September 14, 2000 Research Update

Willow Bark Extract Relieves Low Back Pain

This is really not a big shocker, considering that aspirin was actually derived from a substance found in willow bark.

Am J Med 2000;109:9-14 Willow bark extract is more effective than placebo for the reduction of low back pain, according to the results of a double-blind study. The extract was well tolerated, with only one patient experiencing allergy symptoms that were possibly related to willow bark. The symptoms disappeared 2 days after treatment was stopped. "The low incidence of adverse events observed in this and other studies suggests willow bark extract may be an effective alternative, especially in patients who cannot tolerate nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs," the authors write.

In Utero Estrogen Exposure Linked to Testicular Germ-Cell Cancer

More and more evidence is accumulating that suggests that a fetus' exposure to chemicals in the womb can have long term effects. Recent studies suggest that maternal exposure to pesticides will increase the risk of a certain type of brain tumor in infants. This exposure to estrogen would include environmental estrogens (xenoestrogens) found as toxins in many foods.

Int J Cancer 2000;87:438-443 Prenatal exposure to maternal hormones, especially estrogen, appears to influence subsequent risk of developing testicular germ-cell cancer, according to researchers in Canada and the US. For instance, exposure to exogenous hormones (pregnancy tests or treatment for near miscarriage), preterm birth and first birth to a young mother were associated with an increased risk of testicular cancer. Maternal smoking during pregnancy (12 cigarettes per day or more), which is believed to have an "anti-estrogen" effect, decreased the risk of cancer. Bleeding or threatened miscarriage also reduced the risk of cancer, but the reason for this association is not yet clear, the investigators write. "Our results support the hypothesis that exposure to maternal hormones, particularly estrogen, is associated with testicular germ-cell cancer risk," Dr. Weir and colleagues conclude. This link warrants further investigation in more "direct" studies, they believe.

Is Caffeine a Flavoring Agent in Cola Soft Drinks?

Very interesting article suggesting the the only reason caffeine is added to soft drinks is to increase their addictive nature. Is Caffeine a Flavoring Agent in Cola Soft Drinks?

Butyrate inhibits inflammation: implications for Crohn's disease

More and more articles are being published support the role of butyrate in reducing severity and/or flare ups of gastrointestinal disorders. Remember that butyrate is produced when GOOD bacteria digest the fiber that we consume. Gut -- Abstracts: Segain et al. 47 (3): 397

"Hands-free" mobile phones may be safer than the rest

The controversy rages on. I hate to admit it, but the research is begining to be weighed against the safety of cellular phones. bmj.com Dobson 321 (7259): 468

Homoeopathy versus placebo in perennial allergic rhinitis

There are so many natural ways to combate allergies already well known and researched. Even more importantly, a patient must identify potential allergens in his or her diet. bmj.com Abstracts: Taylor et al. 321 (7259): 471

James Bogash, D.C. Mesa, AZ info@lifecarechiro.com www.lifecarechiro.com