Neurofeedback Changes Your Mind, Literally!

Written by Guest Contributor:

Spring Hill, MS, LMFT, LPC

Individual, Couples, Family Counseling

Neurofeedback Services

Have you ever felt like “if I could just relax instead of being anxious, depressed, or distracted I would enjoy life more?” Well, you’re not alone. The brain controls everything we do in our lives from relaxing, to sports activities, to writing this article. Specifically, it is our brain waves that control what and how we think, how we feel physically, mentally and emotionally, and how we behave with others.
If our brainwave distribution becomes out of balance (much like our hormones), symptoms may result, such as anxiety, depression, lack of energy, foggy thinking, etc. Neurofeedback is a non-invasive, pain-free computer-based technique which retrains the brain to produce brainwave patterns that are beneficial to better functioning. When the electrical system (brainwaves) is modulated through Neurofeedback, the brain becomes more flexible, calming the brain and helping the client to have better control of their emotions, feelings and thoughts. The results of the brain changes are enduring, unlike medication.
What does a Neurofeedback session look like?
• During a session a cap with sensors is placed on the head to monitor the brainwave activity, much like the electrical activity you see when having an EKG. (There is NO electricity going into the head)
• This activity is displayed onto the therapist’s computer monitor. On a separate screen, the client plays a video game or watches a movie that is generated using their brainwave activity.
• Each time a healthy brainwave is achieved, the client is rewarded via graphics and auditory sound. As healthier brainwaves are achieved, a healthier state of mind (e.g., focused, relaxed, less anxiety) is learned.
Neurofeedback is a safe, long-lasting, drug-free alternative to treating symptoms including:
• Focus/Foggy thinking/Cognitive Processing
• Anxiety/Panic Attacks/ Obsessive thoughts, Compulsions
• Depression
• Sleep issues
• Pain
• Other Conditions and Symptoms
The overall goal is to help the client manage their symptoms and improve their performance in whatever area of life they desire such as school, work, or relaxation. For more information regarding neurofeedback contact Spring Hill at shill1@springhill4counseling.com or call 713.927.5093.

By Mila McManus MD|2019-01-04T12:17:21-06:00January 4th, 2019|Articles, General|

Rising Concerns – Electropollution

We Can’t Ignore It

By Mila McManus, MD

This year, my staff and I have witnessed an undeniable escalation of concern about the constant barrage of electromagnetic radiation and its effects on our health and the health of our children.

Other names used for electromagnetic radiation include electrosmog and electro-pollution. This radiation occurs in the higher frequency ranges of the electromagnetic spectrum, usually as megahertz (MHz) and gigahertz (GHz). Our bodies need and require very low frequencies (0.1 to 32000 Hertz, or Hz) to live. These low frequencies are life-giving and restorative. Unfortunately, we greatly interrupt these healing frequencies, found in the human body and in the earth’s surface, with much higher frequencies that disturb and harm the human body (MHz and GHz). There is now a significant body of published scientific and anecdotal evidence that supports a correlation between these higher levels of electromagnetic radiation and various negative health effects including cancer, asthma, chronic fatigue syndrome, diabetes, ADD, autism and a number of neurological disorders.

Sources of potentially harmful electromagnetic radiation include wireless technologies (WiFi technologies) such as cell phones, iPads, laptops, baby monitors and cell towers, as well as sources of power traveling through electrical wires into our homes and businesses called High Frequency Voltage Transients (HFVT’s). HFVT’s include electrical appliances/equipment of every kind, fluorescent light bulbs, AC/DC power mode converters, rectangular black boxes on power cords, televisions, computers, printer/copier/fax machines, dimmer switches, “smart” digital readers (SMART Meters), energy efficient appliances, cordless phone base stations and microwaves.

Electrical pollution is a difficult subject because we are all greatly exposed to it and our lifestyles are heavily dependent upon it. Most of the sources have become routine in the pattern of our everyday lives. We don’t feel it or see it, so it is easy to believe it does not exist. Yet 1 in 2 Americans have a chronic disease and 1 in 4 have multiple chronic diseases.[1] Another real concern is for our children, including those still in the womb. Research shows radiation emitted from cell phones and Wi-Fi negatively impacts children’s development in the womb.[2]

Our exposure increases as greater technological advances occur. For example, there are great concerns about the Smart Meters being added to residences and businesses, touted as “green energy”, as well as the imminent 5G mobile network and matching cell phones. Both of these additions are expected to increase microwave radiation from electromagnetic frequencies exponentially. Despite the fact that government and corporate entities have been informed of these health concerns, they appear to be far less concerned about potential harm to our health than implementing the next greatest thing in technology to reap the profits from it.

Here Are Ways to Protect Yourself and Your Family[3]

Put your phone in airplane mode when you are carrying it or sleeping near it.
Consider a Faraday bag for your cell phone. faradaybag.com
When using your cell phone, use the speaker phone and hold the phone at least 3 feet away from you.
Decrease your time on the cell phone as much as possible.
Explore the use of VoIP software phones that can be used while connected to the internet via a wired connection.
Connect your desktop/laptop to the internet via a wired Ethernet connection and keep it in airplane mode as much as possible.
Avoid using wireless keyboards, trackballs, mice, game systems, printers and portable house phones. Opt for wired versions.
If you must use Wi-Fi, shut if off when not in use, especially at night when sleeping. Ideally work toward hardwiring your house so you can eliminate Wi-Fi all together. There are USB Ethernet adapters for notebooks that allow connection to the internet with a wired connection.
Shut off electricity to the bedroom at night. This reduces electrical fields from the wires in your walls, unless there is an adjoining room next to it. In this case, a meter will help determine the severity of the electrical fields and if you need to shut off electricity in both rooms or not.
Use a battery powered alarm clock, ideally one without any light. Talking clocks for the visually impaired work well.
Replace your microwave oven with a steam convection oven, which will heat your food as quickly and far more safely.
Avoid “smart” appliances and thermostats that depend on wireless signaling. This includes “smart” televisions. Consider replacing the TV with a large computer monitor instead, as this will not emit Wi-Fi signals.
Refuse smart meters as long as you can or add a shield to an existing smart meter.
Consider moving your baby’s bed into your room instead of using a wireless baby monitor. Alternatively, used a hard-wired monitor.
Replace CFL and LED bulbs with incandescent bulbs. Ideally remove all fluorescent lights from the house. Fluorescent lighting emits unhealthy light and transfers a current to the body just being close to them.
Do not use light bulbs you can control from your cell phone as they emit radio frequency just like a Wi-Fi router.

Here are some resources to learn more:

http://electromagnetichealth.org/electromagnetic-health-blog/summary-and-audio/

www.blushield-us.com

https://emfields-solutions.com/

Book: How To Break Up With Your Cell Phone, By Catherine Price

Be Well, Choose Health

[1] https://www.drbenlynch.com/chronic-disease/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=twitter&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+DrBenLynch+%28Dr+Ben+Lynch%29

[2] http://electromagnetichealth.org/electromagnetic-health-blog/summary-and-audio/

[3] https://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2018/11/14/heart-tumors-from-cellphone-radiation.aspx?utm_source=dnl&utm_medium=email&ut

By Mila McManus MD|2018-11-30T14:44:41-06:00November 19th, 2018|Articles, General|

by Mila McManus MD

Intravenous (IV) nutrition therapy has been used in hospital settings for decades and was first developed and tested by Dr. John Myers at Johns Hopkins University in the 1970’s. Patients have reported significant improvements from IV Therapy for many conditions including fatigue, headaches, muscle spasms, PMS, seasonal allergies, sinusitis, asthma, anxiety, depression, stress, digestive disorders, nutrient deficiencies, toxicity, dehydration, hives, hyperthyroidism, infection, heart disease, and immune system support.

If you are wondering if IV Nutrition Therapy is for you, here is a list of the benefits to consider:

Quick delivery, quick utilization – IV therapy delivers nutrients directly to the bloodstream where they can be utilized immediately. While you can’t expect IV Nutrition Therapy to take the place of a good supplement regimen, it can be used in targeted ways to get quicker results than would be achieved taking nutrients orally.
Therapeutic doses delivered to the cells – IV therapy allows delivery of therapeutic (ie higher) levels to the blood stream in cases where it would be uncomfortable or digestively difficult to consume the same level orally. For example, when blood levels of Vitamin C are between 10-15 mg/dL, vitamin C can help to overcome a cold and fight a virus. This level can be achieved easily through IV therapy but would be very difficult, if not impossible, to reach through oral therapy. (read a book called Curing the Incurable by Dr Thomas Levy which is about all the benefits of high doses of vitamin C)
Immune Boosting Support – IV therapy makes it possible to quickly deliver B vitamins, glutathione, zinc, and vitamin C as added support to the challenged and busy immune system. It can function much like bringing in air support to the ground troops to make the difference and win the battle.
Improved energy, resilience to stress– With IV therapy you can begin to experience the favorable effects within hours. Depending on the therapy, examples include an increase in energy and stamina, the ability to think more clearly and a better mood. B Vitamins help to relieve anxiety and stress while glutathione, our master antioxidant, supports detoxification.
Immediate rehydration – IV therapy provides optimal hydration to support all vital organ functions. When done often, it can prove preventative and protective in avoiding kidney stones, constipation and damage to muscles. It can be a great choice for athletes to replenish vitamins and minerals lost through excessive sweating, while also improving recovery time and preventing muscle spasms and exhaustion.
Fights effects of environmental toxins – Toxins in our everyday environment can take a toll on your health and appearance. IV Therapy can supply the antioxidants needed to fight off signs of premature aging and help the body flush out harmful toxins more effectively. Glutathione is especially valuable for this purpose.
Preventative care – Therapeutic doses of vitamin C have been shown to be toxic to cancer cells and are effective at building immunity and improving resistance to chronic and upper respiratory infections.

With few exceptions, most can benefit from IV Nutrition Therapy. Come experience it for yourself!

By Mila McManus MD|2022-10-10T16:20:41-06:00October 25th, 2018|Articles, General|

CollaGEN

CollaGEN, by Orthomolecular Products, is designed strategically to support connective tissue
regeneration and stability. Collagen is the primary protein fiber found in connective tissue,
which gives tendons, ligaments, fascia, cartilage, bone and skin structural stability. The body
makes collagen using specific amino acids along with vitamin C and magnesium. Aging, poor
eating habits, mechanical stress and inflammation can disrupt the process of collagen
biosynthesis, resulting in weaker fibers. CollaGEN supplements the raw materials needed to
restore collagen biosynthesis, thus supporting connective tissue regeneration and stability.
CollaGEN is a tasteless powder that can be mixed with water or another beverage choice and is
available for purchase at TWIHW.

By Mila McManus MD|2018-10-25T16:57:18-06:00October 25th, 2018|Articles, General|

Drugs That Cause Memory Loss

By Mila McManus, MD

Without question, prescription and over the counter (OTC) drugs are double-edged swords. While there are instances when pharmaceutical drugs are needed, in many cases there are safer ways to address symptoms and diseases without them. As a physician, I feel compelled to remind my patients to become well educated about what they are taking and why, as well as to understand the risks. In a world of risks, dying from a pharmaceutical drug reaction or side effect is among the highest risks from societal activities. Taking a food supplement or herbal remedy is among the lowest risks. Adverse drug reactions are now the fourth leading cause of death in the US. Getting struck by lightning is more likely to happen than to be killed by a supplement! [i]

One common side effect of many drugs is memory loss and cognitive impairment. If you or someone you love has experienced memory loss or cognitive issues, check to see if any of the prescriptions or over-the-counter (OTC) medications listed below are being taken. If so, consider other options.

Top 3 Types of Drugs That Cause Memory Loss or Cognitive Impairment[ii]

1. Anticholinergics – Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter responsible for memory and learning. Low levels of acetylcholine cause forgetfulness, poor concentration and difficulty finding words. These drugs block acetylcholine. Many of these drugs start with the prefix “anti”. These include antihistamines, antidepressants, antipsychotics, antibiotics, antispasmodics and antihypertensives.</p

2. Sleeping Pills – Prescriptions such as Ambien, Sonata, Lunesta and OTC drugs such as Advil PM, Tylenol PM and Excedrin PM are used for pain and insomnia relief.

3. Cholesterol Lowering Drugs– Also called statin drugs, these are among the most profitable prescription drugs in the world. Memory issues have been so prevalent with this class of drug that it is now a requirement that memory loss be clearly listed as a side effect on the label. Included are Lipitor, Lescol, Crestor and Zocor. Generic brands all end in “-statin”. (don’t confuse with nystatin which is an anti-fungal medication and has nothing to do with statin drugs) Click here for more information about Cholesterol & Statin Drugs.

And these cause memory loss too….

4. Painkillers including morphine and codeine as well as naproxen found in brands such as Aleve and Midol Extended Relief.

5. OTC drugs for insomnia, such as Sominex and Unisom.

6. OTC drugs for allergies, such as Benadryl, Claritin, and Zyrtec.

7. OTC drugs for motion sickness, such as Dramamine.

8. OTC drugs for acid reflux, for example, Pepcid AC, Tagamet, and Zantac.

9. Benzodiazepines are a class of drug most commonly used to treat anxiety and insomnia and include Valium, Xanax, and Ativan.

10. Lithium, commonly used for bi-polar disorder, depression, eating disorders and other mental illnesses, clearly lists impaired memory and poor concentration as very common side effects.

11. Chemotherapy drugs

12. Barbiturates such as Amytal, Nembutal, Seconal and phenobarbital

13. Common treatments for Parkinson’s including amantadine, levodopa, pramipexole, rotigotine, ipinirole, scopolamine, atropine and glycopyrrolate.

14. Anti-epileptic drug, phenytoin

Every drug listed above has a host of other potential side effects in addition to memory loss or cognitive decline, so it is easy to see why drugs should be understood, and avoided whenever possible. As with any prescription drug, it is best to consult with your physician before changing or stopping any medication. Be aware and be well.

[i] http://www.positivehealth.com/article/nutrition/food-supplements-risk-even-less-than-lightning-strike

[ii] http://bebrainfit.com/drugs-memory-loss/

By Mila McManus MD|2018-09-21T10:18:36-06:00September 20th, 2018|Articles, General|

Ketogenic Diet

10 Good Reasons to Try It…

The Ketogenic Diet is the current diet-of-the-moment. Unlike many fad diets, the Ketogenic Diet is therapeutic in nature and can benefit many people in many ways.

Who would benefit?

A Ketogenic Diet is well worth considering by anyone facing serious health challenges including
neurological issues or disease, mood disturbances, digestive problems, blood sugar regulation issues
including diabetes and insulin resistance, and those who need to lose weight. It is also a great option for generally healthy individuals who want to supercharge their health. Ketogenic eating has anti-aging and anti-cancer effects.

Ten Benefits of following a Ketogenic Diet besides weight loss include:

1. Optimize brain function and mental clarity
2. Stop food cravings
3. Anti-cancer strategy
4. Improve the gut biome
5. Improve energy
6. Increase muscle mass
7. Reduce or reverse insulin resistance
8. Reduce inflammation
9. Promote cellular detoxification
10. Slow down the aging process

What is nutritional Ketosis?

The Ketogenic diet is named after the biological state of ketosis, which is achieved when the human
body reaches a fat-burning state. Most Americans eat so many carbohydrates that the body always has a
plentiful supply of glucose to use for fuel. As a result, the body forgets how to
efficiently burn fat. By reducing carbohydrate fuel, the body is forced to
become an efficient burner of body fat and dietary fat. Fat is a cleaner source of fuel for the body
and produces less oxidative stress than carbohydrates.

What are the key aspects of a Ketogenic Diet?

Ketogenic diets have 4 main components.

They are:
1. low carbohydrate
2. high fat
3. adequate protein
4. combined with some degree of fasting.

Carbohydrates are primarily sourced from vegetables with good fiber content yet low carbohydrate content. There are a couple of fruits included as well, however grain, sugar and most dairy are excluded. Total net carbohydrate intake is usually recommended to be at or below 50 grams, a target that should be reached in a step like fashion over one to two weeks.

Fat content is high and very specific in source. Strong emphasis is placed on avoiding refined oils, trans
fats, and fats high in Omega 6 inflammatory oils. Recommendations are for fats to be anywhere from 50-80% of total caloric intake (e.g. 1200 calorie diet in which 600-960 calories come from healthful sources of fat). Caution should be used in reaching these levels of fats, accomplishing this by slowly increasing fat intake over several weeks to allow the pancreas and gallbladder time to adjust to a higher fat diet. Healthy fats provide satiation, improved mental clarity, and an excellent source of fuel for energy. They also help to balance overall cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, and promote weight loss.

Adequate protein refers to the importance of getting enough protein without getting too much.
Most people will need between 30-70 grams of protein a day, spread throughout the day. This includes
protein from plant and animal sources. According to Dr. Mercola, in his book Fat for Fuel, excess
protein can stimulate a regulatory pathway in the body which can promote growth of cancer cells and
can convert to glucose, thus negatively impacting blood sugar and insulin levels (pp. 47-48). As with
carbohydrates and fat, source and quality of protein matters.

Finally, fasting is an integral part of teaching the body to burn fat efficiently. By working toward a slow
reduction in carbohydrates while at the same time increasing healthy, undamaged fats and introducing a fasting state 4-5 times a week, the body becomes an efficient burner of healthy fats instead of carbohydrates.

Once the body is “fat adapted”, meaning able to burn fats efficiently, recommendations are to then
cycle in and out of nutritional ketosis by feasting on higher carbohydrate vegetables and fruits once or
twice a week to maintain metabolic flexibility.

To minimize side effects and maximize benefits from the ketogenic diet, we recommend seeking guidance
from a nutrition expert knowledgeable about this diet. We also recommend that you read a book to ensure good
understanding and proper implementation.

Dr. Ron Rosedale (www.drrosedale.com) and Dr. Joseph Mercola (www.mercola.com) are both
proponents of this kind of diet for healing and good health. Information for this article has been taken
from these websites and Dr. Mercola’s book Fat for Fuel, published in 2017 by Hay House, Inc.

By Mila McManus MD|2018-09-05T10:40:37-06:00August 22nd, 2018|Articles, General|

CBD (Cannabidiol) Oil

Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a hemp-derived phytocannabinoid found in agricultural hemp. It is being recognized for many promising, safe and beneficial effects on human and animal health in nearly every biological process and gaining recognition as a natural and safe way to address many health issues.

Despite common misconception, hemp and marijuana come from two different varieties of Cannabis sativa. Though the industrial hemp plant does contain low levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)¹, the psychedelic substance in marijuana, the levels are so significantly less that they would not cause any reaction in humans. Agricultural hemp is one of the most commercially important plants and is used to make textiles, soaps, oils, food products, paper and sustainable fuel. It is in this plant that Cannabidiol (CBD) is in high concentration and the oil can be properly extracted to be used for health benefits. It is a legal substance in Texas with no negative effects (be sure to check the laws in your state and note that this article is about hemp derived CBD and NOT marijuana derived CBD).

CBD Oil has been shown to have significant health benefits through promoting homeostasis, or balance, in the body. Benefits include:
• Reduction of inflammation and pain
• Reduction or prevention of nausea and vomiting
• Calming of the GI tract
• Reduces neural excitability, improving peripheral neuropathic pain
• Reduces anxiety
• Decreases seizure activity
• Can calm tremors
• Can elevate mood (you may find that you chuckle when you are at the right dose)
• Neuroprotective
• Anti-cancer
• Anti -Oxidant
• Promotes elimination of DNA-damaged cells
• Improves sleep

Some of our CBD vendors are Guardian Wellness, Green Roads, and CV Sciences. The extraction process utilized is solvent-free using nonchemical CO2, with state-of-the-art, EU-certified, ISO certified laboratory using a 7 step, full traceability from seed to shelf, with internal tests for pesticides, contaminants, heavy metals, and solvents as well as third party testing to ensure the highest quality hemp-derived CBD oil products.

How Does CBD Oil Work in Your Body, and How Can it Benefit You?

CBD is a type of cannabinoid, and our brains are already wired up to respond to them. There are special receptor sites to which cannabinoids bind in places like the brain, other organs and the immune system. When cannabinoids bind to these receptor sites, they have influence over some
part of the function or activity of what this site controls.

Research has shown that the way CBD interacts with these receptor sites can have beneficial influences. In addition, it seems that adding CBD to your everyday diet can have a positive impact on general health and well-being. There are many reasons to make CBD oil part of your diet, from its richness in omega-3 to its role as a natural source of amino acids.

¹THC, the compound found in marijuana and still illegal in many places, causes psychotropic and psychotoxic effects, specifically the euphoric high for which marijuana is known. Marijuana is specifically bred to have high levels of THC in the plant (and much less CBD) and there are negative implications and recognized correlations to its use with psychological disorders.

There is no evidence that the trace amounts, if any, of THC would show positive on a drug test, but there is a small theoretical risk (as with poppy seeds showing positive for morphine in urine), and therefore it would be prudent for you to discuss this with your employer. We can issue a letter stating that you have been prescribed CBD Oil as part of your medical treatment at The Woodlands Institute for Health & Wellness at your request.

Instructions for use:

The therapeutic dose varies widely and typically ranges from 3 to 300mg per day. You can start with a low dose (e.g. 2 to 3mg per day) and increase as needed, or start at a higher dose (e.g. 20mg) and adjust up or down from there. We feel that it’s best to start higher so as to get more a ‘loading dose’, and then wean to lowest effective dose.

If you feel sleepy during the day, reduce dose.
If you feel a dull nagging headache, reduce dose.
If you feel socially withdrawn, reduce dose.

We offer several doses, flavors, and methods of delivery. Some forms/doses are special order, and others we keep stocked at our facility.

• 0.5mg per squirt-peppermint and unflavored
• 1.5mg per squirt-peppermint and unflavored
• 12mg per dropperful-peppermint and unflavored
• 10mg capsules
• 15mgm capsules
• 25mg capsules
• Topical creams (150mg or 300mg per bottle)
• Tinctures (25mg/ml, 30mg/ml, 41.6mg/ml, 58.3mg/ml) in 30ml bottles
• Organic coffee with CBD and resveratrol
• CBD bath salts

There is no maximum dose found to be harmful.

Some need to take CBD once daily, while others need 2 or 3 times daily. CBD simply requires trial and error to find your individualized dose that works for you.

If taking a liquid form, apply sublingually (i.e., under the tongue), and after 10 seconds, swish it around your mouth, using your tongue, to coat your entire mouth as best you can (cheeks, gums, roof of mouth) and keep there as long as you can. This will provide the best, quickest absorption and effect. You can also gargle the CBD because it absorbs well at the back of the tongue.

By Mila McManus MD|2021-01-20T11:51:51-06:00July 25th, 2018|Articles, General|

annmarie Sunscreen

Choosing a sunscreen can be difficult, especially since most have harmful and toxic chemicals or make promises for UV protection that may not be accurate. Two of the most harmful ingredients to watch for in sunscreens are oxybenzone, which is a known endocrine disrupter, and retinyl palmate, a form of vitamin A that can harm the skin and lead to skin tumors [1]. For this reason, we recommend:

Sun Love – Natural Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 20 (2 oz)

Formulated with 15% non-nano zinc oxide, this daily moisturizer protects the skin from UV damage, while providing a light, natural tint. This Broad-Spectrum SPF 20 cream infuses your skin with antioxidant-rich sea buckthorn seed, buriti fruit and sunflower seed oil to nourish and visibly enhance your glow.

[1]https://www.ewg.org/sunscreen/report/8-little-known-facts-about-sunscreens/#.WylBEiAnbIU

By Mila McManus MD|2018-06-27T15:34:22-06:00June 20th, 2018|Articles, General|

And What to Do About It

By Nancy Mehlert, MS

If you are reading this without first reading our main article, you may want to back up and read it to benefit from the more in depth introduction to lectins.

Now, for anyone struggling to lose weight, dealing with autoimmunity or digestive issues, or simply frustrated with a stubborn health problem, then it is worth considering that lectins may be holding back your journey to better health.

Lectins are found in a wide variety of foods making it impossible to eat a lectin free diet. Not all lectins are bad (see Tip #5 below), however there are many lectins that are quite harmful, and there are some foods that contain high levels. It is important to think about the cumulative impact since you may be eating a combination of high lectin foods that result in considerable toxicity.

Foods with the Highest Lectin Content – Best Avoided:

Corn – One of the very highest in lectin foods, corn lectins are also very resistant to heat and, therefore, are difficult to reduce through cooking. Pervasive in the American food supply, corn is also genetically modified (unless organic) and one of the highest allergenic foods.
Corn-fed Meats: This includes most meats sold in grocery stores and restaurants. We are what we eat, and this applies to animals, too. They are raised on corn and soy, two foods that are high in lectins. The purpose is to make them fat for market. Lectins make us humans fat, too. The best way to avoid them is to buy certified grassfed meat. The American Grassfed Association is a good place to learn more. Look for “100% Grass Fed and Finished” on the label.
Casein A1 Milk[1]: Because of a genetic mutation in cow populations, some cows produce milk containing casein A1 protein, which is a lectin-like protein called beta-casomorphin. It attaches to the pancreas’ insulin-producing cells, prompting an immune attack on the pancreas of those who consume milk and cheeses from these cows. Most cows today are casein A1 producers, and this is the milk and cheese found in store-bought dairy. Many who believe they are lactose intolerant are responding to the casein A1 in the milk. If you are going to consume dairy, opt for only casein A2 dairy products which come from goat, sheep, water buffaloes or specifically Belgian Blues, Guernsey, or Brown Swiss cow breeds. Holsteins are the most common breed and their milk is casein A1. Jersey cows may produce either, so checking the source and verifying is critical.
Peanuts and Cashews: Commonly called nuts, peanuts and cashews are legumes and both are very high in lectin content. The shell around the cashew is such an irritant that cashew workers must wear protective gloves to harvest them. Cashews are in the same botanical family as poison ivy and dramatically increase inflammation[2].
Unfermented Soybean Products: Examples include tofu and edamame, the green soybean where lectins are highest and best avoided. Traditionally fermented soy products such as miso or tempeh, if organic, have a much lower lectin content due to the fermentation.

High Lectin Foods to Eat Sparingly and Prepare Properly:

Legumes: This pulse family includes any plant seed that is found in pods, such as peas, green beans, lentils, split peas, and all other beans (e.g. red kidney, black, white, garbanzo). Proper soaking and cooking, as well as choosing some of the lower lectin options like Great Northern beans, green beans and lentils, can make these a reasonable option when used sparingly. Most canned beans have not been soaked or cooked properly to reduce lectins. White kidney beans and soybeans are highest in lectins.
Grains: Just when we thought whole grains were best for us, we are learning that the lectins are highest in the outer sheath. Most earlier cultures seemed to understand that removing it made digestion easier. Traditionally, the Chinese, Japanese, and other Asian people have not been plagued with obesity, heart disease, and diabetes, yet they have been eating rice for thousands of years, always stripping away the hull where the lectins exist[3]. WGA or gliadin attached to gluten in wheat, oats, rye and barley are two other damaging grain lectins. Is it any surprise that many traditional European breads are made using the process of fermentation to make sourdough bread? The process of fermentation deactivates lectins. This traditional process is not used in bread manufacturing by the food industry. There are many other health concerns when it comes to grains, such as pesticides and genetic modification. Careful selection, preparation, and minimal consumption, however, make some grains a viable choice from time to time.
Nightshade Fruits and Vegetables: Included are tomatoes, potatoes (excluding sweet potatoes), eggplants, bell peppers, and goji berries among others. The highest lectin content is found in the skins and seeds, so simply peeling and deseeding can significantly reduce the lectin content, as well as reducing frequency and portion. Potato lectins are quite resistant to cooking and will only reduce by 50-60%.
Gourd Family Fruits: Normally called vegetables, the gourd family are fruits and include all squash varieties, pumpkin and zucchini. As with nightshades, some of these can be peeled and deseeded well and cooking will also help reduce lectins.

Preparation and Cooking Tips to Reduce Lectin Content:

Research demonstrates that sprouting, fermenting, soaking overnight and cooking high lectin foods does dramatically reduce the lectin content, making them safe for most people. In addition to removing seeds and peel, here are some other tips to help reduce lectins.

Tip #1 – If you choose to eat beans, be sure to prepare and cook them properly, and NEVER eat raw or undercooked. They can have acute and toxic effects[4]. Be sure to soak beans in water for at least 12 hours before cooking, changing the water frequently. Rinse the beans well, discarding the water used for soaking. Cook for at least 15 minutes on HIGH heat, ideally using a pressure cooker like the InstaPot™.
Tip #2 – If consuming grains, keep in mind that the only way to make bread safe is to buy organic AND raise the bread using traditional methods of yeast or sourdough, which breaks down the gluten and other harmful lectins. You would be hard pressed to find this in our grocery stores. You will need to make it yourself or purchase it from a traditional artisan bakery.
Tip #3 – Many beans, seeds and grains can be sprouted to deactivate lectins. There are some exceptions, such as alfalfa, where sprouting increases lectins. We recommend the cookbook, Nourishing Traditions, by Sally Fallon for all forms of traditional food preparation including sprouting, fermentation, and cooking methods that reduce harmful lectins.
Tip #4 – Consider investing in a pressure cooker. Plant lectins are most effectively neutralized when cooked under pressure relatively quickly. This method is ideal for beans, legumes, quinoa and rice, for example. Avoid slow cookers for plant foods, as they will increase lectin content because of the low temperature used.
Tip #5 -There are some safe lectins in many foods. The lowest lectin content options are asparagus, garlic, celery, mushrooms and onions. Cooked root vegetables like sweet potatoes, yucca and taro, along with leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables, avocados, olives and olive oil are all examples of healthy foods that do contain some lectins. They can be eaten without restrictions.

Remember, while lectins can wreak havoc on health, it is not possible nor ideal to eliminate them from your diet. The key is to identify the worst culprits, cut those out, and make sure you are preparing food in ways that minimize or reduce lectin content. How strict you need to be will be determined by your health status, genetics and willingness to explore the possibility that lectins are standing in your way of better health.

ASK ABOUT OUR LECTIN SENSITIVITY TESTING. FIND OUT IF YOU REACT TO SOME SPECIFIC LECTINS!

[1] Gundry, Steven R., The Plant Paradox, (New York: HarperCollins, 2017), pg.32

[2] Gundry, Steven R., The Plant Paradox, (New York: HarperCollins, 2017), pg.209-210

[3] Gundry, Steven R., The Plant Paradox, (New York: HarperCollins, 2017), pg.45

[4] https://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2017/08/14/reduce-lectins-in-your-diet.aspx

By Mila McManus MD|2022-10-10T21:30:52-06:00May 30th, 2018|Articles, General, NANCY’S NUTRITIONAL NUGGET|

Product: Lectin Control Formula

Lectins are specialized proteins commonly found in fruits, vegetables, seafood, and especially in grains, beans and seeds. They are not degraded by stomach acid or proteolytic enzymes, making them resistant to digestion. Certain lectins consumed in everyday foods can bind to cells in the gut and to blood cells, initiating a cytokine response and contributing to less than optimal digestive health. Lectin Control Formula is a unique blend designed to support against problematic lectins[1].

Supplement Ingredients[2] and how they work: Lectins can bind to sugar residues of polysaccharides and amino sugars in the gut and on the intestinal cell surfaces. By consuming an array of these friendly sugar structures with the meal, they provide a decoy system in which “sacrificial” molecules are present to bind lectins and keep them from sticking to our cells and causing damage. These sugar decoys attract dietary lectins, bind to them and eliminate them through the gut. These sugars also encourage healthy bowel flora and enhance joint and synovial health. The decoy friendly sugar structures in Lectin Control Formula include:

Mucins, which have been called digestive gatekeepers. They protectively line the digestive tract and moisten and lubricate the food we eat. Mucins protect against yeast, bacteria and food sensitivities and have lectin binding capacity.
N-acetylglucosamine (NAG) is a specific form of glucosamine that most effectively binds the disruptive wheat lectin called wheat germ agglutinin (WGA). NAG also plays an important role in the human body with immune regulation, inflammation and cell signaling.
Bladderwrack (focus vesiculosus) is a nutritious seaweed component which contains sugars called “fucoidins”. These sugars are especially capable of binding to lectins and microorganisms such as viruses, bacteria and yeast. Fucose is a favorite sugar attachment site on the surface of cells for Helicobacter pylori (the bacteria responsible for ulcers and gastritis) and Candida albicans. Use of Bladderwrack acts as a decoy as the L-fucose pulls the lectins and opportunistic pathogens away from binding to the gut lining and locks them up for elimination from the body without disrupting other balances in the GI Tract.
Okra is a vegetable and rich source of lectin-binding protective mucilage. The Okra Extract, like the other ingredients discussed above, helps to remove existing lectins that are already attached to cells and helps to clean the intestines. It is also a rich source of bioavailable calcium.
D-mannose is also a common binding sugar for lectins and pathogenic microorganisms, much like Bladderwrack.
Sodium alginate is a soluble fiber derived from seaweed and is resistant to digestion. Colonic bacteria partially ferment sodium alginate to beneficial butyrate, which is food for the colonic epithelial cells. Sodium alginate is also used for detoxification.

Suggested use, 2 capsules at the beginning of each meal. Caution is given to not exceed the recommended daily servings. If you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, take prescription drugs, have known hypersensitivity to iodine or hyperthyroidism, consult your healthcare professional before using[3].

[1] https://klaire.com/cp0201-lectin-control-formula

[2] Pierini, Carolyn, M. Lectin Lock™: Natural Defense Against a Hidden Cause of Digestive Concerns and Weight Gain. Vitamin Research News. 2007;21(2):6

[3] https://klaire.com/cp0201-lectin-control-formula

By Mila McManus MD|2018-06-28T22:16:39-06:00May 30th, 2018|Articles, General|

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