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13: Holistically Healing Your Hormones + IV Therapy Benefits

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My guest today is Dr. Amber Krogsrud. A Naturopathic Holistic Hormone Doctor.
She was awarded her Bachelor Degree in Biology with a minor in Chemistry from NDSU in Fargo, North Dakota. Prior to her undergraduate studies, she worked in a chiropractic clinic and discovered the beauty of natural medicine. She also developed a passion for nutrition and began pursuing a career that viewed health as a holistic lifestyle involving food as nutrition.

 Dr. Amber serves as a Chief Science Officer (CSO) and medical advisor to Culture For Good, a company that is creating medical-grade, therapeutically dosed CBD products for skincare and internal use. She consults about CBD and emphasizes therapeutic dosing.

Tune into today’s #HYNwellnesspodcast #13 and learn about the benefits of addressing hormonal imbalances holistically. Dr. Amber shows us the protocols, IV therapies, and natural/herbal treatments she uses with her clients and students. I think you’ll be happy to learn as much as I did – Enjoy the show!

Podcasts Quotables Hormones

~ Women are having higher testosterone levels on labs today and we’re seeing men with higher estrogen levels. This is a dramatic shift.

~ Men should test their Total Testosterone (listen to the podcast for the rest of tests)…We are seeing younger men in their 20’s and 30’s with total testosterone levels in the 200-300’s, and this has been linked to environmental toxins such as Glyphosate found in Roundup Pesticide.

~ We talk about self-care all the time for the women, but it’s so important for men too. The power of meditation and yoga, going for a walk, or swim in the ocean (downtime) can be very supportive in lowering stress, cortisol, and regulating testosterone levels. 

Dr. Amber

Show Notes and Topics Discussed:

  • Why is hormone balance so important in brain health
  • Top 5 things you recommend for optimal Hormonal Balances (first for women & for men) Dr. Amber breaks down each 5 specifically for the ladies and the other 5 for our gents. A must listen!
  • IV therapy: Why is it better than just taking a pill every day or does it replace the “one a day”?
    .
This particular medication ) is one of the worst and most detrimental medications of this era, especially for your hormones, and what to do if you or a loved on is on (This medication).
Sleep deprivation and stress can have a negative effect on testosterone which in turn leads to less drive, no libido, and general mood changes.
.

Books, Tools Supplements Recommended or mentioned in the Podcast

  • Sleep (Valerian, skullcap, chamomile tea, CBD oil )
  • Vitamin D Levels (Not the IU’s you’ve been told)+
  • Boosting Vitamin B6
  • For women (steer clear of (this medication) and low cholesterol diets, plus the worst side effects of (this medication)
  • The Cholesterol Myth

Connect with Dr. Amber

Website:https://www.drambernd.com/
Where you can information about her work and even book an appointment one on one (even virtually).
Get a Free Gift from Dr. Amber


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctorambernd/
Facebook: https://facebook.com/dr.ambernd

You can subscribe to the Podcasts at any of these directories.

How Xenoestrogens or Endocrine Disruptors Are Harmful To Your Health (And What to Do About it)

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xenoestrogens-endocrine-disruptors-toxic

Xenoestrogens are endocrine disruptors that are more damaging to your health than you realize.

If you use conventional makeup, use plastic containers, plastic coffee makers, and drink out of plastic bottles– You need to reconsider using better options right now!

You may not realize it, but you are exposed to these chemicals on a daily basis.  From flame retardants in your clothes, couches, mattresses, chemicals in household cleaners,  and of course pesticides in your lawn and foods.

Organic food is definitely better for us, but sometimes we just don’t want to pay more money.  Unfortunately, all of those chemicals in your food can be affecting your body’s natural functions due to the fact that they all contain endocrine disruptors called, xenoestrogens.

Let’s first learn about Xenoestrogens…

So What Exactly are Xenoestrogens?

Xenoestrogens are a sub-category of the endocrine disruptors group that specifically have estrogen-like negative effects. Estrogen is a natural hormone in humans that is important for bone growth, blood clotting and reproduction in women and men.

Endocrine disruptors is the term used to describe a type of chemical that alters the normal function of hormones.  Typically, our endocrine system releases hormones that signal different tissues telling them what needs to be done. When chemicals from the outside enter our system, they have the opportunity to mimic our natural hormones–blocking or binding hormone receptors. This definitely is particularly detrimental to hormone susceptible organs such as the uterus, the breast, the immune and neurological systems, as well as human development.

The human body regulates the amount needed through elaborate biochemical pathways. When xenoestrogens access the body they raise the total amount of estrogen which leads to a process called, estrogen dominance. Xenoestrogens are not biodegradable so, they are saved in our fat cells. Build up of xenoestrogens have been exposed in many conditions including prostate, testicular and breast cancer, obesity, infertility, early onset puberty, miscarriages, endometriosis, and diabetes.

 Environmental Xenoestrogens and Their Role in Inflammatory Cardiometabolic Risk on Obesity:

Some chemicals used in consumer products or manufacturing (eg, plastics, pesticides) have estrogenic activities; these xenoestrogens (XEs) may affect immune responses and have recently emerged as a new risk factor for obesity and cardiovascular disease. However, the extent and impact on the health of chronic exposure of the general population to XEs are still unknown.

In this study, scientist objective was to investigate the levels of XEs in plasma and adipose tissue (AT).   They  evaluated (Xenoestrogens) XE levels in plasma and visceral and subcutaneous AT samples of Portuguese obese (body mass index ≥ 35 kg/m2) women undergoing bariatric surgery. Association with metabolic parameters and 10-year cardiovascular disease risk was assessed, according to menopausal status (73 pre- and 48 postmenopausal). Levels of XEs were determined by gas chromatography with electron-capture detection.

The results showed that XEs are pervasive in this obese population. Distribution of individual and concentration of total XEs differed between plasma, visceral AT, and subcutaneous AT, and the pattern of accumulation was different between pre- and postmenopausal women. Additionally, they found a significant association between XE levels and metabolic and inflammatory parameters. In premenopausal women, XEs in plasma seems to be a predictor of 10-year cardiovascular disease risk.

endocrine-disruptors-in-bea

What Products Contain Xenoestrogens (Endocrine Disruptors)?

  • Skincare:
    • 4-Methylbenzylidene camphor (4-MBC) (sunscreen lotions)
    • Parabens (methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben and butylparaben commonly used as a preservative) in make up and beauty products
    • Benzophenone (sunscreen lotions). There are better and safer options when it comes to sunscreens.
  • Industrial products and Plastics:
    • Bisphenol A (monomer for polycarbonate plastic and epoxy resin; antioxidant in plasticizers)
    • Phthalates (plasticizers)
    • DEHP (plasticizer for PVC)
    • Polybrominated biphenyl ethers (PBDEs) (flame retardants used in plastics, foams, building materials, electronics, furnishings, motor vehicles).
    • Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)

Food:

  • Erythrosine / FD&C Red No. 3
  • Phenosulfothiazine (a red dye)
  • Butylated hydroxyanisole / BHA (food preservative)

  • Building supplies:

    • Pentachlorophenol (general biocide and wood preservative)
    • Polychlorinated biphenyls / PCBs (in electrical oils, lubricants, adhesives, paints)

  • Insecticides:

    • Atrazine (weed killer)
    • DDT (insecticide, banned)
    • Dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (one of the breakdown products of DDT)
    • Dieldrin (insecticide)
    • Endosulfan (insecticide)
    • Heptachlor (insecticide)
    • Lindane / hexachlorocyclohexane (insecticide, used to treat lice and scabies)
    • Methoxychlor (insecticide)
    • Fenthion
    • Nonylphenol and derivatives (industrial surfactants; emulsifiers for emulsion polymerization; laboratory detergents; pesticides)
    • Other:
      • Propyl gallate  ~ Propyl Gallate is an aromatic ester of propyl alcohol and Gallic Acid. Fragrance, perfume. Concerns: Classified as toxic or harmful (only for products for use around the mouth; products for use on the lips) [4]
    • Chlorine and chlorine by-products
    • Ethinylestradiol (combined oral contraceptive pill)
    • Metalloestrogens (a class of inorganic xenoestrogens)
    • Alkylphenol (surfactant used in cleaning detergents

 

How Do You Minimize your Exposure to Xenoestrogens

The organic excellence website. had this comprehensive list to limit your exposure to toxic endocrine disruptors:

Food

  • Avoid all pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides.
  • Choose organic, locally-grown and in-season foods.
  • Peel non-organic fruits and vegetables.
  • Buy hormone-free meats and dairy products to avoid hormones and pesticides.

Plastics

  • Reduce the use of plastics whenever possible and switch to lead-free glass instead.
  • Do not microwave food in plastic containers
  • Avoid the use of plastic wrap to cover food for storing or microwaving.
  • Use glass or ceramics whenever possible to store food.
  • Do not leave plastic containers, especially your drinking water, in the sun.
  • If a plastic water container has heated up significantly, throw it away.
  • Don’t refill plastic water bottles.
  • Avoid freezing water in plastic bottles to drink later.

Household Products

  • Use chemical free, biodegradable laundry and household cleaning products. (This is what I use) or make your own soap.
  • Choose chlorine-free products and unbleached paper products (i.e. tampons, menstrual pads, toilet paper, paper towel, coffee filters).
  • Use a chlorine filter on shower heads and filter drinking water. (This is what I recommend)

Health and Beauty Products

  • Avoid creams and cosmetics that have toxic chemicals and estrogenic ingredients such as parabens and stearalkonium chloride.
  • Minimize your exposure to nail polish and nail polish removers.
  • Use naturally based fragrances, such as essential oils.
  • Use chemical free soaps and toothpaste.
  • Read the labels on condoms and diaphragm gels.

At the Office

  • Be aware of noxious gas such as from copiers and printers, carpets, fiberboards, and at the gas pump.

To learn more about ingredients and xenoestrogens check out the following websites:

Truth in Aging

Better Nutrition

 

So, How Do You Detox Your Body from Xenoestrogens?

In her fabulous and super detailed article Dr. Stephany Trensyansky ND. explains some of the best ways to get rid and avoid Xenoestrogens:

• Avoid plastic packaging. Food can absorb chemicals from plastic containers. Buy in bulk, and bring your own cloth bags. Use glass containers whenever possible.
• Avoid hormone-containing meat, dairy and poultry by purchasing organic, vegetarian or free-range options from your natural food store. (I get all my pastured/organic meats here)
• Eat organic foods whenever possible. “Certified organic” is your best bet for contaminant-free eating.
• Drink natural spring water. See alive #238 for information on home water treatment options.
• Increase phytoestrogen foods such as soy, flax seeds, green vegetables, fruits, and nuts.
• Increase your intake of indole-3 carbinols by munching on broccoli, cauliflower and brussels sprouts (cook them if you suspect Hypothyroidism)
• Detoxify your body with healthy juices or detoxing drinks at least once a week especially if you have to eat out a lot.
• Keep hydrated by drinking lots of filtered water to avoid your exposure to more chemicals. Make sure your water filtering systems kills viruses, removes lead, chlorine, and even fluoride.  I recommend and have been using a Berkey filtering system for a couple of years now. See the comparison tables and see what works best for you and your family.

Detoxification Protocols

• Follow a two-day liquid fast followed by a five-day diet of only fruit, vegetables (or vegetable juices), rice and rice protein powder. An excellent referral book is The 7-Day Detox Miracle (Prima Publishing, 2001) by Peter Bennett, ND.
• Improve circulation and sweating via hydrotherapy, sauna, and exercise.
• Avoid constipation by increasing water and fiber intake. Fresh fruits and vegetables provide the fiber and living enzymes needed for good digestion and elimination.
• Maximize liver function with specific foods such as celery, carrot, beets, and parsley.
• Drink plenty of water to support the elimination of toxins through the kidneys. Reduce coffee, tea and cola drinks to help avoid dehydration.

Additionally,  Xenoestrogens are commonly found in products like:

  • Pharmaceuticals (birth control)
  • Fingernail polish, makeup, lotions
  • deodorants and sunscreen
  • Phthalates (plasticizers)
  • Building supplies such as wood preservatives
  • Electrical oils and adhesives. [3]

References

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25853792

https://womeninbalance.org/2012/10/26/xenoestrogens-what-are-they-how-to-avoid-them/ [2]

https://baumsnaturalfoods.wordpress.com/tag/xenoestrogen/

https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredient/705311/PROPYL_GALLATE/ [4]

This Juice is for YOU Women: Uterine Tonic, Cleanser and Hormone Balancing

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Featured Ingredient Parsley

Urinary Tract Health Juice and Cleancer

Juicing is one of my favorite ways to nourish my body, not to mention the easiest way to get my daily dose of vegetables and fruits.  We women need all the help we can get from the hormones department. If you are looking for a hormone balancing, uterine tonic and cleanser this juice is it.

I remember growing up, that my mom and grandma would occasionally drink a similar version of this juice or would simply boil water and then add lots of parsley.  Eeek!

I used to think they had lost their marbles and since I wasn’t “of age’ I was able to watch.  Yaaaas… Not so fast sisters, all of that changed once the monthly friend started visiting my sister and truly yours.  Grandma’s theory was that parsley served as a uterine tonic, and helped the uterus do its job in getting rid of dead tissue aka the monthly period (among other complex jobs).  Right grandma, stay away with your smelly weed I used to think… 🤢.

Fast forward 20 years… Guess what?  Abuela was right all along.  The smelly weed was indeed a fantastic herb for us women.

I have to admit, I couldn’t stand the smell and flavor then– today is no different. I despise the herb.  We just have a love-hate relationship, but as you may know me by now my motto is: If it is good for your body and heals it– eat it or drink it!

Yes, even if it requires some serious breath holding…! 

In retrospect sister and I never suffered from severe cramps, painful or delayed period.  I am now fully convinced it was that parsley tonic my grandma and mom conspired to feed us every few months.  By the way, we also ate healthily, had good sleeping patterns- for the most part, and stayed active.

Now let’s get to the important stuff– parsley and why it is beneficial:

Here’s some data on the nutritional value of Parsley. 

 

According to Worldhealthiestfoods.com This chart graphically details the %DV that a serving of Parsley provides for each of the nutrients of which it is a good, very good, or excellent source according to our Food Rating System. Additional information about the amount of these nutrients provided by Parsley can be found in the Food Rating System Chart. A link that takes you to the In-Depth Nutritional Profile for Parsley, featuring information over 80 nutrients, can be found under the Food Rating System Chart.

 

Back to the great benefits in parsley…
While doing some research for my UTI article,  I found that parsley is in fact, a pretty healthy herb especially for us women because is loaded in vitamins A, and B, and folic acid which is a very important nutrient that insures proper cell division.

Antioxidant ~ The flavonoids in parsley—especially luteolin—have been shown to function as antioxidants that combine with highly reactive oxygen-containing molecules (called oxygen radicals) and help prevent oxygen-based damage to cells. In addition, extracts from parsley have been used in animal studies to help increase the antioxidant capacity of the blood. (source)

Now, this juice was delicately crafted for us women as a uterine tonic, Urinatry Tract cleanser and of course a hormone balancing aid. Here’s how:

Uterine Tonic & Cleanser

Parsely as a uterine tonic, assists with irregular and very painful menstruation. It is a mild emmenagogue — in other words it will definitely stimulate menstruation (understand that it is predicted to work whenever your period is late and definitely not at the time you’re pregnant). Ingestion of parsley should be avoided by pregnant women.

Parsley tea has been recommended for generations to help in monthly periods and used for mothers after delivery to promote uterine contractions after delivery. This process been considered due to the presence of apiol in parsley. Apiol is naturally a element in the female sex hormone estrogen.

Hormone Balancing

Dandelion root is not only nutritious, it is  particularly helpful in stimulating the liver, which helps the body clear out built up toxins, wastes, and bacteria which could be throwing your hormones out of balance. {Dandelion isn’t safe around here so I buy organic most times}

Parsley is yet another herb that that can be used as part of a daily vitamin regimen, overall wellness, and balance your hormone levels. Parsley is the highest source of iron in any leafy green, and contains three times equally as much Ascorbic acid (vitamin c)} as citrus. This herb is also in Vitamins A and B, plus it’s wonderful for regulating a woman’s menstrual cycle.

Kelp (not in this juice) but you can add it to it. I usually add these kelp flakes to this juice or will add them to my tuna salad, on top of my eggs as a salt sub or any food I see fit.  Kelp is often used for female hormonal issues as well, because it provides a wide variety of nutrients.  Kelp also helps stimulate the different glands in our body. Kelp is particularly helpful in regulating the thyroid, it is also a natural source of iron, iodine and calcium.
[box title=”Important:” style=”noise” box_color=”#efe3f0″ title_color=”#060705″ radius=”12″] If you are trying to get pregnant or already pregnant you must be cautious in juicing or drinking lots of parsley at once.  Parsley is know to be a menstrual stimulating herbal and it’ll induce contractions.

According to this study the use of herbal infusions used for induced abortion, certain herbs such as parsley, ruda (Ruta chalepensis/graveolens), cola de quirquincho (Lycopodium saururus), parsley (Petroselinum hortense), and an over-the-counter herbal product named Carachipita. The components of Carachipita are pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium), yerba de la perdiz (Margiricarpus pinnatus), oregano (Origanum vulgare), and guaycuri (Statice brasiliensis). Abortion occurred in 23 cases after the ingestion of parsley, ruda, Carachipita, celery, Cedron, francisco alvarez, floripon, espina colorada. So please be cautious when juicing parsley or any of the herbs mentioned above. [/box]

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Women's Juice: Uterine Tonic, Cleanser and Hormone Balancing

Women's Juice: Uterine Tonic, Cleanser and Hormone Balancing

Ingredients

  • 3 stalks celery
  • 1 bunch of parsley
  • 2-3 dandelion roots
  • 3- 5 large carrots
  • 1 Lime juice
  • 3 strawberries
  • 1/4 mango
  • 1/2 tomato (Lycopene)
  • 2 small green apples

Instructions

  1. Use a masticating juicer, nutribullet or your favorite juicer.
  2. Serve
  3. Drink within 6 hours

https://www.healyounaturally.com/hormone-balancing-uterine-tonic-juice/

Question: Have you ever used a Uterine Tonic? Was it a juice or any other herb or plant remedy? Share your recipes or experiences in the comments below.