Radio Naturopath Episode 292: Montelukast and Psychiatric Side Effects; Why Chocolate is Good For You

This week, we alerted listeners to the drug montelukast, brand name Singulair. This anti-leukotriene drug is commonly given to children and adults with allergies and asthma. The manufacturer has known for at least ten years that it can cause severe psychiatric effects in children, and yet the drug continues to be prescribed. I discussed the mechanism of action of the drug and some possibilities as to its cause. I also talked about nutritional factors that can be managed.

Since it's Valentine's Day this coming Sunday, I skipped over the mushy stuff and went right to chocolate! Why it's good for you, what conditions it can help, and recipes that include it.

Radio Naturopath Episode 230: More Help For Sprains, Preventing Colds and Flu, Genetic Testing for Psychiatric Meds and Conditions

Today we review my progress on healing my sore knee. It's going OK, but now I'm off the bike until Sunday! My chiropractor thinks I need more down time. And then I'll have to go slow and easy when I get back! But I want to heal so I can get in some good fall riding before I have to move indoors.

I've seen so many colds and coughs and so many people with lingering sinus infections and bronchitis that I felt I needed to remind everyone about their cold and cough hygiene! Even Savannah Guthrie on NBC went viral! Neti pots, nasal sprays, lozenges, gargling.

And finally, for people taking meds for depression, anxiety and other psychiatric conditions, I talked about genetic testing to help figure out the meds that will work best and which are contraindicated. I also have testing for which supplements might be more helpful than others, and for vitamin utilization.

Radio Naturopath Episode 144: Health Hazards In Firefighting and Construction; Holistic Psychiatry; Fluoride for Cavities

I have become aware that there is a high incidence of cancer and death among firefighters, and that most of the firefighters and construction crew that worked on the World Trade Center after 9/11 are ill or deceased. I talk about possible solutions for firefighters to protect them from the airborne toxins they face while fighting fires and also the construction workers who clean up after them. SAUNAS IN THE FIREHOUSES! Also, my dream for holistically oriented psychiatric facilities, with healthy, organic food, massage and acupuncture, rest, and energy medicine. I can dream, right? Also, a discussion of the pros and cons of fluoride for cavity protection.