Children
Group lectures and one on one consult available on this topic (contact)
Human Food Selection
- Self-selection of food and the development of learned responses
Davis, C.M., “Self selection of diet by newly weaned infants- An experimental study,” Am J Dis Child, Vol 36, No. 4 (Oct 1928).
Davis, C.M., “Studies in the self selection of diet by young children” JADA Vol 21 (Apr 1934)
Davis, C.M., “Results of the self-selection diet by young children” Can Med Assoc J, Vol 41(Sept 1939
INNATE INTELLIGENCE.
FOOD CHOICES. NATURE KNOWS BEST
Our understanding of this subject is enhanced by a six-year study focusing on eating preferences of 15 children. These children entered the study subsequent to having been nursed from birth. The children in the study therefore had no previously acquired preferences for food of any sort.
The children were allowed to choose from a large selection of foods. Throughout the study the children's health was excellent, except for colds lasting approximately three days. None of the children suffered serious illness during the program. At one point, the entire group contracted a fever on the same day. Interestingly, during the convalescing period, the children's natural selection included healing foods, such as carrots and beets. Children who started the program with less than optimal bone health voluntarily consumed large amounts of cod liver oil. Later test results showed that bone health of every child was above average. The psychological evaluation of the children by an individual outside the study states, “I saw them on a number of occasions and they were the finest group of specimens from a physical and behavioral standpoint that I have seen n children of the age.”
Now let's talk about what happens in a typical setting for an American child. A learned response which will work to the child's detriment for a lifetime is that or using food as punishment or reward. (Eg.
“If you're good, mommy (or daddy) will get you an ice cream, or McDonald's, etc.”
We must reeducate ourselves and our family in our diet choices. I encourage parents to become dedicated too building healthy eating habits for their children, and this will not happen without walking the walk. Our children will respect our actions, not our words, and they will follow our lead, not our advice. If this seems too high a price to pay, please understand that in the end, it is your child who will pay.
Chiropractic Research and Children
Dr. Colafranceschi, being a member of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association, wants to share with you the documentation supporting successful chiropractic results in pediatrics (ear infections, colic…) which puts to shame the documentation that your medical doctor would be able to present to you should you ask him. Pediatrics is a passion for Dr. Colafranceschi because he feels that our young people do not have a voice when it comes to their own healthcare. You are their voice. Please become educated for the sake of your child.
Drop by the clinic and we would be happy to share with you the research and documentation pertaining to your child's health in the following areas:
allergies/asthma
ear infections
bronchitis
colic
hyperactivity
sleep disorders/bedwetting
cerebral palsy
scoliosis
learning disorders
What every parent should know about ear infections
Current medical studies indicate that antibiotics for childhood ear infections are ineffective in most cases. Research concludes “the benefit of routine anti microbial use for otitis media judged by either short-term or long-term outcomes, is unproven.”
Tube placement may be indicated in some non-responsive cases. However, recently an evaluation of the appropriateness of the use of tubes in the US was published in JAMA (a well respected medical journal). It found that only 42% were judged as being appropriate. The sad part is that thousands of children undergo needless and non-beneficial surgeries. Inherent in these unnecessary surgeries are risks including hearing loss, language comprehension problems, anesthetic risks, post surgery infections, and psychological trauma. (Remember ,these facts come from the medical literature).
The fact is that parents are responsible for making choices in medical conditions affecting their children. Generally speaking, medical doctors are ignorant of natural therapy and therefore will usually recommend invasive or aggressive approaches. In some instances the doctor may feel pressured to prescribe something for the condition at hand by the parents themselves, who believe that doing nothing for a child's ear infection or cold would be a form of neglect. The truth is that like so many other conditions, ear infections are self limiting. What this means is that the innate intelligence of the human body will handle the situation best without interference. It is estimated that 60% of acute ear infections will resolve within the first six months with no intervention. We must use common sense, along with being open to professional expertise of a naturopath, chiropractor or medical doctor
Natural therapy has been shown to be both effective and safe in treatment for otitis media. I suggest you learn the truth and make an educated decision about your child's health..
To know the cause of the disease is to be able to cure the disease.
Inherent in the natural approach for treating chronic ear infections the focus is on determining the cause of the inflammation. Only then can the cause be eliminated. Factors that may aggravate a child's tendency to ear infections include parents who smoke,. wood burning stoves. However, this does not mean these factors are the cause. If this were the case every child would ultimately experience an ear infection.
Let's take a look at the modern medical approach to ear infections, or inflammation (fluid buildup) Antibiotics and surgery are frequently utilized. Please note that this does not ultimately address the cause, only the symptoms. Furthermore, the effects of these treatments are temporary at best, ineffective at worst, and they are dangerous. The cause of these ear infections will be found somewhere within the structural, emotional, and chemical homeostasis of the individual child. On the structural or mechanical side of the triangle the holistic physician will look at biomechanics. Alterations in biomechanics may have resulted from some history of trauma which could have occurred from events a varied as the birthing process to a recent trip or fall. The chiropractor or trained osteopath will look for spinal or cranial restrictions. These restrictions cause an obstruction to the Eustachian tube which can lead to a fluid build up. The doctor then makes gentle adjustments to correct biomechanics. The safety and effectiveness of adjustments for ear infections has been proven in many research papers and clinical trails. I want to stress that the adjustment is many times safer than commonly practiced medical treatments. In addition, they are more effective.
The emotional side of the triangle is much more complex and therefore beyond the scope of this article. However, I have seen clinically that there is a correlation between arguing among parents and children's ear infections. Stress of any kind will invariably have a detrimental effect on the immune system, thus making the child more susceptible to illness.
The third side of the triangle deals with the chemical aspects, or what we put into the child's body. Examples are air, water, food, etc. The first and most significant step a mother can make to prevent ear infections is to breast feed her child. Bottle feeding is strongly associated with ear infections. When a child is breast fed for a minimum of four months. Even breast-feeding for as little as four months will significantly increase the child's immune response to future infections. Breast fed children tend to be less susceptible to food allergies, which in turn means less congestion, which in turn means less favorable conditions for the infection to take hold. One current study shows that 93.3% of children suffering from earaches had prior allergies to food or inhalants. The most common allergens were cow's milk, wheat, eggs, peanuts, soy, and corn..
Another important step a parent can take to help strengthen a child's immune system is to avoid processed foods, refined sugars, and fried foods. American children are now consuming fast food more often than home cooked food, and soda, chips and cookies are staples rather than treats.
These foods suppress the immune system, and when coupled with the extra congestion which results from allergies provide the ideal environment for bacteria and/or virus to grow. This is what is meant when we say it is not the bug that is the problem, but rather the host's internal environment. Louis Pasteur, the founder of the germ theory, first stated “ kill the bug cure the disease.” The modern medical system has taken this axiom to heart, and appears to look no further. They focus on killing the bug, not strengthening the host. Louis Pasteur later stated that “the bug is of little consequence if the internal environment is in order.” Consider this paraphrase. Which comes first - the ants in the kitchen, or the crumbs on the floor? It's easy to understand that the cook did not throw the crumbs down upon seeing the ants. Bacteria and viruses do not go where they are not welcome. If I've heard it once, I've heard it a thousand times - “But doctor, my child never got an ear infection until he/she started going to daycare. In answer, I ask “Then why doesn't every single child in that daycare get an ear infection since they have all been equally “exposed”. Why is it that everyone doesn't catch a cold when they are exposed to someone who has one? We can all answer this with ease. We catch a cold when our defenses are down, when we have not gotten enough sleep, have not eaten properly or are unduly stressed.
When I have finally clarified this with the parents, the next question is invariably “Why doesn't my medical doctor tell me this, it makes so much sense?” I believe the reason stems from the fact that the medical doctor probably had one to three hours of classroom nutrition during the ten or so years it took to achieve his medical degree. Even though a recently our surgeon general estimated that up to 70% of illness could be prevented by diet, doctors and medical schools simply do not place their emphasis upon nutrition. On the other hand naturopaths and chiropractors receive close to 100 classroom hours, and subsequently focus the bulk of their continuing educating on nutrition. If you think the ants came because there were crumbs, talk to a chiropractor or naturopath. If you believe the cook threw down the crumbs when she saw the ants, talk to a medical doctor.
To make matters worse, MD's are rarely challenged or questioned by their patients as to the documentation supporting their procedures. On the other hand, I frequently experience requests for reassurance that the holistic approach is safe and proven. I am happy to provide this information.
Not all MD's are negligent when exploring the real causes of illness. There are MD's who espouse similar beliefs as my own, just as there are chiropractic and naturopaths whose practice focuses on symptom chasing. The holistic approach has real solutions. The patient becomes empowered with knowledge, and that is key. Education is the foundation of health care. What I suggest is to always gather as much information as possible, then decide was is best for you and your family.. For whatever choice you make , you will be responsible for the consequences. Informed decisions, not blind faith, are what your child deserves.
I would be happy to answer questions and or supply you with information and references.
By nature, babies are born very healthy. They have been living in a perfect environment with everything they need being provided. Children usually do not have aches and pains. When they do, they are usually forgotten as quickly as they came.
Something more serious , however could be going on. It's a called spinal subluxation degeneration. It is a slow and relentless condition that results from a spinal vertebral misalignment. Eventually it can erode the structure and function of the spine.
Spinal misalignments often occur during the birthing process, especially if it was difficult. Day to day activity, everyday bumps, like falling off a bicycle can cause spinal misalignment. Generally children quickly become accustomed to these problems and go on with their daily activities.
Signs you can look for are;
Do your children get colds often? Do they get ear aches or sore throats often. Are they hyperactive? When they were babies did they have colic or cry a lot for no reason?
Are they bed-wetters? Look at your child's posture.
THE FACTS ABOUT CHIROPRACTIC CARE FOR CHILDREN
A government inquiry in New Zealand thoroughly investigated chiropractic care for children and found that children with a wide variety of disorders respond successfully to chiropractic care. The Commission concluded that children should be viewed as a special population for chiropractic care and that government funding of chiropractic services should be at a substantially higher level for children than adults.
A 1989 study compared the health of two hundred children under chiropractic care and two hundred children under medical care. The chiropractic children had fewer ear infections fewer allergies, fewer cases of tonsillitis, and needed less medical treatments (antibiotics, medications, and vaccinations). The health of children under chiropractic care was noted to be superior to that of children under medical care.
Results of a prospective study of 316 cases of infantile colic found remarkable success in 94% of the case. The results occurred within two weeks and after an average of three treatments.
Let me close with a dear Abby response in regards to a 15-year -old bed-wetter cured by chiropractic treatment.
Dear Abby,
After reading the letter from “Desperate Mom” whose 20-year-old son still wets the bed, I was compelled to write.
Since her son has seen doctors and tried medications and they have no positive results, maybe she should do what I did. I took my 15-year-old twin boys (both daily bed-wetters) to a chiropractor, and within a month , both boys were completely cured of their bed-wetting. Regular medical doctors could not help them.
As this chiropractor explained it to me . there is a certain part of the spinal column that regulates the bladder- I can't explain it very well- but all I can say is that it worked, which meant everything in the world to me and my boys. These kids couldn't go to camp or sleep over at a friends house because of their terrible problem, and I was a slave to the washing machine, doing those bed-sheets and blankets everyday.
I don't want to embarrass my boys or the medical doctors in my community, so if you use this letter in your column, just sigh me.
-A True Believer
Don't Force It!!!! Nature Knows Best.
Excited, proud parents are many times guilty for forcing or pushing there infants through early stages of development. In the short term parents can boost of there child special feet of walking at 8 months, however in the long run this may disturb the child's neurologic development
Normally an infant is born with a genetically determined specialty for each hemisphere of the brain. This assigns specific dominance to each side of the brain. The dominance must organized throughout the body for proper function. Delacato hypothesizes that a child goes through five stage of development. 1. Intrauterine to 16 weeks, spinal cord reflex actions only. 2. 16 weeks to 6 months Homolateral activity (one side only) of visual and auditory functions. 3. 6 months to 1 year, cross pattern, quadruped crawling, development of using both sides of the body together. This is an important area of development to prepare the child for the upright position. 4. 1 year to 5 years more complex brain function, walking, and continued bilateral development. 5. 3 years to 8 years. Brain dominance; develops right or left dominace and continued neurologic organization.
Problems start when our babies innate powers are interfered with, thus affecting crucial development. The most common ways parents interfere are by 1. Restricting movement by confining children in plastic carrying baskets, playpens, and walkers. Encouraging their to use their right hand during eating or writing. Heavy clothing if worn frequently may is also restrictive 2. Constantly holding your child in the same position during feedings this restricts the use of the limbs and eyes bilaterally. 3. When the baby begins eating solid food, there is a tendency to place the child in a restrictive chair and encourage the use of utensils this forces the child into unilateral development. 4. Forcing a child to stand and walk too rapidly forces the child into advanced development for which she/ he is not ready. 5. Forcing a child that is normally developing left-dominance into a right-dominant.
THE TRUTH ABOUT EAR INFECTIONS
Current medical studies indicate that antibiotics for childhood ear infections are ineffective in most cases. Research concludes “the benefit of routine antimicrobial use for otitis media judged by either short-term or long-term outcomes, is unproven.”
Tube placement maybe indicated in some non-responsive cases. However, recently an evaluation of the appropriateness of the use of tubes in the U.S. was published in JAMA (a medical journal). It found that only 42% were judged as being appropriate. The sad part is that thousands of children undergo needless and non-beneficial surgeries. Inherent in these unnecessary surgeries are risks including hearing loss, language comprehension problems, anesthetic risks, post surgery infections, and psychological trauma. (remember ,these facts come from the medical literature).
I have attempted to contact area physicians in the hopes of educating them about safe and effective alternatives for their patients. I have received no response. Consequently, I have determined that my best course of action is to educate the patient first.
One final thought.
M.D.'s are rarely challenged or questioned by their patients as to the documentation supporting their procedures. On the other hand, I experience continual requests for reassurance that the holistic approach is safe and proven. I am happy to provide this information. I would like to see my patients request the same documentation from their allopathic physicians. Be prepared for a negative response when you present this article to your medical doctor. Instead of accepting his verbal, emotional discouragement, go one step further and insist that he respond with the same quality proof to back up his accusations or challenges that I am offering you in support of mine.
CHILDREN CHIROPRACTIC
AND
EAR INFECTIONS
Recent Studies in the New England Journal of Medicine indicate that children that did not receive antibiotics for their Otitis Media, (ear infection) did just as well as those not taking any medication.
There are many causes of red ears, other then a bacterial infection. These include: allergies, teething, fever, viral infection, amongst others. In all of these cases, antibiotics are not indicated. In fact, the Government recommends that antibiotics not be the first line of treatment because of drug resistant diseases and higher rates of recurrence.
Chiropractic helps improve immune system function and relax neck muscles. This allows fluid in the ears to drain properly and often provides a permanent solution!
CHILDREN CHIROPRACTIC
AND
IMMUNIZATION
Immunization is not a chiropractic issue, but it is a freedom of choice issue. `We encourage you to become informed about both sides of this controversial topic and make an educated decision for both you and your child.
We are led to believe that vaccinations are totally safe and effective; however the facts show that millions of dollars are paid out each year by our government to compensate families of children that were brain damaged or died due to a vaccine reaction. Additionally we see outbreaks of disease in the vaccinated population.
The truth is, if vaccinations work, than the vaccinated child has nothing to fear from those not vaccinated. Get informed.
In 1994 a report published in the AMA Journal said that children given the pertusis vaccine are six times more likely to develop asthma, compared to those who don't receive the vaccine..
The other issue is that of herd immunity. Most of the conditions that we are so called “preventing” by giving immunizations for were on the decline and for the most part 90% on their way out when vaccines where introduced. For more information contact the Self Center for reading material, and resources to help[ you make an informed decision.
CHILDREN CHIROPRACTIC
AND ANTIBIOTICS
As stated in the New England Journal of Medicine, health authorities are now putting out warnings about the overuse and misuse of antibiotic therapy. Antibiotic overuse has caused a worldwide calamity due to the emergence of drug resistance.
Because most infections are self limiting, there is now a trend to give the body a chance to heal itself.
The following has been taken from a book written by a medical pediatrician, Dr. Robert S Menelohn. The book is called How To Raise A Healthy Child In Spite Of Your Doctor"
Why you should avoid most pediatricians?
Does your doctor give you advice or orders??!!
Why Pediatricians are Dangerous:
Your pediatrician is getting your child ready for a lifelong dependence on medical intervention… Well baby checks. Immunizations
Pediatricians are least likely to warn parents of the risks that go along with drugs and surgery. Has your MD ever told you of the evidence linking infant formula to high blood lead levels and Sudden Infant Death syndrome. Has your MD ever told you that immunization can and do cause mental retardation, epilepsy and even death in some children. Has your MD ever told you that antibiotics are unproven and ineffective for most childhood conditions. Has your MD ever told you that tube placements can cause complete hearing lose later in life. Has your MD ever told you that asthma medication increases the risk of death in your child. Has your MD ever told you that leaving your child's fever be, and let it run its course is more effective and safer.
Your doctor is teaching your child that they do not have control over their health. Take drugs for everything.
Pediatricians are well known for missing obvious diagnosis..
does your MD spend adequate time with your child. Every competent physician knows that 85% of accurate diagnosis depends on history, 10% of physical exam and 5% on laboratory and x-ray.
Pediatricians are most likely of all specialists to enhance their income by promoting and defending laws that force patients to use their services.
These include silver nitrite
Mandatory school physical exams
Mandatory hospital birth
Mandatory immunizations
Does your MD over prescribe antibiotics.
Antibiotic overkill. The majority of infections are viral. That means antibiotics do no good.
What is the difference between Bacterial and Viral
Viral
|
Bacterial
|
most common
|
less common
|
onset gradual
|
onset abrupt
|
pain
|
pain
|
swollen glands
|
N/A
|
Runny nose
|
no runny nose
|
fever
|
fever is high
|
cough
|
no cough, except infleunza
|
hoarseness/laryngitis
|
no hoarseness/laryngitis
|
Circumcision:
unnecessary, and potentially dangerous.
The American Academy of Pediatrics has advised that “there is no absolute medical indication for circumcision of the new born”
Why subject your son to the pain, possibility of infection or hemorrhage, and the risk of death from surgery
Fever
It is widely known that fevers activate the immune system
In many cases fevers actually strengthen the immune system and helps prevent susceptibility to other illnesses later in life
Dr. Stave, MD states “fever attacks can affect children in quite a positive way. Even though his physical strength is reduced, the child may disclose as wealth of new interests and skills. After a fever, the child reveals a spurt of development and maturation”
Dr. Wootan author of Pediatrics reports that the height of the fever has nothing to do with the severity of the disease. He state that the child's body will regulate his inner temperature as needed.
Even Hippocrates, the father of medicine taught that a fever was a helpful body response to disease and infection.
The fever works like this;
Your child develops an infection
their body responds by making leukocytes (white blood cells)
This cells fight viruses and bacteria and remove the dead tissue.
The activity level of the white cells is also increased as they move rapidly to the site of infection.
This is called leucotaxis, and is activated by the release of pyrogens that raise the body temperature.
Metabolic Rate and oxygen consumption increases.
As the temperature increases it simply means that the process of healing is speeding up
(iron which is needed by the bacteria to survive is removed and stored in the liver).
Interferon levels increase to fight infection
Fever is regulated by the body , it rarely if ever reaches levels that would be hazardous to the child
Even at 105 degrees is not a legitimate concern
Fever should be monitored and not suppressed unnecessarily.
Asthma
Complications and death from asthma are increasing.
The correlation is strong that medications used to treat asthma are causing this
A study from the New England Journal of Medicine Titled “The use of Beta-agonist and the risk of death and near death from asthma” looked at 12,301 patients for whom asthma medication had been prescribed between 1978 and 1987. The study concluded that an increased risk of death from asthma was associated with the regular use of inhalers.
Spitzer, W.O,: Suissa, S,: Ernst, P The Use Of Beta-Agonist and The Risk Of Death And Near Death From Asthma. The New England Journal Of Medicine. Feb 20, 1992
There are many studies that show spinal adjustments(chiropractic care) to give superior respiratory function and chest mobility when compared to conventional medical bronchodilators, expectorants, and corticosteroids
Howel, A: The influence of Osteopathic Manipulative Therapy in the Management of Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease. Journal of the American Osteopathic Association (74: pp.757-760, 1975)
Mararsky C., Weber M: Chiropractic Management of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. December 1988. Pp. 505-510.
W.D Miller, D.O.: Treatment of Visceral Disorders by manipulative Therapy, 1975..
In a recent study, children with asthma showed an overall improvement in the lung capacity after only 15 chiropractic treatments.
Safe and natural…In a 1989 Danish study of 115 families with children ages 0 to 7 years suffering from asthma, diabetes, and epilepsy. One third of the children underwent chiropractic adjustments, after which 93% of the parents surveyed reported improvement in their child's asthma condition
Vange, B,: Ugeskr-Laegr, July 10, 1989: 151(28):1815-8
Cost-effectiveness of chiropractic
The overwhelming body of evidence shows that chiropractic management of low-back pain is more cost effective than medical management, and that many medical therapies are of questionable validity or are clearly inadequate…Chiropractic manipulation is safer than medical management of low-back pain.
The Manga Report, 1993
There would be highly significant cost savings if more management of low-back pain was transferred from physicians to chiropractors…Users of chiropractic care have substantially lower health care costs, especially inpatient costs, than those who use medical care only.”
The Manga Report, 1993
“The mean compensation cost (not treatment costs) paid out by the Utah worker's Compensation Board for patients treated by medical doctors was $668.39;the mean compensation cost paid for patients treated by chiropractic was only $68.38.”
Journal of Occupational Medicine, 1991
Total medical costs for back-related injuries cost the Utah Worker's Compensation Board an average of $1,665.43 per case; chiropractic costs for similar diagnoses cost only $775.230.
D.C. Tracts, 1989
Medical payments for back-related injuries cost the Florida Worker's Compensation Board $1,100 per case; chiropractic treatment for similar diagnoses cost only $558.
ACA Journal of Chiropractic, 1988
Health risks - Chiropractic vs. Allopathic
Risk assessment of cervical manipulation vs. NSAIDS (i.e. aspirin) for the treatment of neck pain: Dobbs, et al.. JMPT 18(8), 1995. Cervical Spine Research Society, Spine 10(20) 1995
Nearly 80% of all ulcer-related deaths occurred in patients using NSAIDS
Even the most conservative “mainstream” treatment, NSAIDS, carries a 100 times greater chance of serious injury or death than chiropractic manipulation
EVIDENCE SUPPORTING CHIROPRACTIC
“... for the management of low-back pain, chiropractic care is the most effective treatment, and it should be fully integrated into the government's health care system.” The Manga report, 1993
.
“Chiropractic treatment was more effective than hospital outpatient management, mainly for patients with chronic or severe back pain.”
British Medical Journal, 1990.
British Medical Research Council Study.
“...spinal manipulation applied by chiropractors is shown to be more effective than alternative treatments for low-back pain.”
The Manga Report, 1993.
“...injured workers...diagnosed with low-back pain returned to work much sooner when treated by chiropractors than by physicians.”
British Medical Journal, 1990.
“Low Back Pain of Mechanical origin; Randomized Comparison of
Chiropractic and Hospital Outpatient Treatment.”
“...one of the unexpected findings...looks as though the treatment that the chiropractors give does something that results in a very long-term benefit.”
T.W. Meade, M.D, CBC radio.
MEDICAL DOCTORS VIEW ON CHIROPRACTIC
M.D.s now categorize chiropractic manipulation with the highest rating; “generally accepted , well-established and widely used.”
Spine, 1991North American Spine Society.
“Our trials showed that chiropractic is a very effective treatment, more effective than conventional hospital outpatient treatment for low-back pain...particularly in patients... who have severe problems.”
T.W. Meade, M.D.
“the only difference that I can see is that the patients at John F. Kennedy get chiropractic manipulations. And in my experience, the patients at J.F.K. almost without fail get out of the hospital in a week. At Lutheran, it usually takes, oh, not uncommonly, 14 days.”
Per Frietag, M.D.an orthopedic surgeon, on why he preferred to admit his patients with back pain to John F. Kennedy Hospital, which has staff chiropractors, rather than Lutheran general, Which does not have staff chiropractors.
“Manipulative medicine is no longer a taboo topic.”
Norton Hadler, M.D, self-described “cantankerous doctor who would have never dealt with manipulation in the past.” professor of rheumatolgy, University of North Carolina Medical School at Chapel Hill, Time magazine, 1991.
“Ten years ago if you practice manipulation... you couldn't get published and were never invited to meetings. Now I can't Keep up with the invitations.”
Neurologist Scott Holdeman, M.D, D.C, New York Times, 1991.
THE FACTS ABOUT CHIROPRACTIC CARE FOR CHILDREN
A government inquiry in New Zealand thoroughly investigated chiropractic care for children and found that children with a wide variety of disorders respond successfully to chiropractic care. The Commission concluded that children should be viewed as a special population for chiropractic care and that government funding of chiropractic services should be at a substantially higher level for children than adults.
A 1989 study compared the health of two hundred children under chiropractic care and two hundred children under medical care. The chiropractic children had fewer ear infections fewer allergies, fewer cases of tonsillitis, and needed less medical treatments (antibiotics, medications, and vaccinations). The health of children under chiropractic care was noted to be superior to that of children under medical care.
Results of a prospective study of 316 cases of infantile colic found remarkable success in 94% of the case. The results occurred within two weeks and after an average of three treatments.
Other Studies on Chiropractic Effectiveness
The effect of chiropractic treatment on headaches Niels Nilsson D.C., M.D., Henrik Wulff Christensen, D.C., M.D. and Jan Hartvigsen, D.C., JMPT Volume 20, Number 2, June 1997
The effect of chiropractic treatment on TMJ problems Albert S. Chinappi, Jr., D.D.S. and Harvey Getzoff, D.C., JMPT Volume 18, Number 7, Sept. 1995
The effect of chiropractic treatment on Osteoarthritis, Marc S. Gottlieb, D.C., JMPT Volume 20, Number 6, July-Aug 1997
The Role of the Chiropractic Adjustment in the Care and Treatment of 332 Children with Otitis Media Joan M. Fallon, D.C. F.I.C.C.P. J of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics Volume 2. No. 2 1997
Management of Pediatric & Enuresis (bedwetting) with Probable Traumatic Etiology Y.R.Bachman, DC., C. A. Lantz, DC, Ph.D. ICA International Review of Chiropractic Jan/Feb 1995
An Evaluation of Chiropractic Manipulation as at treatment of hyperactivity in Children J.M. Giesen, Ph,D., D. B. Center, Ph.D. R.A. Leach D.C. JMPT Volume 12, #5 1989.
Children's Health: Ritalin vs. Omega 3 Fatty Acids
ADHD is medical term that describes children who are chronically inattentive, impulsive, and hyperactive. They often have problems both at home and school. As they grow up they are more likely to drop out of high school and experience patterns of antisocial behavior.
The most commonly prescribed medical drug for ADHD is Ritalin. But, most recently, the manufacturers of Ritalin, and other interested parties, have come under attack for alleged over promotion of the drug.
In May 2000, a Dallas law firm filed a lawsuit against the Swiss drug company Novartis AG which manufacturers Ritalin.1 The suit seeks class-action status on behalf of people who bought Ritalin for their children. Also named in the suit were the American Psychiatric Association and the advocacy group Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, in Landover, Maryland; both were alleged to have generated concern about the condition while promoting Ritalin and receiving funding from Novartis. Although Novartis has called the lawsuit "without merit" and vowed to "vigorously" defend itself, it is predicted that numerous other suits will soon be filed.
Ritalin (methylphenidate), Dexedrine and Adderall are stimulants. "None of these drugs will cure ADHD," notes Andrew Adesman, M.D.2 "But when they're effective, they can improve attention, reduce restlessness, and foster better relations with peers, parents, and teachers. Each of the three stimulant medications has roughly a 75 percent response rate." But when all are used, until one is found to be effective, the response rate is said to be 90 percent.
One-a-Day Ritalin on the Way
Because children often require multiple doses of the drugs and it is difficult to insure compliance, the drug firm Noven Pharmaceuticals, Inc., of Miami, Florida, is now researching a kids one-a-day Ritalin, as well as a Ritalin patch.3 Meanwhile Celgene Corp. is working with Novartis to market a highly purified form of Ritalin that is said to be an IQ booster as well.
This is dangerous. This is very dangerous.
The Texas lawsuit and others that will follow, we believe, will make this clear.
Is your child on Ritalin? Do school officials want you to put your child on Ritalin because of his or her poor behavior, lack of concentration, or learning skills?
We believe that while Ritalin and related amphetamine drugs are sometimes effective, they should never be a first choice for children diagnosed with ADHD. In fact, there are other pathways for overcoming ADHD without reliance on drugs (that often must be taken even into adulthood).
You'll want to know about the growing medical evidence that omega-3 fatty acids may also help without the dangerous complications of Ritalin.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Children's's Behavior:
Promising Evidence for a Nutritional Cure
"ADHD children also tend to have more allergies, eczema, asthma, headaches, stomachaches, ear infections and dry skin than non-ADHD youngsters," note authors and researchers Donald Rudin, M.D. and Clara Felix.4 (Rudin received his medical degree from Harvard Medical School and from 1957 to 1980 served as the director of the Department of Molecular Biology at the Eastern Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute, Philadelphia. Felix received her B.S. in nutrition from the University of California, Berkeley. Together, they authored Omega-3 Oils: A Practical Guide.) Both Rudin and Felix claim that these problems, including ADHD, are part of a modernization-disease syndrome, which arises from malnutrition centered on an omega-3 fatty acid deficiency.
Their contention is supported by growing evidence. The connection between omega-3 fatty acid deficiency and ADHD has been confirmed by studies in which youngsters with ADHD, when compared with non-ADHD children, had much lower blood levels of docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid necessary for normal function of the eyes and the cerebral cortex (the brain region that handles higher functions such as reasoning and memory).
How Omega-3 Fatty Acids Help ADHD Children
All cells throughout the human body are enveloped by membranes composed chiefly of essential fatty acids in the form of phospholipids, notes Michael Murray, N.D. Phospholipids play a major role in determining the integrity and fluidity of cell membranes. What determines the type of phospholipid in the cell membrane is the type of fat consumed. Unfortunately, our children's diets which may be ladened with saturated and polyunsaturated fats from beef, dairy, and corn oil interfere with the optimal balance of phospholipids in cell membranes.
A phospholipid composed of a saturated fat or trans-fatty acid differs considerably in structure from a phospholipid composed of an essential fatty acid. In addition, there are differences between the structure of an omega-3 oil composed membrane and an omega-6 composed membrane, says Dr. Murray. Up to 80 percent of the fatty acids in the cerebral cortex of the brain should be composed of omega-3 fatty acids. (Food sources particularly rich in omega-3 fatty acids include cold water fish and flaxseed oil.)
It is thought the cell is programmed to selectively incorporate the different fatty acids it needs to maintain optimal function. In actuality, what becomes incorporated into the cell membranes is determined primarily by diet. A diet composed of largely saturated fat, animal fatty acids, cholesterol, and trans-fatty acids, such as the American diet, is going to lead to membranes which are much less fluid in nature compared to the membranes of an individual consuming optimal levels of both essential fatty acids.
"A relative deficiency of essential fatty acids in cellular membranes makes it virtually impossible for the cell membrane to perform its vital functions," says Dr. Murray. "The basic function of the cell membrane is to serve as a selective barrier that regulates the passage of certain materials in and out of the cell. When there is a disturbance of structure or function of the cell membrane, there is a tremendous disruption of homeostasis. This term, homeostasis, refers to the maintenance of static conditions in the internal environment of the cell and, on a larger scale, the human body as a whole. In other words, with a disturbance in cellular membrane structure or function, there is disruption of virtually all cellular processes." "Because the brain is the richest source of phospholipids in the human body and accurate nerve cell function is critically dependent on proper membrane fluidity, it only makes sense that alterations in membrane fluidity could dramatically impact behavior, mood, and mental function," adds Dr. Murray. In addition, studies have shown the biophysical properties, including fluidity of synaptic membranes directly influences neurotransmitter synthesis, signal transduction, uptake of serotonin and other neurotransmitters, and neurotransmitter binding. All of these factors have been implicated in depression and other psychological disturbances in children.
Scientific Evidence
Two types of fatty acids are considered essential. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids cannot be synthesized in the body, and must be obtained from the diet. The omega-6 fatty acids are distributed evenly in most tissues and easily obtained through food sources commonly found in the American diet, but omega-3 fatty acids are concentrated in a few tissues including the brain.5, 6 Because of their relative scarceness in the American diet, many children, perhaps a majority of children today are deficient in omega-3 fatty acids. Learning specialists now believe omega-3 fatty acid deficiency leads to unique symptoms during childhood, including behavioral problems.7, 8
The evidence is certainly suggestive:
In 1981, researchers first hypothesized that children with ADHD may have reduced nutritional status of essential fatty acids because they showed greater thirst (a symptom of essential fatty acid deficiency) compared to children without ADHD.9
These results were further confirmed in 1983. When essential fatty acids were examined in 23 maladjusted children and 20 normal children, essential fatty acids blood levels in poorly behaved children were significantly lower.10
In 1987, researchers further documented that 48 children with ADHD reported significantly greater thirst, more frequent urination, and more health and learning problems than children without ADHD.11 Significantly lower levels of two omega-6 fatty acids and one omega-3 fatty acid (DHA) were found in the subjects with ADHD symptoms.
In a 1995 study comparing plasma essential fatty acid levels in 53 boys with ADHD to a control group of 43 boys without ADHD, researchers found significantly lower levels of omega-3 fatty acids.12
In the April-May 1996 issue of Physiology & Behavior 1996, Laura J. Stevens, of the Department of Foods and Nutrition, Purdue University, and co-investigators published an extremely important paper.13 The researchers found that boys with lower levels of omega-3 fatty acids in their blood showed more problems with behavior, learning, and health than those with higher levels of total omega-3 fatty acids.
Also, in 1996, researchers from the Department of Psychiatry, Technical University, Faculty of Medicine, Trabzon, Turkey, reported that levels of free fatty acids as well as zinc were several-fold lower in ADHD children compared to non-ADHD children.14
Most recently, researchers performed a study to test the effect of omega-3 fatty acids on intelligence scores among 56 18-month-old children.15 The children were divided into three groups, one that received DHA, one that received DHA and alpha-linolenic acid (the master omega-3 fatty acid found in flaxseed), and one that received a formula that did not contain either. All children were enrolled in the study within five days of birth and received one of the three formulas for 17 weeks. The children's overall intelligence and motor skills were tested using the latest Bayley Scales of Infant Development (BSID), the standard for gauging the development of small children. No differences were seen in the Psychomotor Development Index. On the Mental Development Index, which measures memory, ability to solve simple problems and language capabilities, the children in the control group received an average score of 98, slightly below the national average of 100. The DHA group received an average score of 102.4 and the DHA and alpha-linolenic acid group received an average score of 105.1. The children will be tested again in four years to see if the gains continue into early childhood.
The Doctors Prescription
This is crucial information, especially for parents of children who are diagnosed with ADHD and who are presently being prescribed Ritalin. "We shouldn't be prescribing medicine simply because that's the easiest way to go," notes Dr. Mark Stein, who runs a University of Chicago clinic for children and adults with the disorder.
While all children with ADHD are not deficient in omega-3 fatty acids, we believe that this may be important for at least a subset of ADHD children.
In fact, studies show that children whose treatment program includes only medication, educational and psychological therapy continue to be at high risk for vandalism, petty crime, frequency of alcoholic intoxication, and possession of marijuana. Dietary improvements may be the key to fostering long-term health and acceptable behavior.
Parents of ADHD children and ADHD adults who wish to utilize omega-3 fatty acids as a method of modifying their behavior should use both flax and seafood sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Flax provides alpha-linolenic acid, the master omega-3 fatty acid from which other omega-3 fatty acids are synthesized. Seafood provides DHA directly which appears to be a vital omega-3 fatty acid for modifying behavior of ADHD children and adults. The rate of conversion of ALA to DHA is quite low. However, alpha-linolenic acid may be important to behavioral improvements as well. Therefore, a combination of flax and seafood is best. Thus, flax, which can be inconspicuously incorporated into children's meals, holds many benefits.
Flax oil can be used in salad dressings and in smoothies as well as many other tasty dishes. Although many people believe that flax oil is too fragile to be used as a cooking oil, this may not be true, reports Felix.
"The recorded use of flaxseed oil as a cooking oil goes as far back as nine thousand years in area of the Near East," she says.16 "Soldiers of the Roman Empire marched with rations of bread baked with flaxseed. China, the third largest flax grower in the world, has used flaxseed as a food oil for at least five thousand years. Germany uses 66,000 tons of flaxseed a year in baked breads and buns.
Recent studies show little or no loss of alpha-linolenic acid when milled flaxseed is baked as an ingredient in muffins or breads. Cooking also doesn't cause alpha-linolenic acid or other fatty acids to oxidize (break down). Baking and cooking seldom expose fats and oils to temperature above the boiling point (212°F or 100°C)."
How to Find the Best Lignan Flax Oil
We recommend the equivalent of one to two tablespoons of a quality flax oil product. Be sure the company that produces your flax is M.A.D. about fresh lignan flax oil. Here's what to look for when it comes to being M.A.D. about fresh flax:
Made to Order. Be sure your flax oil is made to order. Most nutritional oil companies rely on third-party distributors to stock, inventory and ultimately deliver their products to market, sometimes months after manufacturing. For this reason, most flaxseed oil today is dated for freshness for up to one year. This is too long for a perishable electron-rich live food, like flaxseed oil. What's more, these products are typically shipped by ground transportation resulting in prolonged delivery and conditions such as high heat that may degrade the oil. Worse yet, some companies have resorted to refining and or filtering their oil in order to artificially extend shelf life. Be sure your flax oil is made to order, and that the oil is pressed the day it is ordered.
Air Delivered. Once fresh pressed, be sure your flax oil is rushed by air delivery manufacturer-direct to your favorite natural health center or health professional, arriving within days of being made.
Dated for Freshness. Be sure your flax oil comes coded with both a Fresh Pressed date and a Freshest Before date stamp spanning a period of only four months for maximum potency and freshness. Prolonged distributor delivery and warehoused product makes it necessary for other brands to date stamp their oil for six to twelve months. Good for them, not so good for you.
This service is called Fresh ExPress and it guarantees you the absolute freshest flax oil anywhere. You will find this type of extremely high-quality lignan flax oil in the refrigerator sections of natural health centers nationwide.
References:
1. Long, M. & Barrett, P. "Lawsuit is filed against Novartis on Ritalin sales." The Wall Street Journal Europe, May 15, 2000: 4.
2. Adesman, A. "Does my child need Ritalin?" Newsweek, April 24, 2000: 81.
3. footnote* Parker-Pope, T. "Drug firms research kids one-a-day Ritalin?" The Wall Street Journal Europe, May 15, 2000: 31.
4. Rudin, D. & Felix, C. Omega-3 Oils: A Practical Guide. Garden City Park, NY: Avery Publishing, 1996.
5. footnote* Neuringer, M. & Conner, W.E. "N-3 fatty acids in the brain and retina: evidence for their essentiality." Nutrition Reviews, 1985; 44: 285-294.
6. Tinoco, J. "Dietary requirement and function of alpha-linolenic acid in animals." Prog. Lipid. Res, 1982; 21: 1-45.
7. Enslen, M., et al. "Effect of low intake of n-3 fatty acids during the development of brain phospholipid fatty acid composition and exploratory behavior in rats." Lipids, 1991; 26: 203-208.
8. Reisbick, S., et al. "Home cage behavior or rhesus monkeys with long-term deficiency of omega-3 fatty acids." Physiol. Behav., 1994; 55: 231-239.
9. Colquhoun, I. & Bunday, S. "A lack of essential fatty acids as a possible cause of hyperactivity in children." Med. Hypotheses, 1981; 7: 673-679.
10. Mitchell E.A., et al. "Essential fatty acids and maladjusted behaviour in children." Prostaglandins Leukot Med, 1983; 12(3):281-7.
11. Mitchell.,. E., et al. "Clinical characteristics and serum essential fatty acid levels in hyperactive children." Clin. Pediatr., 1987; 26: 406-411.
12. Stevens, L., et al. "Essential fatty acid metabolism in boys with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder." American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 1995; 62: 000-000.
13. Stevens, L., et al. "Omega-3 fatty acids in boys with behavior, learning, and health problems." Physiology & Behavior, April/May 1996.
14. Bekaröglu, M., et al. "Relationships between serum free fatty acids and zinc, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: a research note." J Child Psychol Psychiatry, 1996;37(2):225-227.
15. Developmenttal Medicine & Child Neurology, 2000; 42:174-181.
16. Felix, C. All About Omega-3 Oils. Garden City Park, NY: Avery Publishing, 1998.
Methylphenidate (MPH), most commonly known as Ritalin, ranks in the top 10 most frequently reported controlled pharmaceuticals stolen from licensed handlers.