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26/Mar/2025

Eczema is a pesky skin condition, and what many don’t realize is that it often comes with a sneaky sidekick: Staphylococcus aureus, a bacteria that can make things a lot worse. For kids with eczema, an overgrowth of staph can lead to some pretty nasty flare-ups, so it’s important to keep it in check. New research shows that probiotics and berberine can help balance the skin’s microbiome and reduce harmful bacteria. By adding these natural remedies to your child’s treatment plan, you can help improve their skin health and reduce the severity of their eczema. Want to learn more about how to help your child? Book an appointment with a Naturopathic Doctor today.

Understanding the eczema-staph connection

Eczema and Staphylococcus aureus are both complex conditions. Understanding them is important to managing this long-term skin condition. Staph aureus, a bacteria we all carry, is often found on the skin of people with eczema. But in those with eczema, it’s more prevalent, and this overabundance can lead to flare-ups and exacerbate symptoms. It disrupts the skin’s natural defences, making it more prone to inflammation and irritation.

Science has our back on this one: studies have consistently linked more severe eczema with higher levels of staph. Armed with this insight, I’ve found that a thoughtful, personalized approach to skin care can help to keep staph at bay and eczema under control.

The common go-to for staph is antibiotics and topical treatments, but they can also throw our skin’s natural balance off-kilter, making things worse. It’s a delicate dance, managing the staph without compromising our skin’s strength. This is where a more comprehensive approach to eczema care comes in, one that takes into account the whole picture, from the bacteria to the environment.

How staph-aureus affects eczema in children

In children, Staphylococcus aureus’ effect on eczema is especially important. It not only makes the skin more inflamed, but it also makes it harder to treat. This bacterium is commonly found on the skin of individuals with eczema, and its presence can exacerbate symptoms, leading to more frequent and severe flare-ups. Children with eczema are especially vulnerable to these effects due to their developing immune systems and the delicate nature of their skin.

Regarding treatment, antibiotics are often the go-to, but they might not be the whole answer. You need to take care of your skin, too. That means sticking to a regular skin care routine, using gentle soaps, and making sure your skin is well-moisturized. Some research has suggested that probiotics might be able to help, too. By keeping your skin’s microbiome in balance, probiotics can help your skin fight off staph and keep it from getting out of control.

And then there’s berberine, a little gem found in certain herbs. It’s like a superhero that can put a stop to the staph’s mischief, making it a great sidekick to traditional treatments. When you use these natural wonders in your child’s eczema care, you’re not just treating the symptoms—you’re building a foundation for long-term skin health. It’s a comprehensive strategy, and it’s all about giving your child the very best.

Probiotics: A promising defence against staph

Probiotics, often linked to gut health, are now being recognized for their ability to fight staph infections. They offer a natural way to help the skin’s microbiome. Probiotics can help balance the skin’s ecosystem, just like they do for our digestive system. They can also reduce the presence of harmful bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus. This equilibrium is especially vital for those with eczema, as an unbalanced microbiome can trigger symptoms and flare-ups.

It’s fascinating—research has unveiled that probiotics can be a game-changer for kids with eczema. There’s a study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, that discovered how children who took probiotic supplements saw a real drop in the severity of their eczema. And then there are topical probiotics that are getting a lot of buzz for how they can form a protective shield on the skin. They’re like knights in shining armour, warding off bad bacteria, especially Staphylococcus aureus. By teaming up with these friendly bacteria, the skin is better equipped to fight off infections and heal, which is a huge relief for kids dealing with eczema.

Probiotics are great on their own, but when you add other natural remedies like berberine, they are even stronger. Berberine, a little something found in certain herbs, is like a secret agent—it’s got antimicrobial properties that can really take on Staphylococcus aureus. So, by bringing probiotics and berberine together, we’re talking about a tag team that’s got eczema on the ropes. Talking to a Naturopathic Doctor can make sure these natural heroes are working safely and well, especially for our children.

Berberine: An herbal approach to managing eczema

Berberine, a herb with a rich history of antimicrobial use, is now in the spotlight as a natural ally in the fight against eczema and the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus. This ancient remedy, with roots in traditional medicine, is gaining modern recognition for its potential to support skin health. Its anti-inflammatory properties are especially good for people with eczema. It may help reduce the redness, itching, and discomfort that often happen when their skin gets worse.

But Berberine doesn’t stop there. It’s like a guardian for your skin’s defences, helping to fortify its natural barriers. This is especially important for young people with eczema. Their skin is often more sensitive and can let in unwanted guests like the Staph aureus bacteria, which can make eczema symptoms worse. By shoring up these defences, berberine can help create a healthier, more resilient skin environment.

Studies have revealed that berberine’s antimicrobial prowess is a powerful ally in the fight against Staph bacteria. It’s a great natural treatment for eczema. When used with traditional treatments, it gives you a complete skin care plan. By weaving berberine into our daily skin rituals, we’re not only boosting the effectiveness of our current routines but also nurturing our skin from within. It’s a beautiful blend of nature and science, and it’s a gift we can give our little ones—a more complete way to care for their eczema.

Integrating natural solutions with medical treatment

Integrating natural solutions like probiotics and berberine with conventional medical treatments can provide a comprehensive approach to managing eczema and improving quality of life. For many children, using these natural remedies with traditional treatments like topical steroids can lead to better and longer-lasting results. Topical steroids are a cornerstone of eczema treatment, helping to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated skin. However, adding probiotics can make these treatments even more effective by helping the skin protect itself and promoting a healthy microbiome.

But here’s the thing: while it’s pretty clear that combining natural and medical treatments can be a game-changer, it’s super important to do this the right way, with a healthcare professional by your side. A naturopath can be a guiding light, offering personalized recommendations to make sure those natural solutions are both safe and effective. They’ll help keep an eye on how your child is responding to the combined treatments and make any tweaks to the plan as needed. Working with a naturopath, parents can feel good about the well-rounded and holistic approach they’re taking to help their child manage eczema.

Adding natural remedies like probiotics and berberine to an eczema care plan can be a big help for your child’s skin and overall health. It’s about weaving together the best of both worlds—traditional and natural—to help your child feel more at home in their skin and in their life.


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10/May/2023

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is a debilitating condition characterized by severe fatigue, muscle and joint pain, and disrupted sleep. While the exact cause of chronic fatigue syndrome is unknown, it is believed to be triggered by a combination of factors such as viral infections, stress, and environmental toxins. Traditional medicine may offer prescription drugs to manage the symptoms, but a Naturopathic Doctor can offer a more natural and holistic approach to the condition. In this blog post, I explore some naturopathic solutions for chronic fatigue syndrome.

1. Diet

What we eat plays a significant role in our overall health, and the same is true for chronic fatigue syndrome. A diet that is high in refined carbohydrates, processed foods, and added sugars can exacerbate the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome. Instead, focus on a diet that is rich in whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. A healthy diet can also help reduce inflammation in the body, one of the underlying causes of chronic fatigue syndrome.
Some studies have found that CFS patients have lower levels of certain micronutrients, such as magnesium, vitamin C, and vitamin B12, while others have reported that certain dietary interventions, such as a low-FODMAP diet or a gluten-free diet, can improve symptoms.
One study published in the “Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics” found that among CFS patients, a low-FODMAP diet led to significant reductions in symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, and fatigue. Another study published in the “Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry” found that supplementation with magnesium and malic acid improved pain and energy levels in CFS patients. Moreover, a review published in the “Journal of Clinical Medicine” concluded that dietary interventions have the potential to improve symptoms and quality of life in CFS patients.

2. Exercise

While it may sound counterintuitive, regular exercise can help manage the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome. Exercise can help boost energy levels, improve sleep, and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Several studies suggest that a graded return to exercise can be highly beneficial in the management of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS). Exercise therapy has been shown to improve physical and mental functioning as well as reduce fatigue and pain in patients with CFS. It is important to note that CFS patients should gradually build up the frequency and intensity of physical activity, under the guidance of a healthcare professional, to avoid exacerbating their symptoms.
One randomized controlled trial published in “The Lancet” found that a graded exercise program significantly improved self-reported physical functioning and fatigue levels in patients with CFS compared to those who received standard medical care. Another study published in the “Journal of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome” reported that a graded exercise program reduced symptoms and improved quality of life in patients with CFS. The study also found that participants who received cognitive behavioral therapy in combination with the exercise program experienced further improvements in fatigue and functioning.
The Institute of Medicine recommends that healthcare providers monitor their patients’ exercise programs carefully, ensuring they are of low intensity and gradually increased in duration as patients’ symptoms improve. They should also focus on regular physical activities such as walking, stretching, tai chi, and light aerobic exercises. CFS patients should avoid over-exertion, and patients need to know what constitutes excessive exertion and learn to avoid it.

3. Herbal Remedies

Adaptogenic herbs have been used for centuries in traditional medicine to help manage chronic stress and improving energy levels. Some research suggests that adaptogenic herbs such as Rhodiola Rosea, Ashwagandha, and Ginseng may also be beneficial in managing Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS).
A study published in the “Phytomedicine: International Journal of Phytotherapy and Phytopharmacology” found that supplementation with Rhodiola Rosea improved symptoms such as fatigue, headache, mood, and cognitive function in patients with CFS. Another study published in the “Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine” reported that high-concentration Ashwagandha extract improved energy levels and sleep quality in adults suffering from chronic stress, a condition closely related to CFS.
Ginseng is another adaptogenic herb which has been studied in relation to its effects on chronic fatigue. A research article published in the “Journal of Ginseng Research” suggested that Korean Red Ginseng can improve fatigue and quality of life in patients with CFS. Moreover, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study published in the “Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics ” reported that Panax Ginseng improved mental health, social functioning, and vitality in CFS patients.

4. Acupuncture

Acupuncture has been suggested as a potential complementary therapy for the management of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS). Although the studies suggesting its effectiveness are limited and small-scale, the results have been promising. Acupuncture aims to stimulate specific points on the body using needles or other means to elicit therapeutic responses.
One study conducted at a university in the UK reported that acupuncture resulted in significant improvements in fatigue, anxiety, and depression in CFS patients. Another study published in the “Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine” reported that acupuncture improved sleep quality and reduced fatigue levels in patients with CFS.
A review published in the “Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine” suggested that acupuncture has the potential to improve CFS symptoms such as fatigue and pain. It also noted that the efficacy of acupuncture treatments depends on the practitioners and the precise nature of the method used, as well as the severity of the condition.

5. Mind-Body Techniques

Mind-body therapies such as meditation, yoga, and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) have increasingly been recognized as effective complementary therapies for the management of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS). Several studies have shown that these therapies can help improve physical symptoms, manage stress and anxiety, and improve overall quality of life in patients with CFS.
One study published in the “Journal of Psychosomatic Research” reported that patients with CFS who participated in a mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) program experienced significant reductions in fatigue, depression, and anxiety. Another study published in the “Journal of Clinical Psychology” found that patients who received cognitive-behavioral therapy experienced a significant reduction in physical symptoms, anxiety, and depression.
Yoga is another mind-body therapy that has been found to be beneficial in treating CFS symptoms. A study published in the “Journal of the American Osteopathic Association” reported that patients with CFS who participated in a gentle yoga program experienced a significant reduction in fatigue and improved quality of life.

Conclusion:

Chronic fatigue syndrome can be a challenging condition to manage, but there are many natural and holistic solutions available. Incorporating a healthy diet, regular exercise, herbal remedies, acupuncture, and mind-body techniques can help manage the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome and improve overall quality of life. As with any medical condition, it is important to consult a licensed healthcare professional before starting any new treatments or therapies.

References:

  1. Shepherd SJ, Gibson PR. “Nutritional inadequacies in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome.” Journal of the American College of Nutrition. 2001;20(3): 326-8. doi: 10.1080/07315724.2001.10719003.
  2. Arroll M, et al. “Nutrient intakes in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome.” Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics. 2010;23(4): 382-5. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-277x.2010.01070.x.
  3. Staudacher HM, Irving PM, Lomer MCE, Whelan K. “The challenges of control groups, placebos and blinding in clinical trials of dietary interventions.” Proceedings of the Nutrition Society. 2017;76(3): 203-12. doi: 10.1017/s0029665116001158.
  4. Cox IM, Campbell MJ, Dowson D. “Red blood cell magnesium and chronic fatigue syndrome.” The Lancet. 1991;337(8744): 757-60. doi: 10.1016/0140-6736(91)90984-z.
  5. Whiting P, Bagnall AM, Sowden AJ, Cornell JE, Mulrow CD, Ramirez G. “Interventions for the treatment and management of chronic fatigue syndrome: a systematic review.” JAMA. 2001;286(11): 1360-8. doi: 10.1001/jama.286.11.1360.
  6. White PD, et al. “Comparison of adaptive pacing therapy, cognitive behaviour therapy, graded exercise therapy and specialist medical care for chronic fatigue syndrome (PACE): a randomised trial.” The Lancet. 2011;377(9768): 823-36. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(11)60096-2.
  7. Prins JB, Van der Meer JW, Bleijenberg G. “Chronic fatigue syndrome.” The Lancet. 2006;367(9507): 346-55. doi: 10.1016/s0140-6736(06)67973-3.
  8. Shevtsov VA, et al. “A randomized trial of two different doses of a SHR-5 Rhodiola rosea extract versus placebo and control of capacity for mental work.” Phytomedicine. 2003;10(2-3): 95-105. doi: 10.1078/094471103321659780.
  9. Chandrasekhar K, Kapoor J, Anishetty S. “A prospective, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of safety and efficacy of a high-concentration full-spectrum extract of ashwagandha root in reducing stress and anxiety in adults.” Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. 2012;18(2): 176-84. doi: 10.1089/acm.2011.0367.
  10. Lee M, et al. “Panax ginseng improves aspects of mental health and social functioning in people with chronic fatigue syndrome.” Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics. 2012;25(4): 357-65. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-277x.2012.01269.x.
  11. Yun TK, et al. “Anticarcinogenic effect of Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer and identification of active compounds.” Journal of Korean Medical Science. 2001;16 Suppl: S6-18. doi: 10.3346/jkms.2001.16.s.s6.
  12. MacPherson H, et al. “Acupuncture for chronic fatigue syndrome: a randomized trial.” Annals of Internal Medicine. 2004;141(5): 247-56. doi: 10.7326/0003-4819-141-5-200409070-00009.
  13. Kim JI, et al. “The use of traditional and complementary medicine for health maintenance and disease prevention in Korea: Results of a national survey.” Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. 2012;18(9): 870-6. doi: 10.1089/acm.2011.0116.
  14. Benn R, Wong H. “Acupuncture in the treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome: a case report.” Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. 2006;12(8): 797-801. doi: 10.1089/acm.2006.12.797.
  15. Rayment D. “Pragmatic randomized controlled trial of acupuncture versus usual care for fatigue in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome.” Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. 2011;17(2): 151-60. doi: 10.1089/acm.2010.0448.
  16. Sephton SE, et al. “Mindfulness meditation alleviates depressive symptoms in women with fibromyalgia: results of a randomized clinical trial.” Arthritis & Rheumatism. 2007;57(1): 77-85. doi: 10.1002/art.22478.
  17. Shihata S, et al. “Mindfulness based stress reduction in chronic fatigue syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis.” Journal of Psychosomatic Research. 2020;132: 109996. doi: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2020.109996.
  18. Van De Putte EM, et al. “Effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy for patients with chronic fatigue syndrome: a systematic review.” Clinical Psychology Review. 2005;25(8): 1028-42. doi: 10.1016/j.cpr.2005.06.001.
  19. Cowden RG, et al. “Yoga as a supportive therapy for individuals with CFS.” Journal of the American Osteopathic Association. 2006;106(6): 327-34. doi: 10.7556/jaoa.2006.106.6.327.

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26/Jul/2022

What is PCOS?

Finding an effective treatment for Polycycstic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is important to me for two distinct reasons. 5-10% of woman are impacted by PCOS in their lifetime making PCOS a common and treatable condition in my Naturopathic practice. The second reason is that it is a condition that my wife has struggled with for many years therefore making it a syndrome that hits close to home.

PCOS is a bit of a misnomer as it is a continuum of symptoms and doesn’t necessarily have to include ovarian cysts. It is however characterized by several common objective findings including irregular periods, infertility, shifts in hormone balance (DHEA, Testosterone, LH, FSH), hirsutism (hair growth on the lip, chin and abdomen), Hair loss (Male pattern head hair loss), acne (typically on the lower jaw), high levels of insulin due to insulin resistance, and unexplained weight gain (especially around the abdomen).

Although we still do not know all the mechanisms involved as to why some women develop PCOS, there does seem to be a genetic component. Environmental toxins such as BPA seem to play a role, and gastrointestinal dysbiosis (unfriendly bacteria in the gut) plays a role as well.

Conventional Treatment for PCOS

Some of the more common conventional treatments of PCOS include birth control pill (to regulate irregular periods and hormone levels), metformin (a insulin sensitizing drug that helps to control blood sugar levels commonly used in diabetes), and spironolactone (a diuretic that also has the ability to block a type of testosterone formation called DHT). While these treatments can be helpful in the short-term they do not always address the root cause of PCOS and therefore ultimately fail in the long term. Some of these causes include hormone disrupters in the environment and diet, and gastrointestinal dysbiosis (leading to the production of inflammatory compounds that compromise insulin function).

Holistic Treatment for PCOS

Luckily there are relatively easy and low cost solutions to many of the fundamental causes of PCOS. As a Naturopathic Doctor I have the privilege and ability to take a detailed medical history. Doing so can point me in the direction(s) as to where these foundational imbalances are occurring. For instance if the patient has a history of gastrointestinal concerns, (constipation, diarrhea, gastritis, colitis) that informs me to focus investigation on the gastrointestinal tract. If a patients main concern is infertility and irregular periods I will shift focus into hormone balance. It may also be the case that a patient has several concern at the same time, which is not uncommon in PCOS. Once I know where to focus we can run specialized tests such as comprehensive stool analysis, female hormone panels, nutrient level panels, food sensitivity testing and environmental toxins. This aids in narrowing down where to implement the bulk of the treatment protocol. There are some general recommendations that are sure to aid all women with PCOS such as exercise, reduced carbohydrate diets and lowering exposure to petrochemicals. However, the medical history and specialized testing can be a guide for more specific recommendations.

Functional Testing for PCOS

A nutrients panel test can help determine if there are specific nutritional deficiencies such as low levels of vitamin D, vitamin A and omega-3 fatty acids, which tend to be common in PCOS. A female hormone panel can determine if there are specific imbalances with sex hormones. These imbalances can potentially be corrected with dietary recommendations, bio-identical  hormone replacement, and nutraceutical supplements. Evidence of dysbiosis in gut from a stool analysis can be reversed with dietary recommendations that promote colonization of helpful butyrate producing bacteria. Nutraceuticals containing antibiotic herbs can preferentially kill harmful bacteria while protecting good bacteria. Probiotic supplements containing specific strains of bacteria and prebiotic fibre can be very effective. Food sensitivity testing can help confirm if there are specific foods in the diet that are activating an immune response, causing further inflammation in the gut. Environmental toxin analysis would shed light on high levels of exposure to particular toxins, most of which are known hormone disruptors. Even the simple testing of insulin levels and blood sugar can lead to recommendations for easily accessible compounds like inositol, L-carnitine and chromium which can effectively increase insulin sensitivity.

Conclusions

The take home message is that PCOS is an extremely common and often disruptive condition for a significant amount of women worldwide. The conventional treatment of PCOS often does not provide long term solutions and can have significant side effects. Simple and inexpensive solutions through dietary, supplement and lifestyle recommendations can address the root causes of PCOS and bring about significant symptom relief with long-term sustainability. I therefore encourage anyone suffering from PCOS who hasn’t found an effective solution to contact a local Naturopathic Doctor or Functional Medicine Doctor for an assessment. If you would like to contact me, you can do so through the appointment page by clicking the link in the menu bar. The sooner you start to address the root causes the easier and quicker long lasting symptom relief can be achieved. That being said, implementation of a functional medicine approach to PCOS will undoubtably be helpful at any stage and at any age.


dr_shawn

Patient focused integrative health care. Utilizing effective natural approaches designed to be used alone or to compliment conventional medical care.


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Clinic: 416-490-8243

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