Progesterone and the mTOR Aging System

person holding a stress ball

Unraveling how and why we age is a research focus.  We are still captivated by the Ponce de Leon promise of the Fountain of Youth.  An enzyme system named mTOR (mammalian or mechanistic target of rapamycin) was identified in mouse studies as a significant aging mechanism.  Inhibition of mTOR by rapamycin, found in bacteria species: S. cerevisiae, C. elegans, … Read more

The Oral Microbiome and Sex Hormones

photo of woman wearing bikini

We realize that microbes contribute to the state of our health in a major way.   Healthy microbiomes or bacterial colonies contribute valuable short chain fatty acids, vitamins, and immune system protection.   Disordered microbiomes are reflected in oral health.  Periodontal diseases, gingivitis, plaque formation and tongues coated with white candida colonies illustrate that the microbial balance … Read more

The Thyroid Debacle

ecografia de tiroides

We are keen to keep things simple.  Computer programs have “yes” and “no” and none of the grey in-betweens.  Have you ever tried to answer a questionnaire with a “yes, but” and there is no space allotted for your answer? You arrive at your practitioner’s office with dozens of low thyroid symptoms: weight gain, hair … Read more

Sulforaphane – Marshalling A Powerful Antioxidant Defense

green broccoli on white textile

Sulforaphane is derived from broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage, Brussel sprouts, and Bok choi.  There are several mechanisms identified to explain the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor effects of sulforaphane. A primary role is activating Nrf2 which has a powerful cascading effect. Glucoraphanin in broccoli is converted by myrosinase to sulforaphane. Sulforaphane then activates … Read more

The Tyranny of Flow Chart Medicine

crop doctor with stethoscope in hospital

When I started my career as a pharmacist many years ago, one of my mentors warned me that pharmacists were expendable. We would soon be replaced by vending machines. Indeed, I witnessed the first of these being installed in hospitals to dispense commonly used drugs on the floors. Medical practitioners are equally expendable. With FDA … Read more