Jane Hersey
Presentation + Questions & Answers
For ADD-Holistic Discussion Group
http://www.HolisticMed.Com/add/
Date: Sun, 21 Jun 1998 23:07:40 -0400 (EDT)
From: Mark Gold
To: add-holistic@mLists.net
Subject: ADD Introduction of Visiting Expert
Hi! Well, the timing didn't work out quite as planned. :-)
Our first expert (and maybe you saw her introductory post already) is Jane
Hersey, National Director of the Feingold Association. I did everything I
could to try to get a representative of the Feingold Association to visit
because the Association has a long history of successfully helping many,
many perons with ADD and other behavioral disorders. It is wonderful that
Jane Hersey was kind enough to take the time to share the Feingold Program
with us and offer to answer questions.
Jane Hersey has worked with families of chemically-sensitive children for
22 years. Using the findings of pediatrician/allergist, Ben F. Feingold,
MD, she first helped her family and went on to volunteer in the parent
support group called the Feingold Association.
She worked closely with Dr. Feingold until his death in 1982, and served
the Association in many capacities: first vice president, president,
executive director, and editor of the Association's newsletter Pure
Facts. She is currently the national director and author of the book
"Why Can't My Child Behave?"
Ms. Hersey has twice testified before the National Institutes of Health
and has represented the Association on radio and television.
Best Wishes,
- Mark
mgold@holisticmed.com
To: add-holistic@mlists.net
Subject: ADD The Feingold Program
From: janefaus@juno.com (Jane H Hersey)
Date: Sun, 21 Jun 1998 20:50:04 EDT
Hell-o. In 1975 our family was having many problems. My 5 year old
daughter, who had always been a handful, was getting much worse. Her
behavior was fine some of the time, and at other times she was very
difficult to deal with. Much of the time she seemed to be in another
world, so distracted that it was very hard to even communicate with her.
There were no obvious physical problems and she was very bright in many
ways, but clearly, something was wrong.
Meanwhile, my husband's migraine headaches were growing more and
more severe, and seemed to be coming more frequently than ever. Add to
this scene, a baby to take care of ... my life wasn't great, and neither
were the prospects for my family. Fortunately, we stumbled upon Dr.
Feingold's book, "Why Your Child is Hyperactive" and began to learn about
the many effects of certain foods and food additives. As a result, we
were able to dramatically help my daughter and my husband. This led to
our involvement in the nonprofit "Feingold Associations" which were
forming during the mid 1970s.
I speak with many parents who are facing various difficult issues
with their child or -- in some cases they themsleves have problems. The
people who call us typically are dealing with learning or behavior
problems; in some cases the major issue might be a physical problem such
as asthma, hives or ear infections. It is not possible to predict which
person will benefit from the Feingold Program, but once a caller
understands what the program really involves, most conclude that it
seems silly not to at least consider it.
Why would it be silly not to seriously consider using the Feingold
Program? Because the synthetic food additives that we remove are pretty
gross chemicals. Many of them are manufactured from petroleum (synthetic
food dyes and the 3 preservatives we remove). The artificial flavorings
we remove can be made from anything -- literally, including
petrochemicals, pesticides, toxic waste products, etc.
If the food labels were required to list their ingredients with total
accuracy, few of us would buy those foods anyway.
Another category we remove at the outset of the Program are what we
call "natural salicylates." These chemicals occur naturally in some
very wholesome foods, but (for reasons not really understood) they are
not tolerated by some people. We show people how to conduct their own
test, removing natural salicylates for a few weeks, to see if there is a
change in symptoms. It's a nuisance to do without wholesome foods like
apples, grapes, berries, etc., but there are other fruits that are well
tolerated, and those are used instead (pears, pineapple, melons).
If there is an improvement in symptoms as a result of this trial,
then the next step is to continue to stay away from the synthetic stuff
and to begin reintroducing the natural salicylates one at a time, to see
if there is any reaction to them. The role of the Association is to help
families do this with as little hassel as is necessary, and to show them
which of the foods they like are free of the unwanted additives.
Feingold families can eat many familiar foods, and can pig out on the
likes of Haagen Dazs or Ben & Jerry's (as well as the natural versions of
Breyer's ice cream).
The Association researches brand name foods with the manufacturer to
identify those which are acceptable to use, and publishes books listing
all of the products which are free of the above additives. We identify
the naturally occurring salicylates so that if you know you are sensitive
to cherries, for example, the book will tell you if they are present in a
product. There are 7 Regional foodlists for the United States and a very
small book for Canada. It is very important that a family have accurate
information about foods, since ingredient labels are often incomplete and
sometimes downright fraudulent.
We find that most of the families who have up-to-date information
and use the Feingold Program correctly report a significant -- often
dramatic -- improvement in the child or adult in question. We have 22
years of good results, and some very good double-blind studies which
support our work, but I don't think we can really explain exactly why it
works as well and as often as it does.
Most of the people who do this work are parents like myself, who
have seen such a huge benefit. We don't have any reason to volunteer,
other than the fact that it is so satisfying to be able to help so many
other people, just as we've been helped. While we don't keep precise
statistics of the percentage of children who respond, the studies have
shown that the majority of children do respond to dietary management --
despite what the food/chemical/pharmaceutical lobbies claim. If the
Program was not so effective, I doubt my colleagues and I would have
continued to do this work for so many years.
The Association is glad to provide complimentary information and
help. You can obtain it via our number (800) 321-3287. There is also a
lot of information on our web site: http://www.feingold.org. Next month we
will be hosting a national conference on ADD and autism at the George
Mason University in Fairfax, VA (near Washington DC). I would be glad to
send you a brochure describing the conference and can be reached via this
site or at my office in Virginia (703) 768-3287. At this conference, and
in our materials, we offer suggestions as to the next step a family may
want to take in helping their child. Some children only need to use the
Feingold Program, but for others it is just a part of the answer. For
many families I often compare it to 1st and 2nd grade; they aren't all
you will need, but you'll have a hard time getting along if you skip
them. We network with other nonprofits who are also doing great work
helping families. There's a lot of help out there, but it is being
carried out by good people with very little in the way of money and
resources, thus is often not easy to find.
I will be glad to try to answer your questions; there's a lot I
don't know, but I do know how to help my family and might be able to show
you how to help yours.
From: Olivia822@aol.com
Date: Mon, 22 Jun 1998 22:48:47 EDT
To: add-holistic@mLists.net
Subject: Re: ADD The Feingold Program
Thanks so much for The Feingold Program info. I'm looking forward to reading
more about it.
Pat
Date: Tue, 23 Jun 1998 10:13:29 -0400 (EDT)
From: Mark Gold
To: add-holistic@mLists.net
Subject: Re: ADD The Feingold Program
Jane,
Thank you for the excellent information you provided. I like the idea of
starting with fairly simple changes. Even though additional changes or
different changes *may* be necessary or prudent (as far as ADD or
long-term health goes), it is usually a good idea to start with relatively
small, but important changes.
I was hoping that you can answer a few questions.
- Are there any strategies that have been used successfully to
work with older children who may not be too cooperative in
making the dietetic change?
- What about school lunches and restaurants? How is that handled
as far as ingredients go? If this issue discussed in the
Regional Food List booklets?
- What kind of results have been seen in adults that follow the
Feingold Program?
- What is the time frame that one should expect to see improvements
on the Feingold Program.
- For persons that follow the Program exactly as outlined and
notice some improvement or only minor improvement, what kind
of suggestions are made? I suppose that it is always important
to make sure that major mistakes aren't being made in following
the Program.
Best Wishes,
- Mark
mgold@holisticmed.com
Holistic Healing Web Page
http://www.HolisticMed.com/
From: Flifer@aol.com
Date: Tue, 23 Jun 1998 10:27:48 EDT
To: add-holistic@mLists.net
Subject: Re: ADD The Feingold Program
My family, too, has seen great benefit in using the Feingold diet. My son,now
an adult, continues to follow and benefit from it. He did have a trial of
meds, but this worked the best.
Check out the website of the Feingold Association. There is a lot of good info
there. Feingold Association
Dietary Connection to B...
Date: Tue, 23 Jun 1998 10:53:26 -0400
To:
From: George von Hilsheimer
Subject: ADD FEINGOLD should be named LOCKEY/MAYO
The recent info re salycilates and the Feingold Foundation will be well
pursued by perhaps as many as 25% of the families with children who have ADD
and ADHD and everyone who has urticaria.
Unfortunately Dr. Feingold was not an attractive human being, and did not
pay his dues to Dr. Lockey who first widely published the salycilate
hypothesis in the US. This was back in the days when no ethical doctor
would allow his name to be used in public ways, so Lockey called the diet
the Mayo diet, where he was working when he first publicized it.
However, this ancient history notwithstanding, anyone with ANY peculiar
problem will do well to exclude salycilates from their diet. this is
particularly true for dyes, perfumes, artificial flavors etc.
For similar reasons I have posted diets which exclude purines, oxalic acid,
salycilates, fructose, and one which is just an empirical listing of foods
which frequently cause problems.
Please note, these are not 'allergies' but biochemical hypersensitivities.
Food allergies are another enormous subject.
The best tool for any parent of an ADD child is a good daily journal rating
symptoms and listing every food, and every environmental exposure.
Dr. Von
To: add-holistic@mLists.net
Subject: Re: ADD Peter Breggin & Talking Back to Ritalin
From: janefaus@juno.com (Jane H Hersey)
Date: Tue, 23 Jun 1998 21:17:32 EDT
Some of our members use Ritalin or other medicines in addition to the
Feingold Program. Interestingly, some report that the Ritalin is not as
effective when the child consumes synthetic additives. We don't think
any (reasonable) technique should be counted out, including stimulants.
We do wish all of the versions of Ritalin, as well as Dex., etc were made
free of the dyes that can trigger problems. (The 20 mg SR Ritalin is
free of the prohibited dyes, and is included in our list of acceptable
medicines.)
Our complaint is that parents are often not given complete, accurate
information on all of the alternatives, and some are led to believe that
medicine alone is the only way to go. We feel, however, that it makes
more sense to try an approach that has no risk of side effects as the
first option, and then move on to more dramatic approaches only if
necessary.
Having said that, we recognize not everyone will opt for diet, and that
should be their choice. We believe that parents who want a treatment
such as the Feingold Program should not be discouraged from considering
it.
One of the nice benefits of the Feingold Program is that at least one
parent generally notices a reduction of their symptoms when they join
their child on the Program.
To: add-holistic@mLists.net
Subject: Re: ADD The Feingold Program
From: janefaus@juno.com (Jane H Hersey)
Date: Tue, 23 Jun 1998 21:17:32 EDT
On Tue, 23 Jun 1998 10:13:29 -0400 (EDT) Mark Gold
writes:
>1. Are there any strategies that have been used successfully to
> work with older children who may not be too cooperative in
> making the dietetic change?
Yes, we have a number of suggestions that are based on some good results
parents have had in the past. One of the things I recommend is that the
parent "ignore" their teen, and simply stock the house with the good
food. If the teenager is a boy, he will probably inhale the food in
large quantity, and may begin to see that it tastes pretty good.
Many teens get pretty "grossed out" when they learn what the additives
are made of, which makes it fairly easy to catch their interest. I have
a whole chapter on suggestions for gaining cooperation in my book...too
many points to go into here.
Also, I'll be giving a workshop at our conference on how to teach people
about what's really in our foods...it has worked well to get the interest
of pre-teens.
>2. What about school lunches and restaurants? How is that handled
> as far as ingredients go? If this issue discussed in the
> Regional Food List booklets?
These are covered in the Feingold Handbook and in my book. We help the
parents to find out which of the foods at school are OK and to let the
child eat those. For the child who has been on the program for awhile,
they get good at identifying what's ok, and often lose some of the
sensitivity they had early on. If the child really wants to eat the
school lunch, they decide for themself if it's worth the effects they
will experience. They might decide to go off the diet on Fridays when
they won't have school the next day. It generally is not a very big
problem for the kids, and if the parents follow our suggestions, the kids
usually prefer to stick to the diet.
As for restaurant food, the member gets a guide to what's OK at the major
fast food chains, and there's a lot of information in my book on how to
make educated choices. One simple rule in restaurants: "skip dessert."
>3. What kind of results have been seen in adults that follow the
> Feingold Program?
It appears to be as effective for adults, though the change is generally
in their ability to focus and in physical symptoms. Behavioral changes
are usually not the major ones...though there are some adults who stop
throwing temper tanturms!!!
>4. What is the time frame that one should expect to see improvements
> on the Feingold Program.
It varies a lot with the individual. If a family has current literature
(including our Foodlist and updates) it is fairly typical to see a clear
change in a young child in 3 days to a week. We like people to give it a
good 6 weeks trial. One woman in the area (who works at the post office
and recently began the program) told me after about 2 weeks she hadn't
noticed anything. Then the last time I saw her (perhaps 2 weeks later)
her comment was "wow"! It had really kicked in.
>5. For persons that follow the Program exactly as outlined and
> notice some improvement or only minor improvement, what kind
> of suggestions are made? I suppose that it is always important
> to make sure that major mistakes aren't being made in following
> the Program.
Yes, first we like to talk with them to be sure they haven't been using
the wrong kind of toothpaste, vitamins, etc. If all looks good in that
area, then we ask more questions. I look for "peaks" and "valleys" -- if
the child has some very good days and some very bad days, that's
encouraging as there is probably something setting him off. It really
isn't too hard to come up with some probable culprits. If I run out of
ideas, I might consult with a colleage or two or ask one of our medical
advisors for advice. We also provide a lengthy listing of other
nonprofits that might be able to help take the child on to the next level
of improvement. We do not like to see a child fail to be helped, and do
what we can to try and prevent any failures.
Of course, we do not ever attempt to offer what might be construed as
medical advice.
From: Hetwoman@aol.com
Date: Tue, 23 Jun 1998 21:57:15 EDT
To: add-holistic@mLists.net
Subject: Re: ADD The Feingold Program
In a message dated 98-06-23 21:22:06 EDT, you write:
> 4. What is the time frame that one should expect to see improvements
> on the Feingold Program.
My son is on the Feingold Program and we are also seeing an allergist for
testing. Since he started and switched from Pepsi to Sprite - ALL of his
rashes disappeared! We believe he has an allergy to caffeine. He is also in
a much better mood. Not as quick tempered or moody - since beginning the diet.
He asked me "What do I get out of this diet". I told him a better mood,
better concentration and hopefully no more rashes. Guess that was enough for
him.
Tomorrow we see the PhD to discuss the findings of the QEEG and begin a course
of action with Neurofeedback. Top it off my son 16yo is excited about doing
all of this. Just thought I'd share.
From: Flifer@aol.com
Date: Tue, 23 Jun 1998 23:20:05 EDT
To: add-holistic@mLists.net
Subject: Re: ADD Peter Breggin & Talking Back to Ritalin
The most important thing is that the person receive the APPROPRIATE treatment.
It may be the Feingold Program ..... or......it may be meds (the appropriate
one (s)) or may be something else or a combination. It depends on what the
individual needs based on his health and the cause of his symptoms. All
treatments must be considered and the parent (if the patient is a child)
should be apprised of those treatments
In a message dated 6/23/98 10:56:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time,
SMILE@compuserve.com writes:
> That's the way I feel. Breggin is all the way on the extreme, just as there
> are so many docs who say that
> anyone with ADD should immediately be put on Ritalin. I have heard that
> recommended over and over again.
To: add-holistic@mLists.net
Subject: Re: ADD Peter Breggin & Talking Back to Ritalin
From: janefaus@juno.com (Jane H Hersey)
Date: Wed, 24 Jun 1998 07:57:30 EDT
Agreed! There is such a polarity being created by the two opposing
sides: "Who's to blame? Is it the parent's fault? Is it the 'fault'
of the child (meaning a brain defect of some sort)?"
I take real offense when people claim it's all bad parenting. I really
tried -- very hard -- to do the right things. Teachers are also getting
a bum rap, I believe. I was there too, and remember how tough it could
be.
It's amazing that so few people have looked at the epidemiology of the
whole issue.
When journalists write about the drastic increase in the rate of
childhood asthma, at least they ask about things other than bad schools
and bad parents. And the concept of the child having some mysterious
physical defect is not resonable since the increase is so sudden. They
know that polluted air can affect our lungs; a few even suggest that food
allergies could trigger a problem. (Of course you seldom hear about the
connection between food additives and asthma -- a topic which has been
reported in allergy journals for decades.)
If polluted air can affect our lungs, is it so hard to see how eating
petroleum derivatives can affect our brains??
One of our MD advisors presented a terrific workshop to explain how foods
and additives affect the brain. It's available as a reprint from the
Feingold Assoc office.
To: add-holistic@mLists.net
Subject: Re: ADD The Feingold Program
From: janefaus@juno.com (Jane H Hersey)
Date: Wed, 24 Jun 1998 07:57:29 EDT
On Tue, 23 Jun 1998 21:57:15 EDT Hetwoman@aol.com writes:
>In a message dated 98-06-23 21:22:06 EDT, you write:
>
>My son is on the Feingold Program and we are also seeing an allergist for
>testing. Since he started and switched from Pepsi to Sprite - ALL of his
>rashes disappeared! We believe he has an allergy to caffeine. He is also in
>a much better mood. Not as quick tempered or moody - since beginning the diet.
>He asked me "What do I get out of this diet". I told him a better mood,
>better concentration and hopefully no more rashes. Guess that was enough for him.
>Tomorrow we see the PhD to discuss the findings of the QEEG and begin a course
>of action with Neurofeedback. Top it off my son 16yo is excited about doing
>all of this. Just thought I'd share.
Thank you for sharing; it's good to hear that your child is being
helped. I would suggest that, if possible, you switch from Sprite to
regular 7 UP. The Sprite contains sodium benzoate and the 7 UP does not.
Sodium benzoate does not seem to be a major offender, but definitely
does bother some of our members.
I don't mean to be picky, but I consider "being on the Feingold diet" to
mean that you have an up-to-date Foodlist plus all of the other
information published by the Feingold Association, and are getting Pure
Facts. Food processing is not a simple matter, and you cannot really
avoid the additives by simply reading labels. There are many additives
in foods which are not listed on the label. The fact that your child
feels restless makes me wonder if you have our information...perhaps
you've cut out more of his favorites than you need to (???)
To: add-holistic@mLists.net
Subject: Re: ADD FEINGOLD should be named LOCKEY/MAYO
From: janefaus@juno.com (Jane H Hersey)
Date: Wed, 24 Jun 1998 07:57:30 EDT
On Tue, 23 Jun 1998 10:53:26 -0400 George von Hilsheimer
writes:
>The recent info re salycilates and the Feingold Foundation will be well
>pursued by perhaps as many as 25% of the families with children who have ADD
>and ADHD and everyone who has urticaria.
>Unfortunately Dr. Feingold was not an attractive human being, and did not
>pay his dues to Dr. Lockey who first widely published the salycilate
>hypothesis in the US. This was back in the days when no ethical doctor
>would allow his name to be used in public ways, so Lockey called the diet
>the Mayo diet, where he was working when he first publicized it.
Thanks for your note. I'd like to add my "spin."
Dr. Feingold was a very complex man, and I'm sorry I never thought to ask
him about Dr. Lockey's contribution. When I write about the history of
salicylates, I try to give credit to those who first brought it to our
attention.
Many people believe that Dr. Feingold promoted himself because it is
called the Feingold diet, but the name he chose was the K-P Diet -- both
because he worked at Kaiser Permanente and because it used to involve a
lot of 'kitchen duty.' It was the media who called it the "Feingold
diet," and it was the parent group who chose the name "Feingold
Association."
He had many strengths but diplomacy was not one of them. My take on it
was that he expected other doctors to adhere to the same high standards
he set for himself, and had the reputation for being very outspoken when
he felt others were falling short of this.
But when it came to his patients, he never lost his compassion for them,
and passion to help people, especially the children.
It would have been out of character for him to promote himself and to
schmooze with other doctors in order to advance any personal agenda. He
was the recipient of a lot of flack for his work. It would have been
easy and comfortable for him to have just enjoyed a pleasant retirement,
and basked in the outstanding reputation he had earned as one of the
pioneers in allergy and immunology. But he knew he had vital
information, and most certainly shortened his life in his determination
to reach as many parents as possible.
>However, this ancient history notwithstanding, anyone with ANY peculiar
>problem will do well to exclude salycilates from their diet. this is
>particularly true for dyes, perfumes, artificial flavors etc.
>For similar reasons I have posted diets which exclude purines, oxalic acid,
>salycilates, fructose, and one which is just an empirical listing of foods
>which frequently cause problems.
>Please note, these are not 'allergies' but biochemical hypersensitivities.
>Food allergies are another enormous subject.
>The best tool for any parent of an ADD child is a good daily journal rating
>symptoms and listing every food, and every environmental exposure.
Agreed!
We try to make it easier for parents to implement this. We research
brand name foods to indentify which are free of the unwanted additives.
We've found this is essential since many additives can be present in
foods, but not be labeled.
Also, we like to focus on all the things a parent can buy and enjoy, not
on the things they must avoid. We even research Mc Donald's! With most
moms working outside the home, we try to show them how they can use
processed foods, without having a reaction as a result.
From: Hetwoman@aol.com
Date: Wed, 24 Jun 1998 08:13:24 EDT
To: add-holistic@mLists.net
Subject: Re: ADD The Feingold Program
In a message dated 98-06-24 08:00:31 EDT, you write:
> The fact that your child
> feels restless makes me wonder if you have our information...perhaps
> you've cut out more of his favorites than you need to (???)
Thanks Jane. I have gotten all of the Feingold information. Got a nice
notebook of information. Sprite is listed in your food guide though, so I'm a
little confused. He is more calm following the advice of Feingold. For
example, he went and had a frozen pizza after following the program and boy -
what a difference in mood. He definitely is sensitive to the additives and
preservatives. Thanks. It's been very helpful to us.
Date: Wed, 24 Jun 1998 10:04:43 -0400 (EDT)
From: Mark Gold
To: add-holistic@mLists.net
Subject: Re: ADD The Feingold Program
>To: add-holistic@mLists.net
>Subject: Re: ADD The Feingold Program
>From: janefaus@juno.com (Jane H Hersey)
>Date: Wed, 24 Jun 1998 07:57:29 EDT
>Facts. Food processing is not a simple matter, and you cannot really
>avoid the additives by simply reading labels. There are many additives
>in foods which are not listed on the label. The fact that your child
>feels restless makes me wonder if you have our information...perhaps
>you've cut out more of his favorites than you need to (???)
Jane,
Thanks for the info! I work with an organization which helps people
who have severe reactions to MSG (monosodium glutamate). The
labeling laws allow manufacturers, in many situations, to hide MSG
in foods without listing it correctly on the label. In some cases,
the manufactuers have been known label a product as "No MSG" when it
actually contains MSG hidden under another name. Some people to go
International Food Technologists conventions and other conventions to
try to get some accurate information on particular products.
It is great to see that the Feingold Association goes beyond what is
listed on the labels! Even though the labels seem to be accurate in
many cases, I think it can be very important to have the additional
information. One thing that I found helpful when shopping for myself
or for children is to purchase foods at large natural foods
supermarkets / health food stores when possible. Such stores now
have more foods/drinks that kids will like. Also, I think it makes
the selection a little easier when 99% of the foods have little or no
additives or preservatives.
Best Wishes,
- Mark
mgold@holisticmed.com
Holistic Healing Web Page
http://www.HolisticMed.com/
Date: Wed, 24 Jun 1998 13:42:43 -0400
From: WRITETOME
To: add-holistic@mLists.net
Subject: Re: ADD The Feingold Program
Where do I get information on the "Feingold" Program?
Date: Sat, 27 Jun 1998 00:08:13 -0400 (EDT)
From: Mark Gold
To: add-holistic@mLists.net
Subject: Re: ADD Peter Breggin & Talking Back to Ritalin
>One of the nice benefits of the Feingold Program is that at least one
>parent generally notices a reduction of their symptoms when they join
>their child on the Program.
Jane,
If you have a chance, can you talk a bit about your book and about some of
the other resources available from the Feingold Association? Also, does
the Feingold Association sponsor research? Does the Feingold Association
have Regional and local groups and meetings? Thank you for being here to
help out and provide information and resources!
Best Wishes,
- Mark
mgold@holisticmed.com
Holistic Healing Web Page
http://www.HolisticMed.com/
To: add-holistic@mLists.net
Subject: Re: ADD Gluten Intoleraence & Opiod Peptides
From: janefaus@juno.com (Jane H Hersey)
Date: Sun, 28 Jun 1998 13:02:37 EDT
Hi Mark
Several of our members are working on helping with the gluten and casein
intolerance issues. I am not the best person to address this issue,
other than to say that we are in the process of developing materials that
will offer direction to those who must avoid these food components. This
will include specific food advice, mail order resources for special diets
and, eventually, a listing of acceptable brand name products for these
folks.
Jane
To: add-holistic@mLists.net
Subject: Re: ADD Peter Breggin & Talking Back to Ritalin
From: janefaus@juno.com (Jane H Hersey)
Date: Sun, 28 Jun 1998 14:36:44 EDT
My book "Why Can't My Child Behave?" reflects the basic philosophy I
share with my colleagues.
I think that the approach we take is based, in large part, on the
experiences we had as we searched for some person or some way to help our
children. Most of us spent a lot of time, effort and money trying to
help our children, and we were very disappointed with what we received in
return.
After attempting to follow some fairly complicated behavior mod
strategies, I was amazed and delighted that the answer for my daughter
was so simple and straightforward. I changed the food I gave her and
quickly saw a dramatic improvement in her behavior and ability to
attend to what was going on around her.
For many families a relatively small change in diet can yield very big
results. For other families, it might take a bit longer, or the results
might be good rather than great. There is a lot of variation.
But the bottom line for us is this: Let's try some simple changes and
see if they yield results. This can be a hard concept to accept -- the
idea that an easy change could result in a significant improvement in a
child who has what appears to be a serious problem. We tend to think
that "heavy duty" problems need "heavy duty" solutions, but that isn't
always the case. We feel very comfortable suggesting the Feingold
Program because there's no down side to it -- no harmful side effects.
Mary Callahan is a nurse who found that when her son drank milk he acted
autistic and when he stayed away from milk he behaved normally. She
wrote about it in her book "Fighting for Tony." The frustrating thing
was that despite the fact that she was able to produce a very normal
child, her doctor would not believe what was clearly obvious. It didn't
fit his world as he saw it.
It isn't my desire to try and change someone's mindset, but rather to
offer information to those who are interested in knowing about the
subject. One of the things that most intrigues me about the Feingold
Program is that we enjoy and very best of both worlds, and enjoy such
benefits as a result.
I want to be able to tell another mom (sorry guys, I don't mean to be
sexist) how she can:
- find the food she wants easily
- give her child the treats he likes
- get the best taste, quality, and value for her money
- and end up with a child who is happy, healthy, excells in school, and
is a pleasure to be with.
I love the fact that I can buy excellent foods at good prices, and know
that they are wholesome and free of harmful additives. I want my
chocolate ice cream, but without the vanillin. I want steak or soda, or
a restaurant meal to remember, but with no negative effects.
The question now is generally: "Why should I give up synthetic
additives?"
My question is: "Why on Earth should I eat them?"
My book and the work we do are all focused on solving problems. It's
nice to understand about neurotransmitter reuptake, but that's an area
for others to address. What I want to know is what my kid can have when
she stops by the 7-Eleven for a snack. I want to be able to provide
something she will enjoy, and not have to pay for it with a day or more
of bouncy behaviors.
I enjoy being a part of a group that shows parents how they can obtain a
cookie that is a dead ringer for Oreos, but tastes much better, or how
they can find the natural coloring so they can bring orange frosted
cupcakes in for the class Halloween party, and not have the children eat
toxic dyes.
This is the type of research we conduct. Since our funds are so limited
(we charge only $49 for the big member packet/newsletter subscription) we
have to allocate them carefully. There is plenty of academic research
needed, and it should be conducted by the government agencies and
universities that have these resources.
You asked about local meetings. Most of our work is centralized, so we
don't hold regular meetings in very many areas, though we do have parent
volunteers who go out and speak to clubs, groups, PTAs, etc . The major
reason we have discontinued most meetings is that once we had our
printed materials refined to the point where they are now, many people
found that they didn't need to go to a meeting; they are able to get all
the information they need through the newsletter, Handbook, my book, etc.
Support groups generally are for people who are still having problems;
once the information became available the number of people still having
problems dropped sharply.
Today, when people have questions/problems, they generally contact us via
phone or via our web site (www.feingold.org) where we can provide extra
help.
We will be holding our national conference in a few weeks (July 17 & 18
in Fairfax, VA). This a great opportunity for people to learn more about
the program and to share information. Interested people can call me at
the VA office (703) 768-3287.
Many thanks for your interest and for inviting me to share this with you
all.
Jane Hersey
Steve Waldstein
Presentation + Questions & Answers
For ADD-Holistic Discussion Group
http://www.HolisticMed.Com/add/
Date: Sun, 28 Jun 1998 22:34:32 -0400 (EDT)
From: Mark Gold
To: add-holistic@mLists.net
Subject: ADD Introduction of Visiting Expert
Hi! Before introducing the next Visiting Expert to the group, I would
like to take a moment to thank Jane Hersey for taking the time to visit
and provide very helpful information and resources. I was very impressed
with the practical advice and tools that are offered by the Feingold
Association. Thank you!
I am very happy to introduce our next Visiting Expert, Steve Waldstein.
He is one of the most knowledgable and respected practitioners in his
field. I have learned alot from reading his posts to Internet discussion
groups and regularly direct people to his web page for information and
referrals. I am grateful that he has offered to share his knowledge and
experience with us.
Steve Waldstein RSHom (NA) is a classical homeopath with 20 years
experience. He is the author of "How to Choose the Diet That's Right
for You," a book on individuality in nutrition. He is the President of
the Colorado Homeopathic Association and an officer and director of the
North American Society fo Homeopaths (NASH). He is certified as a
classical homeopaths by NASH. He has treated successfully hundreds of
childrean and adults diagnosed as ADD or ADHD.
Please join me in welcoming Steve to the group! [clap, clap, clap]
- Mark
mgold@holisticmed.com
Date: Sun, 28 Jun 1998 21:46:09 -0500
To: add-holistic@mLists.net
From: Paula Lee
Subject: Re: ADD Introduction of Visiting Expert
Welcome Steve.
Date: Mon, 29 Jun 1998 11:56:59 -0600
From: Steve Waldstein
To: add-holistic@mLists.net
Subject: ADD or ADHD and Homeopathy
Thanks for the introduction Mark.
As Mark stated I am a classical homeopath with extensive experience in
treating children with ADD or ADHD. I have treated a few adults also,
but much less then children.
First let me give you a case study to see what homeopathy looks like in
practice.
Robert was a 14 year old boy, who got into lots of trouble in school.
His teachers said he was always goofing off and not listening to them
and were very angry with him. He could not concentrate in schoolwork.
When he was younger (from preschool on) he had been extremely
hyperactive, he would literally bounce off walls, constantly moving.
About two years ago the hyperactivity went away and instead the not
focusing in school replaced it. He has now been diagnosed as ADD and
Ritalin was prescribed , but he had such bad reactions to it that his
parents took him off it. Before the change from hyperactivity to ADD
his grade point average was 3.1, now it is down to 2.2. He gets angry
easily over minor irritations, He is very restless in his sleep and
wakes his his covers all twisted up.
This is a short summary of what was actually 25 pages of notes taken
over a 3 hour initial appointment talking at times to bothe he and his
parents together, and at other times to each seperately.
Based upon the exact symptoms he suffered from (not the disease name
ADD) I choose to give him one dose of the homeopathic remedy Calcarea
Phosphorica 50M. NOTE: Do not give this on your own to someone, this
was the right remedy for this child but will not be the right remedy for
99.9% of children diagnosed as ADD.
The next day he became very angry- more so than usual. Immediately
after this he became a different child. His mother said the difference
was like day and night.
By one month he was able to focus on schoolwork much better but still
had some problem focusing. Instead of having to call his name five times
to get his attention, one time sufficed. His irirtability and anger
became much better. His sleep was much calmer.
By 3 months after the remedy his ability to concentrate remains similar
to at the one month level. His irritability and anger are even less.
His sleep is much calmer. His Grade point average has gone up to 3.2 ,
the best ever.
By 4 months he relapsed slightly and needed another dose of the same
remedy.
By 6 months he is totally able to concentrate. All the oroginal problems
are gone and we closed his case.
Look at the difference between what happened here and what happens when
someone takes Ritalin or similar drugs. With homeopathy he moved step by
step toward cure with no additional homeopathic remedies needed. With
Ritalin some symptoms are suppressed but nothing deeper is improved and
the drug is always needed.
These results were achieved with homeopathy. Homeopathy is a 200 year
old system of medicine based upon the LAw of Similars. This states that
a medicine which will prodice symptoms in a healthy person cures a
person with similar symptoms. Homeopaths have tested large numbers of
mostly natural substances on healthy people to see precisely what
symptoms they produce in healthy people. Then when we see a patient we
choose the homeopathic remedy which is capable of producing similar
symptoms to those of the patient.
Homeopathys works on achieving cure not suppression (driving symptoms
inward).
There are many people who use homeopathic remedies without understanding
homeopathy. To get the type of results I have described you need to see
a real homeopath- which is usually called a classical homeopath. To
make the search for real homeopaths easier I have a web page which
refers people in the US and Canada to good homeopaths. The web address
is
http://homeopathy-cures.com/
I would be glad to answer any questions you have on ADD or ADHD or other
childrens behavioral problems on this list for the next 2 weeks. To
learn more about homeopathy and ADD, I recommend an excellent book,
"Ritalin Free Kids" by Judith Reichenberg-Ullman and Robert Ullman.
My web site listed above also has additional information on homeopathy,
other good books to read, good homeopathy websites and information on
our practice in Denver.
Thanks Mark for inviting me to temporarily join your list. If I can help
in any way let me know.
Steve
Steve Waldstein RSHom (NA)
Classical Homeopathy, Inc.
2600 S. Parker Road #1-313
Aurora, CO 80014 USA
Phone: 303-338-1776
E-mail: stevew@dimensional.com
Web Page:
http://homeopathy-cures.com/
From: Scofamily@aol.com
Date: Mon, 29 Jun 1998 17:11:39 EDT
To: add-holistic@mLists.net
Subject: Re: ADD or ADHD and Homeopathy
Hi Steve,
I am curious about Homeopathy in treating develomental delays since attending
a dinner recently (sponsored by the Developmental Delay Registry in
Washington, DC) in which a testimonial was given by a mother whose child was
treated with Homeovitics for exposure to xenobiotics - environmental
pollutants.
To summarize, my son, 12 years, is diagnosed with a nonverbal learning
disability manifesting itself as immature behavior and impulsivity. His
overall cognitive functioning appears to be developing slower than others his
age. He is currently taking 30 mg Dex and 1,000 mg Tegretol per day. In
addition, he takes nutritional supplements prescribed by the HRI Pfeifer
Institute (Vit B's, C,E,Mg,Mn, Zn, DMAE, folic acid)
In your introduction you mentioned that you ask many questions and take
copious notes when interviewing a patient. What kinds of questions do you ask
and what information do you need to come up with suggestions for therapy? A
few examples would be nice. I realize the interview process takes a long
time!
Thank you,
Teresa
Scofamily@aol.com
Date: Mon, 29 Jun 1998 17:35:45 -0600
From: Steve Waldstein
To: add-holistic@mLists.net
Subject: Re: ADD or ADHD and Homeopathy
> To summarize, my son, 12 years, is diagnosed with a nonverbal learning
> disability manifesting itself as immature behavior and impulsivity. His
> overall cognitive functioning appears to be developing slower than others his
> age.
I have treated about 30-40 children with delayed development. Usually
they can be helped significantly. Actually I really like seeing
patients like this as so often the results are so satisfying.
The difficulty is finding the right remedy. There are over 2000
homeopathic remedies and only one is the perfect one for him and a few
others are close enough to help. A homeopath needs to look not at
delayed development but who your son to find precisely the right
remedy. One issue here is patience, whether you would have patience to
wait thru a number of wrong tries, if neccessary. I have been in
practice for 20 years and at this point I average getting the remedy
right 70% of the time, the first try, 20% of the time it takes 2-4 tries
to get it right with 1-2 months bewteen each try and 10% of the time I
can't find the right one. This is after lots of experience. A less
experienced homeopath will tend to take longer to find the right remedy.
Tremendous improvement can be found, if you have the patience to wait
for it.
> In your introduction you mentioned that you ask many questions and take
> copious notes when interviewing a patient. What kinds of questions do you ask
> and what information do you need to come up with suggestions for therapy? A
> few examples would be nice.
We start off by asking each of you to describe what the problems are -
not in diagnostic labels, not in generaliites but in very precise terms.
We ask about his personality, his likes, his dislikes. What every
physical symptoms is in great detail. About any significant events in
his life. ANd all the while we are observing- we get even more data
from observation then from what we are told. Each appointment goes in
different directions depending upon what the limitations are. But really
we are trying to find out, on all levels, who is this person in front of
us.
Steve
Steve Waldstein RSHom (NA)
Classical Homeopathy, Inc.
2600 S. Parker Road #1-313
Aurora, CO 80014 USA
Phone: 303-338-1776
E-mail: stevew@dimensional.com
Web Page:
http://homeopathy-cures.com/
From: YCaryl@aol.com
Date: Mon, 29 Jun 1998 21:57:57 EDT
To: add-holistic@mLists.net
Subject: Re: Re: ADD or ADHD and Homeopathy
I'm 59, very smart but also very unfocused, and obese at more than 350 pounds.
I have severe sleep apnea, which, together with the obesity, causes breathing
problems if I walk much, so I use a motorized scooter a lot of the time. I
have gone to all sorts of holistic practitioners over the years, including one
of the homeopaths on your list (one of the ones in boldface even!), but I've
never met any holistic person who had any insight into why I should be so very
large.
My own theory is that it has something to do with thyroid (was always on the
low end of basal metabolism tests as a kid) and also something to do with the
fact that I took amphetamines by prescription from about age 12-20 for weight
control even though in those days I was only about 20 percent overweight at
most. I was once in a group of very large women all over 250, and the one
thing we had in common was dexedrine prescriptions as kids.
Now that I know a little about ADHD and ritalin, I wonder, too, about the
effectsof dexedrine on my brain. I do remember that it didn't calm me down --
on the contrary, it made me feel speedy and sometimes good and sometimes
anxious.
So -- any thoughts on all this?
Thank you.
Caryl in Minneapolis
To: add-holistic@mLists.net
From: xxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Subject: ADD Individuality & Diet
Date: Mon, 29 Jun 1998 23:37:25 -0700
Hi Steve,
I'm very interested in the title of your book - "How to Choose the Diet
That's Right for You." For years I have tried following various diets
recommended by "authorities" who all contradict each other; and I now have
a strong hunch that the right diet is different for each person. Yet there
must be some sort of "cluster effect" of body types that react similarly to
similar foods. Yet after all my layperson's research into nutrition, I
find good-quality information very difficult to come by.
I've never seen your book, what is its basis?
Thanks!
Date: Tue, 30 Jun 1998 10:34:30 -0600
From: Steve Waldstein
To: add-holistic@mLists.net
Subject: Re: ADD Individuality & Diet
> I'm very interested in the title of your book - "How to Choose the Diet
> That's Right for You." For years I have tried following various diets
> recommended by "authorities" who all contradict each other; and I now have
> a strong hunch that the right diet is different for each person. Yet there
> must be some sort of "cluster effect" of body types that react similarly to
> similar foods. Yet after all my layperson's research into nutrition, I
> find good-quality information very difficult to come by.
>
> I've never seen your book, what is its basis?
This book was published in 1984 and is now out of print (though We are
privately reprinting it and will have it available in approximately 2
months.
The basis is that everyone has very different nutritional needs, and
that even sub-dividing into body types does not work well. Instead you
need to learn 1. what is a general good diet to try offering your body
and 2. learn to listen to your bodies responses to what it likes and
what it does not. So part look at things like listening to your
cravings and learning which ones are real and need to be listened to and
which ones are from pathology and should be ignored. Another part
examines lots of the controversial areas in nutrition and tries to makes
sense of all the conflicting information available.
Steve
Steve Waldstein RSHom (NA)
Classical Homeopathy, Inc.
2600 S. Parker Road #1-313
Aurora, CO 80014 USA
Phone: 303-338-1776
E-mail: stevew@dimensional.com
Web Page:
http://homeopathy-cures.com/
Date: Tue, 30 Jun 1998 10:44:07 -0600
From: Steve Waldstein
To: add-holistic@mLists.net
Subject: Re: ADD or ADHD and Homeopathy
> I'm 59, very smart but also very unfocused, and obese at more than 350 pounds.
> I have severe sleep apnea, which, together with the obesity, causes breathing
> problems if I walk much, so I use a motorized scooter a lot of the time. I
> have gone to all sorts of holistic practitioners over the years, including one
> of the homeopaths on your list (one of the ones in boldface even!), but I've
> never met any holistic person who had any insight into why I should be so very
> large.
Why is something I don't know. Could the amphetamines have had an effect
- yes. Did they- I don't know. But we usually can help make an obese
person a healthier obese person- and sometimes they also lose alot of
weight but not always. With the homeopath you saw- did they feel that
they found the right remedy or were they still searching. As I mentioned
yesterday, you don't always find the remedy the first try- sometimes it
takes a number of tries. Once the right remedy is found, it will start
moving things in the right direction. Sometiems the progress is quite
fast and sometimes slow- and patience is needed.
Steve
Steve Waldstein RSHom (NA)
Classical Homeopathy, Inc.
2600 S. Parker Road #1-313
Aurora, CO 80014 USA
Phone: 303-338-1776
E-mail: stevew@dimensional.com
Web Page:
http://homeopathy-cures.com/
To: add-holistic@mLists.net
Subject: Re: ADD Individuality & Diet
Date: Tue, 30 Jun 1998 16:26:41 EDT
Sender: owner-add-holistic@mLists.net
On Tue, 30 Jun 1998 10:34:30 -0600 Steve Waldstein
writes:
>xxxxxxxxxxxxxx wrote:
>>
>> I'm very interested in the title of your book - "How to Choose the Diet
>> That's Right for You." For years I have tried following various diets
>> recommended by "authorities" who all contradict each other; and I now have
>> a strong hunch that the right diet is different for each person.
====================
As someone new to this list and fairly new to recognizing and coping with
ADD, I am excited by the possibilities offered by holistic approaches. I
would certainly appreciate information on _How to Choose the Diet That's
Right for You_ when it becomes available again.
I have read a variety of things lately that emphasize the importance of
listening to one's various body signals--and PAYING ATTENTION to them--in
order to address issues as diverse as weight loss, mood swings,
concentration . . . it's amazing, and a bit scary, that something so
fundamental is so overlooked these days.
To: add-holistic@mLists.net
From: xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxx
Subject: Re: ADD Individuality & Diet
Date: Tue, 30 Jun 1998 16:31:14 -0700
emcklvee@juno.com wrote:
>
>I have read a variety of things lately that emphasize the importance of
>listening to one's various body signals--and PAYING ATTENTION to them--in
>order to address issues as diverse as weight loss, mood swings,
>concentration . . . it's amazing, and a bit scary, that something so
>fundamental is so overlooked these days.
Can you suggest any reading material?
Also - I would love to read Steven's book. When will it be available?
I still haven't figured out what to eat, after years of trying. As an ADD
person, I've always had a hard time keeping good food journals. And there
are so many variables - ingredients, food combinations, outside factors,
etc... I am desparate for help in this area.
Thanks,
From: YCaryl@aol.com
Date: Tue, 30 Jun 1998 20:15:02 EDT
To: add-holistic@mLists.net
Subject: Re: Re: ADD Individuality & Diet
Thank you for your reply, Steve.
How can we on this list be sure we know when your book is available? Exactly
what I do not know is how to listen to my body's cravings, to know which are
healthy and which are not.
Caryl
From: emcklvee@juno.com
To: add-holistic@mLists.net
Subject: Re: ADD Individuality & Diet
Date: Tue, 30 Jun 1998 21:20:45 EDT
On Tue, 30 Jun 1998 16:31:14 -0700 xxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxx
writes:
>Can you suggest any reading material?
>
>Also - I would love to read Steven's book. When will it be available?
>I still haven't figured out what to eat, after years of trying. As an ADD
>person, I've always had a hard time keeping good food journals. And there
>are so many variables - ingredients, food combinations, outside factors,
>etc... I am desparate for help in this area.
====================
Regarding general principles on how and when to eat, I'd recommend books
by Jean Antonello, a registered nurse and dietician. She really comes
down hard on the things in our culture that have trained people to ignore
the body's wisdom. She is specifically concerned with weight loss and
maintenance, but her call for common sense applies in other areas of life
as well.
For instance, I have found that ignoring the body's signals for water can
sometimes exacerbate my ADDness as much as lack of good nutrition or lack
of sleep. Poorly hydrated brain cells don't contribute to mental clarity
and a sense of well-being.
Date: Wed, 1 Jul 1998 06:25:00 -0500
From: "Patti"
Subject: Re: ADD or ADHD and Homeopathy
Dear Steve...
I took my son to a homeopathic "doctor" and she prescribed and gave him one
dose of stramonium... I think that is the spelling, but you would know for
sure. The difference was remarkable, but considering he went to his dad's
house for visitation, the remedy did not last. She has given him another
dose, that lasted for several days as well. Maybe she did not "get" the
right remedy??? I had really hoped this might do the trick... What is your
experience with this? I really don't have endless resources to continue
going each and every time he flares up , as visits with a remedy are around
$100.,
Thanks!
Patti
Date: Wed, 1 Jul 1998 08:32:46 -0400
From: George von Hilsheimer
Subject: Re: ADD or ADHD and Homeopathy
In most cases the homeopathic 'remedy' is not a remedy but a palliative, and
you have to learn and get kits of medicines and manage yourself. Remember
that alternative medicine is an alternative way to make money.
Dr. Von
Date: Wed, 1 Jul 1998 09:53:28 -0500 (CDT)
From: Pam Myers
Subject: Re: ADD or ADHD and Homeopathy
Hi all,
Homeopathy is a well respected system of treatment.
For more information see:
http://www.homeopathy.com/
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Pam Myers: pmyers@mail.coin.missouri.edu
Date: Wed, 1 Jul 1998 17:11:53 -0400
From: "Lisa Graham"
Subject: Re: ADD or ADHD and Homeopathy
Not so. Homeopathic remedies assist in the restoration of "balance" to the
body. And you don't have to buy "kits". Homeopathy is very cost effective
for our family. As for learning to manage oneself, hopefully that is
something we all do everyday. Not just in our health, but every facet of
our lives requires management to some degree. And your comment about money?
ha ha You seem biased, and lack knowledge about homeopathy and apparently
other forms of "complementary" medicine as well. Lisa
Date: Wed, 01 Jul 1998 14:37:31 -0600
From: Steve Waldstein
Subject: Re: ADD Individuality & Diet
xxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxx wrote:
> Can you suggest any reading material?
> Also - I would love to read Steven's book. When will it be available?
I will advise the group when my book is reprinted.
A good book is "Diet and Nutrition" by Rudolf Ballentine.
It is funny that we are going off in a nutrition direction so much,
though I feel that for ADD and ADHD, nutrition, though important, will
not solve the problem, while homeopathy can cure, in the majority of
cases.
Steve
Steve Waldstein RSHom (NA)
Classical Homeopathy, Inc.
2600 S. Parker Road #1-313
Aurora, CO 80014 USA
Phone: 303-338-1776
E-mail: stevew@dimensional.com
Web Page:
http://homeopathy-cures.com/
Date: Wed, 01 Jul 1998 14:58:43 -0600
From: Steve Waldstein
Subject: Re: ADD or ADHD and Homeopathy
George von Hilsheimer wrote:
>
> In most cases the homeopathic 'remedy' is not a remedy but a palliative, and
> you have to learn and get kits of medicines and manage yourself. Remember
> that alternative medicine is an alternative way to make money.
>
> Dr. Von
I am sorry but I don't agree. A large amount of homeopathic training
goes into the differences between suppression, palliation and cure. On
follow-up visits homeopaths are constantly evaluating to make sure that
there is a curative reaction. I have treated a large number of people
who no longer have their original problems and are no longer taking
homeopathic remedies because they are cured.
Self treating with a home kit is fine for first aid problems and
reasonable for acute disease but for chronic disease like ADD/ADHD you
can't self treat or treat your family very effectively. Homeopathy is
very difficult and takes many years of training.
As far as the slur about we are in it for the money, I would find it
hard to think of another career that provides so little financial
compensation relative to the number of years of study.
Steve
Steve Waldstein RSHom (NA)
Classical Homeopathy, Inc.
2600 S. Parker Road #1-313
Aurora, CO 80014 USA
Phone: 303-338-1776
E-mail: stevew@dimensional.com
Web Page:
http://homeopathy-cures.com/
Date: Wed, 01 Jul 1998 15:23:18 -0600
From: Steve Waldstein
Subject: Re: YCaryl ADD ADHD and homeopathy
Richard Geller wrote:
> Sounds like a problem with carbohydrates/wheat/corn etc. You might want
> to try the Atkins diet. Many report their minds become clearer and life
> becomes a lot better within a few weeks from starting Atkins or similar
> low carb diet. Basically you cut out potatoes, bread, pasta, sugar,
> wheat, corn products, and stick to meat, chicken, fish, eggs, and low
> carb veggies such as salads, greens, cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage.
> --Richard from Tarzana
I would not recommend this as a long term diet for most people. But one
can experiment and see what works well for them.
Steve
Steve Waldstein RSHom (NA)
Classical Homeopathy, Inc.
2600 S. Parker Road #1-313
Aurora, CO 80014 USA
Phone: 303-338-1776
E-mail: stevew@dimensional.com
Web Page:
http://homeopathy-cures.com/
Date: Wed, 1 Jul 1998 17:54:34 -0400
From: George von Hilsheimer
Subject: ADD Steve's Overdefensive response
Steve, people in alternative medicine all get paid. Pay always shapes what
happens. I did NOT slur you or your fellows. I merely pointed out a truth.
You get paid, M.D.s get paid. I get paid. I didn't even say "its ONLY an
alternative way to make money." However, in my book, competent,
compassionate, caring healers always urge their clients, patients, pupils to
learn, care for themselves and to be aware, and wary. I tell my patients,
NEVER trust me, I make mistakes, and I have an ego and I have unconscious
drives too. Trust what I teach you which is solid, good, deep, useful, true
for you.
The homeopath who saw this child should have outlined a path, made a
prediction re time, and told what outcomes to expect. And should have
started the process of education.
It would be useful if you, yourself, would post a good case history of an
ADHD child who is now no longer ADHD so that we can see the path by which
this occured. You might even refer us to published studies of homeopathic
cures of ADHD. My own case histories and those of people who work as I do
are always readable at www.eegspectrum.com.
Me, I'm very wary. However, Sam Corson did CURE hyperactive dogs by simple
interventions. We CURE hyperactive and ADD children by a simple
intervention - and I always advise parents to buy their own machine and
learn to train their own child - buy one as a group. If its that simple,
its that simple.
Moreover, if I spend time with you I give you a bill, but I'm always
teaching and liberating. If a patient still needs me after 3 months then it
was either a very difficult case, or I screwed up (or the parent didn't
follow the plan). If he gets hit by a truck, maybe he'll need me again, but
I will already have taught Mommy what to do.
It never hurts to remind our clients that we are human and fail.
Dr. Von
Date: Wed, 1 Jul 1998 18:26:15 -0400 (EDT)
From: Mark Gold
Subject: Re: ADD or ADHD and Homeopathy
Steve,
Thank you for sharing your expertise. Being the inquisitive sort of
fellow, I have a few questions. If it is too many for one sitting, please
feel free to split it up and answer the one or two that seem most
relevent.
- I have heard through friends that it is common for symptoms
to worsen or change for a brief period after being given a
homeopathic remedy. Is that true? And if so, what percentage
of time does it occur and generally how long does this period
last?
- One of the under-utilized aspects of Holistic Medicine is the
patient interview. Learning details about a patient, his/her
diet, lifestyles, emotional issues, etc. Given that, by
defination, experienced Classical Homeopaths such as yourself
learn quite a bit about a patient before prescribing a
homeopathic remedy, based on what you learn, do you ever
suggest diet or lifestyle adjustments to complement the
treatment.
I understand that the primary curative treatment is to
provide the *correct* homeopathic remedy. I am just
interested in what you and most other Classical Homeopaths
usually do in the diet and lifestyle area -- whether to
supplement the homeopathic treatment or as a preventive
medicine suggestion.
- You mentioned that there are ~2,000 homeopathic remedies.
Is it possible that there will be cases of behavioral disorders
where none of the remedies are a "perfect match", but a
couple are "pretty close"? If that happens, what can the
Homeopath do?
- I know that adults and some children can sometimes be "guarded"
about what they reveal about themselves emotionally (or perhaps
even physically). Do you ever find that this significantly
hinders your ability to find the correct remedy?
- I have heard that homeopathy is very popular in Europe.
Are the practitioners primarily Classical Homeopaths
or is it a mixture of Classical Homeopaths with lots of
training and others with perhaps just a few workshops?
For our non-North American list members, are there any
organizations which compile a list of experienced Classical
Homeopaths? If not, is it best then to contact certain
types of Homeopathy colleges for a referral?
I know that you mentioned the book, "Ritalin Free Kids" by Judith
Reichenberg-Ullman and Robert Ullman for information on homeopathy
and ADD. Feel free to let me (us) know if the answers to these
types of questions are in this book.
Best Wishes,
- Mark
mgold@holisticmed.com
Holistic Healing Web Page
http://www.HolisticMed.com/
Date: Wed, 01 Jul 1998 14:52:00 -0600
From: Steve Waldstein
Subject: Re: ADD or ADHD and Homeopathy
Patti wrote:
> I took my son to a homeopathic "doctor" and she prescribed and gave him one
> dose of stramonium... I think that is the spelling, but you would know for
> sure. The difference was remarkable, but considering he went to his dad's
> house for visitation, the remedy did not last. She has given him another
> dose, that lasted for several days as well. Maybe she did not "get" the
> right remedy??? I had really hoped this might do the trick... What is your
> experience with this? I really don't have endless resources to continue
> going each and every time he flares up , as visits with a remedy are around
> $100.,
It depends- if these were liquid doses, then they may just need frequent
repitition- ask the homeopath. If these were dry pills- it may be the
wrong strength or it may be a close to right prescription but not the
perfect one. You need to ask your homeopath. Homeopathy is very hard to
practice, finding the perfect remedy and dose is sometimes very
difficult, but the results when it is found are amazing.
Steve
Steve Waldstein RSHom (NA)
Classical Homeopathy, Inc.
2600 S. Parker Road #1-313
Aurora, CO 80014 USA
Phone: 303-338-1776
E-mail: stevew@dimensional.com
Web Page:
http://homeopathy-cures.com/
Date: Wed, 01 Jul 1998 17:22:08 -0600
From: Steve Waldstein
Subject: Re: ADD Defensiveness
George von Hilsheimer wrote:
> If you are telling me that we should not encourage patients to learn, to be
> self responsible, to know all they can about themselves and their children,
> and to be as responsible as possible for themselves, make your own self clear.
Any good homeopath teachs their patients all they are willing to learn
about homeopathy and has many books available to read. And they
encourage them to take control of their life as much as possible.
But despite this, chronic disease is not something that you can
self-treat with homeopathy. Also you can't treat yourself for chronic
problems. I can't treat myself as I do not have the perspective to see
my problems, I only know my experience of them.
The long term goal in homeopathy is curing a person so they don;t need
treatment anymore, In some patients that takes the long initial
appointment and 1 or 2 monthly follow-ups. In other more serious cases
it is year after year of step by step removing of layers of problems.
But the visits start monthly and tend to get less and less often over
time.
> That's the way I prefer my patients to be
> - I've sent two mommies home this week with a biofeedback machine, its a lot
> easier for them in that manner, and any practitioner who doesn't want her
> patients to learn and to evaluate for themselves is just out of step with
> humane medicine, in my unhumble opinion.
I am glad that this works with your approach. With homeopathy the
equivalent is that after we find the right remedy, and as the patient
understands the process, with liquid remedies they can learn to take the
remedy themself when needed to move the cure along. And eventually they
don't need it at all.
Steve
Steve Waldstein RSHom (NA)
Classical Homeopathy, Inc.
2600 S. Parker Road #1-313
Aurora, CO 80014 USA
Phone: 303-338-1776
E-mail: stevew@dimensional.com
Web Page:
http://homeopathy-cures.com/
Date: Wed, 01 Jul 1998 17:30:35 -0600
From: Steve Waldstein
Subject: Re: ADD or ADHD and Homeopathy
Mark Gold wrote:
> 1. I have heard through friends that it is common for symptoms
> to worsen or change for a brief period after being given a
> homeopathic remedy. Is that true? And if so, what percentage
> of time does it occur and generally how long does this period
> last?
Often a person gets worse before they get better, This is not a side
effect but the person getting stronger and the body throwing off old
problems. It is a good sign. It usually starts within the first week,
it usually doesnt last long, and it usually is not a big deal. If the
dose of the remedy is chosen perfectly, adjusting it to the sensitivity
of the patient, then it wont happen at all.
> 2. One of the under-utilized aspects of Holistic Medicine is the
> patient interview. Learning details about a patient, his/her
> diet, lifestyles, emotional issues, etc. Given that, by
> defination, experienced Classical Homeopaths such as yourself
> learn quite a bit about a patient before prescribing a
> homeopathic remedy, based on what you learn, do you ever
> suggest diet or lifestyle adjustments to complement the
> treatment.
Every homeopath approaches this differently. If there are major
obstacles to cure, that keep them from getting well- these need to be
addressed immediately. Otherwise I wait until after the right remedy is
found and they start to improve. At some point after the right remedy,
maybe a month, maybe a year, but at some point, a change happens inside
the person and from within them they start changing ther lifestyle. This
is when I start talking diet and lifestyle issues with them, because
they can hear it now, where before it would have been inside one ear out
the other.
I have to leave for the day and will answer the other questions
tommorrow.
Steve
Steve Waldstein RSHom (NA)
Classical Homeopathy, Inc.
2600 S. Parker Road #1-313
Aurora, CO 80014 USA
Phone: 303-338-1776
E-mail: stevew@dimensional.com
Web Page:
http://homeopathy-cures.com/
Date: Thu, 02 Jul 1998 11:34:23 -0600
From: Steve Waldstein
Subject: Re: ADD or ADHD and Homeopathy
I am continuing to answer Mark's questions.
> 3. You mentioned that there are ~2,000 homeopathic remedies.
> Is it possible that there will be cases of behavioral disorders
> where none of the remedies are a "perfect match", but a
> couple are "pretty close"? If that happens, what can the
There is a concept in homeopathy called the simillimum- which is the
remedy which is the closest match with the symptoms of the patient. The
simillimum will tend to totally transform the life of the patient,
raising them to a high level of health in the shortest time possible.
Sometimes the simillimum for a patient is not one that we have tested as
a homeopathic remedy- so the best we can do is find a close similar.
This similar will still cure a person but not as fast and not as deep
and other remedies may be needed to complete the cure. Think of it as
the difference between a hole in one in golf versus a series of shots
all moving in somewhat the right direction and eventually reaching the
hole.
> 4. I know that adults and some children can sometimes be "guarded"
> about what they reveal about themselves emotionally (or perhaps
> even physically). Do you ever find that this significantly
> hinders your ability to find the correct remedy?
Yes we need to look real deeply at what is going on in the patient. But
the fact that they are guarded and the way they are guarded and what
areas they are guarded about are pieces of the puzzle that we can use in
choosing the remedy. But in general men are sometimes harder to treat
then women because they are more guarded as a rule.
> 5. I have heard that homeopathy is very popular in Europe.
> Are the practitioners primarily Classical Homeopaths
> or is it a mixture of Classical Homeopaths with lots of
> training and others with perhaps just a few workshops?
> For our non-North American list members, are there any
> organizations which compile a list of experienced Classical
> Homeopaths? If not, is it best then to contact certain
> types of Homeopathy colleges for a referral?
There are many people who call themselves homeopaths who know almost
nothing about it. One way to tell real homeopaths is to see if they are
certfied as a homeopath. The following applies to the US and Canada
For a MD homeopath they should have DHt after there name
For a Naturopath (ND) they should have DHANP
For a professional homeopath they should have RSHom (NA)
For any they should have a CCH.
Or you can look at my website listed below which shows most of the good
homeopaths in the US and Canada.
For elswhere check with the classical homeopathic society in your
country for referrals.
> I know that you mentioned the book, "Ritalin Free Kids" by Judith
> Reichenberg-Ullman and Robert Ullman for information on homeopathy
> and ADD. Feel free to let me (us) know if the answers to these
> types of questions are in this book.
What this books does well is show a large number of case histories of
people with ADD or ADHD cured with homeopathy.
Steve
Steve Waldstein RSHom (NA)
Classical Homeopathy, Inc.
2600 S. Parker Road #1-313
Aurora, CO 80014 USA
Phone: 303-338-1776
E-mail: stevew@dimensional.com
Web Page:
http://homeopathy-cures.com/
Date: Fri, 3 Jul 1998 16:49:44 -0700
From: xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Subject: Re: ADD Individuality & Diet
Steven,
What is the relationship between homeopathy and nutrition? If a patient
comes to see you with chronic digetive problems, will homeopathy alone
often cure them? Or do they generally need to make dietary modifications
as well? And if so how do they know what to do about their diets?
Thanks,
Date: Sun, 05 Jul 1998 01:49:37 -0400
From: Feingold Association
Subject: Re: ADD Individuality & Diet
At 02:37 PM 7/1/98 -0600, you wrote:
>
>It is funny that we are going off in a nutrition direction so much,
>though I feel that for ADD and ADHD, nutrition, though important, will
>not solve the problem, while homeopathy can cure, in the majority of
>cases.
Steve, it's not at all "funny" to discuss nutrition relating to ADHD
....... since in over 50% of people who try the Feingold diet (NOT strictly
"nutrition," because even junk-food freaks can do it), the person is
sufficiently better on the diet so that NO other intervention is necessary.
That includes homeopathy, supplements, EEG, meds, all the stuff that must
be bought and bought and bought ........ truly a remarkable savings in
money since membership in the Feingold Association is all it takes.
The Feingold diet is not as hard as keeping Kosher or being a vegetarian
.........and no-one feels sorry for the kids who keep Kosher or become
vegetarian -- it is expected that they will appreciate the benefits of
doing so. How do I know? Because my own kids have kept Kosher, are on the
Feingold diet, and have friends who are vegetarians. We also have friends
whose children are diabetics -- now THERE is a tough diet to learn and
keep. Feingold? It is voted the easiest of them all by the kids who have
had to DO it. My son had been on Ritalin and Cylert and would have also
been on Tegretol because the docs were sure the hallucinations (on Cylert)
were really seizures .......... all meds were cancelled when he developed
Tourette Syndrome ........ a year later I tried the Feingold diet because
nothing else had helped him, I didn't expect that to help either; but in 4
days he was a different child. He still needed someone to write for him in
school for the next year (he was dysgraphic) and untimed tests ........ but
he was no longer off-the-wall emotionally and was able to learn. He is now
a college senior majoring in Chemistry, and doing just fine. This kid who
had been almost kicked out of day camp, had no friends & had been refused
entrance in the local Hebrew school because of his behavior, after becoming
a Feingold kid was voted "most popular CIT" at a day camp, has been a life
guard, is president of the university fencing club (and won the title of
unclassified champion of the city in fencing after only 1 semester of
fencing), was fencing master at the Renaissance Festival, had a lead part
in his high school play as the prince in the Princess & the Pea. He did
not need homeopathy or anything else. It pays to try it, because rather
than medicating the child you simply refrain from poisoning him with stuff
he does not tolerate. The child who is used to it does not feel it as a
hardship; in fact, since I myself have been on the diet with them for years
now, I am absolutely unable to eat fluorescent-yellow rolls or red punch
drinks. As my daughter would say, "I don't eat things that color." When I
look at ingredients and see a list of petroleum-based items, that food is
simply not edible in my book.
Remember, the food dyes and synthetic flavorings are generally made from
petroleum; same with BHT, BHA, TBHQ ........... these are not foods. The
salicylate fruits contain chemicals whose relationship to these things is
complex, but they can usually be returned to the diet after a while, at
least to some extent. And why do companies put petroleum products in your
food, anyway? Because it is CHEAPER than real food products, and it saves
them money. And they will continue to do so until we the people demand
better.
I repeat: the diet approach should always be first; the other
interventions -- if still needed -- should be next, with the least invasive
being the first, of course. And, by the way, we have had numerous reports
that use of the diet together with meds results in success with a much
smaller than expected level of meds. There has not yet been any research
to show why this is so, but a pilot study I myself did this year as a
senior psychology student supports it and points the way to some
interesting research I hope to do in the future. Therefore, even if the
dietary intervention itself does not "work," it may pay to continue to use
the diet while trying the other interventions.
Sorry this was more long-winded than I expected.
Come visit the Feingold web site at
http://www.feingold.org for more
information & drop me a line (I'm the webmaster).
Best wishes,
Shula Edelkind, webmaster
http://www.feingold.org/indexx.html
Date: Mon, 06 Jul 1998 11:20:23 -0600
From: Steve Waldstein
Subject: Re: ADD Individuality & Diet
Feingold Association wrote:
>
> Steve, it's not at all "funny" to discuss nutrition relating to ADHD
> ....... since in over 50% of people who try the Feingold diet (NOT strictly
> "nutrition," because even junk-food freaks can do it), the person is
> sufficiently better on the diet so that NO other intervention is necessary.
What I thought was funny as that I was talking almost exclusively about
my nutrition book and not about homeopathy. The Feingold approach is to
my mind not really nutritional so much as avoiding poisons, which is
something we all should do. If the Feingold approach is enough to
elimate all out of balance problems in a person then great.
I have no problem at all with your approach of Feingold first, and if
that does not eliminate all problems then consider other approaches
also.
That said, As a homeopath I look at some things a little differently
then you. We look at why of 100 people eating the same diet, some have
problems and some don't. It is because some people have strong
constitutions and some have weak ones. Yes eating a poor diet and
eating poisonous food additives, adds to peoples problems. But a
persone with a strong constitution can be exposed to many stresses
without breaking down. What homeopathy does is increase a person's
constitutional strength so they can handle any reasonable stress they
are exposed to. But still it is important to avoid posions.
PS : I will be on line to answer questions thru Thursday morning.
Steve
Steve Waldstein RSHom (NA)
Classical Homeopathy, Inc.
2600 S. Parker Road #1-313
Aurora, CO 80014 USA
Phone: 303-338-1776
E-mail: stevew@dimensional.com
Web Page:
http://homeopathy-cures.com/
Date: Mon, 06 Jul 1998 11:27:10 -0600
From: Steve Waldstein
Subject: Re: ADD Individuality & Diet
xxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxx wrote:
> What is the relationship between homeopathy and nutrition? If a patient
> comes to see you with chronic digetive problems, will homeopathy alone
> often cure them? Or do they generally need to make dietary modifications
> as well? And if so how do they know what to do about their diets?
I will answer this in a slightly different form. Say a person has
massive food allergies. They find that if they avoid a long list of
foods then they have less symptoms. I tell them to continue avoiding
the foods. Then I work on finding the homeopathic remedy which will cure
them. Then after finding the right remedy and seeing that they are
getting better on every level, I then ask them to start slowly
reintroducing foods and see if they can handle them now. I ask them to
first try introducing the foods that they had the least problem with and
when they see then can handle them, slowly add back the rest. If they
still have problems with the foods, I say wait a few months and try
again. The goal is that a person can eat a normal (but good) diet
without having any problems.
Steve
Steve Waldstein RSHom (NA)
Classical Homeopathy, Inc.
2600 S. Parker Road #1-313
Aurora, CO 80014 USA
Phone: 303-338-1776
E-mail: stevew@dimensional.com
Web Page:
http://homeopathy-cures.com/
Date: Mon, 6 Jul 1998 12:29:52 -0700
From: xxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Subject: ADD Thanks
Thank you, Steven, for your reply. While the fields are often divided,
this is exactly the kind of thing that should be discussed among people
interested in holistic health.
Date: Wed, 8 Jul 1998 09:19:07 -0500
From: "Linda E. Love"
Subject: ADD Question for the doctors
On behalf of my grandson, my daughter would like to ask the following questions:
My 5 year old son was diagnosed with mild ADHD. Is there a "mild" form?
His ADHD seems to only affect his ability to stay focused. He isn't running
around a lot, but does fidget some. Is this typical of some ADHD children?
We put him on a dosage of 5mg of Ritalin, but the school said that there
wasn't much (if any) improvement, so we took him off. Should we try again at
a higher dosage?
TIA
Lisa
Date: Wed, 08 Jul 1998 11:14:04 -0600
From: Steve Waldstein
Subject: Re: ADD Question for the doctors
Linda E. Love wrote:
> On behalf of my grandson, my daughter would like to ask the following questions:
> My 5 year old son was diagnosed with mild ADHD. Is there a "mild" form?
> His ADHD seems to only affect his ability to stay focused. He isn't running
> around a lot, but does fidget some. Is this typical of some ADHD children?
The name ADHD is just a label. Your son has the issues he has. Like all
children labeled ADD or ADHD he has his own unique symptoms. Of the
hundreds of ADD kids I have treated, each has their own unique symptoms
and the differences between them is much more than the commonalities.
That is why homeopathy usess different remedies for each of these
people.
To understand more read "Ritalin Free Kids"
Steve
Steve Waldstein RSHom (NA)
Classical Homeopathy, Inc.
2600 S. Parker Road #1-313
Aurora, CO 80014 USA
Phone: 303-338-1776
E-mail: stevew@dimensional.com
Web Page:
http://homeopathy-cures.com/
Date: Wed, 8 Jul 1998 21:48:12 -0400 (EDT)
From: Mark Gold
Subject: ADD Homeopathy Question
Steve,
I have a few more very short questions I was hoping you could answer and
it may be of interest to the group as well.
A person who visits a Classical Homeopath might (before the visit) be
taking a numbers of possible substances:
- Herbs
- Vitamins
- Minerals
- Amino Acids
- Pharmaceuticals
- Other Supplements (e.g., green drinks, vandyl sulfate, etc.)
I have heard that it is better to avoid other treatments (unless
absolutely necessary) while taking homeopathic remedies. My questions
are:
- Is the practice relating to this issue consistent between Classical
Homeopaths, or is there some variation between practitioners?
- Which of the items do you generally recommend not taking when using
homeopathic remedies?
- When you have had success treating children with ADD, have some of
them been on ritalin or similar drugs? And if so, when do they
eliminate the drug? Before, during or after homeopathic treatment?
Thank you again for all of your help!
Best Wishes,
- Mark
mgold@holisticmed.com
Holistic Healing Web Page
http://www.HolisticMed.com/
Date: Thu, 9 Jul 1998 12:30:10 EDT
From: DrRappMD@aol.com
Subject: Re: ADD Homeopathy Question
In a message dated 98-07-08 21:53:05 EDT, you write:
> A person who visits a Classical Homeopath might (before the visit) be
> taking a numbers of possible substances:
> 1. Herbs
> 2. Vitamins
> 3. Minerals
> 4. Amino Acids
> 5. Pharmaceuticals
> 6. Other Supplements (e.g., green drinks, vandyl sulfate, etc.)
> I have heard that it is better to avoid other treatments (unless
> absolutely necessary) while taking homeopathic remedies. My questions
> are:
> 1. Is the practice relating to this issue consistent between Classical
> Homeopaths, or is there some variation between practitioners?
THERE IS CERTAINLY A VARIATION. SOME SAY OPNE THING- OTHERS SAY SOMETHING
ELSE. SOME CSAY CONTINUE ALLERGY EXTRACTS, SOME SAY STOP THEM. SOME SAY ONLY
ONE HOMEOPATHIC REMEDY WORKS; SOME SAY YOU CAN USE A MIX. I AM IN THE MIX
SCHOOL BUT IDEALLY I THINK ONE REMEDY AT A TIME IS BEST. YOU WORK WITH WHAT
HELPS, FASTEST, EASIEST AND MOST INEXPENSIVELY!
> 2. Which of the items do you generally recommend not taking when using
> homeopathic remedies?
I USE ALL OF THEM , INDIVIDUALIZED FOR EACH PATIENT.
> 3. When you have had success treating children with ADD, have some of
> them been on ritalin or similar drugs? And if so, when do they
> eliminate the drug? Before, during or after homeopathic treatment?
IF THEY REALLY NEED THE DRUG, THE PARENT CAN TELL WHEN THEY "RUN OUT OF GAS".
i TELL THEM TO START TO TAPER WITH THE PERMISSION OF THE DOCTOR WHO ORDERED IT
WHEN THEY FIND THEY CAN'T SEE WHEN A DOSE IS LATE OR MISSED. I USE MY
TREATMENTS WITH THE HOMEOPATHIC AND IT SEEMS TO WORK BUT HAVE DONE NO STUDIES
TO TELL WHAT IS DOING WHAT. I DON'T START WITH HOMEOPATHICS. I DO THE DIET
FIRST, BUILD UP THE IMMUNE SYSTEM WITH NUTRIENTS, CLEAN UP THE HOUSE AND
IMPROVE THE DIET. THESE THINGS OFTEN DO THE TRICK WITHOUT ANYTHING ELSE.
Date: Thu, 09 Jul 1998 11:41:00 -0600
From: Steve Waldstein
Subject: Re: ADD Homeopathy Question
> 1. Is the practice relating to this issue consistent between Classical
> Homeopaths, or is there some variation between practitioners?
Most experienced classical homeopaths would agree. The problems are
that taking drugs and other treatments can supress the symptoms. They
also can impose symptoms of their own (side -effects). So instead of
seeing a clear picture of the patients symptoms we seee the patient
minus some supressed symptoms plus added on symptoms. This makes finding
the right remedy much more difficult. Then after we do find the right
remedy the drugs and treatments can interfere, stopping the remedy from
working well. Also the interpretation of the action of the homeopathic
remedy is more difficult as a result.
Now we often don't have the luxury of treating people without any drugs.
Somoene with lupus may die if you take them off steroids, someone with
asthhma may die without their drugs and with ADD or ADHD children
especially may not function very well without Ritalin or similar drugs.
So the first thing we need to do is clear the field of every drug and
treatment that is not absolutely necessary and reduce drugging as much
as possible. Less experienced homeopaths are not capable of working
around drugs so they can;t treta people who must stay on them, and they
should refer these patients to more experienced homeopaths.
Then you prescribe despite the drugs and as the patient gets better you
start withdrawing the drugs. The short term goal is to get them
reasonable without drugs. The long term goal is cure.
> 2. Which of the items do you generally recommend not taking when using
> homeopathic remedies?
All drugs if possible- see above and also certain other things can
interfere with the patient. These vary from person to person. But most
homeopaths have patients avoid coffee, other treatments, drugs,
anti-perspirants , electric blankets and depending upon the remedy other
things also.
Steve
PS. I leave the list today. Any further questions should be sent to me
personally. And Mark I cant find the going off the list instructions -
please send them to me.
Steve Waldstein RSHom (NA)
Classical Homeopathy, Inc.
2600 S. Parker Road #1-313
Aurora, CO 80014 USA
Phone: 303-338-1776
E-mail: stevew@dimensional.com
Web Page:
http://homeopathy-cures.com/
Date: Thu, 09 Jul 1998 11:55:17 -0600
From: Steve Waldstein
Subject: Re: ADD Homeopathy Question
DrRappMD@aol.com wrote:
> SOME SAY ONLY
> ONE HOMEOPATHIC REMEDY WORKS; SOME SAY YOU CAN USE A MIX. I AM IN THE MIX
> SCHOOL BUT IDEALLY I THINK ONE REMEDY AT A TIME IS BEST.
Any homeopath only uses one remedy never a mixture. But there are many
people who use potentized remedies (what are called homeopathic
remedies) without prescribing based upon homeopathic principles and
these often use a mixture.
Steve
Steve Waldstein RSHom (NA)
Classical Homeopathy, Inc.
2600 S. Parker Road #1-313
Aurora, CO 80014 USA
Phone: 303-338-1776
E-mail: stevew@dimensional.com
Web Page:
http://homeopathy-cures.com/
Date: Thu, 09 Jul 1998 12:01:09 -0600
From: Steve Waldstein
Subject: Re: ADD Question for the doctors
DrRappMD@aol.com wrote:
>> The name ADHD is just a label. Your son has the issues he has. Like all
>> children labeled ADD or ADHD he has his own unique symptoms. Of the
>> hundreds of ADD kids I have treated, each has their own unique symptoms
>> and the differences between them is much more than the commonalities.
>> That is why homeopathy usess different remedies for each of these
>> people.
> I CANNOT AGREE. THERE REALLY ARE A CLUSTER OF VERY TYPICAL SYMPTOMS BUT EACH
> CHILD HAS A SLIGHT VARIATION.
The difference in our views is understandable. You are trained as an
allopath. Allopaths diagnoses by putting people into diagnostic boxes,
then chooses treatments depening to some degree on the diagnoses.
Homeoopaths do not use these diagnostic labels at all, in determining
the prescription. The reductionist system of diagnoses gives allopathy
some strengthes, but also some weaknesses. A good book to understand
more is Science of Homeopathy by George Vithoulkas.
> THERE IS NO DOUBT THAT HOMEOPATHICS HELP BUT
> WHAT I HAVE DONE FOR 40 YEARS CERTAINLY WORKS TOO AND NOT TIL RECENTLY
I did not say anything disparaging about your approach. Mine is just
different.
Steve
Steve Waldstein RSHom (NA)
Classical Homeopathy, Inc.
2600 S. Parker Road #1-313
Aurora, CO 80014 USA
Phone: 303-338-1776
E-mail: stevew@dimensional.com
Web Page:
http://homeopathy-cures.com/
Doris Rapp, MD
Presentation + Questions & Answers
For ADD-Holistic Discussion Group
http://www.HolisticMed.Com/add/
Date: Sun, 5 Jul 1998 21:28:17 -0400 (EDT)
From: Mark Gold
Subject: Introducing next week's ADD-Holistic Expert
Hi! I want to thank Steve Waldstein, RSHom (NA) for visiting the
ADD-Holistic list and providing important information about the treatment
of ADD with Classical Homeopathy. I think that we were very fortunate to
have such an experienced practitioner help us out (at least I feel that
way!). I hope that many of you will consider using Classical Homeopathy
for ADD and/or other conditions. (See Steve's web page for a list of
practitioners.) I believe that Steve is planning to stay with us for a
little while longer to answer questions. I look forward to hearing any
experiences from list members regarding the Feingold Program, Classical
Homeopathy, or the other important ideas posted to the list by George,
Ron, and others.
Perhaps you saw the first post from our next list expert. If not, here is
some introductory information:
Doris J. Rapp, MD., F.A.A.A., F.A.A.P., is a board-certified environmental
medical specialist and pediatric allergist. She is clinical assistant
professor of pediatrics at the State University of New York at Buffalo.
She is the founder of the Practical Allergy Foundation in Buffalo and is a
past president of the American Academy of Environmental Medicine. She the
the author of "Is This Your Child's World?", a comprehensive book for
identifying substances which causes illness and behavioral changes in
children and for providing treatment ideas.
Dr. Rapp was one of the honored speakers at the THE FIRST WORLD CONFERENCE
ON NON-PHARMACOLOGICAL THERAPIES FOR ADD & ADHD in New York City last
month. Please join me in welcoming Dr. Rapp to the discussion group!
[clap, clap, clap, clap, clap]. :-)
I expect that Dr. Rapp's first post will be tomorrow (Monday) sometime.
Dr. Rapp is new to the Internet and AOL, so please be patient if
posts don't go exactly as planned. :-)
Best Wishes,
- Mark
mgold@holisticmed.com
Holistic Healing Web Page
http://www.HolisticMed.com/
Date: Mon, 06 Jul 1998 10:55:29 -0600
From: Ron Hoggan
Subject: ADD Dr. Rapp
Hi Dr. Rapp,
It is, indeed, an honour to have you contribute to this list. Mark's
introduction failed to include mention your many publications in the peer
reviewed literature, but the introduction of a person with so many
achievements makes such oversights understandable.
I am, as you may have gathered by now, a big fan of yours. I think Mark is
to be congratulated on getting you to agree to visit this forum, and I'm
sure we are all grateful. I'm also sure we will learn a great deal from
your comments.
I have taken the liberty of appending a list from Medline of Dr. Rapp's
publications. It is an impressive list.
Welcome, Dr. Rapp.
best wishes,
Ron Hoggan
Hajewski C, et al. [See Related Articles]
Implementation and evaluation of Nursing Interventions Classification and
Nursing Outcomes Classification in a patient education plan.
J Nurs Care Qual. 1998 Jun; 12(5): 30-40.
PMID: 9610012; UI: 98272932.
Hsiao KK, et al. [See Related Articles]
Serial transmission in rodents of neurodegeneration from transgenic mice
expressing mutant prion protein.
Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 1994 Sep 13; 91(19): 9126-9130.
PMID: 7916462; UI: 94377505.
Sun T, et al. [See Related Articles]
T-cell receptor expression in lymphoid neoplasms. A comparison of
phenotypic expression and genotyping.
Ann Clin Lab Sci. 1993 Nov; 23(6): 423-432.
PMID: 8291897; UI: 94121480.
Rapp DJ. [See Related Articles]
Diagnostic testing and immunotherapy for allergy.
JAMA. 1988 Jul 15; 260(3): 341-342. No abstract available.
PMID: 3379740; UI: 88245496.
Rapp D. [See Related Articles]
The reception of Freud by the British press: general interest and literary
magazines, 1920-1925.
J Hist Behav Sci. 1988 Apr; 24(2): 191-201.
PMID: 3286754; UI: 88229045.
Glines D, et al. [See Related Articles]
Allergies and problem students.
Health Educ. 1988 Apr; 19(2): 34-38. No abstract available.
PMID: 3152219; UI: 90153423.
Rapp D. [See Related Articles]
Management of drooling.
Dev Med Child Neurol. 1988 Feb; 30(1): 128-129. No abstract available.
PMID: 3371566; UI: 88225818.
Rapp RP, et al. [See Related Articles]
Comparative accuracy of five intravenous-fluid controllers.
Am J Hosp Pharm. 1984 Dec; 41(12): 2634-2641.
PMID: 6517087; UI: 85094296.
Rapp DJ. [See Related Articles]
Management of allergy-related serous otitis.
Am J Otol. 1984 Oct; 5(6): 463-467.
PMID: 6542753; UI: 85094517.
Weiss L, et al. [See Related Articles]
Metastatic inefficiency in mice bearing B16 melanomas.
Br J Cancer. 1982 Jan; 45(1): 44-53.
PMID: 7059464; UI: 82135271.
Rapp DJ. [See Related Articles]
Diet and hyperactivity.
Pediatrics. 1981 Jun; 67(6): 937-938. No abstract available.
PMID: 7232062; UI: 81198711.
Rapp DJ. [See Related Articles]
Sublingual provocative food testing.
Ann Allergy. 1981 Jan; 46(1): 44. No abstract available.
PMID: 7006470; UI: 81107653.
Rapp DJ. [See Related Articles]
Abdominal pain.
Am J Dis Child. 1980 Oct; 134(10): 998. No abstract available.
PMID: 7424865; UI: 81036726.
Rapp D. [See Related Articles]
Drool control: long-term follow-up.
Dev Med Child Neurol. 1980 Aug; 22(4): 448-453.
PMID: 7409336; UI: 81004875.
Rowe JA, et al. [See Related Articles]
Tantrums: remediation through communication.
Child Care Health Dev. 1980 Jul; 6(4): 197-208.
PMID: 6447551; UI: 81002237.
Rapp DJ. [See Related Articles]
Food allergy treatment for hyperkinesis.
J Learn Disabil. 1979 Nov; 12(9): 608-616. No abstract available.
PMID: 541570; UI: 80161509.
Rapp DL, et al. [See Related Articles]
Meldreth dribble-control project.
Child Care Health Dev. 1979 Mar; 5(2): 143-149.
PMID: 455589; UI: 79211593.
Rapp D, et al. [See Related Articles]
Kinetics of milk lipoprotein lipase. Studies with tributyrin.
Eur J Biochem. 1978 Nov 15; 91(2): 379-385. No abstract available.
PMID: 32030; UI: 79085684.
Rapp DJ. [See Related Articles]
Food allergy.
Med J Aust. 1978 Jul 29; 2(3): 119. No abstract available.
PMID: 362140; UI: 79052683.
Rapp DJ. [See Related Articles]
Does diet affect hyperactivity?
J Learn Disabil. 1978 Jun; 11(6): 383-389. No abstract available.
PMID: 670829; UI: 78219462.
Rapp DJ. [See Related Articles]
Double-blind confirmation and treatment of milk sensitivity.
Med J Aust. 1978 May 20; 1(10): 571-572.
PMID: 355807; UI: 78246428.
Rapp DL, et al. [See Related Articles]
The effects of d-amphetamine on temporal discrimination in the rat.
Psychopharmacology (Berl). 1976 Dec 21; 51(1): 91-100.
PMID: 827781; UI: 77103283.
Rapp DJ, et al. [See Related Articles]
Allergy and chronic secretory otitis media.
Pediatr Clin North Am. 1975 Feb; 22(1): 259-264. Review. No abstract
available.
PMID: 1096055; UI: 75195569.
Keaten JH, et al. [See Related Articles]
Medical staff bylaws.
J Med Assoc Ga. 1973 Dec; 62(12): 423-426. No abstract available.
PMID: 4773607; UI: 74085134.
Rapp DJ, et al. [See Related Articles]
Review of chronic secretory otitis and allergy.
J Asthma Res. 1973 Jun; 10(4): 193-218. Review. No abstract available.
PMID: 4598112; UI: 74169483.
Rapp DJ, et al. [See Related Articles]
Review of chronic secretory otitis and allergy.
J Asthma Res. 1973 Jun; 10(4): 193-218. Review. No abstract available.
PMID: 4583068; UI: 74010058.
Rapp DJ. [See Related Articles]
Water as a cause of angio-edema and urticaria.
JAMA. 1972 Jul 17; 221(3): 305. No abstract available.
PMID: 5067806; UI: 72208243.
Rapp DJ. [See Related Articles]
Quality or quantity allergy.
Ann Allergy. 1972 Jun; 30(6): 364. No abstract available.
PMID: 5029835; UI: 72193335.
Rapp DJ. [See Related Articles]
Management of the child with allergic asthma and rhinitis.
Pediatr Clin North Am. 1969 Feb; 16(1): 257-269. No abstract available.
PMID: 4387959; UI: 69118299.
Date: Mon, 06 Jul 1998 11:23:00 -0600
From: Ron Hoggan
Subject: ADD Re: add-holistic-digest V1 #28
Hi Dr. Rapp,
I have recently completed a thesis in which I have postulated that
increased intestinal permeability, in combination with digestive enzyme
deficiencies, can result in ADHD. This process involves the absorption of
certain peptides into the blood. Since some of these peptides have been
shown to have opioid activity, while others have been shown to be
psychoactive, both hyperactivity and its absence, in the context of ADD,
may thus be explained. Additionally, the reduced arousal of some parts of
the brain, perhaps leading to reduced attentional capacity, may also find
explanation in the opioid function of these peptides. I have gone on to
postulate that chemical and food additives may find their way across the
intestinal barrier because of this food-induced increased intestinal
permeability.
While I have not read all of your publications, my hypothesis would appear
to be consistent, although parallel, to your work. (I am not a clinician. I
am a school teacher, so my work is primarilly theoretical.)
- Have you looked into the possibility of intestinal permeability? Are
you aware of any other work in this area?
- I know you have looked at issues surrounding dairy products and
behaviour. Do you also consider the possibility of gluten intolerance among
your patients?
- If so, because reactions to gluten may be delayed by 6 to 72 hours, how
do you explore this possibility?
- Are you aware of any tests related to digestive enzyme deficiencies in
ADD? (I have been unable to find any reports on this issue.)
- Are you aware of any work with ADD subjects where opioid blockers, such
as Naloxone, have been tried? (I am aware of the work in autism, but can
find no reports of such work in the context of ADD.)
I have many more questions, but will limit them as others will, no doubt,
also have many questions for you.
Thank you for visiting this list.
best wishes,
Ron Hoggan
Date: Mon, 6 Jul 1998 15:01:45 EDT
From: DrRappMD@aol.com
Subject: ADD Doris J. Rapp, M.D., FAAA, FAAP, FREM
7/5/98
I wish to thank Mark for his nice introduction. During this e-mail
discussion, my hope is that the information will help each of you. This is for
you or for someone you love. As much as I can, I will try to show you how to
find safer, easier, and faster ways to possibly relieve your child's
inability to pay attention or concentrate, his/her tendency to be impulsive
and possibly to be hyperactive. Yes, these characteristics, also, are a part
of the lives of many adults; so this is written to help ALL ages. If this
medical shoe fits, by all means, wear it!
These are the symptoms that are characteristic of ADD and ADHD: They are
presently "in vogue" diagnoses that are often recognized by parents and a
child's teacher at school. It is not unusual for someone to suggest that an
affected child be seen by a physician so that Ritalin (an activity modifying
drug and Class 2 narcotic) can be used to quiet the youngster. Many parents
are looking presently for non-drug answers to effectively relieve their
child's problems.
I practiced typical pediatric allergy for over 20 years and environmental
medicine for another 20-some years. During that period of time, I saw many,
many children and some adults who had ADD or ADHD. There are many things that
parents can do to recognize the full scope of such problems; and there are a
number of fast, easy, effective methods that might resolve such problems
without the use of drugs, such as Class II narcotics or other behavior-
modifying drugs.
How can you recognize if your child or you, as an adult, have ADD or ADHD?
In addition to the above-mentioned symptoms, most ADD-affected individuals
have a long list of other complaints. These may happen all the time or only at
certain times for no apparent reason. But, let's start at the beginning:
Who is apt to have an allergic component to his/her ADD, and what are some of
the common causes?
If you yourself have allergies or there are allergies in your family (hay
fever, asthma, eczema, or hives), the cause of any ADD in related loved ones
might be due to an allergy. I hope to discuss this aspect of this topic to
show you how you can figure out the cause and often eliminate it, preferably
without the use of drugs.
The most common causes can be your favorite foods, dust, molds, pollen, pets,
and/or chemicals.
How can you possibly tell if ADD is due to an allergy by just looking at a
child or adult?
There are some telltale clues related to the appearance:
- Look for red earlobes and wiggly legs just prior to a sudden burst of
activity.
- Look for a spaced-out look or a distant look or glassy, glazed eyes. At
times, almost a demonic look is evident in the eyes.
- Look for abnormally red cheeks, dark eye circles and bags under the eyes.
These clues are often, but not necessarily associated with the typical signs
of characteristic hay fever, asthma, throat clearing, or itchy skin.
Affected individuals tend to complain of headaches, muscle aches, weak legs,
aching joints, not wanting to be touched, fatigue, irritability, bedwetting
(after the age of five years), feelings of aggression or hostility, or an
inability to think clearly or to sit quietly. Although some of these symptoms
are not commonly thought of as being related to allergies, they certainly are
evident in many affected children and adults. These symptoms can often be
easily treated with some of the newer methods to diagnose and treat allergies.
The physicians who recognize the fuller picture are called "environmental
medical specialists." Call the AAEM (American Academy of Environmental
Medicine) for the environmental medical specialist nearest to you:
1-800-LET-HEAL (or 1-800-538-4325).
How can you find the cause of ADD or ADHD, quickly and inexpensively?
It is easy! Do the recommended diet found in either of my books, entitled Is
This Your Child? or Is This your Child's World? (Call 1-888- 895-7277.) The
diet excludes the highly allergic foods, such as milk, wheat, eggs, chocolate,
corn, sugar, orange juice, food coloring, preservatives and additives. Don't
be alarmed! There are many fruits, vegetables, meats and grains that you can
eat! Where else can you find an answer so easily and quickly? Adults,
however, are also very, very frequently sensitive to coffee, cola, tea,
alcohol, and tobacco. Adults, therefore, must also exclude these from their
diet. If the diet is tried on the whole family, several family members may
find the root cause of certain chronic medical problems!
During the first few days, those who have a food sensitivity may feel much
worse. Then, in three to seven days, about 66% of hyperactive children will
become quiet; and, in addition, many of the other complaints listed above will
also disappear or be improved.
Then, during the second week, you add each food--one at a time--back into the
diet, until you find the specific food that causes each individual symptom.
It is different foods for different children, but the same foods tend to cause
problems in the same family.
Let me explain: Milk might cause asthma in a father, nose congestion in a
mother, bedwetting in one child, constipation in another and hyperactivity or
ADHD in another.
If you will stop everything and not read another word until you do something,
I can promise you some possible answers right away! Make a list of your
child's (and your own) very favorite foods and beverages. What would you or
your child have difficulty living without for a week? Do it, and at the end of
the next page, I will discuss it. If you simply want a fast fix with a drug
covered by your insurance, don't read anymore. This discussion is created to
help you find answers so drugs can possibly be eliminated from your mode of
therapy.
What else can you do?
Well, foods have been shown in medical studies to cause up to 66% of
hyperactivity. Dust, molds, pollen and chemical odors definitely are also 'a
piece of the ADD or ADHD pie'. Sure, emotional problems need attention; but
these are often secondary to being told repeatedly that 'you did something
wrong', that 'you are dumb, lazy' or 'enjoy being sick and getting attention'.
The aim is to find out the reasons why you are the way you are and to
eliminate or avoid the cause, if that is possible, so no symptoms exist and no
medicine is required.
So what can you do, other than a diet, that is fast, easy and practical? Will
anything possibly help right away?
The answer is YES!
A quality air-purifier can certainly help to diminish some of these problems.
(Call 1-888-895-7277).
Remember: The key is to find the cause of the ADD or ADHD and eliminate it.
How can that be done?
Learn to check each of the following:
- Check inside each room, at home or work or school. Where does the change
occur in the way someone feels, acts, looks? If it occurs mainly inside some
building, this would suggest that dust, molds or something else inside
buildings was the cause.
- Do the same, and compare the inside with the outside. If the change occurs
mainly outside buildings, think of pollen, molds (if it is damp and rainy),
factory or construction pollution.
- Do the same before and after meals to see if the cause is a food or a
beverage. If worse before meals, think of hypoglycemia or low blood sugar; if
worse after meals or within 10 to 60 minutes, think of what you just put in
your mouth.
- Also, check before and after the exposure to chemical odors; but this time,
look for changes within just seconds to a few minutes, because chemicals
produce their bad, deleterious effects quickly. Keep asking if the smell of
something is causing the changes mentioned above and below.
Now, the location of a change provides important clues; but there are some
other factors that specifically help to pinpoint exactly what is causing ADD
or ADHD or the other symptoms so characteristic of allergies.
I refer to this as, "The Big 5." Learn to check for these, and you will
definitely find out the cause of many illnesses in yourself and your loved
ones. Your body will provide answers, but you must pay attention to the clues
and tap into the system! Here is how to do this:
If you want the answers, just keep checking, as indicated below. It takes
time, but it costs next to nothing in money. Get a pad and paper, and keep
them handy. You need some record-keeping.
- FIRST: Check how your child or you look before and 30 to 60 minutes after
being inside.
- SECOND: Check to see if you feel or behave or act differently under any of
the above circumstances.
- THIRD: Check your child's writing, as well as your own. If any type of
change takes place, it means the brain has been affected; and it might well
account for some of a child's or adult's learning or memory problems.
- FOURTH: Check your pulse to see if it increases more than 20 points or
becomes irregular after eating or one of the above exposures. If there is a
significant change, be assured your whole body and heart circulation have gone
into the alarm mode. The smoke alarm has gone off. The body is saying,
something is not quite right.
- FIFTH: If you have asthma, check the breathing with the use of a Peak Flow
Meter. This is nothing but a hollow tube of plastic with a gauge on it. Merely
put your lips tightly around the mouthpiece, and blow as hard and fast as you
can. If there is a drop over 15% (200 to 165), you might very well have
located the cause of your asthma. If the cause can be eliminated, you may no
longer need medications. If your child does not have asthma or problems
breathing air from the lungs (or wheezing, coughing with exercise and
laughter, shortness of breath or reversible airway disease), there is no need
to check your child's breathing. You can sometimes find the answers that
everyone has missed for years by simply doing just this. Call 1-888-895-7277
to buy a Peak Flow Meter in either the adult or child size ($24.95).
So, in SUMMARY:
The answers for environmentally-related illnesses, such as ADD and ADHD, are
often found by simply paying attention to the "Big 5" discussed above in
relation to the location or time when certain changes occur. Keep asking if
the problems are most evident:
- inside
- outside
- after eating
- after smelling something.
In the next few days, more practical information will be provided. I hope you
will have some answers by the end of this week. If you do what I suggest and
you have allergies, you WILL find answers!
Before closing, I offer the following example from my book IS THIS YOUR CHILD?
of an aggressive ten-year-old boy who had uncontrollable tantrums and
increased activity related to his ADHD.
Donald first saw us when he was ten years old. He had many allergic relatives
and obvious typical allergies. His parents were particularly concerned
because he had episodes when he spit and bit himself and other people. He had
temper tantrums as often as five times a day. He could not sit through a meal,
a television show, or a game. His teachers noted that he could sit still in
the morning, but that after lunch, his school performance and behavior
deteriorated.
Four months before we saw Donald, his other tried the Multiple Food
Elimination Diet. Within a week, he was 75 percent better, and during the
second week, his parents found that wheat, chocolate, and sugar made him
hyperactive and disagreeable. After avoiding these foods for three months his
mother called to tell us he was "a joy." Friends could not believe he was the
same child. His teachers were delighted and very pleased. His Conner's
Hyperactivity Score decreased from an abnormal high of 23 to a normal 13
within one week! Shortly after treatment, he went to a state fair with his
family; and they said that it was the first time in Donald's entire life that
they had ever had a good time with him.
When given a Provocation allergy test for mold in our office, he suddenly
became extremely violent. He kicked and was ready to hit anyone who came
within range. He was negative, uncooperative, and inordinately angry. After
a tiny drop of the correct dilution of mold allergy extract was placed in his
arm, he returned to the pleasant child that he had been during the many
previous hours of allergy testing. Most children act normal in the office
until they are tested for some item to which they are exceedingly sensitive.
Then, the change becomes obvious to anyone.
Typical of many families with an allergic child, his parents soon became
expert in the detection of the major foods that caused him difficulty. After
they learned how to watch for early clues of allergy, they noted that ten
minutes after he ate a bowl of cereal, he would become bouncy, unable to
concentrate, irritable, and hyperactive.
His most remarkable response occurred when we used Provocation/Neutralization
allergy testing for wheat. He scribbled when asked to write. Then, he tore
the paper up after attacking it vigorously with the pencil. He crumpled what
was left of the paper and began to cry. Then, in exasperation, he pounded
the table with his fist. He was so angry at one point that he even punched
the air. As the reaction to the test subsided, he held his head with his
hands and complained of a headache. A few minutes after one drop of the
correct wheat allergy Neutralization extract was given, he acted perfectly
calm and entirely normal. He said he'd felt "mad" when he was being tested
for wheat.
Two months after his treatment, his mother wrote to tell us that their lives
had changed. Donald was responding very well to his allergy extract therapy,
and they could "live" with their son again. His muscle aches, joint pains,
headaches, and leg aches had subsided. His intestinal symptoms and associated
red earlobes made it very easy for them to tell that he was reacting to a food
or some other allergenic substance. His dark eye circles and sleep problems
disappeared. They were all delighted that his previous physicians' diagnoses
had been wrong. His problems were not emotional.
Five years later this boy continues to be 95 percent better. On one
occasion, he stopped all his treatments for several months because he had been
so well for several years. His original symptoms slowly recurred. He resumed
his allergy therapy and quickly and dramatically improved again.
Dr. Rapp's web site is http://www.drrapp.com/.
Dr. Rapp's e-mail address is
drrappmd@aol.com.
Dr. Rapp is available for out-of-town, comprehensive phone consultations. The
Arizona phone number is: (602) 905-9195. Call for more information.
Dr. Rapp has available at a very low cost the following:
IS THIS YOUR CHILD?
IS THIS YOUR CHILD'S WORLD? *
THE IMPOSSIBLE CHILD
"ENVIRONMENTALLY SICK SCHOOLS" (90-minute video)
*The cost for these is extremely low (and even lower in quantities of 10,
which could be provided to the local schools and libraries!) because Dr. Rapp
wants to "get the word to the world" that allergies can be the cause of
certain behaviors and/or learning problems. She wants the parents and medical
professionals to take an active role in determining the causes of
environmental illness
Date: Mon, 6 Jul 1998 17:16:13 EDT
From: DrRappMD@aol.com
Subject: Re: ADD Re: add-holistic-digest V1 #28
For Ron Hoggan:
Answers for Queries:
1. Intestinal permeability is a big factor in all allergic individuals whohave
food sensitivities. I have not reviewed the work in this area. Brostoff from
England has a large book in which he discusses this. It may be in his smaller
book for the public which you can call Ciny and get. Call 716-875-0398 The
new work in autism is most intriguing and in a few months we should have a few
answers. No doubt that the brain and the gut are connected, to a much greater
degree than we thought.
2. Dairy products are a problem for many, many individuals. Gluten intolerance
can';t be helped, but grain allergies surely can be. Dr Jean Munro is a
authority on this. Here is her fax # for England.
3. Those who know about food allergy or sensitivities always tell everyone to
watch for at least 72 hours. Many of the intestinal complaints take that long
to show their ugly heads- colitis- Crohn's etc
4.I personally have not reviewed the work with opioid blockers but I am aware
of it. I have not tried naloxone. I know about the autism resarch and know of
no similar work with the ADD children. I do know that simple digestive enzymes
and correcting the candida overgrowth certainly is a piece of the ADD pie.
Wish I knew more but I don't. If I find any more info, I"'ll let you know.
Thanks for writing.
Doris Rapp
Date: Mon, 6 Jul 1998 17:22:17 EDT
From: DrRappMD@aol.com
Subject: Re: ADD Dr. Rapp
Thanks for the resource info. Some of the scientific referecnes for many of
the symptoms are listed in my books which anyone can get -- at a great
discount-- by wrcalling 1 888 895 0398 . It certainly will give many insight
about ways to help problems, even epilepsy and nephritis, for example.
Thank for your help,
Doris J Rapp, MD
Date: Tue, 07 Jul 98 18:30:54 PDT
From: "David E. Birren"
Subject: ADD Reply to DrRapp
I have been lurking on this list for a few weeks, having been invited by
Mark Gold to participate. My particular interest related to ADD is how to
overcome the mental chaos that interferes with mindfulness meditation. The
condition called "monkey mind" is commonly encountered in meditation, but
with practice most people are able to subdue, at least to some extent, the
monkeys. In my experience this has been impossible without the aid of
Ritalin. I have more to offer on this subject, but I'm fairly busy and
won't be prepared to speak up much for perhaps another several weeks.
Right now I'd like to reply to Dr. Rapp.
I'm a 48-year-old white male with two