive enzymes with added HCL should only be used under a providers supervision.

Support the body with detoxification. When you change your diet, the bad bacteria will not like this and start to die-off. This buildup of toxins needs to be removed from the body. A safe way to detox for any age is to sweat with activity, and/or epsom salt baths. However, some people require more help with detoxing. Keep in mind, detoxing can make you feel a bit worse before you feel better. Seek help from a holistic provider to properly detox at any age.

If you’re experiencing constipation from slow motility, magnesium and vitamin C daily will help keep you regular. Talk to your provider about dosing for treating constipation. Like most supplements, start low and go slow. The main goal of SIBO treatments is to keep the pipes running smoothly and not backed up, slow or sluggish to prohibit more bacteria.

Chiropractor care and applied kinesiology is the single most best thing you can do, aside from nutrition, to help your body heal and be healthy. The vagus nerve is the longest nerve in your body starting from the neck down to the GI system. It’s a major component in the parasympathetic nervous system, affecting every major system and organ in your body. It sends signals in your body controlling your fight-or-flight, and rest-or-digest response… Pretty important! If the nervous system is not balanced, it can wreak havoc on the other systems in your body including your GI system.

Lastly, its time to repopulate the gut with good bacteria. A probiotic will help balance your flora. It is best to avoid general store bought and use refrigerated products only. Some probiotics will aggravate your stomach with SIBO. It is best to start low and go slow to find what works best. Probiotic rich foods can help improve that balance more naturally prior to starting supplements.

Take Away

The key point regarding SIBO is to keep your food moving along the digestive track while eating healthy, hydrating and exercise daily.

What symptoms do you experience? When are they at its worse? Does your child have symptoms of SIBO?

However, the B’s I am actually referring to in this article are the 8 B’s….. B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9 and B12. These B’s are water-soluble vitamins that are responsible for making red blood cells, assist in metabolism and are important for optimal neurological functioning.

Health Benefits

Vitamin B complex vitamins helps prevent infections including support for…..

• Cardiovascular health and red blood cells
• Brain function and proper nerve function
• Muscle tone
• Digestion and Appetite
• Energy levels
• Hormones
• Cholesterol
• Eyesight
• Fetal Brain development

Types of B vitamins

Thiamin (B1)– Thiamin helps create energy for brain and neurological function playing a major role in muscle contraction and nerve signals.

Riboflavin (B2)– Riboflavin plays a major role in energy production. it helps convert the food you consume such as carbohydrates into adenosine triphosphate producing energy.

Niacin (B3)- Niacin helps metabolize our food, helps our nervous system to function properly and helps keep our skin healthy. In addition, this vitamin can improve cardiovascular function by supporting cellular energy production thus boosting HDL (good) cholesterol and lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.  

Pantothenic acid (B5)- Pantothenic acid helps break down fats and carbohydrates for energy.

Pyridoxine (B6)– Pyridoxine helps forms hemoglobin build new red blood cells. It also is involved in sleep patterns due to its ability to produce serotonin, melatonin and norepinephrine.

Biotin (B7)– Best known for supporting healthy hair, skin and nails.

Cobalamin (B12)– Vitamin B12 is essential for brain development, cognitive function and neural myelination. B12 deficiancy during pregnancy has been associated with impaired cognitive development in early childhood. B12 helps with synthesizing DNA, red blod cells and nerves. It works with vitamin B9 to produce red blood cells.

Folate (B9)– AKA Folic Acid, AKA Folinic Acid but I like to call this one the Queen B. Folic acid is a synthetic form of Folate. Folate is the naturally occurring form of vitamin B9 and the most active form is known as levomefolic or 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF).

Vitamin B9 in most commonly known for fetal health and development, and plays a critical role in the nervous system. It reduces the risk of neural tube defects, like spina bifida. It also helps red blood cell growth. It is essential for DNA production, correct cell division, activating B12, reducing homocysteine levels and supporting the synthesis of SAMe.

Most dietary folate is converted into 5-MTHF in the digestive system before entering your bloodstream. However, when folate/folic acid enters a cell, it needs to be converted into 5-MTHF before the body can utilize it. This conversion can be hindered by a gene variant that some people carry. This gene, MTHFR helps produce an enzyme that coverts folate/folic acid into folinic acid leading to the most active form of methylfolate that is utilized in cells. In other words, if you have the gene that stops you from utilizing folate, you could be compromised with health conditions related to B9 deficiency. If you take B9 and dont know if you carry this gene, you could be over dosing in B9 if your body is not metabolizing this properly. You can read about the MTHFR gene here.

Food Source

• Leafy green vegetables
• Salmon
• Eggs
• Milk, cheese
• Citrus fruit

Risk factors

• Ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, Celiac disease, and Inflammatory bowel disease
• HIV
• Alcoholism
• Kidney conditions
• Rheumatoid arthritis

Common Side effects

For the most part common side effects for B complex vitamins include upset stomach or flushing may occur. However, higher doses can lead to…

• Vomiting, nausea, abdominal cramps, diarrhea
• Nerve damage
• light sensitivity, blurred vision
• Skin rashes
• Bright yellow urine from you body excreting excess vitamin

Concerns of Deficiency

If a deficiency is left untreated, you could be at risk for developing

• Anemia
• Skin conditions
• Digestive issues
• Peripheral neuropathy
• Neuropsychiatric disorders
• Birth defects

Drug Interactions

Like with any new medication or supplement, consult with your practitioner. Just to name a few products that interact with this supplement:

• Some antibiotics
• Anti-seizure medications
• Anti-coagulants
• Cancer medications
• Cholesterol medication
• Kidney medication

History

In 1713, Lemmery and Geofgroy discovered the importance of iron in the body. However, it is believed that during much earlier times, iron was used for therapeutic purposes. At this time, no one was fully aware of iron and its usefulness other than it had “healing powers”.

Health Benefits

Iron has many benefits to our health and wellness. Although, iron is essential for hemoglobin transportation, it is also important for the following….

• Energy Production
• DNA Production/Gene regulation
• Antioxidant Protection
• Immunity- Activation and proliferation of immune cells
• Detoxification Process
• Brain motor function
• Mental clarity and cognitive function
• Sleep
• Synthesis of some hormones- This is important for thyroid patients. Insufficient iron levels can alter and reduce the conversion of T4 to T3. It can also have an affect on cortisol levels.

Forms

Iron is a mineral essential for health. The body can not make iron alone. Iron comes in supplemental and food form. The best source of iron is from animals known as heme. Plant sourced iron (nonheme) is not well absorbed. The body absorbs two to three times more iron from animal sources than from plants. However, eating foods high in vitamin C can facilitate iron absorption which I will get to a bit further down.

Supplement forms

Ferrous/ferric is just the form of iron utilized. The sulfate, gluconate and citrate are the carriers it is bound to, such as salt, or sugar.

• ferrous sulfate
• ferric sulfate
• ferrous gluconate
• ferric citrate

Food forms

• Lean beef
• Chicken
• Turkey
• Eggs
• Peanut butter
• Tofu
• Baked potatoes.
• Cashews
• Dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach
• Beans and lentils
• Fruits like banana, apples and pomegranates

Vitamin C

Vitamin C can enhance iron absorption. Eating iron rich foods with also a source of vitamin C will help the body absorb iron into the cells. The following foods are high in vitamin C

• oranges
• broccoli
• red/green peppers
• strawberries
• potatoes

Symptoms of Deficiency

Iron deficiency is one of the most common types of anemia. Symptoms include

• Fatigue
• headaches
• Pale skin
• Weakness, Dizziness
• Glossitis (inflamed tongue)

Risk Factors for Deficiency

The following populations are at a higher risk for developing iron deficiency.

• Pregnancy- Increased blood volume requires more iron to deliver oxygen to both mom and baby.
• Babies- The first 6 months of life, babies store enough iron to meet their needs. However, after the first six months, iron needs increase.
• Women- blood loss during menstrual cycle and child birth
• Malabsorption- certain conditions such celiac disease, cystic fibrosis and pancreatitis
• Diet
• Cancer
• Elderly
• People on blood thinners
• Kidney failure, on dialysis

Common Side Effects of Iron

• Stomach upset/pain
• constipation
• Diarrhea
• Nausea, vomiting
• Dark stools
• Heartburn

All these side effects are generally correlated to how well your body is absorbing the Iron. Taking plenty of Vitamin C will help with absorption.

Interactions

• Milk, caffeine, antacids or calcium supplement
• levothyroxine and levodopa
• Speak to your provider if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Diabetes- High iron can be correlated with risk of heart disease
• GI- Iron can cause irritation because it can be hard to absorb. This can upset the stomach, ulcers, or any intestinal inflammatory disease such as UC or Crohns
• Neuro- Excess iron can have effect on the development and progression of neurological diseases, such as Alzheimers and Parkinsons.

1) Builds a sense of community

A village gives children the sense that they are part of a team. Children who have a strong sense of community know they belong to something bigger than themselves. A strong sense of community also helps children develop resilience when faced with obstacles in life.

2) Teach kids to respect other adults

Having other parents around and caring for your child will teach your kids to respect other house rules.  This teaches understanding and tolerance of different opinions. This is such an important life lesson.

3) Big support system

Parenting is hard! Parents and children can benefit from having a bigger support system. Sometimes you just need a break, a date night, or just some time for self-care. Its so important to have time for yourself and spouse. Having a family you can switch babysitting nights with is a life saver.

Also, when you build relationships with other parents from your village, you gain access to a plethora of important information that is happening in the school and/or community. This was almost a revelation for me. There is always that ONE mom at school that knows everything.

4) Different perspective

There are people in our lives who are just better at some things than others. I am stubborn and independent so having to turn to other people for advice or help is a struggle. I feel almost like a failure, but as much as we like to think, we don’t know everything. Having friends who are in different fields can give an interesting perspective or approach to certain situations. You can gain access to a wider perspective of opinions and attitudes. Maybe offering new ways to deal with a sleepless infant or toddler tantrums. Your kids may also learn new skills and try new activities they normally would not at home.

5) Other people love your kid(s)

Its always a good idea for your kids to learn there are other people in this world other than their parents or immediate family that love them and support them. People who just genuinely enjoy having your kid around.

So how do I find my village?

An easy way to find your own little village is to seek friendship with other parents at the playground, school, after school activities (sports, dance, etc), and your neighbors. Nourish those friendships by organizing a get-together among a small group of parents. You will thank me later.

• The nature of the intervention- The patient should understand relevant medical information.
• The Risks and Benefits- All the good, the bad, and the ugly should be disclosed. Ask worst case and best case scenario. Ask for data and their professional experience.
• The alternatives of the intervention- All options should be disclosed. Ask…. Is this my only option? Is there anything else that can be done?
• Assessment of knowledge- It is often difficult to comprehend and recall information given during informed consent. It is so important to not make any decisions until you absorbed the information. When my daughter was initially going through her diagnosis, I brought one of my medical friends with us to help us absorb what was happening. Recall and summarize to the provider to confirm your understanding.

Types of Consent

• Implied Consent- This type of interaction usually occurs during a physical exam. By allowing the exam, you are giving consent.
• Written consent- This type of consent occurs with invasive procedures with more risks involved such as surgery or procedures.
• Emergency Consent- This type of consent occurs when treatment is immediate and a patient surrogate/guardian is not present.

The 4 principles of informed consent

• Decision making- The capacity to understand the options and consequences.
• Disclosure- Providing information regarding the benefits and the risks involved making an informed decision.
• Comprehension- Explained in language or terminology that is understood.
• Voluntarily granting consent- Without coercion or duress. Any patient who is legally competent to be making medical decisions has the right to consent and refuse any and all treatment, even if this may result in serious consequences such as death. Not only is consent freely given, it can also be freely withdrawn at any point during treatment.

Children are an exception

Minors cannot give consent and therefore a parent/legal guardian may do so. However, a pediatric patient should participate in the decision-making process whenever reasonable. It is important to educate the pediatric population on body autonomy. It is crucial to provide disclosure of diagnostics and treatment information allowing choices of care when possible. Children and teens should be a part of any plan of care.

Health Care Surrogate

Having a health care surrogate is so important for patients who are not capable of giving informed consent. It is vital to have the surrogate be apart of the ongoing health care plan so they are readily informed on the patients wishes. Choosing someone that knows you well is always a good idea so they can advocate your wishes.

A BASIC PATIENT RIGHT……..

The right to consent is a basic patient right by providing enough information to make an informed decision. You are your child’s number one advocate. Ask the why and understand all your options before making any health care related decisions.