KIDNEY STONES from GLOBAL WARMING?

A recent study conducted by Margaret Pearle, M.D., Ph.D., of the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center and reported online in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences predicts an increase in the incidence of kidney stones as global temperatures continue to rise.

Kidney stones result from minerals that precipitate out of urine. Passing a kidney stone through the ureter, bladder, and out the urethra has been noted as one of the most intense and acute pains experienced by an individual.

Dr. Pearle speculates that approximately 1.6 to 2.25 million new cases will present by the year 2050. That’s an increase of 7 to 10% compared to 2000 rates. Currently the Southeast United States is known as the “stone belt,” as rates there are as much as 50% higher than in other parts of the country. She predicts an expansion of the “stone belt” into other parts of the US.

At ALETRIS, we recommend lifestyle changes to reduce or eliminate the occurrence of kidney stones. We also recommend tests that accurately diagnose the problem. Awareness of health issues that may arise from climate changes is a must for health professionals. We are committed to understanding these effects, as well as helping our patients do their part in reducing greenhouse gases.

ALETRIS Center of Integrative Medicine is a Scottsdale, AZ wellness center serving Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Phoenix, Glendale, Arrowhead, Peoria, Sun City, Chandler, Tempe, Ahwatukee, and Mesa, AZ with specialties in naturopathic medicine, natural hormone therapy, women's health, acupuncture, colon hydrotherapy, natural skincare and sugar hair removal.

The contents of this blog, including text, graphics, images and other material, are for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek the counsel of an ALETRIS physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment

estrogen + dioxin = ENDOMETRIOSIS?

Recent study by Chinese researchers at Shanghai Medical College investigated the link between estrogen and dioxin and endometriosis. Endometriosis is a painful pelvic condition in women characterized by the growth of endometrial (uterine) tissue outside of the uterus. Often, endometrial tissue can be found lodged on the ovaries and in the pelvic cavity. Symptoms include pain with sex and progressively painful periods.

Dioxins are absorbed in the fatty tissues of the body and can persist there indefinitely. Dioxins are mainly byproducts of industrial processes and are produced during manufacturing processes including smelting, chlorine bleaching of paper pulp, and the manufacturing of some herbicides and pesticides.

Environmental distribution of dioxins is global. The highest levels of these compounds are found in some soils, sediments, and foods, including dairy products, meat, fish and shellfish. Lower levels are found in plants, water, and air.

These researchers found that exposure to a combination of estrogen and dioxin may not only initiate endometriosis but also progress the disease.

At ALETRIS Center, we recommend reducing the consumption of meat and dairy products, as well as using natural tampons and pads (which contain no dioxin). And, of course, we value the connection between the health of the environment and the health of us as individuals dependent on the environment for life and health.