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Acupuncture, Acupuncturist, Acupressure, Point Injection, Dry needling, Clear Brilliant, Holistic Health, Nutrition, Natural Remedy, Healing, Detox-cleanse, Stress Management, Weight Management, UTI, Allergies, Addiction, Insomnia, accupuncture, acupuncture, vitamins, arthritis, pain. menopause, Chinese medicine, TCM, Tracy Hackett, Tracy, Hackett, Florida
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Detox Support Therapies

Detoxification, Addiction Support, and Smoke Cessation Treatments

Compassionate Care From a Doctor Who Listens

“Detoxification” can mean many things and is a term loosely used in holistic medicine circles. The obvious meaning and goal is to alleviate the body of substances that disrupt healthy function of its systems. A gentle approach will create the best effects by supporting the body’s own processes. It is not necessary, nor a good idea,  to shock your body into a healthier state by forcing a result with an extreme regime.   If you are on the road to recovery from substance abuse or feel your health could use a boost with a detox cleanse of your GI tract, Liver, Kidneys, or a general ‘ground regulation’ cleanse, then Dr. Hackett can design a treatment plan that integrates with other modalities you are using and  can help you achieve your wellness goals.

 

2000 BC – “Here, eat this root.”

1000 BC – “That root is heathen; say this prayer.”

1850 AD – “That prayer is superstition: drink this potion.”

1940 AD – “That potion is snake oil; swallow this pill.”

1985 AD – “That pill is ineffective; take this antibiotic.”

2000 AD – “That antibiotic is artificial. Here, eat this root.”

~ Author Unknown

 

Body Burden

Your body is an aqueous environment encased by skin and keeping that water clean is what your organs do with metabolic functions so that wastes are excreted out (sweat, urine, stools, emesis, saliva (mucus/phlegm)).

The “Body Burden” refers to the presence and accumulation of non-nutrient substances/chemicals, environmental toxins, and undigested food particles in the human body. The organs either cannot process them because of an overburden of toxins present or an inflammatory/allergic response that has been triggered because the substance levels are not recognized as nutrients.

 

Recent studies have shown that the Body Burden begins in the womb and continues to accumulate throughout our lives with exposure to pollution in our including air, food, water, homes, and environment. Recent studies have also shown that mothers can pass these toxins along to their fetuses in utero and newborns through breast milk. Toxins can persist in our bodies for as much as 50 years, disrupting cellular, gland and tissue function, damaging genetic material, and causing many other health problems. The process of detoxification begins by identifying sources of toxin exposure, strategize exposure elimination, then use various methods to flush those toxins from the system.

 

There are several categories of substances that can create a body burden. Carcinogens are environmental toxins that cause cancer while teratogens (typically petrochemicals and pharmaceuticals) cause birth defects. Developmental and reproductive toxicants (pesticides and other petrochemicals) can cause development delays and damage reproductive function. Endocrine disrupters are chemicals that interfere with normal hormone function (petrochemicals, MSG, aspartame, and other food additives).

 

Toxic chemicals can cause endless amounts of health problems throughout the body. Symptoms can interfere with their daily lives such as: allergies, severe anxiety, agitation, depression, CFS (Chronic Fatigue Synd), arthritis, asthma, headaches, persistent skin conditions, chemical sensitivities,  digestive problems, diabetes, heart problems, loss of mental clarity, fibromyalgia, obesity, and other chronic idiopathic disease states. Thus, it is important to support the body’s natural ability to regenerate and cleanse itself of toxins with concentrated nutrition (raw juices), homeopathics, herbal formulas, and acupuncture,  diet, assisted fasting, supplements, Acupuncture Injection Therapy, IV therapy, and colonics.

When people feel “toxed,”the cause may also be from a compromise in the gut microbiome created by parasites, negative flora, yeast, or fungal overgrowth in their system. Toxic mold exposure as a possible cause of illness should not be overlooked since we spend so much time in climate controlled spaces.

Dr. Hackett can conduct testing on: blood, hair, urine, stools, or saliva, if your symptoms are chronic and very complex. She can work with existing lab work and the extensive health history taken at your initial visit to start a foundation of your treatment plan. She works through a process of stages that follows with your rate of healing and recovery rather than conforming you and your process to a set system.

Detoxification can also be helpful for conditions that are influenced by environmental factors and for those who have been exposed to high levels of toxins through their occupation or by accident. It can even be used as a beneficial preventative measure and to increase overall health, vitality, and resistance to disease.

Environmental factors can play a significant role in many illnesses, and detoxification treatment has become one of the cornerstones of alternative medicine. It is estimated that one in every four Americans suffers from some level of heavy metal poisoning; these toxins have become unavoidable.

Detoxification Therapies:

The type of therapy that is used will depend on your initial diagnosis. Typically, though, a dietary change is immediate to eliminate allergic and unhealthy foods. Nutritional supplements are used along with herbal supplements.

Schedule your consultation appointment to learn more about detoxification therapies and if there is a treatment plan right for you.

Zen Mixology pHDetox Cleanse (GI & Liver)

Dr. Hackett’s Zen Mixology pH-Detox raw juice cleanse is flavorful potent nutrition designed to supercharge your health and well-being.  It promotes the movement stagnated food waste out of your gut and improve liver function. It is a low-glycemic cleanse that consists of 6-16 oz. individual nutrient and fiber-dense juices, freshly made from organic ingredients. For example, the ZM Green Lemonade has 12 ingredients. Each day of the cleanse has approximately 800 calories. Also included are supplements specifically attuned to your detox needs during your cleanse. You may need to continue some supplementation after the cleanse, which is optional.

The fast is designed around the principles of balance inherent to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) nutrition and Yoga kriyas of Ayurveda. One benefit of the fast is the direct infusion of living enzymes and plant-based nutrients to help cleanse, nourish, and revitalize your entire system.

The Zen Mixology Cleanse

  1.  2 green lemonade portions to help nourish and detoxify gastrointestinal tract
  2. 1 pineapple based juice to gently cleanse the stomach
  3. 1 grapefruit based juice to gently detoxify the liver
  4.  1 raw almond mylk chai to fortify the body with healthy easy to digest protein
  5. 1 special super nutrient blend that is sourced from seasonal produce or a chia parfait is included on the last day
  6. daily supplements attuned to optimize your cleanse (no stimulants or chemicals)

A benefit of the fast is the direct infusion of living enzymes and plant based nutrients to help detox your digestive system and revitalize your energy and blood.

Some people on the fast worry about feeling hungry or starved. Generally, people feel satisfied and report having good energy. There is a possibility of having a detox effect (headache, fatigue, mild malaise), but it is unusual and easily managed if it occurs.

If you do feel hungry during the cleanse or if you’re diabetic and your blood sugar level is too low, make sure you have vegetarian snacks on hand, like black bean soup, carrots/celery and hummus, or a light brothy vegetable soup. You should not drink coffee during the cleanse. However, green, herbal, and ginger tea is acceptable and recommended because of its warming effect on the body.

Scheduling your cleanse:

The cleanse can be 1,3, or 5 days in length. It is recommended that you eat a vegetarian diet the day before and after your cleanse.

If you have never done a cleanse before, it is recommended that you start with one day and wait a couple of days before doing your next.

Juices are made fresh in the morning and are available for pickup at 8:30 AM. Delivery for group can be arranged.

 

People with metabolic disorders or diabetes can do the cleanse after an initial consultation with Dr. Hackett. If you are a diabetic, you should only consider doing the cleanse if your glycemic level is well-managed and you check your levels routinely throughout the fast. It may be determined that it is too early in your treatment for a juice fast and a raw vegan dietary cleanse is more appropriate for you. Please schedule and evaluation before signing up.

Secondary, but important effects, of doing regular juice cleanses are that your palate gains a taste for better quality and fresher foods, your skin and hair appear more healthy and glowing, plus your overall energy levels and outlook improve. Weight loss does not occur immediately. It is a gradual process of improving dietary choices and exercise commitments over time.

 

Here are a few guidelines and answers to common questions about the ZenMixology Bodylogic Cleanse:

1. In order to prepare for detoxifying your digestive system, it’s suggested that you eat a vegetarian diet for three days before and three days after the juice cleanse portion.

2. If you feel hunger cravings or pangs during your cleanse you can have a light vegetarian broth or soup, pureed vegetables warmed up on the stove is fine also. Please do not use table salt to season, use “Spike” or Nama Shoyu (raw soy sauce) or Bragg’s seasoning. Salt will slow down the celeansing process.

3. Cravings: If you tend to have certain types of cravings in general, consult Tracy, you may need to balance it through a nutritional supplement. The type varies, depending upon the presentation of your cravings.

4. If you would like to continue the cleanse past the first day, please sign up for the next cleanse and add more days. Give us a call, we may have an extra available.

5. The juices are raw, living foods, they have a limited shelf life. If you cannot start on your scheduled pick up day, Tracy recommends that you sign up for a different week. She makes the juices early in the morning to ensure the best possible quality and potency of the live nutrition you are taking in. The shelf-life of the juices is 36 hours after the pick up day.

6. The juices are available from 8:45am onward. The juices are refrigerated until you pick them up. There is a cold pack in the bag with the juice. Please refrigerate them as soon as possible.

7. The juice cleanse is balanced in terms of temperature according to principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) nutrition designed to support and strengthen your digestion.

8. Treating digestive issues is a specialty of mine in my TCM practice. If you have any history of digestive issues, parasites/extensive foreign travel or recent antibiotic use, consult me so that Tracy can make the appropiate recommendations or adjustments.

9. It is absolutely fine to continue with your exercise routine during the cleanse. Most people find that they have more and better energy than usual drinking the juices. But be gentle and listen to your body for any detox symptoms.

10. Detox or Herxheimer’s effect symptoms include: fatigue, GI upset, flu-like symptoms, and foggiheadedness. These symptoms are normally very mild or non-existent with this type of cleanse. If you experience any of these, drink ginger or pepermint tea and plenty of lukewarm water with lemon. Email Tracy immediately so that she can advise you further.

Phase I and Phase II Detox Support (Liver)

Phase 1 And 2 Liver Detoxification Pathways

Your liver cells renew themselves quickly since they are uniquely adapted to breaking down or “metabolizing” the substances ingested into your body, that includes toxins. The sophisticated function of the liver is presided over by enzyme function. Thus, the body’s primary defense against metabolic poisoning is carried out by the liver.

 

How the Liver Detoxifies

The liver has two mechanisms designed to convert fat-soluble chemicals into water soluble chemicals so that they may then be easily excreted from the body via watery fluids such as bile and urine.

There are two major detoxification pathways inside the liver cells, which are called the Phase 1 and Phase 2 detoxification pathways.

Since, many of the environmental toxins that enter the body are fat-soluble, meaning they dissolve only in lipid solutions and not in water, it makes them difficult for the body to excrete.  These toxins may be stored in your fat (adipose tissue) for years. They may be released during times of exercise, stress, cleansing, or fasting. The release of  toxins may engender some uncomfortable symptoms such as headaches, poor memory, stomach pain, nausea, fatigue, dizziness and palpitations.

 

Toxic substances can come in many forms

  • metabolic end products (artificial sweeteners)
  • micro organisms (“negative flora” and parasites)
  • contaminants/pollutants (petrochemicals, industrial chemicals)
  • insecticides/pesticides (petrochemicals)
  • food additives (chemicals, sodium compounds)
  • drugs (chemicals)
  • alcohol and street drugs

Phase One – Detoxification Pathway

Phase one detoxification is catalysed by enzymes referred to as the cytochrome P450 enzyme group or Mixed Function Oxidase enzymes MFO. The membrane system of the liver cells (hepatocytes) serve as the function platform of the P450. P450 synthesis is induced with exposure to toxins which provides a mechanism of protection. This pathway system metabolizes toxic chemical into a less harmful form.

 

This process occurs via oxidation, reduction, and hydrolysis, chemical reactions that produce free radicals are produced. If the level of free-radicals is excessive or chronically high, liver cell damage can outstrip the liver’s ability to regenerate its cells and damage function. Antioxidants reduce that damage. If antioxidant levels are low, from a poor diet, and toxin exposure is high, it is more difficult for liver to process and therefore excrete health-damaging substances. If those reactive molecules are ‘induced’, they may cause damage to cellular proteins, organelles, RNA, and DNA.

Substances that may encourage ‘induction’ of the P- 450 enzymes:

  • Caffeine
  • Alcohol
  • Dioxin
  • Saturated fats
  • Organophosphorus pesticides
  • Phthalates
  • Sulfonamides and other pharmaceuticals
  • Petrochemical fumes
  • Barbiturates
  • Artificial Sweeteners

P-450 enzyme systems are diverse, with specificity to inducement by particular drugs, toxins or metabolites or “substrates”. This characteristic has allowed the development of special tests to check the function of the liver’s various detoxification pathways.

Substrates of cytochrome P-450 enzymes.

  • Theophylline
  • caffeine
  • phenacetin, acetaminophen
  • lidocaine
  • erythromycin, cyclosporin
  • anti-fungals (ketoconazole)
  • hormones: testosterone, estradiol, cortisone
  • Beta-blockers: alprenolol, bopindolol, carvedilol, metoprolol, propranolol
  • Anti-Depressants: amitriptyline, clomipramine, desipramine, nortriptyline, imipramine
  • Opioids: codeine, ethyl-morphine
  • dextromethorphan
  • 4-methoxyamphetamine
  • Phenytoin
  • ibuprofen, naproxen, oxicam drugs
  • S-warfarin
  • Diazepam
  • hexobarbitone
  • PPIs: omeprazole
  • alcohol
  • Muscle relaxants: chlorzoxazone
  • Anesthetics: enflurane

Cofactors of P450 Phase 1 detoxification

NADH, riboflavin, niacin, magnesium, iron, and indoles from cruciferous vegetables all support the liver’s detox function.

Cytochrome P450 inhibitors:

Grapefruit

Grapefruit juice decreases the rate of elimination of drugs from the blood and has been found to substantially alter their clinical activity and toxicity. Eight ounces of grapefruit juice contains enough of the flavonoid naringenin to decrease cytochrome P450 activity by 30%.

Curcumin

Inhibits phase I while stimulating phase II. This effect can be very useful in preventing certain types of cancer. Curcumin has been found to inhibit carcinogens, such as benzopyrene (found in grilled meat) and inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Curcumin exerts its anti-carcinogenic activity by lowering the activation of carcinogens while increasing the detoxification of those that are activated. Most of the cancer-inducing chemicals in cigarette smoke are carcinogenic during the period between activation by phase I and final detoxification by phase II, so curcumin can help prevent the cancer-causing effects of tobacco.

Phase I detoxification and aging

The activity of phase I detoxification enzymes decreases with age. Blood flow through the liver also becomes more sluggish, slowing detoxification further. Lack of exercise, necessary for good circulation, combined with the poor nutrition impair detoxification capacity as well.

 

Phase Two – Detoxification Pathway

Is the conjugation pathway, whereby the liver cells add another molecule (eg. cysteine, glycine or a sulphur molecule) to a toxin. This process makes the toxin or drug water-soluble, so the body can  excrete it via bile or urine.

Major Phase II pathways

  • Glutathione
  • Sulphate
  • Glycine
  • Glucuronide conjugations

Sulphur containing foods and amino acids stimulate phase II detoxification

For efficient phase two detoxification, the liver cells require sulphur-containing amino acids such as taurine and cysteine. The nutrients MSM, glycine, glutamine, choline and inositol are also required for efficient phase two detoxification.

Eggs and cruciferous vegetables, raw garlic, onions, leeks and shallots are all good sources of natural sulphur compounds to enhance phase two detoxification. Thus, certain foods are considered cleansing ‘herbs’.

The Phase II enzyme systems include both UDP-glucuronyl transferase (GT) and glutathione-S-transferase (GSH-T).

Glutathione-S-transferase is the most powerful internal antioxidant and liver protector. It can be depleted by large amounts of toxins/drugs passing through the liver and improper nutrition. Phase II reactions may occur directly on a metabolite or may follow Phase I.

 

Substrates of the glycine pathway

Salicylates, benzoates (food preservatives) and many other substances are detoxified primarily through glycination or detoxified via the glycine conjugation pathway. People with a “toxed” feeling or sluggish digestion may have environmental toxicity without sufficient amounts of glycine to excrete them efficiently.

Substrates of the sulphation pathways

Neurotransmitters, steroid hormones, certain drugs such as Acetaminophen (also known as paracetamol) and many xenobiotic and phenolic compounds.

Substrates of glucuronidation

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, steroid hormones, some nitrosamines, heterocyclic amines, some fungal toxins, and aromatic amines. Spent hormones, such as estrogens and thyroid hormone are also excreted through this pathway.

Toxic Overload of Excess Body Burden

If the phase one and two detoxification pathways become overloaded,  a build up of toxins occurs in the body. Many of these toxins are fat soluble and incorporate into fatty tissues where they may stay for years, if not for a lifetime. The brain and the endocrine glands are fatty organs, and are common sites for fat-soluble toxins to accumulate. This may result in symptoms of brain dysfunction and hormonal imbalances (infertility, breast pain, menstrual problems, adrenal gland fatigue, and early menopause). Petrochemicals contribute to this body burden and are carcinogenic, and have been implicated in the rising incidence of certain cancers.

Herbs that Improve Phase 1 and 2 Detoxification

Bitter herbs are foundational to herbal medicine. A range of physiological responses occur following stimulation of the bitter receptors of the tongue. The bitter taste stimulates the specific bitter taste buds at the back of the tongue to stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system to trigger a number of digestive reflexes.

Categories of Bitter Digestive Herbs

Sialogogues – stimulate saliva to digest carbohydrates.

Orexogenics – stimulate hydrochloric acid to digest protein.

Chologogues – Stimulate bile flow to digest fats and assist the liver in its detoxifying capacity.

The stimulation of the flow of digestive juices from the exocrine glands of mouth, stomach, pancreas, duodenum and liver, aid in digestion, absorption and assimilation of foods and nutrients. There is also a very mild stimulation of endocrine activities, especially insulin and glucagon secretion in the pancreas and can therefore be used to treat of non-insulin dependent diabetes.

 

The liver’s complex function can be supported or compromised in a multitude of ways. Dr. Hackett can help you find a streamlined, comprehensive way to help you build your health and preserve your longevity through a middle path approach to detoxification.

Kidney Cleanse Support

Your kidneys support the detoxification of your blood by flushing toxic compounds and metabolites out through the urine. This is one reason proper hydration is so important. Chronic dehydration inhibits blood cleansing thereby allowing toxins to accumulate and circulate in your body. Therefore, cleansing your kidneys on a routine basis is of significant importance especially if you notice changes in your body odor or stains on clothing from sweat.

The Function of the Kidneys

The kidneys are important regulators of homeostasis and osmotic concentration of ions, pH, and water volume and composition of the body’s fluid compartments (in particular the extracellular fluid, ECF). The Kidneys also serve as the principle organ for the elimination of metabolic waste products. The mechanism used to accomplish this job is a filtration/reabsorption system of the plasma then substances needed by the body are selective reabsorbed, leaving unwanted substances to excrete out into urine.

Acidic or alkaline urine is one dimension of measuring kidney function and diagnosing conditions. Normal urine is slightly acidic (around pH 6) however, the pH can be lowered by a diet rich in proteins or citrus fruits. Abnormally low pH in urine coupled with high glucose and ketones are characteristics of diabetes mellitus. Thus pH by itself is not very informative. The presence of proteins or blood in the urine is more useful as a diagnostic tool and may indicate nephritis (plasma proteins and erythrocytes leaking into the urine). However, long distance runners sometimes test positive for blood in their urine. Kidney cleansing helps promote the optimal function of the kidneys. When in optimal health, your kidneys can purify your blood up to 60 times per day.

Two topics of interest are the effects of caffeinated and alcoholic beverages on urine volume and composition. Caffeine stimulates water excretion and ethanol inhibits the release of ADH. In each case there is loss of fluid in excess of intake and the result is dehydration.

 

Diabetes Mellitus and Kidney Function

Glucose in urine attracts water by osmosis increasing the volume of urine formed. Diabetics urinate frequently and are excessively thirsty as a result. The loss of water dehydrates the body causing a response to conserve water by concentrating urine.

 

Ketones are by-products of the metabolism of fat. Ketosis and ketonuria are characteristic of starvation, various metabolic disorders, and diabetes. For diabetics the production of ketones results from the inability to properly regulate insulin, which in addition to its role in the metabolism of glucose also plays a key role in the metabolism of fats.

 

Protein is not normally present in urine. The glomerulus should not allow filtration of plasma protein. In the early stages of glomerular disease the filtration barrier can become leaky to protein. This generally increases glomerular filtration and can also lead to increased urine volume. Renal disease and damage to the glomerular filtration barrier can result from a bewildering array of conditions. Untreated high blood pressure is probably the most significant and rapidly increasing cause of chronic renal failure. Diabetes and a variety of autoimmune syndromes also result in glomerular damage. Protein in urine might also result from bacterial infection.

Liver Disease

Bilirubin and urobilinogen are metabolites of  hemoglobin. Bilirubin is not normally found in urine. “Normal” levels for urobilinogin are more controversial. Red blood cells in the body live for about 120 days after which time they are broken down and the hemoglobin they contain is recycled into bilirubin. Bilirubin is formed in the liver and excreted with the bile into the intestine. The presence of bilirubin in the urine indicates blood levels that are too high, usually because the liver is failing to properly metabolize the hemoglobin (hepatitis, cirrhosis, or bile blockage due to gall stones). Anemia can be the result as valuable blood protein and iron are lost.

 

UTIs and Kidney Infection

Nitrite is a product of the bacterial reduction of nitrate and indicates the presence of a bacterial infection and is produced through the metabolism of food. Normal urine is sterile so, typically there is no nitrite in urine. Kidney infections do not commonly produce painful urination. Painful urination is typical of lower urinary tract infections (UTI) and may travel up the urinary tract into the kidney. They may also be sexually transmitted. Antibiotics are used to treat infections. Bacterial culture (identification) is important to guide proper antibiotic therapy.

 

Kidney Stones

Blood, often referred to as occult blood (meaning mysterious origin) indicates that abnormal bleeding is occurring somewhere in the urinary system. Sediment and crystals are solids found in urine. Common sediments include dead epithelial cells sloughed from the urinary tract lining, bacteria and white blood cells, crystals of certain minerals that precipitate out of solution. The most common minerals that can lead to kidney stones are calcium and oxalate, causing significant damage and pain. To avoid kidney stones, at risk individuals are urged to keep urine volumes high, and oxalate levels and urine pH low. This reduces the concentration and increases solubility of calcium oxalate in tubular fluid. Certain greens are high in oxalates (rhubarb greens, beet tops, chard).

 

Cleansing the Kidneys

There are well-designed TCM herbal formulas that aid and support kidney function. A few common herbs you can prepare yourself for maintenance are:

Dandelion root, which is a mild diuretic. Dandelion root tea can be made by boiling 1 to 2 tsp. of organic roasted dandelion root in 8 ounces of pure water.

Ginger root and turmeric tea can be made by boiling a few dashes of turmeric powder with peeled ginger root. If consumed after lunch and dinner, the tea not only flushes toxins from the kidneys but also helps with digestion.

If those options do not sound very appetizing, there are capsule forms of traditional formulas available.

Cleansing with Fruits and Vegetables

You can also find many organic fruits that will help your body with kidney cleansing. For instance, organic cranberries contain quinine, which is metabolized into hippuric acid that helps remove urea and uric acid from the kidneys and urinary tract. It also helps discourage bacteria from attaching to urinary tract walls. Hence, Cranberry juice is rightly considered a great support to kidney health. Garlic is a natural diuretic that helps stimulate urine production and flush the kidneys. Cucumbers also work as a natural diuretic and can help dissolve kidney and bladder stones.  Kidney beans, soybeans, and peas contain a vital amino acid called arginine that helps cleanse the kidneys of ammonia.

 

The kidney’s complex function can be supported or compromised in a multitude of ways. Dr. Hackett can help you find a streamlined, comprehensive way to help you build your health and preserve your longevity through a middle path approach to detoxification.

General or 'Ground Regulation' Detox

This general cleanse has its basis in the idea that the body is an aqueous environment encased by skin. The system of the detox, or ‘dredging’ out of our internal ‘lake’, is through a form of homeopathy called homotoxicology.  Homotoxicology theory and remedies were developed by Dr. Hans-Heinrich Rekeweg who founded -Heel, the world’s largest manufacturer of of homeopathic remedies. The politics of medicine in the US should not be ignored and are part and parcel of the reason  these powerful remedies are available here on a limited basis. Dr. Hackett has been using and prescribing -Heel and -Heel partner remedies for nearly twenty years.

 

The basic detox is gentle and can easily be adjusted for people with chronic, poor health. Dr. Hackett typically recommends to start with a homeopathic treatment plan with patients who have complex health histories, multiple medications, and difficulty taking herbs or supplements. Acupuncture and homeopathic medicine operate on similar principles of stimulating “ground” or energetic basis of being.

Principles of Homotoxicology

Homotoxins (human-toxins), include all of those substances (chemical or biochemical) and non-material influences which can cause illness in concentration, resulting in dysregulation of the body’s systems. Every illness therefore, is due to the effects of homotoxins, which may be introduced from the exterior (exogenic toxins) or originate in the body itself (endogenous toxins.) Referred to as homotoxicosis. A homotoxicosis occurs as a humoral or cellular phenomenon and can be followed by morphological alterations on tissues.

Ground Regulation

This refers to functional regulation of the “ground system” along with its relationship to the nervous, hormonal and extra and intracellular fluid regulation systems. It’s composition is that of the ground substance and the cellular, humoral and nervous components. The ground substance (extracellular matrix) is formed of polymerized sugars (proteoglycans and glycosaminoglycans) plus structural and meshing glycoproteins. The ground system functions according to phase theory, which can be correlated to the six phases of chinese medicine.

The Six-Phase Theory of Ground Regulation

The six-phases are chronological courses of progression of disease within the framework of the ground regulation. The individual phases transition into each other with emblematic phase-indicating signs. The six-phases group into three sections: humoral phases, matrix phases, cellular phases. The division  that bifurcates biological from energetic occurs within the matrix phases.

  1. Humoral Phases   In the humoral phases the intracellular systems are not disturbed. The defense system is intact and can excrete the homotoxins via various paths.
    1. Excretion phase: This phase contains manifestations of increased physiological excretion mechanisms.
    2. Inflammation phase: Illnesses of this phase are marked by an exudative inflammation that enables an accelerated excretion of toxins from the body.
  2. Matrix Phases are defined by deposition of  homotoxins in the “mesh” of the extracellular matrix, the integument of the body’s tissue. Over time those structural components and functions become altered resulting in chronic illness, which increases stress and damage of intracellular structures.
    1. Deposition phase: In this phase the excretion mechanisms of the body are overworked and toxins are deposited in the matrix. This phase often progresses with few symptoms.
    2. Impregnation phase: Diseases in this phase are characterized by the presence of toxins which become a part of the connective tissue and the matrix, along with changes in the structural components and their function. The typically increasingly severe symptoms of this phase demonstrate damage of the organ cells.
  3. Cellular Phases are distinguished by continued dedifferentiation and alteration of function of cell systems. The organ systems are impaired in their ability to excrete toxins and metabolites from the cells or out of the matrix. Typical for these patients is the so-called ‘regulation rigidity.’
    1. Degeneration phase: During this phase, courses of disease cause serious damage, and destruction of larger cell groups of an organ occur.
    2. Dedifferentiation (neoplasm) phase: Diseases of this phase are characterized by the development of undifferentiated, non-specialized cell forms. Malignant diseases stand at the end of this phase.

Immunological bystander reaction

Homotoxicological remedies help the body regulate immunomodulation via ingredients in the remedies noted for those characteristics, such as amino acid sequences in dilution,  plant extracts, suis organ extracts, nosodes and animal venoms.  This interesting caveat is that the substances are in such dilution, according to methods of homeopathy, that there is little if any of the substance in the remedy you take.

 

The critical 12 dilution of the ingredients from 1X-14X, furthermore gives the remedies the ability to induce 13 the immunological bystander reaction, primarily in the Gut Associated Lymphoid Tissue

(GALT) and less so in the peripheral tissues, according to clinical findings conducted in EU labs.

 

Introduction to “How It Works”

The following is excerpted from “Routine Therapy: Practitioner’s Handbook of Homotoxicology”, 2006:

Antigen presentation and motif formation

In order to initiate the bystander reaction we need a small dose of antigen, or a remedy containing plant extract, suis organ extract, animal venom or a nosode, each in a specific dilution. These diluted substances are then taken up by the APC’s in the gut lining which will present them as an antigen to the lymphocytes in the GALT via the MCH or the CD1 binding mentioned above. The processed antigen is then displayed as a motif on the outside of the APC. There will be a motif for each of the ingredients, thus if we give Traumeel, one for Arnica, one for Bellis perennis, etc., or if we give Hepar compositum, one for Hepar Suis, one for Colon Suis and so forth.

The six-phases are a field matrix reflecting medical experience based on careful observation and empirical learning. It is a phase-by-phase arrangement of disorders with no direct relationship between them. No causal pathogenetic link between disorders can be inferred. The structure of the table makes it suitable for developing a prediction system giving a better assessment of the possibilities for a vicariation effect.

Biological division

The biological division refers to the liminal boundary between the deposition and impregnation phases. It demarcates the pure deposition in the matrix from the integration of toxins into its structural components. Whereas a simple excretion of toxins is possible during the deposition phase, structural and functional changes are found in the impregnation phase. Thus, the spontaneous endogenic excretion of homotoxins is impeded.

Vicariation

The term ‘vicariation’ refers to the transition of the indicating signs of an illness within one 10 phase to another organ system, or the change of fundamental symptoms into another

phase with or without a change of the organ system.
Progressive vicariation refers to an aggravation of the total symptoms of an illness. Regressive vicariation refers to an improvement of the total symptoms of an illness.

The principles of action of anti-homotoxic medicine

The different components of the anti-homotoxic preparations activate the defense system of the body. The immune system with its memory and regulation systems can be compared to the spiritual-mental self, the ego. The deposition phase and more frequently the impregnation phase are characterized by immunological processes such as chronic inflammation and auto-aggression. The humoral area (via immunoglobulins from B-lymphocytes) and the cellular area (T-cells, granulocytes, macrophages) still counterbalance each other in this case. A regressive vicariation is still possible in these matrix phases.

Herein lies a great opportunity for anti-homotoxic medicine. The immunological bystander reaction represents a theory of anti-homotoxic therapy for inflammatory illnesses. It is based on low dose antigen reactions, particularly of substance combinations in the range of 1X to 14X, with 4X to 8X appearing to be the most favorable. The bystander effect cannot be triggered at higher potencies. Experience shows that higher potencies as well as trace elements and intermediary catalysts are able to stimulate the ground regulation. (Functional circle of anti-homotoxic therapy; Heine 1997.) It is significant that for the potency ranges 3X to 12X, a considerable difference exists in the activation of specific enzyme systems compared to substances conventionally diluted to the same concentration. The dose-action relationship of potentized substances compared to diluted substances demonstrates a non-linear relationship.

Ground regulation system

Every organism requires energy to maintain its vital functions which must be continuously provided by the metabolism. Disorders of the energy metabolism, therefore, impair the energy supply which is controlled by endogenic regulation. The organism is an energetically open system for which suitable energy, in the form of food, must be supplied and unsuitable energy must be evacuated. In this manner an unstable state of order can be maintained, far from a thermodynamic balance, for a longer period of time; a “life- span.” All reactions of the organism proceed at relatively low temperatures in the aqueous milieu and must be accelerated, i.e., catalyzed. The prerequisite for an effective catalysis is suitable substrates between and in the cells. Because the extracellular space is located in front of the cells, the cells can only react as they have been informed via the extracellular space. The dynamic structure of the extracellular space and its regulation (ground regulation) have therefore a decisive impact on the effectiveness of the extracellular and intracellular catalysts. This depends on the structure of the ground substance (extracellular matrix or simply, matrix). It forms in all cells and cell groups a molecular sieve of matrix components such as highly polymerized sugar protein complexes and sugar complexes (proteoglycans-glycosaminoglycans, PG/GAG’s), structural proteins (collagen, elastin) and meshing glycoproteins (e.g., fibronectin) (Figure 2). As the PG/GAG’s are electro-negatively charged, they are able to bind water and exchange ions as well. They are therefore the guarantors for isoiony, isoosmy and isotony in the matrix.

 

The ground substance is connected to the endocrine system via the capillary system and via the axons to the central nervous system. The fibroblast is the metabolically active center. Ultimately, damage of all humoral and cellular elements may arise progressing at first from persistent feelings of ill health to chronic disease and malignant processes (Heine, 1997.)

The immunological bystander reaction serves as a model for the working mechanism of immunomodulatory remedies which, through a non-toxic substance in a specific dilution can induce a regulatory cell, the Th3 cell . This regulatory cell, while developed at another site, and acting as an innocent bystander can bring about a balance in the immune system, by down-regulating an inflammatory process started by another noxious homotoxin remote from its own activation. The Th3 cell acts as a fulcrum on which the balance of Th1 and Th2 cells rests.

Dr. Reckeweg also postulated as to how homotoxicological remedies work by giving a non-toxic substance to the defense system of the body, which is then activated through another pathway in order to bring about homeostasis.

 

Introduction to remedies in Homotoxicology

Homotoxicological medicines have been developed to serve the very specific purpose of restoring regulation in the organism. Although they may appear as being complex homeopathic compositions, they in fact differ in a number of ways from the normal complex prescription, in that they incorporate various dilutions of remedies, as well as potentized catalysts, allopathics and vitamins, for instance. As our knowledge of molecular biology increases we can witness the deep-acting function of these combinations on the body. We classify the remedies according to the origin of the remedy, the combination, as well as the phase in which they will be useful.

Classification according to remedy origin 15 The remedies are made up of four pharmacological groups (PG’s):

1. The first group is the plant materials (PPG’s). Depending on the dilution, these could have either the dominant, secondary or complementary action in the remedy.

2. The second group is the mineral pharmacological group or MPG’s. In the potency they mostly appear in the remedies, they act as functional regulators, modifiers and stimulators.

3. The third group is unique to Homotoxicology, and is made up of the catalysts (CPG’s). These are mostly in the 6X-10X dilution range, and will act as modulators and regulators. The CPG’s may contain potentized elements of the Krebs cycle, and carrier enzymes of the respiratory chain such as Ubichinon (Coenzyme Q10). Hormones in potentized form, as levothyroxin and cortisone, can also act as catalysts. Certain other substances including Procainum, Glyoxal and Methyl glyoxal will also stimulate the intermediary metabolism, and are thus classified as catalysts.

4. The fourth group is the immunomodulators (IPG’s). Potentized Suis organ extracts, nosodes and also venoms of animal origin act as immunomodulators. These substances will induce Th3 cells and through the immunological bystander reaction will be able to modulate the immune response.

 

Classification according to the combination

Homotoxicological remedies may also be classified according to the way the above is combined. Five groups stand out for use in the United States:

1. The Indication-based Heel remedies: These are primarily composed of PPG’s and MPG’s and are often indication-based, as, for example, Traumeel and Vertigoheel. They can be used for acute as well as chronic conditions, and depending on the chronicity, can be used from days to weeks to months.

2. The Homaccords: These are also primarily composed of PPG’s and MPG’s such as Nux vomica-Homaccord (PPG’s) or Phosphor-Homaccord (PPG’s and MPG’s), which are typically present in potency chords, for instance 3X, 6X, 10X, 30X, 200X, and 1000X. The Homaccords are often organotropic, thus they will support the function of a specific organ, and due to the potency chord will have a far-reaching action on the organ. They are often used for a period of time, 12 weeks for instance. Due to their potency chords, they often will not give a first aggravation seen by other homeopathic remedies.

3. The Injeels, or Heel remedies: These remedies are like a combination of the indication- based Heel remedy and a Homaccord, and are often directed at treating a specific indication affecting an organ system. The individual components which are normally PPG’s and MPG’s also come in shorter potency chords than the above, for instance, in potency chords to 10X and 30X.

4. The Catalysts: These contain substances of the CPG’s mentioned above occasionally with added potentized vitamins and other co-factors of the intermediary metabolism. The catalysts which come in a compositum also may contain PPG’s, MPG’s, as well as IPG’s. They are added as soon as a condition reaches the matrix phases, in other words, once it affects the ground regulation system, and are employed in cycles, as the compositae.

5. The Compositae: These remedies have been developed as the ultimate regulators and modulators. They often contain all four PG’s, namely PPG, MPG, CPG and IPG, and therefore lend themselves to treatment of all conditions, but especially to those in the matrix and cellular phases. Sometimes, however, they are also employed in the humoral phases, on an Auto-regulatory system level, like Echinacea compositum, which is an excellent remedy to use in the inflammatory phase. Towards the right of the biological division, they are employed in cycles of five to six weeks, and the result is then assessed as to whether they should be repeated or not. The compositae come in oral vials, and many are also available in oral tablets.

Homeopathic medicines are available in the following forms:

Tablets

Homeopathic remedies prepared in solid form are in most cases mixed with milk sugar (lactose) and then formed into tablets. Tablets should be placed under the tongue and allowed to dissolve gradually without chewing. This permits the active ingredients to be absorbed through the buccal lining of the mouth, thereby evading the stomach where 17 gastric juices might destroy or inactivate the remedy.

Oral drops and oral vials

Liquid homeopathic mediciations should be retained in the mouth long enough for their contents to be absorbed by the mouth’s buccal lining. As with tablets, the goal is to avoid the stomach’s juices which can inactivate the remedy. Therefore, liquids should not be simply swallowed.

Ointments and gels

Topical preparations offer a direct application to the affected area. Ointments and gels may be applied generously, as necessary, by rubbing gently into the skin.

Nasal sprays

Homeopathic nasal sprays are not associated with side effects or the risk of habituation. To thoroughly coat the nasal membranes, inhale deeply through each nostril after application.

Suppositories

Suppositories offer an alternate route of administration for persons unable to take medications orally.

Ear drops

For comfort in administering, warm the liquid by holding the vial in a closed hand for one minute.

Eye drops

Homeopathic eye drops are safe for wearers of contact lenses.

Cough syrup

Homeopathic cough syrups help promote expectoration to shorten the duration of the cough.

Injection solution (Rx)

The injection solutions are safe, sterile saline solutions that can be injected  directly into the affected area. The remedies are contained in vials and offer a drug-free and gentle alternative.

Just as you may not understand the mechanisms of action in pharma drugs, homeopathics at least offer the added benefit of being non-toxic. The signs that they are working are similar to that of an acne blemish pushing up to the surface to burst and then resolve. Symptoms may flare up temporarily and then resolve. Depending upon the complexity and chronicity of the illness, this process may take time with several series of flare-ups into resolution.

 

Candida Cleanse

Does this sound familiar? “I’m the healthiest-looking sick person I know.” In other words, actually feel much worse than you look.

Dr. Hackett can give you a candida intake to determine how much overgrowth is contributing to your health concerns. You can discuss this with your internist, but most physicians are not aware of systemic fungal infections. The ones who are believe an anti-fungal drug will solve the problem…which can possibly give you more problems than you started with.  If your immune system is resilient, you could still unknowingly have a low-grade and chronic fungal-yeast infection.

What is Candida?

Candida Albicans is the most common type of yeast found in the mouth, intestinal tract and vagina. An overgrowth results in symptoms of inflammation and infection, affecting the mucousal membranes and possibly the skin as well. If the immune system is robust the yeast infections are rarely serious. However, if the immune system is weak or compromised the candida overgrowth can migrate into the blood and membranes around the heart or brain.

Candida Albicans

Candida is a yeast that aids with nutrient absorption and digestion. It is usually held in check by other microbes in the digestive tract and vagina.  Candida Overgrowth Syndrome, or COS, is the term used when candida has grown out of control in your body.

Overgrowth of Candida can result in symptoms such as:

  • Exhaustion, CFS, fatigue regardless of the amount of sleep you get
  • Powerful cravings for sweets that seem to “take over”
  • Bad breath
  • Sore Throat (chronic low-grade)
  • Thick “greasy” or “cheesy” white coat on tongue
  • Oral thrush
  • Sinus infection and chronic runny nose
  • Brain fog (poor physical coordination, difficulty in concentrating)
  • Poor memory, foggy thinking, or feeling “spacey”
  • Mood disorders
  • Hormone imbalance
  • Loss of sex drive
  • Chronic sinus and allergy issues
  • Weak immune system
  • Recurrent UTI
  • Troublesome vaginal itching, burning, or discharge, and vaginal infections
  • Fungal infections on the skin and nails
  • Bloating, belching, intestinal gas, and/or abdominal pain
  • Chronic constipation or diarrhea
  • Endometriosis or infertility
  • Impotence, Prostatitis
  • Muscle aches, weakness, or paralysis
  • Pain and/or swelling in joints

The symptoms above can become aggravate or people with COS develop new sensitivities, allergies or intolerances to a variety of foods. These foods include dairy, eggs, corn and gluten.

If a Candida overgrowth is left unchecked, it can  break down the walls of the intestinal lining and penetrates into the bloodstream, called Leaky Gut Syndrome. If this occurs, a release of metabolites, undigested forms of nutrients, and toxins may by-pass the gut wall to result in allergies, poor digestion, and other symptoms of dis-ease and inflammation.

Candida can take over when your body’s natural pH balance is upset. Healthy gut bacteria replacement and supporting your immune system function are essential when fighting this stubborn infection.

Diagnosis

Candiasis can be difficult to diagnosis because so many of the candida symptoms are common to other conditions, including mood disorders. Individuals with candida overgrowth may experience dramatic mood swings, anxiety, irritability, depression and even panic attacks. Candida overgrowth also affects the sinuses, can also result in a persistent cough, post-nasal drip, an increase in congestion, seasonal allergies, and general flu-like symptoms.

Another issue connected to candida overgrowth and leaky gut is the spread  of it beyond the digestive tract. One of the byproducts of candida actually can mimic estrogen, presenting as a hormonal imbalance.

Testing Options

Blood test – You’ll want to start by checking your levels for candida antibodies called IgG, IgA, and IgM. This can easily be done through most medical labs, and high levels can clue you in to an overgrowth of candida.

Stool testing – the most accurate test out there. The lab will check for candida in your colon or lower intestines, and can usually determine the species of yeast — as well as which treatment will be most effective.

Just make sure that your doctor orders a comprehensive stool test, rather than the standard.

Urine Organix Dysbiosis Test  This urine test looks for a waste product of candida yeast overgrowth that’s called D-arabinitol. Elevated results indicate an overgrowth of candida, and the test can help you determine if there is candida in your upper gut or small intestines.

Anecdotal Home Test – “anecdotal” because there is no formal clinical data to support the test’s measurement or confirmation of candidasis. However, it may be a simple ruling out of the issue before undertaking exhaustive or expensive tests.

Candida Infection Causes

Candida overgrowth is encouraged by diet high in sugar, refined carbohydrates and alcohol.  Other causes can include:

1. Overuse of broad-spectrum antibiotics – undermines positive flora in the gut necessary to digest food and keep candida in check.

2. Taking birth control pills  for a long period of time.

3. Oral Corticosteroids – corticosteroid inhalants increase the risk of developing candida in the mouth and can lead to systemic candida overgrowth.  Oil pulling or gargling of coconut oil can help prevent this and adhering to the recommendation of rinsing your mouth after each inhalant dose.  Another alternative would be to schedule an appointment with Dr. Hackett to evaluate whether or not your asthma can be treated with TCM.

4. Cancer Treatments – the Department of Clinical Research at Merck Research Laboratories has found that candidiasis can become a serious complication. In the study, one-third of patients developed it.  Chemotherapy and radiation also kill off the healthy bacteria and other important components of the immune system that naturally keep candida and other invasive microbes in check.

5. Diabetes – Type 1 or a Type 2, sugar levels in the system are higher than normal. The higher sugar level encourages the yeast, therefore making diabetics more prone to developing candida overgrowth syndrome.

6. Compromised Immune System –  including infants, small children, the elderly, those diagnosed with HIV/AIDS, those taking biologic immunosuppressor drugs, and people with other inflammatory and autoimmune conditions.

Treatment Outline for Candiasis

  1. To curtail yeast overgrowth by switching to a low-carbohydrate diet. Sugar feeds yeast, eliminate simple sugars: candy, desserts, alcohol, and flours. Allow just 1 cup per day of complex carbohydrates: grains, beans, fruit, bread, pasta, and potatoes. This is a practical preventive measure to keep the candida in check.
    1. Eliminate casein (dairy)
    2. Add greens, blue-green algae, coconut kefir
  2. Heal your gut lining to restore normal permeability and prevent candida from entering your bloodstream.
  3. Build up your positive gut flora. It is best to get a probiotic from a professional, like Dr. Hackett, to ensure you get the amount and specific strains of probiotic that you need. Probiotics in yogurt and those available in the drugstore are not likely to be sophisticated enough to take care of Candidiasis efficiently.
  4. Initially, eliminate most fermented foods. They do help to feed your positive flora but, negative flora feeds off of these foods as well. Once we are in the phase of rebuilding your gut flora, certain fermented foods can be your best friend.
  5. Supplements such as caprylic acid, which is derived from coconut oil, and disrupts the the yeast cell wall, causing it to die. Oregano oil can be a very effective supplement as to help the caprylic acid, but how much you take, how often, and for how long varies.

Factors that Encourage Fungal Infections

  1. Weakened immunity
  2. Overly stressed and therefore weakened adrenals
  3. Deficiencies of mineral that are required for slightly alkaline blood environment
  4. Gut microbiome has less diversity which make us more susceptible to pathogens with a weaken the immune system.
  5. Widespread use of antibiotics and other drugs which weaken our immunity.
  6. AIDS/HIV drug treatments and other immuno-supressing drugs that create a population of people susceptible to fungal infections due to lowered immunity.
  7. Poor food quality – Because of modern agricultural practices that deplete the soil thereby reducing the nutritive value  in even the healthiest foods. GMOs are another factor.
  8. Poor diet – “food” that’s highly processed and full of sugar, also lacking in minerals. The body is literally starved on a high calorie diet. This sets up the perfect foundation for an unhealthy gut and lowered immunity.

Fungal infections like Candidiasis can affect anyone at any age, which sets the stage for problems with a weakened immune system and subsequent poor health. If you have a strong immune system, you could still unknowingly have a fungal/yeast infection. It most likely is low-grade and chronic. You might notice that fungal infection symptoms  “flare up,”  when your immune system is weakened by stress, emotional upset, pregnancy, or other illness.

 

Conventional medicine is researching and developing increasingly stronger anti-fungal drugs to keep up with the continuous mutations of the fungi because current anti-fungal drugs are becoming ineffective. It is best to accept that diet and lifestyle changes are the most effective way to mitigate and manage these infections.

Let food be thy medicine.

Research

A study from molecular biologists at Rice University has shown that 70 percent of all people are affected by Candida, a systemic fungal infection.1  Researchers delved into how Candida albicans migrates throughout the body and noted that the “remarkable pathogen” Candida can cause infection in the body that is both superficial and systemic by penetrating epithelial barriers.2

Findings from a Harvard University study on infectious disease found that Candida is a predominant fungal infection responsible for 60 percent of the fungal infections acquired in hospitals.  Candida has a shape-shifting quality and is considered dangerous because of this. When immunity is low, Candida can take over, and a systemic infection can quickly become lethal.3

Based on research published in the Journal of the German Society of Dermatology, Candida albicans overgrowth may be responsible for 50 to 90 percent of Candida infections and possibly foundational to the development of other chronic diseases.4

Patients with weakened or compromised immune systems, like those with AIDS or cancer, Candida in the bloodstream can become a cause of death. Dr. Andrew Koh, Assistant Professor of Pediatrics and Microbiology at the UT Southwest Medical Center, estimates that a cancer patient with Candidaisis in the bloodstream, the fatality rate is about 30 percent.5  

REFERENCES:

  1. “Biologists ID Defense Mechanism of Leading Fungal Pathogen.” EurekAlert!
  2. Wächtler B, Citiulo F, Jablonowski N, Förster S, Dalle F, Schaller M, et al. (2012) Candida albicans-Epithelial Interactions: Dissecting the Roles of Active Penetration, Induced Endocytosis and Host Factors on the Infection Process. PLoS ONE 7(5): e36952. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0036952
  3. Cromie, William. “Genetic Secrets of Killer Fungus Found.” The Harvard University Gazette.
  4. J Dtsch Dermatol Ges. 2013 May;11(5):381-93; quiz 394. doi: 10.1111/ddg.12097.
  5. Di Fan, Laura A Coughlin, Megan M Neubauer, Jiwoong Kim, Min Soo Kim, Xiaowei Zhan, Tiffany R Simms-Waldrip, Yang Xie, Lora V Hooper, Andrew Y Koh. Activation of HIF-1α and LL-37 by commensal bacteria inhibits Candida albicans colonization.Nature Medicine, 2015; DOI: 10.1038/nm.3871
Smoke Cessation Support

Smoking is one of the most damaging habits we can adopt. If you have “tried everything” and have a strong desire to give it up for good, Tracy can likely help you. Dr. Hackett gives you practical interventions to progressively cut your habit for good that meshes well with your treatments.

The treatment:

  • 4 acupuncture sessions (including auricular[ear] points)
  • Dietary support
  • Herbal formulas that help cut your cravings and restore your lungs
  • Coaching on changing your how you modify your habit with minimal disruption to your routine.

Please inquire on the package price for this effective treatment series.

Addiction Recovery Support

Dr. Tracy  has treated many people during their recovery process. As you know, addiction recovery is a path  without an obvious course ahead. Get all the support you need for the multiple dimensions of healing: physical, mental, and spiritual.  Acupuncture treatment simultaneously addresses all three of these aspects, which in turn allies  with your other treatments, like therapy or 12-Step Programs.

Acupuncture has been well-studied as a treatment adjunct for drug and alcohol addiction, but only very little research exists for other areas. Dr. Tracy has developed treatment plans for people with symptoms associated with addictive behavior in the following areas:

  • Smoking
  • Alcohol and Drugs
  • Food (Eating Disorders)
  • Some OCDs (please inquire)

 

Addiction depletes aspects of the body’s energetics. The first are the Spleen and Stomach meridians. The Spleen and Stomach represent the Earth element: energy of groundedness and being centered. Obsessive thinking are often indicative of an Earth energy imbalance. From a somatic perspective, the digestive function itself is effected when there is difficulty ‘digesting’ your emotions, experiences, and the manifold layers of processing trauma, life stressors, as well as nourishment – both in the physical form of food as well as the emotional and spiritual forms, which sets in motion a vicious cycle of deprivation of nutrition and nourishment, in the larger sense.

Another core energetic imbalance is the relationship between the Heart and Kidney energy, which is more indicative of the emotional imbalances people tend to self-medicate for in substance abuse and food-related disorders. These are just a couple of examples of correlations made in TCM diagnosis between a person’s experience and its systems presentation. The person is viewed as a microcosm of the macrocosm, hence all of the descriptors named for aspects of nature.  It is a different perspective, but relative correlates exist that are similar to functions described in physiology.

Transformation IS within reach. Dr. Hackett offers treatment strategies including acupuncture, herbs and supplements (non-pill, non-alcoholic formulations are available), and dietary counseling, which will complement your other treatment and support choices.

The following are links to related studies:

Acupuncture treatment for addiction:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3296192/
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0042151/#ch6.s168
Acupuncture as an adjunct therapy for eating disorders:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21130359
Scalp and Ear Acupuncture may be an intermediate step for OCD and BDD:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0015817/

Eating Disorders

Eating is one of the most complex behaviors that a human being engages in. The sense of  taste is the to develop at the time of conception. An anecdotal indictor of this is that many pregnant women say that their food cravings change from their usual ones to eventually find out that their child craves those same foods or flavors.  Since it is a deeply woven sense into the very fabric of our being, it is inherently very difficult to change. It is better, from this perspective, to shape this foundational habit into the most nourishing relationship with body, mind, and spirit possible.

From a TCM perspective, eating disorders are viewed as an imbalance in multiple meridians (energetic pathways) in your body that relate closely to your emotional health or Spirit (Shen). It is a multidimensional view of the whole person that allows for an individualized treatment plan that is attuned the unique nature of your experience and symptoms.

Together we develop an empowering treatment plan that integrates with your other treatment modalities.  Dr. Hackett thinks that it is imperative that you are working with a therapist as well to help you adjust to changes and challenges during your recovery process.

Typical symptoms that respond well to acupuncture treatment for eating disorders:

  • muscle cramping and pain
  • weak achy joints
  • digestive problems
  • mood swings/depression/anxiety
  • dry skin
  • fatigue and low energy
  • concentration difficulties
  • anemia
  • hair loss
  • insomnia/restless sleep

Laser acupuncture and auricular (ear) acupuncture points can be used in place of body points in the beginning of treatment if you are very sensitive or feel very weak. The same effective results in harmonizing digestion, balancing metabolism, calming the mind, and reducing pain can be expected. The acupuncture body points are selected to tonify your Qi (energy/vitality), promote overall circulation rebalancing digestive function. Together, the ear and body points, support restoring the balance of Qi, acupuncture can help manage uncontrollable appetites, help curb OCD behaviors, reduce cravings, and soothe the spirit.

 

Dr. Hackett utilizes a combination of holistic modalities to regain health, including: gut microbiome testing, acupuncture, moxibustion, Chinese herbal medicine, massage, and dietary therapy.

 

Consult with Dr. Hackett about the TCM diagnosis that applies to your conventional medicine diagnosis of anorexia nervosa, bulimia, or overeating disorder.

 

Acupuncture works and is proven to be more than a placebo:

http://m.jncimono.oxfordjournals.org/content/2014/50/302.full

†Results may vary. Information and statements made are for general education purposes and are not intended to replace your physician’s advice or Dr. Hackett’s private consultation. The views and nutritional advice expressed by Hackett Holistic Health are not intended to be a substitute for conventional medical diagnosis. If you have a severe medical condition or health concern, see your physician as well and consult with Dr. Hackett directly and bring your current testing results.