diagnosed condition with 16% of the adult patient population and a national healthcare cost of $5.8
billion. Days missed from work due to this condition went from 50 million per year in 1986 to 1988
to 73 million from 1990 to 1992 (Slavin, et al, 2005).
One of the most frequent issues addressed in our office are chronic sinus infections and post nasal
drip from infection or allergy (Rhinitis).

Rhinitis is defined as in inflammation of the mucous membranes lining the nasal passages that
can be caused by an allergic reaction, chemical sensitivity, and bacterial, fungal or viral infection.
Symptoms can also arise due to hormonal changes such as in pregnancy, structural abnormalities,
and side effects from certain prescription medications or addictions to inhalants. Sinusitis develops
as a secondary problem arising when congestion is unable to effectively be expelled. If it is retained
in the nasal passages it becomes a breeding ground for further infection which is characterized by
green mucus, pain in the teeth, headaches, bad breath and pressure in the cheeks and around the
eyes.

The common conventional treatment guidelines are antibiotic therapy and antihistamines as the first
line of treatment. When that does not work, another antibiotic is recommended as the next wave of
treatment, more antihistamines and anti-inflammatory medications. If this still does not work then
risk factors are investigated. Unfortunately, many patients come to see use after they have been put
through a litany of prescription and over the counter medications without finding any relief. When
symptoms are suppressed over and over again there are implications. These include high chance of
reoccurrence and secondary symptoms from the conventional medications including GI symptoms of
diarrhea from repeated antibiotic use or habit formation with antihistamine nasal sprays.

A naturopathic approach always starts with looking at the risk factors to find the cause. Once the
cause is identified resolution of symptoms and improvement of quality of life happens. Goals of
naturopathic treatment of sinusitis are to boost the immune system in its ability to overcome the
infection and to assist the bodies ability to mobilize the congestion which is the creating the breeding
ground for infection. The real issue here is the inability to remove built up congestion. A runny nose,
a symptom that many over-the-counter medications attempt to halt, is a very effective mechanism
in place to get the infection out. Mucous protects our inner barrier and act as a transport medium;
inside of the nose and gastrointestinal tract. It is also a sign of inflammation or injury.

Here are some options just about every patient can do at home to overcome an existing infection
and prevent future problems; a nasal lavage with a nettie pot, home hydrotherapy, and bringing a

humidifier into the home.

Nasal Lavage

Nasal lavage is rooted in one of the oldest forms of medicine, Ayurveda and is a common daily
routine for many people in living in India. It is an effective method of clearing the sinuses with
minimal if any side effect. The procedure is conducted with an instrument called a nettie pot or Jala
neti in Sanskrit which means nasal cleansing. Saline solution made from a combination of 2 cups of
water with ¼ teaspoon of non-iodized salt (iodized salt will typically create an unwanted burning
sensation) is added to the nettie pot and slowly poured into one nasal passage at a time, allowing it
to passively flow through the sinuses out the other nostril. While reading this you may be flashing
a look like, “I think I will pass.” Most patients are converted when they finally find relief from a long
standing infection. The use of a neti pot decreases the use of medication and antibiotic resistance. It
is very effective at cleaning the nasal passages in a dry, dusty or polluted environment.

Home Hydrotherapy

Hydrotherapy is the use of hot and cold application of water in the form of soaking the affected
body part or the use of wet towels/wash clothes on specific area. The mechanism accomplished by
alternating hot and cold is to create an external circulatory system. Heat increases dilation of blood
vessels whereas cold application contracts them. As hot and cold are alternated on affected area,
circulation is improved which in turn helps increase immunity by bringing beneficial cells to the area
to overcome the infection.

Humidifiers

The primary function of the nose is to warm and humidify the air we inspire. A comfortable level
of humidity is 40-50%, but any lower than that and the nasal secretions, which trap microbes and
dust, dry which substantially increases chances for infection. Home heating systems can lower the
humidity to 5% in some cases, not to mention temperatures consistently below freezing. This makes
it crucial to increase the water content in the air with a tea kettle or humidifier. If sinus infections
are frequent in your home this would be the first place to look as to the cause of the problem.

Other supportive treatments involve the use of medicinal herbs, high dose vitamins, and homeopathy
which are recommended on an individual basis.

References
Slavin, et al. The diagnosis and management of sinusitis: A practice parameter update. Journal of
Allergy and Clinical Immunology – Volume 116, Issue 6 Suppl (December 2005) – Copyright © 2005
Mosby, Inc.

Julia Greenspan is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor and founder of Greenhouse
Naturopathic Medicine, located on 18 Ash Street in Hollis, New Hampshire. Her
focus is in family medicine, women’s health, infectious disease, gastroenterology,
and endocrinology. For more information please contact (603) 465-2895 or
greenhousemedicine.com.

Confirming swine flu with appropriate testing is not readily done unless the individual is in serious crisis.Many will fall ill and stay home until they recover in usually 1-2 weeks; this skews the number reports toCenters of Disease Control. It is so important to talk with your medical practitioner whether alternative orconventional to get all the information you can to make an informed decision. In the end you need to feelconfident about your choice. In this article I will discuss natural medicine options which can potentiallyminimize duration and severity of the flu with or without the vaccination.

My goal with every condition is to work with the immune system to bolster its ability to be strong when itcomes in contact with substances challenging it, including the flu. These substances can be toxic compounds,bacteria, viruses, fungus, and stresses of many kinds. When our body is weak due to poor nutrition, lifestyle,dehydration, old infections and poor sleep the flu can easily take hold causing unnecessary suffering, time offfrom work, and potentially severe complications.

Natural remedies are very helpful with preventing or minimizing symptoms associated with influenzainfection and work best when started as early as possible, usually within 1-2 days. Here is a brief list ofsome of the treatments used in my practice, however I must stress that if your fever persists or symptomsworsen while using these remedies please cease taking them and call your doctor immediately. It is also veryimportant to see your doctor and communicate the natural treatments you are taking to avoid conflicts withany medications you are currently on or may be prescribed.

Pelargonium sidoides 1X tincture also called South African Geranium Root, has been shownclinically to have antiviral and antibacterial properties. It is most effective with inflammatoryand infectious conditions of the respiratory tract including bronchitis, pharyngitis, sinusitis, and tonsillitis. It increases white blood cells and decreases adhesion of bacteria to our cells. This cancommonly be found over the counter. Please dose as directed appropriate for age range startingwithin 48 hours of onset of symptoms and only use short term while resolving current infection. Nottypically indicated to be used as a long term preventative measure.

Elderberry has been shown to be very effective against influenza A (H1N1). It is most effectivewhen taken within 48 hours of onset of symptoms and with duration of typically five days. Themost important immune enhancing ingredients making elderberry effective are flavonoids found inthe colors of fruits and vegetables. Each type will have varying amounts and types of compounds.The primary flavonoids found in elderberry are anthocyanidins which are anti-inflammatory andimmune enhancing. There is also a compound which has the capacity to prevent the attachment ofthe virus to our cells allowing them to invade. There are many combinations on the market that haveelderberry, however the most noted form is Sambucol by Nature’s Way, please use as directed.

Influenzinum is a homeopathic dilution of the current flu strains. Homeopathy is a system ofmedicine taking compounds in nature typically mineral, metal, disease, animal or botanical.Homeopaths have observed over time the symptoms attributed these compounds and work from atheory that “like will cure like.” When substances are repeatedly diluted a specific number to timesthe properties that make them harmful no longer exist. The theory is the water holds the memory ofthe substance and when taken orally the body believes it has been given the compound thus creatingan immune response for a specific set of symptoms. When I started my education in homeopathy Iremember my professor saying “we don’t really know how it work, it just does.” I can vouch for thisclinically time and time again. Homeopathy when used appropriately has no side effects and canbring balance to all sorts of physical, mental and emotional complaints.

There are many immune enhancing preventative choices one can make to avoid the flu. To put is simplyeat well (organic when possible), drink plenty of filtered water, minimize stress and sleep well. This is notinnovative information; however there is nothing more powerful. Know that H1N1 cycles through just likeevery other influenza virus and taking precautions such as hand washing as well as staying home if you aresick can help you and others to contain this latest outbreak. Enjoy a beautiful fall and be well during this flu season.

Julia Greenspan is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor and founder of Greenhouse Naturopathic Medicine, located on 18 Ash Street in Hollis, NewHampshire. Her focus is in family medicine, women’s health, infectious disease, gastroenterology, and endocrinology. For more informationplease contact (603) 465-2895 or greenhousemedicine.com.

For the digestion.

Chew your food. This seems like it should not have to be mentioned, however it is so overlooked as animportant part of digestion. Food needs to be a fine paste in the mouth before moving on to the stomach. Itcreates less work for the stomach and makes nutrients more available to the body. This can also decreaseincidence of heartburn, depending on the cause of the indigestion.

Apple cider vinegar: Add two tablespoons to 2-4 oz of water prior to a meal. This up-regulates the digestivejuices which enhances breakdown of food and can reduce symptoms associated with indigestion. This iscounter intuitive to those on H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors, but from the naturopathic perspectiveindigestion is caused from a lack of acid, not the overabundance of it.

Beneficial bacteria: We need to improve our relationship with bacteria. It can have its down sides, yet wehave this vast population; better stated as “universe” living within and on our bodies. These microbes areour body’s teachers helping our immune system defend itself. Beneficial bacteria are prominent in fermentedfoods such as yogurt, kefir, miso, and sauerkraut. They help create vitamins, act as protective barrier in thegastrointestinal tract and optimize regularity. An ideal supplement formulation should have billions of livecells and multiple strains. It should also be refrigerated wherever it is purchased from and at home as well.Take with or without food.

For the liver, skin, and lymphatic system.

Castor oil pack: Most patients flash a look of fear when castor oil is brought up. This is not to be takenorally, but applied topically to the abdomen. When taken internally it is an irritant, this same characteristic isutilized for health benefit externally. When applied over the liver and GI tract it crosses through the skin tothe deep tissues acting as an irritant in a positive way increasing peristalsis of the GI and enhancing bile flowwhich improves detoxification. It also has a very calming effect which improves emotional well-being. Thereshould be no pain or discomfort with this process. Please visit www.greenhousemedicine.com to download ahandout containing instructions on the application of the castor oil pack.

Dry skin brushing. Prior to a shower take a skin brush over dry skin. Start at the hands and feet makingbrisk light strokes with the brush up the body towards the heart. This increases movement of lymphaticfluid and blood in the body which helps remove wastes and enhances oxygenation of the extremities. Italso exfoliates the skin allowing it to breathe, for it is also an organ of the body that is not only a barrier butremoves waste products.

For the kidneys.

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!!! Water is being utilized and lost through multiple metabolic processes,breathing, sweat through the skin even when it can’t be sensed, and of course urination. A typical rule is totake in ½ the body weight in ounces per day of filtered water, herbal teas (decaffeinated), and diluted juices(¼ juices to ¾ water). It is not only replacing what is lost, but aiding in the removal of wastes the body nolonger needs. Water is also part of temperature regulation which improves how heat is held or lost when it isbest suited for the climate.

End the shower with cold water. As crazy as it sounds; especially during the winter; following a hot showerwith cold water is a form of hydrotherapy which is the use of external applications of hot/cold water tocreate physiological changes in the body. When cold is applied briefly after hot water application it helps thebody increase oxygen utilization, excrete more carbon dioxide, increase white blood cell counts, increase redblood cell counts, helps get rid of wastes, improve circulation, and can decrease blood sugar levels. It also isvery invigorating in the morning. Aim the cold on the mid to lower aspect of back to direct treatment on the kidneys.

For the lungs.

Deep breathing. Inhale deeply through the nose filling your abdomen and chest, then purse your lips andexhale slowly. Try to exhale as long as you can before inhaling again. Deep breathing may be done manytimes throughout the day. Try to do at least 100 breaths per day or for at least a five minute sitting. Thiswill help increase utilization of oxygen and proper release of carbon dioxide. It also can improve mood andcognition throughout the day. Meditation is a common treatment recommendation given to patients in this clinic.

The above represents some simple, inexpensive, and/or absolutely free options that can have a very profoundeffect on the health of the body and mind when done with regularity. Try it for three months and it may feelso good it inspires another three months and another and another.
To good health in the New Year and years to come!
Julia Greenspan, ND is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor and founder of Greenhouse Naturopathic Medicine health clinic,located at 18 Ash Street in Hollis, New Hampshire. Her focus is in family medicine, women’s health, infectious disease,
gastroenterology, and endocrinology. She also serves on the Board of Naturopathic Examiners for the State of NewHampshire. For more information please contact (603) 465-2895 or greenhousemedicine.com.

Pharmaceuticalmedications either prescribed or purchased over-the-counter can raise the pH which can createrelief if there are ulcerations in the stomach but over time it decreases other enzymes which areeffective at breaking down proteins and other nutrients.

Here are some recommendations to reduce symptoms of heartburn:

• Limit the amount of water during meals. The more water taken in during the meal reduces the acidity, which slows the movement of the food into the small intestine.
• No food ingested three hours before bedtime. Having that late night snack or a large meal before going to sleep does not allow proper time for digestion which allows contents of the stomachto work up towards the mouth upon lying down. Eating later at night can also increase chances of insomnia or nightmares.
• Cooking your own meals can enhance digestive enzymes and acid. Digestion starts with the thought of food which makes the mouth water as the aroma of the meal wafts through the room.Digestive enzymes and hydrochloric acid in the stomach are revved up for the meal to come.
• Smaller, more frequent meals. Not only allows for a proper food to acid ratio for optimal nutrien tuptake, but is a really effective and preventative way of controlling blood sugar.
• Taking apple cider vinegar a few minutes before a meal enhances digestive juices. One to two tablespoon in four ounces of water with a touch of honey can be a very inexpensive solution to indigestion. Patients have also experienced improvement of chronic inflammatory pain and energylevels with doing this on a regular basis. Be aware this may not work for everyone’s palate. Lemon juice in a small amount of water can also be very helpful.
• Mucilaginous herbs added to water create a cooling barrier along the lining of the esophagus and stomach lining. Examples are slippery elm, marshmallow root (not the kind of marshmallow use din smore’s), aloe, or apple pectin. The best option would be to find a powdered formulation witha combination of herbs and nutrients added to water. These types of combinations are flavored to make it more palatable. This is usually dosed a 1-2 times per day depending on the product.
• Deglycyrrhizinated liquorice (DGL) has been shown help the cells lining the esophagus andstomach to regenerate when combined with saliva. It also helps enhance the protective mucus barrier along the upper digestive tract. This herb is typically available in chewable form just like common antacids.
• Digestive enzymes are easy to get over the counter. They can be very helpful when taken justbefore or just after a meal to digest protein, fat, and carbohydrates. It is typically recommendedto start with the lowest recommended dose, typically one capsule prior to a meal. If any stomach discomfort persists or worsens with this therapy please stop immediately and consult a doctor.This is typically a very safe treatment which replaces what the body naturally produces. However,the use of hydrochloric acid supplementation should be overseen by a doctor.

Food elimination of known triggers for heartburn, typically chocolate, tomatoes, cheese, wine,and gluten are ultimately the most effective option. This can be done through food rotation andremoval. It typically takes three to seven days to notice a difference with full changes appreciateafter four to six weeks. For more definitive information about food triggers there are simple bloodtests that look at allergens to help pinpoint what would be best to reduce/eliminate.

Dr. Julia Greenspan is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor and founder of Greenhouse Naturopathic Medicine
located at 18 Ash Street in Hollis, New Hampshire. Her focus is in family medicine, women’s health, infectiousdisease, gastroenterology, and endocrinology. She also serves on the NH Board of Naturopathic Examiners. Formore information please contact (603) 465-2895 or www.greenhousemedicine.com.

I must start by describing how a Naturopathic Doctor (ND) is taught to look at the human body.  We think in terms of the human terrain, which is the health of the physical, mental and emotional body.  The state of these three domains determines the vulnerability of the human body to diseases which are around us or within us at all times.  When the body is weakened by lifestyle habits such as smoking, excessive stress, abuse, diets heavy in processed foods, lack of movement, lack of sleep and poor water quality, we create a great playground for disease, which over time becomes long term chronic illness.  When we live a life of moderation and balance the body stands a better chance of preventing or postponing illness to create a better quality of life.
An ND’s job is to first do no harm and then to identify the root cause of the illness.  Frequently patients express how much they appreciate it when I ask the question “why are you sick?”  Many have been through several medical doctors before coming to see me and there is a common thread in the answer to their complaint which is a drug to deal with symptoms.   Don’t get me wrong, medications have an important place, but I find they are not helpful if the root cause has not been addressed.

How are ND’s taught to find the root cause?  The naturopathic education is a four year post graduate medical education.  Most ND’s come from very diverse backgrounds varying from biology, chemistry, psychology, business, and anthropology, just to name a few.  We are required to complete a bachelor’s degree with pre-medical courses before acceptance to one of the four schools in the United States.   Our first two years mimic conventional medical education with the basic medical sciences.  The second half has a focus on specialties such as endocrinology, pharmacology, nutrition, gynecology, and minor surgery.  We also start seeing patients during our second year with increasing responsibility leading up to graduation.

I mention our education because the perception of naturopathic training is one of the most common misconceptions.  We are trained to use the same tools to arrive at a diagnosis as conventional doctors including taking a history, physical exam and the use of labwork.  Where we differ is in the increased amount of time we can devote to the patient, the way we approach the whole person and the treatments recommended.   A typical first visit with an ND is over an hour.

Treatments include botanical or plant based medicine, clinical nutrition, therapeutic nutrients, homeopathy, counseling, bio-identical hormones, exercise therapy, education to promote positive lifestyle changes, heavy metal chelation, energy medicine such as applied kinesiology and pharmaceuticals when necessary.  In my clinic, intravenous therapy is used quite frequently to add nutrients to the body in quantities which are therapeutic for many different conditions and at levels that cannot be ingested orally.
A competent naturopath, just as any other doctor should know his or her limitations.   Many of us work in conjunction with medical doctors of all types to best serve the patient.   I always encourage my patients to let their MD’s know they are working with an ND.  The left hand needs to know what the right hand is doing.  When there is miscommunication, the patient could be exposing themselves to potential for harm with possible interactions between natural and conventional treatments.

Because a substance is natural does not mean it cannot harm you.  Therefore it is important to see a ND who is educated by a four year post graduate program.  Not all states have licensing standards maintaining quality control of the practitioners like New Hampshire.  Currently there are programs granting naturopathic doctorates through a 6-month correspondence course.  In unregulated states, a graduate from these programs can hang a shingle on their door calling him or herself a ND.  It is important that you know the difference and evaluate the education of the naturopath you decide to see.  There is a significant difference in medical training between the two types of practioner’s who are allowed in many states to use the same title.    In conclusion, I hope this article encourages you to look into options in regards to your family’s healthcare.  The more you understand who we are and what we do, the greater chance we have of helping you feel better.

For more information please contact the New Hampshire Association of Naturopathic Doctors (www.nhand.org) or the American Association of Naturopathic Doctors (www.naturopathic.org).
Dr. Julia Greenspan is the founder of Greenhouse Naturopathic Medicine, LLC (www.greenhousemedicine.com) located at 18 Ash Street, Hollis, NH.  She has a background in social work and specializes in women’s health, infectious disease, intravenous therapy, and general family practice.  She currently serves on the Board of Naturopathic Examiners for the State of New Hampshire.

The deer tick (Ixodes scapularis) lives from two to four years and only needs to feed once per year.  There are three stages in a tick’s life beginning with the larvae.  This is the only true disease-free state, where they primarily feed from mice.   Next is the Nymph, reportedly responsible for a majority of tick borne infections due to their small size making them virtually undetectable.  Finally, the adult tick is easier to spot due to its larger size, however still very small.

The bacteria’s goal is to penetrate your tissues in places hard to find, thus making it difficult to treat once it gets a hold.  Lyme disease is a complicated constellation of symptoms which does not get the respect it deserves.  It is under-reported, minimally researched, politically charged and an incredibly misunderstood condition.  Patients with this disease have disrupted sleep, constant pain, cognitive impairments, debilitating neurological symptoms, mental emotional strain, digestive disturbances, repeated infections due to immune compromise and the list goes on. These symptoms come and go even after months to years of treatment.   Most suffering could be avoided by treating immediately upon the discovery of an implanted tick.

What if you get a tick bite?

If you are lucky enough to see a tick, the following steps are important in reducing the chances of long term infection.  Many Lyme disease patients have no recollection of a tick bite.  Instead of wondering if you have been infected, get a definitive answer by having the tick tested.  If a tick is attached to you, immediately have a doctor remove it or take a pair of tweezers as close to the skin as possible to completely remove the entire insect.  Take whatever was removed, alive or dead; place it with a moistened cotton ball in sealed container such as a Ziploc bag.

You can send this in yourself for a minimal fee to Igenex Labs (www.igenex.com).   Then contact your medical doctor (MD), or osteopathic doctor (DO) to be treated with a course of antibiotics as soon as possible.  Be aware that many conventional practitioners will not be in favor of such an immediate response without waiting for a grace period of up to two weeks.  However, these bacteria are stealthy and the effects of short term antibiotics given within 24-48 hours of a bite are minor compared to risking long-term suffering and multiple medications in the future.

Naturopathic Doctors can prescribe a wide scope of antibiotics for the treatment of acute and chronic Lyme disease as well as for the treatment of other tick borne infections in both adults and children.  Naturopaths are trained as primary care providers who specialize in botanical medicine, homeopathy, nutrient therapy, intravenous therapy, and are skilled at balancing conventional medications with natural treatments to enhance the immune system while minimizing potential side effects due to the medication.  There are many factors which need to be addressed with every condition.  We look at nutrition status, lifestyle factors, stress level, the ability to eliminate properly, and other infections compromising the immune system.  We also can support recovery when entering remission and help prevent relapse.

Lyme disease is an epidemic in the Northeast, however it is also a national as well global problem with many cases being found throughout Europe.   People are suffering from this condition all around us.  If you know someone dealing with this please give them a hug and acknowledge their struggle.  With proper treatment the effects of this devastating disease can be minimized or eliminated.

Julia Greenspan is a Licensed Naturopathic Doctor and founder of Greenhouse Naturopathic Medicine, 18 Ash Street, Hollis, New Hampshire.  Her focus is in family medicine, women’s health, tick borne infections, gastroenterology, and endocrinology. She currently serves on the New Hampshire Board of Naturopathic Examiners.  For more information please contact (603) 465-2895 or greenhousemedicine.com.

This time of year we are more susceptible to damage from sun exposure while we enjoy our summer.  However, sunscreens should not be our first line of defense.  The surest bet at keeping your skin healthy is going to be wearing protective clothing, staying out of direct sunlight for prolonged amounts of time until after the noon hour and finding shaded areas as much as possible.   When using sunscreen, a majority of the products used can come with unwanted side effects from chemicals where you may find yourself asking which is worse; the sun damage or toxic exposure.

Repeated sunburn has a negative effect on how new skin cells develop enhancing mutation causing certain cancers.  The purpose of sunscreen is to block Ultraviolet rays, both UVA and UVB.  UVA does not create sunburn like UVB, however it is responsible for certain cancers such as melanoma.  Healthy ozone filters up to potentially 95-98% of ultraviolet radiation.  However due to strains placed on the environment we are being subjected to more radiation and as such need to protect ourselves more than ever.  So the question becomes are the products we choose also creating damage to our bodies? What should we be looking for in a healthy sunscreen and what ingredients should we stay away from?

Look for products recommend for babies.  How are we any different than a baby in the sense that we need to minimize our own exposure?   We have a tendency to want the purest products for our children, but not for ourselves. When you look at the ingredients you want the list to be as short as possible and ingredients to be easy to understand.  The most common active ingredient in children’s sunscreen products is zinc oxide.

Zinc oxide, applied topically blocks the absorption of ultraviolet light without being absorbed by the body.  Formulations are both waterproof and 30+SPF formulations.  The most important factor to keep in mind is caution around little babies using the formulation since they want to put everything in their mouths.  Place the cream on area of exposure they are not likely to touch.
Zinc is ubiquitous in the environment found at 20-200 parts per million (ppm) in the Earth’s crust.  It is released into air, soil, and water ways through mining.  The body requires zinc for healthy immunity, growth, and development.  It can also block unwanted metals from being absorbed by the body (http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp60-c2.pdf).  Zinc can also be toxic if too much is introduced to the system.  This is not currently a concern with topical products for sun protection because inhalation seems to be the most common route of ingestion when toxicity is concerned.  This can only happen when zinc is attached to small particle of dust and Miners are the most afflicted population.

Make sure the other ingredients are as close to nature as possible.    In a product considered non-toxic other common ingredients will be bee’s wax, olive oil, jojoba oil, shea butter, and aloe vera for healthy skin support.  Common ingredients found in conventional products are avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene, and oxybenzone.  Most of these synthesized compounds are dangerous because they are absorbed into the body where they are stored, referred to as bioaccumulation.

Our body tries to protect itself by making toxins water soluble so they can be eliminated, but over time they become bound up with cholesterol where it is stored in our fat cells.   When we come into constant contact with toxins our detoxifying mechanisms can wear out.   Over time, the above chemicals among others can become hormone disrupters and increase inflammation in the body.  Much of the work done by naturopaths is to support the organs of elimination; lungs, kidneys, liver, skin and gastrointestinal system.

Make sure your skin receives unfiltered sunlight for 10 minutes per day. The human body relies on exposure to sunlight to synthesize vitamin D which plays a very important role in how your body absorbs calcium, enhances overall immunity, and impacts cellular differentiation in regards to cancer prevention.   Here in New Hampshire we have reduced light exposure compared to those living closer to the equator which means typically low levels of vitamin D.  It is important to have this tested by your healthcare provider and is easy to remedy.  If you are found to be low, therapeutic doses should used to get the levels up and this should be managed by your doctor.  For a supportive daily dose of Vitamin D you should not exceed 2000 IU unless you have been tested. This is a level that has been found to be safe even in pregnant women.   You should also take the form referred to as vitamin D3 since this is utilized by the human body versus D2 which is the plant form and not as effective.
Please be well and enjoy these beautiful days of summer.

Julia Greenspan is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor and founder of Greenhouse Naturopathic Medicine, located on 18 Ash Street in Hollis, New Hampshire.  Her focus is in family medicine, women’s health, infectious disease, gastroenterology, and endocrinology. For more information please contact (603) 465-2895 or greenhousemedicine.com.

Great resources for looking up toxicity of a chemical and alternatives are the following:
Environmental Working Group

http://www.ewg.org/2010sunscreen/finding-the-best-sunscreens/?ptype=sunscreen

ATSDR – Agency for Toxic Substances and Diseases Registery
http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov