|
Equazen News the science of natural equilibrium Newsletter:
# 8 http://www.equazen.com/news/coverage/newsfile.htm Welcome to the content of our web newsletter. Any feedback to: newsletter@equazen.com Chronic fatigue syndrome in childhood. Brain Development. 2000 Jan; 22(1):60-4. Tomoda A, Miike T, Yamada E, Honda H, Moroi T, Ogawa M, Ohtani Y, Morishita S. Department of Child Development, Kumamoto University School of Medicine, Japan. tomo@kaiju.medic.kumamoto-u.ac.jp This study set out to investigate the brain functioning of three children suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) - otherwise known as ME. It is perhaps a condition more heard of in adulthood, but the authors point out that it is also one of the most vexing problems that pediatricians encounter with their child and adolescent patients. The cases reported are of an 11, 12 and 13-year-old - two females and a male, who met diagnostic crtieria for CFS, and had suffered from the condition for at least one year. The early signs of CFS were the same for all children: initially a low grade fever and generalised fatigue, followed by sleep disturbance and psychosomatic symptoms. Then a deterioration in performance ability. Any prophylactic medication was stopped at least one month in advance of this study commencing. The authors used two measures to look at the brain functioning of each child: SPECT imaging (single-photon emission-computed tomography) and MRS (magnetic resonance spectroscopy). The SPECT technique measures regional cerebral blood flow and provides more physiological and functional information than MRS can. It has been used in previous studies of CFS patients, which have shown defects of perfusion and/or metabolism more often in these patients, compared to control groups. However, MRS is a non-invasive technique measuring brain metabolic levels, and therefore would be preferrable in future studies with children and adults. For this reason, the researchers were able to use matched control subjects for the MRS measure. Results of the SPECT showed blood flow in the left temporal and occipital lobes being markedly lower in two of the three subjects, than that in healthy subjects reported in previous research. Conversely, in the third case, blood flow in the left basal ganglia and thalamus was markedly higher than in healthy subjects. MRS revealed consistent findings across all three children: an elevation of the choline/creatine ratio in the patients with CFS, compared with their matched controls. This is compatible with the findings of Dr Puri in his recent study with a larger adult population. The authors of this study concluded that if abnormal cerebral blood flow and elevation of the choline/creatine ratio were causes of the symptoms associated with CFS, then treatment to normalise these features would be a reasonable solution. Dr Basant Puri in his recent MRS study suggested that the increased choline levels are related to abnormal metabolism in membrane phospholipids, resulting in increased loss of fatty acids in the brain. An important component of the phospholipids are highy unsaturated fatty acids (HUFA), and therefore one possible treatment worth exploring would be supplementation with dietary sources of these, specifically omega-3 EPA. Increased levels of choline-containing compounds found in the basal ganglia of patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS). Proc Intl Soc Mag Reson Med. 10 (2002). (Unpublished). Condon B.R., Chaudhuri, A., Hadley, D.M., Brennan, D. Institute of Neurological Sciences, Glasgow, UK. The authors of this study were investigating the hypothesis that patients with a diagnosis of CFS would have reductions in basal ganglia NAA (N-acetyl aspartate) compared to a control group. Previous research on Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Gulf War Syndrome have shown such readings - using a 1H MRS brain-scanning technique. Therefore, it was deduced that similar neuronal damage would be typical in this group of patients. The study group were 8 adult patients with CFS (according to the Centers for Disease Control disgnostic criteria) who had symptoms lasting more than two years, and a control group matched for sex and age. Measures were taken in the areas of the NAA, CHO (choline) and creatine-containing compounds (CR) for all participants, using 1H MRS. The results in fact showed no differences in measures of NAA ratios between the two groups. However, the CFS group had significantly higher levels of choline-containing compounds (CHO) compared to their matched controls. This replicates Dr Puri's findings in a clinical group of the same size, as well as Tomada et al's child study. The authors suggest that this increase in Choline in CFS sufferers may be indicative of a continuing post-viral reparative process, as there is a lot of evidence for sustained changes in cell membrane function following viral infections, and also exposure to specific neurotoxins. In addition, the basal ganglia is known for its susceptibility to viral infections and inflammatory processes. Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study of Ethyl-Eicosapentaenoic Acid as Supplemental Treatment in Schizophrenia. Am J Psychiatry 2002; 159 1596-1598. Emsley R. A., Myburgh C. C., Oosthuizen P. P., van Rensburg S. J. Supplementational trials to investigate the treatment of symptoms relating to schizophrenia have been showing encouraging results to date. But other findings have been conflicting, questioning the efficacy of such treatments. The authors of this paper set out to replicate the design of previous trials of this kind, that have highlighted the benefits of using eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). This form of nutritional treatment would seem preferrable to antipsychotic drugs, in terms of having no side-effects and being a potentially cheaper alternative. The study was a randomised, parallel-group, double-blind trial, involving 40 patients with a diagnosis of schizophrenia according to DSM-IV criteria. Half the patients were allocated to a treatment group (3g/day of ethyl-eicosapentaenoic acid), the other to a placebo group (3g/day of medicinal liquid paraffin BP). The participants were required to take the supplements, in addition to their existing treatments, for a period of 12 weeks. We add here that the treatment is using a synthesised form of the fatty acid which is almost 100% pure EPA. This compares with our eye q supplement, which in the highest format available in a natural triglyceride form has about 24% EPA. The study measured the percentage change in scores of the Positive and Negative Syndrome scale, from baseline to 12 weeks later. Other sub-scale scores measured dyskinesia, dystonia, akathisia and parkinsonism. At 12 weeks, the E-EPA group had significantly greater reduction of Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale total scores (p < 0.03), even after controlling for the effects of dietary intake of EPA, medication, duration of illness, and gender. The authors found that reduction of symptoms was greatest for those patients taking conventional antipsychotic drugs, rather than clozapine. A further significant finding was that the EPA group had a greater reduction in Extrapyramidal Symptom Rating Scale scores of dyskinesia, compared to the control group (p < 0.008). The authors found that the reduction of scores in the Positive and Negative Syndrome scale was associated with this reduction in dyskinesia scores. Although the authors did not anticipate a particular reduction in the dyskinesia scores, their results are consistent with previous research that finds an inverse relationship between tardive dyskinesia scores and blood levels of essential fatty acids. The authors stated that 'EPA may be an effective, safe and well-tolerated add-on treatment in chronic schizophrenia.' However, they also state that they could not conclude what the treatment effect could be on patients who are not taking antipsychotic drug treatments, thus 'the extent of the antipsychotic activity as a result of dietary supplementation then, remains inconclusive.' Cactus Clinic opening this month at Teesside University by Jean West, Health Correspondent The first British clinic to combine nutrition and psychotherapy to treat delinquency and behavioural disorders opens this month (October in response to an explosion in the use of psychiatric drugs in children. Treatment at the Cactus Clinic in Teesside University, Middlesbough, will be based on controversial research that shows that psychological disorders and criminal activity improve when vitamins and nutrients, sometimes in mega-doses, are taken and certain allergic foods eliminated from the diet. Janice Hill, director of the Scottish-based children's charity Overload Network, which supports children with hyperactivity learning, problems, has teamed up with former police officer and criminologist, Peter Bennett, to provide a 'one-stop, one service' clinic for youngsters who would otherwise be prescribed amphetamines or antidepressants or both for their conditions. Concern surrounding the safety and addictive nature of antidepressants and neuroleptics and a dramatic rise in the use of Ritalin for hyperactivity (ADHD) in children has seen parents looking for alternatives to the drug route. This year more than 200,000 prescriptions for Ritalin were written for patients across England and Wales. Medication is currently the main treatment for ADHD in this country, despite evidence that it only works for between 40 and 60 per cent of children. This means that youngsters unsuitable for the drugs because of contraindicated health problems have no support. Bennett, who is also a trained nutritionist, conducted the 'Shipley Project' in the early nineties. Nine children within the West Yorkshire Constabulary area who were responsible for more than £100,000 of property crime and violence and were failing at school were found to have profound nutritional health problems. Some were seen to be allergic to common foods like wheat or milk, others were depleted of certain vitamins or minerals because of poor diet or could not metabolise the nutrients they were getting because of poor digestion. All of them improved markedly after nutritional intervention. Bennett's work was consolidated this year with the publication of a study in the British Journal of Psychiatry which suggested that adding vitamins and minerals to the diets of juvenile delinquents cut offending rates by more than 25 per cent. Two hundred and thirty young inmates at the HM Young Offenders Institution in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, were assessed over 18 months with half receiving pills containing vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids and the other half placebo capsules. The supplement group committed a quarter fewer offences compared to those on placebo. The greatest reduction was for serious offences including violence where there was a drop of nearly 40 per cent. In each case there was no reduction in re-offending for those taking the dummy capsules. The major implication of the study was that boosting diet was a cheap and effective way of preventing re-offending in the prison population. Researchers believe the findings may help reduce the prison population. Bernard Gesch, lead author of the study, said: "The improvement in behaviour was huge. We tend to forget that humans are physical as well as psychological beings and putting fuel into the brain seems significantly to affect psychological behaviour." Nutrients it seems are crucial ingredients in the biochemical processes that produce brain neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine which are known to affect mood. The Cactus Clinic was founded by Professor Stephen Baldwin, who worked with Overload Network in Edinburgh but died in the Selby rail disaster last year. He had an aversion to the use of psychiatric drugs in children claiming they had never been tested long-term on the developing nervous system and caused serious side-effects and withdrawal symptoms in some patients. Baldwin conducted a comprehensive study into the use of Ritalin-type drugs in children and uncovered links with its usage with suicidal ideation, depression and hallucinations in children. The
aim of the Cactus Clinic is to restore children to health and rehabilitate
them in the community. Many of its patients will have been excluded from
school because of bad behaviour. It is hoped they will be able to return to
profitable schooling. "We all know that if we don't eat enough oranges we get scurvy but there is an abundance of evidence to show that mental health problems can arise from other vitamin deficiencies. Pellagra, for example, which causes dementia results from a lack of B3." She added that a condition called pyroluria, which leads to aggression and depression and is found in schizophrenics, is caused by a genetic inability to metabolise B6 and zinc. A simple non-invasive and cheap urine test can determine whether a child has this abnormality which can be swiftly corrected using supplements. Bennett added: "Studies suggest that at least 70 per cent of the persistent young offender population in England has a complex array of biochemical, nutritional and health disorders, most of which are not diagnosed or treated through the normal or additional health checks or services provided for them. "Where treatment has been provided, nutritionally disordered offenders have demonstrably improved health, behaviour and school or educational performance". Linoleic acid, other fatty acids, and the risk of stroke. Stroke 2002; 33 2086-93 Hiroyasu Iso, MD; Shinichi Sato, MD; Utako Umemura, PhD; Minako Kudo; Kazuko Koike, PhD; Akihiko Kitamura, MD; Hironori Imano, MD; Tomonori Okamura, MD; Yoshihiko Naito, MD; Takashi Shimamoto, MD The risk factor of the role of fatty acids in the incidences of strokes has remained inconclusive in the research literature to date. The authors of this paper therefore investigated blood serum samples of 7,450 participants aged 40-85 years, and surveys were collected of this population, from 1984-89 for one community, and 1989-92 for a further two communities. By the end of 1998, the authors had identified 197 incidences of strokes whose sub-types - hemorrhagic, lacunar infarctiong or ischemic strokes - were all confirmed by imaging studies. Of these, three controls per case were selected by matching for sex, age, community, year of serum storage, and fasting status. After blood sample analysis, it was found that compared with the control subjects, the total group (n=197), as well as the sub-type groups: hemorrhagic (n=75) and ischemic (n=122) strokes, all had similar proportions of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. Ischemic-type strokes occur when blood flow is prevented by clotting (thrombosis), or by a detached clot that lodges in an artery (embolism). A hemorrhagic stroke results from rupture of an artery wall. However, there were differences found: participants who had suffered strokes had lower proportions of two omega-6 fatty acids: linoleic and arachidonic acids, and higher proportions of saturated and monosaturated acids. After adjusting for hypertension, diabetes, serum total cholesterol, and other cardiovascular risk factors, it was found that only those who had suffered ischemic-type strokes -- related to blood-flow blockages -- remained statistically significant in terms of lower levels of omega-6s. The researchers concluded that 'a higher intake of linoleic acid may protect against ischemic stroke, possibly through potential mechanisms of decreased blood pressure, reduced platelet aggregation, and enhanced deformability of erythrocyte cells'. Cardiovascular disease risk factors and n-3 fatty acid status in the adult population of James Bay Cree. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Vol. 76, No. 1, 85-92, July 2002 Eric Dewailly, Carole Blanchet, Suzanne Gingras, Simone Lemieux and Bruce John Holub. From the Public Health Research Unit, CHUL Research Center, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, Quebec (ED, CB, and SG); the Departments of Social and Preventive Medicine (ED) and of Food Sciences and Nutrition (SL), Laval University, Quebec; and the Department of Human Biology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Canada (BJH). Canadian native populations, which traditionally consume large amounts of fish, have lower rates of mortality from heart disease than do Canadian non-native populations, which have low fish intakes. The omega-3 fatty acids contained in fish oils are seen to be beneficial for many aspects of physical health, and may have a protective effect against cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors. The aim of this study was to look at the fatty acid profiles of a population group from James Bay Cree, Canada, to see if further clarity could be had around the relation between these concentrations and CVD risk factors. Measures were made from plasma phospholipid concentrations of the n-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). The study population consisted of 917 subjects ranging from 18-74 years of age. They all participated in the 1991 Santé Québec Health Survey, and further data was obtained through a process of home interviews and clinic visits. Plasma samples were also taking and analysed for phospholipid fatty acid composition. The mean fish consumption on the day before the survey was done was 60g among the adult Cree population. Expressed as a percentage of total fatty acids, relative concentrations of EPA and DHA were 0.65% and 2.80% , respectively. Interestingly, omega-3 fatty acid levels were higher among coastal residents than among inland residents. A positive association was observed between plasma HDL and omega-3 fatty acids. EPA and EPA-DHA combined were inversely associated with triacylglycerols. Among subjects aged 50-74 years of age, an inverse association between EPA and EPA:AA and total:HDL cholesterol was observed. The authors' findings suggest that omega-3 fatty acids in the diet may favorably influence some CVD risk factors. The authors suggested that the Cree population must be encouraged to maintain their traditional fish-based diet, which may be one of the factors protecting them against mortality from CVD. The n-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaeanoic acid increase systemic aterial compliance in humans. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Vol. 76, No. 2, 326-330, August 2002 Paul Nestel, Hideki Shige, Sylvia Pomeroy, Marja Cehun, Mavid Abbey and Daniel Raederstorff. From the Laboratory of Cardiovascular Nutrition, Baker Medical Research Institute, Melbourne (PN, SP, and MC); the Department of Medicine, Medical Defense College, Tokyo (HS); the CSIRO Division of Health Sciences and Nutrition, Adelaide, Australia (MA); and Vitamin Research, Human Nutrition, F Hoffmann-La Roche, Basel, Switzerland (DR). Eating fish benefits those who are at high risk from ischemic heart disease (IHD), and sudden cardiac deaths occur less frequently in those who habitually eat ocean fish, a major source of omega-3 fatty acids. This new study examined the role that omega-3 fatty acids play in improving systolic and pulse pressure and vascular resistance, effects that may reduce the risk of IHD and adverse cardiac events. The authors tested the two main forms of omega-3 fatty acids found in fish: eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and their effects on systemic arterial compliance (SAC), which the authors explain is a measure of arterial elasticity - potentially a strong predictor of future cardiovascular ill-health. The study involved 38 dyslipidemic participants, who were randomly assigned to one of three treatment groups: each subject received a daily dosage of either 3g EPA (n = 12), 3g DHA (n = 12) or a placebo supplement (n = 14). The double-blind treatment trial lasted 7 weeks, and before and after this period, measures of arterial elasticity were measured, as well as plasma lipids and fatty acids. The results found that supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids actually siginficantly increased systemic arterial compliance, compared to the control group (p = 0.043). The increase was highest in the group taking the EPA treatment (36%). The DHA treatment group increased SAC by 27%. Systolic and pulse pressures, and total vascular resistance, did decrease somewhat, but this was not statistically siginificant. In addition, in both omega-3 groups, plasma total and VLDL triacylglycerol measures were significantly lower (p = 0.026, 0.006, respectively). These statistical findings all provide support to the effective treatment of cardiovascular ill-health by a nutritional supplement high in omega-3 fatty acids, particularly by reducing pulse pressure and total vascular resistance. Effect of Fish Oil Versus Corn Oil Supplementation on LDL and HDL Subclasses in Type 2 Diabetic Patients. Diabetes Care 25:1704-1708, 2002 Martin Petersen, MSC, Helle Pedersen, MSC, Atheline Major-Pedersen, MD, Tonny Jensen, DMSC and Peter Marckmann, DMSC. Research Department of Human Nutrition, The Royal Veterinary and Agricultural University, Frederiksberg, Denmark, and Steno Diabetes Center, Gentofte, Denmark There is an association of increased risk of coronary heart disease in type 2 diabetes, which the authors of this paper hypothesise may be partially explained by dyslipidemia -a disorder of lipoprotein metabolism. This is particularly characterised by high plasma triacylglycerol (TAG) - a fatty substance linked to heart disease - , low HDL cholesterol, and a predominance of atherogenic small dense LDLs (low density lipoproteins). Fish oil is known to reduce levels of plasma triacylglycerol, and has previously been shown in studies of healthy subjects, to improve the distribution of LDL subclasses. Therefore it may be a good non-pharmacological treatment for type 2 diabetic patients. The authors investigated this effect by using a fish oil supplementation with their patients, and measuring the fasting lipid profile, including LDL and HDL subclasses. The randomised trial involved 42 type 2 diabetic patients who took either a 4g/day dosage of fish oil (n = 20), or a placebo of corn oil (n = 22) for 8 weeks, preceded by a 4-week run-in period with corn oil. Blood samples were taken at baseline and at the end of the intervention perriod, and were analysed for plasma lipoproteins using ultracentrifugation. Following fish oil supplementation the patients had significant reductions in plasma triacylglycerol (p < 0.025), and raised HDL-2b cholesterol (p < 0.012) and HDL-2a cholesterol (p < 0.007) concentrations (both 'good' cholesterols), as compared with corn oil. There was found to be no significant effects of fish oil on LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, or the concentration of small dense LDL particles. The authors concluded that fish oil supplementation may partially correct dyslipidemia found in type 2 diabetes. However, the fish oil was unable to affect the predominance of small LDL particles, an important aspect of diabetic dyslipidemia. Professor Steve Baldwin Foundation. 2nd International Conference. Mental Health in the 21st Century. "Kids,
Labels and What's in the Jar." 6th-7th September 2002 Amongst the gathering crowd for this event were a number of parents of diagnosed ADD/ADHD children. Their mood was one of concern for their children's wellbeing, coupled with a sense of confusion at the information that had been given regarding their children's "conditions". This mood indicated the real need by the parents for an alternative perspective concerning this "diagnosis" and the practical need for information that this event would deliver. Day 1 The first day of this two-day event concentrated on current theories and research surrounding the psychiatric and psychological debates concerning ADD/ADHD. Dr Bob Johnson, a practising Consultant Psychiatrist who set the tone for the following lectures by "accusing psychiatry of malpractice", opened the conference. Dr Johnson defended this stance by attacking the philosophy behind the current DSM-IV manual employed by psychiatry that labelled sections of "the mentally ill" as "untreatable". Dr Johnson argued that psychiatry was failing to see the person behind the checklist and as a result, the fundamental medical legal contract between the client and physician was being broken. This stance was applied to ADD/ADHD by attacking the classification employed by psychiatry that merely sought to administer a drug to control the symptoms of this "disease". Dr Johnson attacked Ritalin, accusing psychiatrists of failing to inform recipients of it's detrimental effects and possible damage to the brain, concluding that where psychiatry fails to even inform itself of these "dire pharmaceutical consequences" then malpractice is "inescapable". The second speaker, Dr Grace E Jackson a practising psychiatrist from the USA, reinforced the stance taken by Dr Johnson and extended the hypothesis by discussing the philosophical and historical standpoint of psychiatry that has led to such modern day "diagnoses" being created. Dr Jackson proposed that modern thinking had led psychiatry to the conclusion that all people were patients that had merely been "undiagnosed" within the criteria of current DSM guidelines. She proposed that the mind had been lost within the field thus reducing the patient to a convenient checklist of ambiguous "symptoms". Dr Jackson demonstrated this theory through her comparisons with current trends in ADD/ADHD diagnosis. Here, psychiatry labelled normal childhood behaviours as "symptoms" of some underlying "illness" that was treated through strong psychotropic medication rather than through exploration of the needs and wishes of the child. In conclusion, she proposed that psychiatry returned to the pre DSM-III era where the mind and needs of the patient were central to the philosophy of treatment and not merely by applying observable behaviours to a checklist that was fundamentally flawed. The third and fourth speakers offered insights into the role nutrition plays within the context of the behaviour of children. Mr Peter Bennett, a retired Police Superintendent, presented the findings of research that he had conducted into the link between diet and subsequent deviant behaviour in children and adolescents. Mr Bennett revealed research indicating a link between toxins, dietary inconsistencies (such as addiction to milk and oranges) and a propensity to commit crime. Mr Bennett also discussed links between "food and mood" and drew comparisons to the benefits of tailored diet and ADD/ADHD. In conclusion, Mr Bennett demonstrated that where strict dietary controls had been implemented on a control group, significant changes in behaviour had been recorded. This suggests that monitoring of diet and possible allergic food reactions could be a significant aid for parents dealing with extremes of behaviour within the home. The
fourth speaker, Dr Alex Richardson reported her findings from a study
based at Oxford University. Specifically, Dr Richardson discussed the concept
that ADD/ADHD were merely labels for particular patterns of behaviour and
learning difficulties that could be managed through dietary adjustment and
possible supplementation. Dr Richardson discussed the role of Omega-3 and
Omega-6 fatty acids and behaviour. In conclusion, evidence was presented that
revealed symptoms to parents that might indicate a deficiency of these fatty
acids and presented dietary advice including intake of fish and Evening
Primrose Oil as a means of combating this condition and reducing the symptoms
of ADD/ADHD. Finally, Barry Turner, a practicing lecturer in Medical Law and Ethics presented a disturbing account of the recommendations of the "New Mental Health Act" in relation to psychopathy and ADD/ADHD diagnosis. Mr Turner placed particular emphasis on the Hare psychopathy checklist that is used to categorise those persons who are "likely to commit an offence in the future". This is very disturbing as children currently diagnosed ADD/ADHD would, under the new legislation, already begin to score points under the new criteria for the category of previous history. In conclusion, Mr Turner warned of the danger to civil rights and attacked the lack of sound methodology employed to arrive at this very dangerous legislation. Throughout this first day questions were asked by all sections of the audience revealing the level of interest in many topics. Parents reported that much of what had been said cast new light on their children's conditions and reinforced the need for a free flow of all information and the need for increased support whilst dealing with this growing "problem". Day 2 The second day of the conference saw a more relaxed air, intended at dealing practically with alternatives to the current drug "treatment of choice" employed by doctors. During the course of the morning each speaker from the previous day recapped their lectures and emphasised the key points of their speeches. In addition to this Dr Ken Aitken presented a lecture regarding the concerns surrounding the reported link between the MMR vaccine and Autism. Dr Aitken discussed the various methodologies that had been used to gather information regarding links between MMR and Autism and the explanations of theorists that supported their belief that no link existed. However, Dr Aitken challenged much of the validity of this research, including the logic behind many of the conclusions that had been drawn. In conclusion, he contested that insufficient "right" research had been carried out and that in his opinion, a link between Autism and the MMR vaccine could not be ruled out without more research. The conclusion of this conference saw the delivery of a work-shop by Dr David Stein aimed at presenting practical advice on delivering his Caregivers Skills Program (CSP). This section of the conference was the most practical for all attending parents as it presented an alternative to the drug regimes that had been prescribed by their GP's. Dr Stein offered his years of clinical experience to outline his behavioural techniques and take questions and concerns regarding his proposals. This section of the conference highlighted the real concerns of the parents who were present and demonstrated the difficulties they face on a daily basis when controlling their children. Dr Steins use of "time out" techniques and reinforcement of good behaviours whilst eliminating "targeted behaviours" through behavioural modification provoked much healthy debate and was a fitting conclusion to the two-day event. The two days presented a range of debates regarding the current stance of psychiatry and ADD/ADHD theory leaving people attending a lot to think about and digest. The tireless work of Janice Hill and Farah Panthaky and their team at The Overload Network produce a truly diverse list of speakers and opinions. Through Dr Dave Woodhouse and Rebecca Anderson at the University of Teesside and their relentless efforts, this lecture series ensured the legacy left by Professor Baldwin would not go forgotten and set the mood for future events and research. Professor Steve Baldwin Foundation. 3rd International Conference. Mental Health in the 21st Century. "The Fish Ain't Sick the Waters Dirty" - 13-14th September 2002 Written
and contributed by Janice Hill, Founder of Overload Network The first speaker, Dr Grace E Jackson from the USA, returned for her third lecture in the series to give the delegation an account of why Psychiatry had arrived at it's current position. Initially, Dr Jackson outlined the philosophical traditions behind the theories of Aristotle that discussed the nature of the "soul". Here Dr Jackson proposed that the soul was seen as the organising feature of the body in the sense that the soul of the ear would be evident through hearing. Later in history, the philosopher Plato examined the works of his predecessor Aristotle and expanded this original perspective. Dr Jackson explained how Plato hypothesised that the "soul" was indeed much more than merely an organising feature of the body and capable of surviving outside the body itself. Dr Jackson explained that the intentions of the individual (displayed through the conscious choices made by that person) were in fact displayed in physical manifestations through the soul. As a result, Dr Jackson likened this transition phase within philosophical theory, to the era in DSM before the production of DSM III in the 1980's. This period in DSM history clearly placed the feelings and thoughts of the patient at the centre of understanding. Dr Jackson also outlined the Vitalist Tradition of the 19th century that described the living being as far more complicated than the sum of it's physical parts. In conclusion, Dr Jackson discussed the role of spirituality and her hopes and beliefs regarding acceptance within psychiatry that encompassed diagnosis based on a more holistic assessment. The second speaker, Dr David Healy, a practicing psychiatrist and author, presented a paper titled "Psychopharmacotherapy - What No-One Is Being Told." This enlightening lecture presented the theory that the statistical data presented to the medical profession in order to assist decision making regarding drug prescription was often inaccurate and incomplete, making treatment selection haphazard and dangerous. Dr Healey argued that many of the anti-psychotic drugs supplied by the pharmaceutical companies actually increased the likelihood of suicide or suicide attempts of those prescribed medication. This was reinforced when comparisons to placebo trials indicated that few or no suicides were recorded when compared to medicated individuals. Dr Healy argued the increase in rates of medication of individuals was more a result of marketing strategies of pharmaceutical manufacturers rather than the validity of their products. This was supported by examining the marketing and advertising that appeared within glossy magazines targeting females and increasing awareness and knowledge of products. It is this information, Dr Healey argued, that caused adults to label their own behaviour and associate a subsequent need for the advertised medication. This was further supported when comparing an advertisement aimed at doctors with the same product being advertised within a "Glossy" magazine. Marketing styles were remarkably similar with "good news about drugs" being the underlying aim of promoting use and diagnosis for readers of the magazines. In conclusion, Dr Healey highlighted the use of "ghost writing" through financial support of the drug companies. This involved articles that had been produced for publication within respected international journals that had been shown (Author TBA- to be announced). This shocking revelation indicated the extent to which the medical and specialist journals were being willingly manipulated by assigning an author based upon reputation to support a particular scientific hypothesis, rather than as a result of honest hard work and experimentation. Dr Healy demonstrated the extent of this injustice by identifying one author as writing 260 articles within a twelve-month period, quite a feat! The third guest lecturer, Professor Stephen Rose, an expert on brain and behaviour, presented his own assessment of the current trends within psychiatry by highlighting the rise in diagnosis of depression. Professor Rose discussed the World Health Organisations figures that placed Depression second only to cardio vascular diseases in the world today. This frightening statistic indicated the alarming extent of the problem and led Professor Rose to ask the questions: "Is the increase in diagnosis due to a conspiracy between the psychiatric community and pharmaceutical manufacturers, or a social criticism of society globally?" Professor Rose discussed the DSM (diagnostic and Statistical Manual) within the context of American culture. Specifically, Professor Rose argued that culturally, DSM had no real place within the practice of psychiatry in the UK as it's conception in the USA centred around the Insurance Industries need for "check list type" classification in order to establish financial liability and insurance "risk". As a result, employment of this type of methodology was unnecessary in the UK and alternative methods should be considered when "diagnosis" was required for an individual. Professor Rose criticised such classifications within DSM IV as "Schizophrenia without symptoms" as being contradictory and without benefit to either the profession or the patient. Professor Rose examined this "attitude" within the context of ADHD. Statistics presented indicated that in 1991, 2000 people were diagnosed ADHD, compared to 150 000 now. Alarmingly, Professor Rose stated that you would still be 5 times more likely to be diagnosed ADHD in the USA. Professor Rose asked the question "Why are such social factors as class size, quality of education, domestic circumstances, availability of books and teachers not considered when a diagnosis of ADHD is made? In conclusion, Professor Rose criticised the lack of empirical evidence that was available to justify a classification of ADHD and suggested that social factors were more likely to be responsible for it's epidemic growth. Barry Turner, Lecturer in Law at Lincoln University, discussed the legal aspects of the new Mental Health Act. In particular he discussed mental disorders, including psychopathy and their place within the current criminal justice system. Mr Turner discussed such concepts as the McNaughtan rule for criminal insanity. Particularly, Mr Turner drew reference to the aspect of the law that dealt with assumed cognitive effects of the perpetrator, specifically "diseases of the mind". This legal concept assumes defects arising from "internal" disease and not external factors such as drink or drugs. The key to this was the establishment that the "defect of reason" arose as a result of the "disease". Mr Turner then expanded this picture by discussing the inter-relationship that exists between the legal profession and the current DSM IV manual and his worries regarding drawing assumptions of law from a diagnostic tool that had many critics and flaws. In conclusion, Mr Turner discussed the complex legal arguments that arise when such legal elements as mens rea (intent of the individual) and the actus reus (the prohibited act) are considered within the context of accused persons who are "mentally incompetent". Miss Farah Panthaky, from the Overload Network that was responsible for the conception of the lecture series discussed the implications of the new mental health act legislation in relation to vulnerable persons. Miss Panthaky emphasised the importance of cooperation between professionals across the academic and professional spectrums in order that social injustices did not occur. Miss Panthaky called to all professionals to take the fight for equality and change to the establishment through a combined voice that had strength in it's growing support within the medical and academic professions. In conclusion, Miss Panthaky reiterated the concerns of Barry Turner concerning the proposals of the new Mental Health Act and firmly placed the support of the Overload Network with those professionals committed to fighting such injustices and changes. The final speaker of the day was Dr Bob Johnson, a practicing psychiatrist. Dr Johnson criticised the current psychiatric professions attitude that "explicitly ignores environmental factors in the causation of mental disease". In particular, Dr Johnson criticised the classification of Personality disorders that were deemed "untreatable" by the psychiatric profession. Dr Johnson accused the psychiatric profession of being "bankrupt" in respect of it's promotion of anti psychotic medications that have been shown to extend certain illnesses rather than treat them. Dr Johnson accused the psychiatric community of damaging the vulnerable people it was set up to protect, the mentally ill! In response to the classification of "untreatable" within psychiatry, Dr Johnson demonstrated via a video presentation, that therapy rather than drugs produces significant improvement within "untreatable" patients. Dr Johnson argued that by examining the feelings and emotions of the individual a better self-understanding resulted in huge physical and emotional changes within the patient. In conclusion, Dr Johnson called to a return to pre DSM III foundations where the vulnerable were central to the healing process, and not merely a series of symptoms that "pigeon holed" and medicated people in real need of assistance. This third conference again generated a diversity of opinions and debates. The depth of passion for the injustices and contradictions that were highlighted at the conference, only served to strengthen the resolve of the participants and guests. Whilst the memory of Selby remains in the hearts of those present, one thing is for sure, the ideals and concerns of Professor Baldwin are alive and well at The University of Teesside. Let the good fight carry on! The Food & Mood Project Survey 'Let food be your medicine and medicine be your food' [Hippocrates] is quoted on the Food & Mood Project's website, which represents the core philosophy of Amanda Geary's mission: to popularise dietary and nutritional self-help strategies, in order to combat a whole host of physical and mental illnesses. The Food & Mood Project Survey was set up to find out the effective ways that individuals help themselves, instead of perhaps leaving their health soley in the hands of medicated drugs or psychotherapy treatments, and the professionals that prescribe or administer them. It was backed by Mind, the UK mental health charity, who have previously found a link between food and mood. The Project used their contacts database to administer the survey and received an excellent reponse rate of 46% (200 people). Those who completed the survey were mainly women living in the South of England, aged between 26-55 years - a third of which were unemployed. The survey revealed that 88% of participants were already involved in some form of self-help strategy, using diet and nutrition to improve their mental and emotional health. 26% reported using these strategies to combat mood swings, 26% to assist the reduction of panic attacks and anxieties, 24% for depression and 22% for irritability and aggressive feelings. 'Stressors' were identified by the population as foods to avoid in order to minimise the risks of mental ill-health. These included sugar (used by 80% of the adult group), caffeine (79%), alcohol (55%) and several others. Potential food 'supporters' were considered to be: 'drinking more water' (a strategy used by 80% of the group), eating more vegetables (78%), food (72%) and fish (52%)! These were considered to be 'boosters' to people's emotional and mental health. Eating habits were also deemed to be important in the self-help process, such as having regular meals including breakfast, and always being prepared for hunger pangs by carrying around small healthy snacks. A very high percentage of the population (93%) admitted to having taken nutritional supplements as an additional strategy in maintaining mental health. These included vitamins, minerals, herbs, essential fats/oils and amino acids. Interestingly, as much as 22% of people said that taking essential fatty acids in a supplement form had 'definately helped' their mood regulation. The survey also provided qualitative insights into the experiences of the participants: what their motivations were in terms of maintaining a healthy diet, how they dealt with the practicalities of adjusting their diets, and keeping a realistic attitude to eating habits. Many of these anecdotal reports can be read on the Food and Mood Project website. Amanda Geary, who wrote a report based on the survey's findings, told BBC News Online: "This survey shows that for these people, there were quite strong findings in terms of the association between the dietary changes they made and the benefits they were reporting. A lot of these changes are very simple things that people can do and are fairly safe, and concur with healthy eating advice." Whilst the survey collected entirely subjective data, Geary said: "I hope that these findings will add strength to a growing body of evidence to encourage health care providers and individuals to learn from the powerful testimonies in this report. That the health of the body can directly influence the health of the mind." Fatty acid composition and cholesterol content in naturally canned jurel, sardine, salmon, and tuna. Arch Latinoam Nutr 1996 Mar;46(1):75-7 Romero N, Robert P, Masson L, Luck C, Buschmann L. Departamento de Ciencia de los Alimentos y Tecnologia Quimica, Facultad de Ciencias Quimicas y Farmaceuticas, Universidad de Chile. In order to obtain more information about fatty acid profile and cholesterol content of fat extracted from canned fish in brine habitually consumed in Chile, the authors analysed four different species: Jurel (Trachurus murphyi), Sardine (Sardinops sagax), Salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) and Tuna (Thunnus alalunga). After analysis of the fatty acid profiles of each canned fish, it was found that the main group of fatty acids belongs to polyunsaturated, the omega-3 family being the more important. The principal omega-3 representants were eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acids (DHA), with percentages between 5%-11% and 12%-22% respectively. The omega-6 family was represented mainly by arachidonic acid (AA) with percentages between 2%-4%. The cholesterol content of the fish was similar to the values found in other animal origin meats. The figures were between 41-86 mg of cholesterol per 100 g of edible product. Tuna in brine was the product with the lowest content of cholesterol. The calculated amount of EPA, DHA and total omega-3 fatty acids indicated values between 95 - 604mg, 390 - 1,163mg and 609 - 2,775mg respectively per 100g of edible product. The authors wished to emphasise that the consumption of this type of canned fish in brine still represents a good dietary source of mainly polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids. International recommendations indicate a need to increase the consumption of fish, due to the beneficial effects described in relation to cardiovascular disease. Survey finds few aware of health advice on oily fish. The Independent, 3 October 2002 Article by Graham Hiscott Few people know the health benefits or pitfalls of eating oily fish, according to a survey by the Consumers' Association. Eating fish can reduce the risk of heart attacks and help blood circulation, the watchdog says in its magazine Which? But certain oily species such as salmon, trout and mackerel run the risk of being contaminated with chemicals, while shark, marlin and swordfish may contain high levels of mercury, the report said. Which? spoke to consumers to assess how many knew the current advice from the Food Standards Agency (FSA) about eating oily fish. Only 7 per cent could remember recent FSA guidance on mercury and fish, but none knew the details. One per cent recalled the agency recommended that pregnant women avoid eating shark, swordfish and marlin. It extended the advice to women planning on being pregnant, and to children under 16. Only one sixth knew FSA advice that consumers should eat at least two portions of fish a week, of which one should be oily. At the root of the problem is lack of knowledge about what is classed as oily fish, Which? says. Most could not name all the species available in the UK - herring, kippers, mackerel, marlin, pilchards, salmon, sardines, sprats, swordfish, trout and fresh tuna. Pauling Lectures Autumn 2002. Hosted by The Institute of Optimum Nutrition. Chaired by Patrick Holford Venue: Royal Institute for British Architects, 66 Portland Place, London W1B 1AD. Tel: 020 7307 3888 (nearest tube - Oxford Circus/ Regents Park) Time: Registration: 6.00pm. Lectures commence at 6.30pm - to finish 8.30pm Charges: ION Students, Members & Practitioners £5 per event / £20 for all five. Non ION £7 / £30 for all five October 2, 2002 - Dr James Braly: "Why wheat & milk should not be staple foods" Author of "Dr Braly's Food Allergy & Nutrition Revolution" and soon to be published "Dangerous Grains". October 23, 2002 - Bernard Gesch: "Diet, crime & delinquency" Senior Research Scientist at The University of Oxford and Director of Natural Justice - a research charity established to investigate the relationship of social and physical causes of offending behaviour. October 30, 2002 - Dr John Lee: "Oestrogen dominance is the major cause of breast cancer" Dr John Lee is the author of "Natural Progesterone" and the soon to be published and highly controversial "What your doctor may not tell you about breast cancer". November 13, 2002 - Dr Alex Richardson: "ADHD - Are drugs or nutrients the answer?" Senior Research Fellow at Mansfield College and University Laboratory of Physiology, Oxford and respresentative for the Dyslexia Research Trust which funds research into dyslexia taking a nutritional approach. December 4, 2002 - Penny Viner: "Nutritional supplements - Are current & proposed regulations helping or hindering the public's health?" Director of the Health Food Manufacturers Association.
|
|
|