As our world has become increasingly polluted a greater toxic load has been placed on our bodies. We are evermore exposed to toxic heavy metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, voltile organic solvents, tobacco smoke, phalates, dioxin, drugs, PCB’s, herbicides, pesticides, antibiotics, synthetic hormones and even endotoxins produced in our own bowels by unfriendly bacteria. We are continually exposed to these reactive toxins in the food we eat, the air we breathe, the water we drink as well as cosmetic and household products. According to the 2005 report from the CDC’s Environmental Health Laboratory, there are currently 148 chemicals currently found in the blood and/or urine of Americans which is indicative of most western lifestyles.Toxicity affects everyone to a greater or lesser extent depending on the degree of exposure and the individual’s susceptibility. The inability of our bodies to effectively detoxify these reactive compounds results in prolonged exposure resulting in a direct toxic effect on celluler metabolism and/or an immune related inflammatory response.

Toxins can affect just about every system in our bodies resulting in: poor digestion, dysbiosis, fatigue, leaky gut syndrome, decreased immunity, allergies, chemical sensitivities, headaches, loss of hair, hormone imbalances, reproductive failure, respiratory disorders, cancer, depression, dementia, body odor, neurological imbalances, cardiovascular disease, skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema, to name a few.

Clinical experience teaches us that a thorough and comprehensive detoxification program may improve a wide variety of chronic diseases. Reducing the toxic load on the body is an effective tool for improving overall health and wellbeing as it eliminates excessive immune inflammation responses, allergies, chemical sensitivities, regains a balanced immune system, reduces free radicals, improves cognition, regains an appropriate hormone balance, improves digestion and increases energy and vitality.

There are currently many different types of detoxification programs available ranging from water or juice fasts, liver cleansing diets, colonics, etc. Many of these do not address every aspect required for a comprehensive detoxification and therefore only produce partial benefits.

A comprehensive program must involve the following steps and each step done in the order as indicated or else the desired results may not be obtained. This program is also very effective for those that suffer from irritable bowel syndrome and other GUT related symptoms.

(1) Daily Bowel Purge - an effective bowel purge using epsom salts or Aloe Vera juice improves the detoxification process and reduces adverse reactions as it prevents the reabsorption of toxic metabolites dumped into the bowl for elimination. Several detox programs promote the use of colonic irrigations to aid in this process. It is very important that if colonics are employed then you should replace the beneficial bacteria in the bowels after each session as they can potentially be washed out.

(2) Remove Dietary Exposure to Reactive Foods and Chemicals - Some detox programs involve the complete abstinence from all foods ingesting only water or juices. These programs can produce a rapid detoxification which may create great discomfort to the patient especially if they are sensitive, highly toxic or chronically ill. The so called “healing crisis” produced by rapid detoxification can produce headaches, nausia, fatigue, diarrhea and aggrivate other health issues. This is due to toxins and free radicals being released too rapidly and damaging your body. These programs should last from seven to ten days for complete detoxification and be reserved only for those with a strong constitution.

We recommend a slower and gentler detoxification program utilizing a low reactive diet which is provided during a consultation. Briefly this involves eliminating all meats, eggs, dairy products, processed and refined foods, fried foods, sugar, chocolate, coffee, tea, tobacco, alcohol, colors, flavors, preservatives, salt, white breads, rice and pasta. Stick to foods with a low glycemic index. You should grill, bake or steam as opposed to frying your foods. It is also very important to drink one to two liters of good quality clean water each day to help flush out the toxins. We have studied most water purifiers on the market and found the Wellness Water filters to be one of the best.

Following this alkaline diet for two weeks prior to proceeding to the next step should help restore a balanced pH in the body by flushing out most acidic residues. Most toxins in the body are acids that require to be neutralised and flushed out to regain a normal alkaline balance. Supplementing with certain alkaline minerals such as calcium and magnesium will help restore the alkaline balance. Patients that are highly sensitive should maintain this phase for at least one month before moving onto the next stage.

(3) Treat any Bacterial/Parasite/Fungal Infection in the Bowel - Stool analysis (CDSA) will detect the presence of yeasts (candida), parasites and unfavourable bacterial flora balance of your intestines. If found to exist we recommend the use of a friendly yeast known as Saccharomyces Boulardii which is used to destroy harmful bacteria and yeasts (Candida) in the gut without colonising the gut itself. It also increases mucosa IgA levels thus restoring gut immunity. This phase should last for at least two to four weeks. It is very important that if candida is found to be present a special candida diet must be adhered to in order for the treatment to be effective. This and any other diet required is supplied during a consultation. Candida 5 rapid tests are also available which are a highly sensitive blood test that determine the presence of candida antibodies in the blood. It only requires a finger prick blood sample and is a in home test kit. This test can determine if treatment was successful.

More resistant candida cases whom fail to respond to natural treatments may require a coarse of Nilstat antifungal medication until the candida is cleared. A three week Nilstat protocol is provided during consultations if required. This protocol was developed by Dr Bruce Semon MD, Ph.D, a specialist in candida infections.

If certain strains of bacteria are found such as H.pylori then certain medication is required as no natural treatments are effective in eradicating these bacteria. Several antibiotic combinations are available on consultation as resistance is increasing to current treatments.

A two week parasite cleans should also follow if stool parasitology tests positive. The parasites commonly found include cryptosporidium, giadia, blastocystis, D.hominus and entamoeba. This may involve the use of a herbal mixture designed to remove parasites or in more resistant cases a coarse of medication may be required. Resistant parasites such as Blastocystis and D.hominis require a coarse of medication as they will not respond to natural treatments. The traditional treatment involves the use of metronidazole (750mg tds for 10 days) which has a very poor success rate due to resistance. A triple therapy antibiotic mixture developed by The Center of Digestive Diseases has been shown to be 85% effective. This protocol is available on consultation.

It is important that you are retested about 4 to 8 weeks after undergoing any anti-pathogen therapy to ensure it has been eradicated. You cannot assume that the treatment was successful as nothing is 100% effective.

(4) Reinoculate the Gut with Beneficial Bacteria - Once all pathogens are removed from your bowel the use of a good quality probiotic including L. acidophillus, B. bifidum, L. bulgaricus, S. thermophilus and E.coli is essential to restore the beneficial bacterial balance in the gut. This step should last for two weeks to three months in conjunction with step 5. The correct balance of bacteria in the gut and the importance of probiotics cannot be overstated. They have been shown to possess many benefits some of which include: aid digestion, improve absorption, increase immunity, inhibit pathogens, produce vitamins, reduce cholesterol, to name a few. The probiotic we currently recommend is UltraBiotic 45 made by Bioceuticals which is a multi strained probiotic containing over 45 billion bacteria per capsule. Levels should be re-checked to ensure they are adhering to the gut wall lining.

(5) Restore Digestive Function - In a healthy system the lining of the digestive tract is a good filter allowing vitamins and nutrients to pass into the bloodstream while keeping bacteria and waste products within the bowl. This filter is damaged by candida, parasites, dysbiosis, stress, alcohol, drugs, allergies, infection, etc which causes the unregulated transport of toxins into the system. This is known as LEAKY GUT SYNDROME. It is important to repair the lining and reduce any inflammation present. Proper diet and avoiding allergens with the low reactive diet will help heal leaky gut syndrome. Supplements of glutamate, butyrate, fatty acids and protein are essential for this phase. Intestamine made by Bioceuticals is a multi-ingredient preparation designed especially to treat this condition.

If stool tests indicate poor digestion then a good quality digestive aid may also benefit the digestive process which may encompass digestive enzymes and/or betaine to increase acidity. Multigest enzymes made by Bioceuticals is an excellent enzyme supplement designed to aid the digestion of proteins, carbohydrates, fats and lactose.

If you usually suffer any GUT symptoms or irritable bowel syndrome it is also a good idea to have a food allergy test to help identify problematic foods. The test we recommend is the ALCAT blood test as it will detect food allergies and intolerances. The problem with allergy RAST blood tests is they do not detect food intolerances and generally only look for either IgE or IgG antibodies, therefore both of these need to be tested for to ensure you do not miss any allergic foods, however these tests will still not detect food intolerances.

(6) Liver Detoxification - this step should only be conducted once the digestive repair program (steps 1 to 5) has been completed to avoid re-absorbing any toxins released into the bowel for elimination during this step.
An unhealthy liver does not detoxify substances as rapidly or as completely as a healthy liver. Slower detoxification results in more toxic substances circulating in the body being stored in fat and soft tissues which can then be slowly released back into the bloodstream contributing to many illnesses. Detoxification is the biotransformation of toxins so they can be effectively eliminated from the body. Effective biotransformation requires the induction of both Phase I and Phase II liver enzyme reactions. Imbalances between these two Phases may lead to an accumulation of reactive intermediates that are often more toxic than the parent compound. Effective liver detoxification involves adjusting the balance between Phase I and II reactions to enhance the clearance of toxins and minimise the accumulation of reactive intermediates. This involves supplying the liver with all the necessary substrates required for both reactions along with supplying protection to the liver itself. Thermophase Detox produced by Metagenics is designed especially for this purpose and is the product we recommend.

If any gall bladder symptoms are present then a gall bladder cleanse may also be required.

(7) Deep Tissue Clearing - involves the removal of any heavy metals such as mercury, lead, aluminium, excessive copper or chemicals that may be present in various body tissues. This may be achieved with the use of traditional chelating agents such as DMSA or the recently discovered zeolite drops (see online shop) along with the use of infrared saunas and/or message which can help the removal of waste products accumulated in fat and lymphatic tissues.

The program described above is only a generalisation. A detoxification program should be tailor made to suite your specific requirements based on clinical tests and symptoms. The practitioner can monitor your results and make amendments if required. After the detoxification program you should feel energetic, light and healthy. Any illness you may have had should be less troublesome. You should now incorporate these new eating habits into your lifestyle in order to stay healthy.

It is also very important to limit your re-exposure to chemicals and toxins once you have detoxified. Watch out for house hold cleaners and even body products which all contain toxic ingredients. We stock a range of Miessence chemical free certified organic personal care products such as hair shampoos, conditioners, toothpaste and body wash to help prevent re-exposure to chemicals.

Benefits of Vitamin D

There is a vast body of science showing the many health benefits of vitamin D. You may be surprised to learn the important role that vitamin D plays in your health.

Maintains Your Calcium Balance
Maintenance of blood calcium levels within a narrow range is vital for normal functioning of the nervous system, as well as for bone growth, and maintenance of bone density. Vitamin D is essential for the efficient utilization of calcium by the body.

Aids Your Cell Differentiation
Cellular differentiation results in the specialization of cells for specific functions in your body. In general, differentiation of cells leads to a decrease in proliferation. While cellular proliferation is essential for growth and wound healing, uncontrolled proliferation of cells with certain mutations may lead to diseases like cancer. The active form of vitamin D, inhibits proliferation and stimulates the differentiation of cells.

Boosts Your Immune System
Active vitamin D is a potent immune system modulator. There is plenty of scientific evidence that vitamin D has several different effects on immune system function that may enhance your immunity and inhibit the development of autoimmunity.

Insulin Secretion
The active form of vitamin D plays a role in insulin secretion under conditions of increased insulin demand. Limited data in humans suggests that insufficient vitamin D levels may have an adverse effect on insulin secretion and glucose tolerance in type 2 diabetes.

Testing Vitamin D Levels

The form of vitamin D tested for should be 25 Hydroxy-Vitamin D and must be performed using the DiaSorin method. Check with you pathology lab to ensure they use this gold standard method to determine levels.

The normal range of 25 Hydroxy Vit D is 50 to 140 nmol/L however if you wish to obtain optimal levels for peak performance then you should aim for 115 to 128nmol/L.

Dr. Michael Hollick is one of the top vitamin D researchers in the world and he has been advocating higher reference ranges, though not as high as the ones suggested here. (Holick MF. Calcium and Vitamin D. Diagnostics and Therapeutics. Clin Lab Med. 2000 Sep;20(3):569-90)

Vitamin D3 Supplements
It is not always effective and/or practical to get your vitamin D from sunshine, and quite difficult to get adequate amounts from your diet so for many people, a vitamin D supplement is a practical way to ensure adequate levels of this important protector are always available in your bloodstream.

Some supplements use synthetic vitamin D2 which has been found to be less effective. A much better form is natural vitamin D3 (cholcalciferol) which stays in your system longer and with more effect. Vitamin D3 ideally should be taken as a oil filled capsule which provides far better absorption. In many cases powder filled capsules or tablets are unable to raise serum Vitamin D levels significantly thus oiled filled capsules are recommended.
The most effective doses are approximately 2000 units per day however ideally should be adjusted to blood levels.

More Vitamin D May Be Better?

Recent science is showing that doses above these may provide better health. For example, professor Robert Heaney has reported in April 2006 in the Journal of Nutrition his study showing an additional 2600 IU/day of oral vitamin D3 should be given to older women.

Vieth reported in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition a recommendation of 4000 IU per day for adults. He also showed that levels of 10,000 IU per day were normal from body exposure to the sun and the only published vitamin D toxicity was at levels exceeding 40,000 IU/day.

It seems more studies are warranted on proper vitamin D doses. Given that vitamin D3 is safe at very high levels and may provide extraordinary benefits with no known risk, we recommend individuals get reasonable sun exposure, eat foods rich in vitamin D, and supplement with 2000IU Vitamin D3 in an oil based capsule. Follow up blood tests will then determine if any dosage adjustments are required.

Vitamin D Toxicity
It is very rare to have a vitamin D overdose. Vitamin D toxicity induces abnormally high serum calcium levels (hypercalcemia), which could result in bone loss, kidney stones, and calcification of organs like the heart and kidneys if untreated over a long period of time.

When the Food and Nutrition Board of the Institute of Medicine established the tolerable upper intake level (UL) for vitamin D, published studies that adequately documented the lowest intake levels of vitamin D that induced hypercalcemia were very limited. Because the consequences of hypercalcemia are severe, the Food and Nutrition Board established a very conservative UL of 2,000 IU/day (50 mcg/day) for children and adults.

Research published since 1997 suggests that this level for adults is overly conservative and that vitamin D toxicity is very unlikely in healthy people at intake levels lower than 10,000 IU/day.

Certain medical conditions can increase the risk of hypercalcemia in response to vitamin D, including primary hyperparathyroidism, sarcoidosis, tuberculosis, and lymphoma. People with these conditions may develop hypercalcemia in response to any increase in vitamin D nutrition and should consult a qualified health care provider regarding any increase in vitamin D intake.

Vitamin D Drug Interactions
The following medications increase the metabolism of vitamin D and may decrease serum D levels:
Phenytoin (Dilantin), fosphenytoin (Cerebyx), phenobarbital (Luminal), carbamazepine (Tegretol), and rifampin (Rimactane).

The following medications should not be taken at the same time as vitamin D because they can decrease the intestinal absorption of vitamin D: Cholestyramine (Questran), colestipol (Colestid), orlistat (Xenical), mineral oil, and the fat substitute Olestra. The oral anti-fungal medication, ketoconazole, inhibits the 25(OH)D3-1-hydroxylase enzyme and has been found to reduce serum levels of 1,25(OH)D in healthy men . The induction of hypercalcemia by toxic levels of vitamin D may precipitate cardiac arrhythmia in patients on digitalis (Digoxin).

Dear Valued Customers and Readers of Complementary Compounding Services Website

If you have entered onto our website lately you will notice there has been some major changes due to pressure from the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Therapeutic goods advertising laws prevent us as a supplier of therapeutic goods from linking almost every major disease to any therapeutic good for treatment weather it be a drug or natural supplement. It is illogical, in my view, that legally we can only very briefly mention a therapeutic product with no in depth information about it and what it can be used for, or alternatively provide information only and no product.

If I maintained the site the way it was I would have had to delete almost all of the informative content in order to legally comply, much of this information I consider being essential for many whom are suffering and would otherwise have no access to it as they are not getting it from their doctors. I know how many people this important information has helped in the past and will help in the future so have had to reshuffle the site around in order to comply with these laws . In order to maintain the informational content we have had to implement a free, no obligation, restricted log-in section where each patient must log in to access all the relevant information on how to accurately diagnose their condition and the most effective treatments available for it. It is an inconvenience to do so but is the only way around current laws. Once logged in not only do you have access to all this information but you also are able to utilize the very convenient online shopping cart to order products online.

I appreciate the need for advertising laws to prevent unscrupulous businesses taking advantage of the general public by attempting to sell them the latest “snake oil” however feel that these laws, in circumstances such as this, prevents valuable information getting to the people whom need it the most, resulting in needless suffering. Many people I see during consultations do not seem to be getting any of this information or any significant help from their doctor so rely on us for their recovery. Throughout the entire website I believe we took a responsible and ethical approach, constantly encouraging readers to consult with us, or their health care professional, in order to have the appropriate tests done to accurately diagnose their condition so the appropriate therapy could be initiated, rather than just trying to sell a potentially unsuitable product as our approach is to treat the cause of the condition and not just the symptoms.

In addition there are literally thousands of other websites on the internet from other countries (whom the TGA cannot control) that Australians can access. Much of this information is incorrect and encourages Australians to mail order products from overseas with many obvious potential problems.

Therefore now in order to access all the important information that had previously been readily accessible, and to use the online shopping facilities, you now need to log into the practitioners advice section. By doing so a 1:1 patient:practitioner relationship is maintained and hence not considered advertising. It is free to log in and access all the information present with no obligations. You will not receive any spam mail from us and we will not pass you details onto any other business or organization. It is well worth going to the trouble of logging in as there is a wealth of information available.

Stay tuned to this site as I intend to continue to supply more valuable information on other conditions.

Kind Regards Dr Michael Serafin

Diindolylmethane (DIM)

Diindolylmethane, or DIM for short, is a very important phytonutrient found in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, brussels sprouts and bok choy. In the last 10 years or so it has been discovered that supplemental use of DIM, and its precursor indol-3-carbinol (I3C), is associated with a beneficial shift in estrogen metabolism.

Research on the minor metabolites of estrogens, specifically the metabolites 2-hydroxyestrone and 16-alpha-hydroxyestrone has revealed the 2-hydroxyestrone metabolite is a “good” estrogen, while the 16-alpha-hydroxyestrone metabolite is a “bad” estrogen because it tends to damage DNA and cause abnormal cellular proliferation. Research findings indicate that if the ratio of the “good” estrogen metabolite (2-hydroxyestrone) to the “bad” estrogen metabolite (16-alpha-hydroxyestrone) is low then an increased risk of breast cancer results. The use of DIM and I3C in humans has been found to be effective in adjusting the pathways of estrogen metabolism to favor the production of the good estrogen metabolite, 2-hydroxyestrone. The shift in estrogen metabolites was found to be significant which showed an approximate 75% increase in production of 2-hydroxyestrone (”good” metabolites) and a 50% decrease in 16-hydroxyestrone (”bad” metabolites). This relationship has been documented in several case-control studies.

Other studies have also documented that low levels of 2-hydroxy metabolites are associated with breast cancer in women, breast cancer in men, uterine cancer, cervical cancer, and systemic lupus erythematosis. Therefore women with breast cancer, high risk of developing breast cancer and women taking estrogen supplementation may all benefit from the use of either DIM or I-3-C.
In addition DIM has been shown to exhibit anti-proliferative and anti-androgenic properties in androgen-dependent human prostate cancer cells. It supressed cell proliferation of LNCaP cells and inhibits DHT stimulation of DNA synthesis. Moreover it also inhibited endogenous PSA transcription and reduced intracellular PSA proteins induced by DHT. These results taken together with its effects on reducing estrogens and improving their metabolite balance DIM appears to be a unique bifunctional hormone disrupter. For these reasons we also recommend the use of DIM in men with high estrogen levels, an unfavorable estrogen metabolite imbalance and/or prostate problems.
DIM has been shown to result in a significant increase in the 2/16 ratio at one tenth the dose of I3C. In addition animal studies have clearly shown that it is DIM and not I3C that is the active promoter of greater 2-hydroxylation of estrogen which is associated with a cancer-resistant estrogen metabolism. DIM is also less reactive and less of a liver enzyme inducer than I3C. This difference accounts for a number of the side effects seen with I3C. Doubling the typical dose of I3C from 400 to 800 mg/day causes dizziness and unsteady gait, signs of nervous system toxicity in humans. No side effects of any sort are seen when pure DIM is used even in huge doses in animals, or when the usual dose of 40 mg/day of DIM is tripled in human subjects. Since supplemental DIM does not result in the wide array of enzyme induction that I3C provokes, there is less chance of interaction with other nutrients, hormones, or medications. In addition I3C has been shown to increase testosterone metabolism which can result in decreased levels which may be detrimental especially for males. For all these reasons we recommend the use of DIM instead of I3C.
As a consequence of DIM’s ability to safely and efficiently increase 2-hydroxy estrogen metabolite levels these unique estrogen metabolites are known to stimulate progesterone production, and compete with testosterone for protein binding. Thus it helps maintain an optimal estrogen/progesterone balance and also helps testosterone remain in its unbound, free and active form which can also be of great benefit to both men and women.
The usual dose for DIM is 25 to 100mg daily for women and 50 to 100mg a day for men. Due to its crystalline structure and poor water solubility the absorption of DIM when given orally as a powder in a capsule is minimal. To overcome this various DIM complexes have been made by several companies in order to increase its oral absorption however 100mg of the DIM-complex only provides 25mg of DIM. Therefore usually two to four capsules are required each day which can become expensive. Other companies have tried to emulsify DIM with lecithin and other fats in a gel capsule in attempt to improve its absorption. In order to overcome these problems a transdermal liposomal DIM cream is also available.

Cure “vs” Healing – Emotional Healing

Science and medicine is yet to discover the fact that most diseases and aging is caused by an emotional and/or less frequently a mental energetic disturbance trapped within the cells in the body that causes either a blockage or over stimulation of energy flow into that area of the body which will ultimately manifests itself physically as aging and disease. What is not understood is that any form of emotional pain weather it be fear, anger, frustration, grief or sadness (to name a few), is trapped within the cells of the body impeding normal energy flow. These emotions can be caused by a loss of anything or anyone that is important to you, being physically, emotionally or mentally abused, any negative childhood experiences, family and/or parent issues, etc, etc. These experiences not only cause the emotional pain mentioned above but also issues such as poor self image, feelings of being unable to meet others expectations, lack of self love, always searching for love and acceptance from others, not being in control, etc, etc. These issues may be the result from experiences during any time of your life from very early childhood to the present, and even past life experiences if you are open to the possibility of reincarnation. If these “issues” or “emotional entrapments” are not cleared from the body then restrictions or excess in energy flow into those areas of the body ultimately manifests as disease.

Many people are not aware that they are carrying these debilitating emotional entrapments. In their own minds they are unable to identify with these issues until they are triggered by an experience that makes it resurface and thus makes them react to it. In many ways they are totally disconnected from their own real emotions being totally unaware of their own behavioral patterns, conditioning and belief systems imposed upon them from birth. If you ever act out in anger, fear, frustration or sadness then you are holding onto some issue that needs to be resolved. In many cases, the pain in many people is too great for them to address so in fear they unconsciously bury it down deep and then distract themselves with worldly endeavors such as drugs and alcohol, entertainment and other numbing distractions or make themselves too busy so they do not have to face it. If left, these issues may eventually cause disease. Disease is often an opportunity for one to reflect on them selves, identify the issues and patterns they were previously unaware of and then release it from the body and thus obtain a true healing bringing them closer to the awareness of their divine center.

Many patients we see prefer to ignore the emotional issues and simply seek a physical cure. By this they seek to alleviate the physical symptoms of their disease in an attempt to re-attain the sense of ‘physical comfort’ they felt before. ‘Physical comfort’ is the usual motivation by those who seek a ‘cure’, but it is in truth a form of seeking an ‘existence’, which is just below the pain thresh-hold. This is not in anyway a true form of healing the issue at hand. It is for this reason that the symptoms may disappear only to bring harsher and more complicated ones later.

Physically treating or curing any disease to alleviate its symptoms is a cure and should not be confused with a healing, as the emotional issue still remains deep within the body and is still capable of causing more disease in the future. A good example of this is cancer. Many cancer patients may successfully cure one cancer with various physical treatments only to find years later that a new cancer has formed. If the primary energetic influence has not been removed it may in the future find an alternate way of expressing itself resulting as secondary conditions. There are obviously physical medical explanations for this occurrence but what is not correctly understood is that the origin of the physical manifestation is the energetic influence. One day in the future our scientists will work in full awareness of currently unseen energy and know its influence on physical manifestation. There will no longer be the separation between the two that is erroneously observed today.

The only way to truly heal from any disease is to remove the energetic impediment caused by the emotional issue which has physically manifested itself as a disease. This by no means dismisses the benefits of the many great medical discoveries and treatments available today however adds another dimension to these treatments so all aspects of our being are correctly balanced and healed. With this approach, the recipient wins, as all areas are covered and not just those which are commonly accepted, but fall short of the complete whole.

Not all is good and this presentation does not promote a free-for-all blind approach. We must be very discerning in whom we see and what modality we seek for help. With the emergence of many new age treatments that claim to address emotional/energetic imbalances the patient must be very discerning and avoid many such treatments, advised by well intentioned but unknowing practitioners, that truly only bury the pranic emotional/energetic impediment even deeper into the body or alternatively bury it deeper but engulf it within a ball of pranic energy – the energy that is responsible for the illness in the first place. One such example of this is the use of certain flower essences, however there are many other such pranic based therapies available such as pranic healing and reiki, to name only a couple. These ‘pranic therapies’ may appear to work initially as the symptoms are alleviated in the short term, however in time secondary conditions arise as the unresolved primary source of blocked energy will find another way to express itself physically in the body.

These comments may, and already have, upset many such well intentioned practitioners. If however they were taught the difference between the two energies (prana and fire) by their respective modalities, and able to feel the difference themselves, then they would be able to discern the truth for themselves rather than simply believing what they have been taught without any means of verifying it for themselves. Verifying here means to clairsentiently feel these energies from the inner heart and not from the head which is ever so easily fooled.

All emotional energy in the body is pranic energy. Our divine design is to be predominantly of the firey energy of the soul. Prana energetically reconfigures our body away from our divine design which causes disharmony and ultimately manifests as disease. Therefore to truly heal ourselves we need to connect to our inner hearts which then infuses our body with the firey energy of the soul and thus reduces the amount of prana in our bodies. Any pranic based therapy will only add to the pranic load in the body and thus supply more of the energy which actually made you sick in the first place.

Alternatively, traditional therapies such as psychology, whilst beneficial in their way, are not equipped with the knowledge of energy and only work on the personality level usually ignoring the spirit and the soul aspects which will not be able to produce a true and complete healing. Therefore, in order to avoid these pitfalls it is essential that you seek the aid of an esoteric practitioner whom clearly understands and and is able to feel the different quality of firey energy compared to pranic energy and is able to help you remove such pranic energetic imbalances with the use of the firey energy of the soul and thus facilitate a true healing.

For more information refer to www.universalmedicine.com.au or to find a practitioner closest to you refer to www.esoteric-healing.com

Reverse T3 Dominance - A Thyroid Imbalance

In a healthy patient a normal thyroid gland secretes all of the circulating T4 and about 20% of the circulating T3. The T4 made by the thyroid gland circulates throughout the body and is converted into T3 and a tiny amount of reverse T3 in the kidneys, brain and fat tissue. Most of the biological activity of thyroid hormones is due to T3. It has a higher affinity for thyroid receptors and is approximately 4 - 10 times more potent than T4. Because 80% of serum T3 is derived from T4 in tissues such as the liver and kidney, T4 is considered a pro-hormone. Reverse T3 has no thyroid action what so ever except it binds to T3 receptors blocking the action of T3. In normal patients T3 dominates and reverse T3 usually makes up less than 10% of total T3 levels and is therefore no problem.

Reverse T3 dominance or “Wilson’s Syndrome” is a condition identified by Dr Denis Wilson that exhibits most hypothyroid symptoms although circulating levels of T3 and T4 are within normal test limits. It is a condition of thyroid hormone imbalance rather than a simple deficiency. Periods of prolonged stress may cause an increase in cortisol levels as the adrenal glands respond to the stress. The high cortisol levels inhibit the conversion of T4 into T3 thus reducing active T3 levels. The conversion of T4 is then shunted towards the production of the inactive reverse T3. This reverse T3 dominance may persist even after the stress passes and cortisol levels have returned to normal as the reverse T3 itself may also inhibit the conversion of T4 to T3 thus perpetuating the production of the inactive reverse T3 isomer. There is some argument to this last point with some research indicating that the elevated rT3 is only temporary and not permanent as Dr Wilson describes and hence questions his theory altogether. Which ever the case may be we have had many patients whom have benefited from his protocol.

Reverse T3 has the same molecular structure as T3 however its three dimensional arrangement (stereochemistry) of atoms is a mirror image of T3 and thus fits into the receptor upside down thus preventing the active T3 binding to the receptor and activating the appropriate thyroid response. Unfortunately blood tests for T3 measure both normal T3 and reverse T3 levels as it is unable to distinguish between the two. Thus T3 levels may appear normal however a significant proportion of this may be due to the presence of the inactive reverse T3 isomer giving a false impression of true thyroid function. To overcome this diagnostic problem there is a special test that specifically measures reverse T3 alone and should be requested to rule out reverse T3 dominance. Ideally reverse T3 should be between 200-300 pmol/L and if found to be above 400 pmol/L indicates the presence of reverse T3 dominance. If reverse T3 dominance is diagnosed it may be treated by supplementing T3 once adrenal exhaustion, hypoglycemia and/or low sex hormone levels have been ruled out and/or treated.

It is important that no T4 (thyroxine), including Armour Thyroid, is used for this condition as some of the supplemented T4 will only be converted into reverse T3 and keep this cycle going. The idea is to use T3 to provide thyroid activity to alleviate symptoms and to also suppress TSH production which in effect reduces the bodies own production of T4. With little or no T4 left in the system reverse T3 can no longer be produced and eventually whatever is already present in the body will be eliminated thus reducing reverse T3 levels. The conversion of T4 into T3 will then no longer be inhibited by the reverse T3 allowing the appropriate activation of T4 into the active T3 form to occur.

NB: It is also very important that if elevated levels of cortisol are found (stage 1 adrenal exhaustion) it should be treated first because if it is left elevated it will only continue to inhibit the conversion of T4 into T3 and thus continue reverse T3 production and thus cause this treatment to potentially fail. In addition some patients respond poorly to the treatment described below until any adrenal imbalances are rectified. Therefore we recommend any adrenal imbalance be corrected before commensing this treatment.

Treatment

Slow release T3 capsules work best in this situation. Begin by taking 7.5mcg of T3 as a slow release capsule morning and night. Symptoms should be monitored for improvement in energy levels and an increase in body temperature (ideally underarm temperature above 36.5C). Dose should be gradually increased by 7.5mcg increments every 5 days until symptoms are alleviated and/or body temperature is back to normal.

Symptoms for hyperthyroid such as sweating, anxiety, palpitations, etc must also be monitored for and doses reduced at the first sign of these symptoms appearing. Care should be taken not to allow the pulse rate to remain above 100 beats / minute, or more than about 20 beats / minute faster than before treatment. The dose should be reduced to the highest dose possible where these symptoms do not occur. Usually we find total daily doses of T3 required to be as high as 90 to 100mcg per day before body temperature and symptoms are restored back to normal. Once the correct dose has been obtained the dose should be maintained for four weeks and then the dose gradually reduced by 7.5mcg increments every 3 days until off it completely. By this stage TSH should return to normal thus stimulating T4 production which then, if the treatment was successful, should be converted into the active T3 form. Follow up blood tests for T3, T4 and reverse T3 should all be in the ideal range. Sometimes this protocol needs to be repeated several times if initially unsuccessful.

COPPER TOXICITY

Copper is essential for good health and is required for several physiological functions such as the production of neurotransmitters (Dopamine, noradrenaline), the enzyme cytochrome C oxidase (breaks down Vit C), for lactase activity (lactose digestion) and for elastin and collagen production, to name a few. Therefore sufficient amounts of copper are necessary for good health however real problems can occur when levels become excessive. Copper toxicity appears to be far more common than copper deficiencies and can be just as devastating to your health as heavy metals such as mercury and lead can be. Unfortunately for many copper toxicity is largely being ignored by the mainstream medical profession.

The main problems related to copper toxicity include:
(1) Hormone Imbalances – blocks T4 production and conversion into T3, by blocking iron it also inhibits steroid hormone pathway resulting with low hormone levels.
(2) Fatigue – by blocking iron absorption, storage and its effects in the mitochondria, also blocks magnesium, and disrupts hormone production.
(3) Anxiety/Depression – it reduces serotonin production
(4) Joint Pains
(5) Poor Immunity – viral, fungal and yeast infections
(6) Poor sleep – it blocks melatonin production
(7) Hypoglycemia – by impairing digestion effects sugar absorption, also increases insulin.
(8) Cancer – it is involved in angiogenesis which promotes cancer growth.
(9) Allergies/Intollerance – it increases histamine production

Many of the above can be explained by coppers ability to interfere with zinc, magnesium, iron, Vitamin C, folic acid, Vit B1 and Vit E and increases histamine production. When the action of these nutrients is blocked many physiological processes are unable to function correctly resulting with the following: arthritis, fatigue, adrenal burnout, insomnia, scoliosis, osteoporosis, heart disease, cancer, migraine headaches, seizures, fungal and bacterial infections including yeast infection, gum disease, tooth decay, skin and hair problems and female organ conditions including uterine fibroids, endometriosis and others. Mental and emotional disorders related to copper imbalance include spaciness, depression, vertigo, mood swings, fears, anxiety, phobias, panic attacks, violence, autism, schizophrenia, and attention deficit disorder.
Copper ingestion and absorption is very easy and is inhibited by zinc and molybdenum. The presence of estrogens and xenoestrogens seems to block the body’s ability to excrete copper. Therefore if you are low in zinc and molybdenum and are exposed to estrogens/xenoestrogens or estrogen dominant it could potentially lead to copper overload because of copper retention. The metallothionine protein responsible for the removal of copper from the body may also be affected thus also causing copper accumulation.

SOURCES OF COPPER
Sources of copper include: chocolate, bee pollen, buckwheat, oats, wheat bran, butter, eggs, apples, apricot kernels, bananas, olives, oranges, peaches, prunes, rasins, mushrooms, chickweed, soya beans, chicken, nuts, crab, lobster, salmon, kelp, avocado, beetroot, tomato puree and grapes to name a few.
Today, many children are born with excessive tissue copper. It is passed from high-copper mothers to their children through the placenta which may result in conditions such as ADD/ADHD.
Stress from any cause contributes to copper imbalance. Stress depletes the adrenal glands and lowers the zinc level in the body. Whenever zinc becomes deficient, copper tends to accumulate.
Another source of copper is drinking water that remained in copper water pipes, or copper added to your water supply.
Other sources of copper are copper cookware, dental materials, vitamin pills, fungicides and pesticides residues on food, copper intra-uterine devices and birth control pills. Deficiencies of manganese, iron, B-vitamins and vitamin C can cause copper to accumulate. Adrenal hormones cause the liver to produce ceruloplasmin, the main copper binding protein in the body. Therefore, a sluggish liver or weak adrenal glands may cause copper to build up in the tissues.

DETECTING COPPER IMBALANCE
Bood, urine and hair analysis may all be used to detect copper toxicity. Challenge tests with a chelating agent such as EDTA should be used to detect excess copper levels in blood and urine analysis however, they may still not be totally accurate as copper is stored mainly in the brain, liver and other organs, and not in the blood or urine. A liver biopsy may also be performed but this is very invasive and unnecessary.
Hair analysis is considered by many as the most accurate means to detect excessive copper. Copper is stored in other parts of the body for some time before it starts to be excreted into hair follicles. When this overflow occurs into hair tissue is where it will be detected in hair analysis. If hidden copper overload is present, that is high copper levels in other tissues but not yet in the hair, it is not as obvious as overtly excessive levels however is clinically significant and should be treated exactly the same. Signs of hidden copper overload include: Zinc:Copper ratio less than 6:1, mercury greater than 0.4, sodium:potassium ratio less than 2.5:1, copper:molybdenum ratio greater than 625:1, Molybdenum less than 0.003.

BALANCING COPPER
A comprehensive approach should be used to reduce copper levels.
The first step is to reduce copper intake by limiting foods with a high copper:zinc ratio such as chocolate, crab, nuts, bakers yeast, mushrooms, avocado, grapes, bran flakes. In addition avoid any source of copper exposure such as water from copper plumbing, swimming pool treatments, vitamins, etc, all mentioned above.
Use copper antagonists such as zinc, manganese and iron to compete with copper for absorption and utilization. Other antagonists include vitamins B6, folic acid and selenium.

Research indicates copper is eliminated by binding with a protein called metallothionine which require some of these nutrients for its activity. By providing all the necessary nutrients for this protein to function correctly will help reduce copper levels. This is known as a Metallothionine (MT) Primer. Use a copper chelator which includes vitamin C, molybdenum and sulfur-containing amino acids. These bind and remove copper.
A MT primer should contain all the necessary nutrients required to reduce copper levels by supplying the nutrients for the MT protein to function normally, copper antagonists and copper chelators . It should contain: 250mg Vitamin B6, 25mg pyridoxyl-5-phosphate, 40mg zinc (as picolinate), 10mg manganese (as gluconate), 250mcg molybdenum, and 100mg Vitamin C taken twice daily. As the MT protein eliminates 6 zinc molecules for every one copper molecule priming this protein can cause zinc deficiencies. Therefore we recommend a zinc loading phase first to build up zinc stores prior to using the MT Primer in order to avoid possible zinc deficiencies.

In our practice we see many patients with chronic illnesses that would benefit from meditation to help aid the healing process. Insomnia, anxiety and fatigue conditions, to name a few, will all benefit from meditation as it helps calm the mind and promotes REM sleep which is where the body undergoes growth and repair. Science is now starting to learn about the many health benefits of meditation which the mystics have known about for thousands of years.

In truth the gentle breath meditation described below can help aid the healing process in every form of illness as it helps you to reconnect to your inner heart, and once connected will infuse your body with the firey energy of the soul. This in effect will help reduce the amount of pranic energy in the body which is the energy responsible for all disease. The firey energy of the soul will eventually energetically reconfigure your body back to your divine design which is free of all disease.

Gentle Breath Meditation

The gentle breath meditation is a simple meditation technique which will help relax the body, calm the mind and very importantly help center yourself in your soulfulness. This will not only help change your life for the better but also help the healing process to; improve your energy levels, improve your mood and emotions and help you sleep better, to name a few benefits. It is recommended to keep your meditations simple and not be fooled by more complex visualization meditations which are busy and much harder to do.

The technique begins by you finding a comfortable position. Sitting in a chair with your back straight, head facing forward, feet flat on the floor side by side, and arms rested on top of your legs with your forearms facing up is usually recommended for most, however find a position that is comfortable for you using this as a guide. Do not be fooled into believing that you need to be sitting in an awkward cross legged or lotus position for your meditation to be effective.

Once seated and comfortable begin to make the focus – a gentle in-breath at the tip of your nose. Make each and every breath - a gentle in-breath. After a few breathes, you should notice a cool breeze on the roof of the inside cavity of both nostrils towards the tip of your nose. You should focus all of your attention on the coolness at this point during the in-breath. Keep this and return to it should the mind get busy or begin to wander. Whilst developing the in-breath just let the out-breath take its own course. Do not try and control your breath, the aim is to only observe it. Soon your breath will automatically acquire its own natural rhythm. Once your attention is focused on the in-breath as described above and a natural rhythm has developed it is time for the next stage.

During the next stage the focus on the in-breath, as described above, will continue however in addition you should also begin to focus your attention on the out-breath. The key here is to allow this breath to be breathed out with the same gentleness. In a short period with the gentle out-breath, you should notice a warm breeze on the floor of the inside cavity of both nostrils towards the tip of your nose. Focus all of your attention on this point and the warmth at this point on the out-breath. Continue to breathe at your natural rhythm without trying to control your breath, only observing and focusing your attention on the in-breath and out-breaths as described. Remember that the key is gentleness.

Once you are able to focus your attention on both the in-breath and the out-breath it is time to release any strain or tension held in your body. When you are ready on your next out-breath gently release any tension or strain you can feel anywhere in your body with the gentle out-breath. That is, release the strain or tension to the out-breath and allow it to be expelled out of your body with your out-breath. This will help release any tension held in the body and thus help it to relax deeper aiding the healing process.

Continue focusing your attention on the in- and out-breaths as described until you are ready to end the meditation. When you are ready open your eyes and gently go about your business. It is recommended to do this meditation upon waking, at midday and before bed for 10 to 15 minutes each time. In addition try and carry the calm, gentle feeling you have during the meditation throughout the rest of your day. It is not a matter of feeling calm and gentle for a few minutes and then getting up and continuing old frantic habits. It will be hard at first but be patient and with time it will become easier and more natural to you. You will also start to notice how your life will start to change for the better in many small ways. Observe and you will see!

This meditation technique is described in accordance to that given by Serge Benhayon of Universal Medicine. For more information on this work and its study see www.universalmedicine.com.au

Malic Acid

Fibromyalgia Syndrome (fibromyalgia) is a condition which is characterized by a syndrome of generalized musculoskeletal pain, aches, stiffness, and tenderness at specific anatomical sites. Since it was first described, fibromyalgia has become recognized as a fairly common rheumatic complaint with a clinical prevalence of 6 to 20%. Additionally, fibromyalgia has been associated with irritable bowel syndrome, tension headache, mitral valve prolapse, and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, to name a few.

In recent years, evidence has accumulated to suggest that the pain associated with fibromyalgia may be the result of local hypoxia to the muscles. Patients with fibromyalgia have low muscle-tissue oxygen pressure in affected muscles, and to a lesser degree the same is true of other tissues. Muscle biopsies from affected areas showed muscle tissue glycolysis is inhibited, reducing ATP synthesis. This stimulates the process of gluconeogenesis, which results in muscle tissue breakdown and mitochondrial damage. Additionally, low levels of the high-energy phosphates ATP, ADP, and phosphocreatine were found. It is hypothesized that in hypoxic muscle tissue, glycolysis is inhibited, reducing ATP synthesis. This muscle tissue breakdown, which has been observed in muscle biopsies taken from fibromyalgia patients, is hypothesized to result in the muscle pain characteristic of fibromyalgia.

Malic acid is synthesized in the body through the citric acid cycle. Its importance to the production of energy in the body during both aerobic and anaerobic conditions is well established. Under aerobic conditions, the oxidation of malate to oxaloacetate provides reducing equivalents to the mitochondria through the malate-aspartate redox shuttle. During anaerobic conditions, where a buildup of excess of reducing equivalents inhibits glycolysis, malic acid’s simultaneous reduction to succinate and oxidation to oxaloacetate is capable of removing the accumulating reducing equivalents. This allows malic acid to reverse hypoxia’s inhibition of glycolysis and energy production, possibly improving energy production in fibromyalgia, and reversing the negative effect of the relative hypoxia that has been found in these patients.

Because of its obvious relationship to energy depletion during exercise, malic acid may be of benefit to healthy individuals interested in maximizing their energy production, as well as those with Fibromyalgia, or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.

As a result of the compelling evidence that malic acid plays a central role in energy production, especially during hypoxic conditions, malic acid supplements have been examined for their effects on fibromyalgia. Subjective improvement in pain was observed within 48 hours of supplementation with 1200-2400 mg of malic acid, (with higher doses being more effective), and this improvement was lost following the discontinuation of malic acid for 48 hours. While these studies also used magnesium supplements, due to the fact that magnesium is often low in fibromyalgia patients, the rapid improvement following malic acid, as well as the rapid deterioration after discontinuation, suggests that malic acid is the most important component. This interesting theory of localized hypoxia in fibromyalgia, and the ability of malic acid to overcome the block in energy production that this causes, should provide hope for those afflicted with fibromyalgia.

Additionally, many hypoxia-related conditions such as respiratory and circulatory insufficiency, are associated with deficient energy production. Therefore, malic acid supplements may be of benefit in these conditions. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome has also been found to be associated with fibromyalgia, and malic acid supplementation may be of use in improving energy production in this condition as well. Lastly, malic acid may be of use as a general supplement, ensuring an optimal level of malic acid within the cells, and thus, maintaining an optimal level of energy production.

It is very important that the L-isomer of Malic acid is used as it is the active form that exists naturally. When synthesised the malic acid produced contains both the D- and L- forms with the D- form being inactive. When extracted from apples only the L-form (active form) is present.
For more information and alternate treatments for fibromyalgia see the chronic fatigue/fibromyalgia article in our adrenal health section.

N-Acetyl-Carnosine Eye Drops

Recently Russian biochemists have been researching an analogue of the di-peptide carnosine called n-acetylcarnosine or NAC which they claim to be efficacious in the treatment of cataract.

N-acetylcarnosine was used in a clinical trial with 96 patients aged 60 and above. All the patients had senile cataract in various stages of maturity. The duration of the disease in these patients ranged between 2 and 21 years. The patients instilled 1 or 2 drops into each eye 3 - 4 times a day, for a range of 3 to 6 months. The results indicated a pronounced effect on primary senile cataract with all patients experiencing an improvement. Of the more mature senile cataract patients (long term cataract) about 80% exhibited improvements. There were no reported side effects in any patients.

Another Russian study using 49 volunteers of average age of 65 was designed to document and quantify the changes in lens clarity over a 6 to 24 month period. All patients suffered from senile cataract of a minimal to advanced opacification. The patients received either the NAC eye-drops or a placebo at a dose of 2-drops twice daily. The patients were then evaluated at 2 and 6-month periods. 6-months - 88.9% of all eyes treated with NAC had an improvement of glare sensitivity. 41.5% of all eyes treated with NAC had a significant improvement of the transmissivity of the lens. Importantly 90% of the eyes treated showed an improvement in visual acuity. The study also showed that at 24-months the NAC treated group maintained the improvement with the continued use of NAC eye-drops. No significant side effects were noted in the 2-year period.

Mechanism of action

Cataract develops when anti-oxidant defence is exhausted and when glycation leads to the cross-linking of crystalline lens proteins resulting in opacification. But, carnosine competes on the molecule for the glycating agent and protects cellular structures against aldehydes. Therefore, carnosine can slow and help to prevent proteins from becoming cross-linked (and in this case from becoming cataract).

When carnosine is delivered in high doses, it can reverse protein-aldehyde cross-linking (this reaction is normally very difficult to reverse). Under these circumstances, carnosine has been shown to have a “rejuvenating” effect on cultured cells.

Regular use of 1% NAC eye-drops, delivers high-dose carnosine through the aqueous humor to the crystalline lens to a level capable of reversing lens cross-linking and elimination of cataract. NAC (n-acetylcarnosine) eye drops do not suffer the same problem as L-carnosine eyedrops which fail to penetrate the cornea / conjunctiva and degrade easily. Once inside the eye’s aqueous humor the NAC provides bioavailable carnosine by transforming into L-carnosine (a process that occurs within 15 to 30 minutes). L-carnosine is an excellent anti-oxidant and is particularly effective against potent free-radicals. It is thought that the super anti-oxidant role of L-carnosine (within the aqueous humor) is a major factor, in the reversal of cataract.

NAC eye-drops appear to act as a universal anti-oxidant, both in the lipid phase of the cellular lens membranes, and in the aqueous environment.

References:

Boldyrev AA, Dupin AM, Bunin Aya, Babizhayev MA, Severin SE “The antioxidative properties of carnosine, a natural histidine containing di-peptide.” Biochem. Inrern., 1987, 15/6, 1105-1113.

Babizhayev MA et al “N-Acetylcarnosine, a natural histidine-containing di-peptide, as a potent ophthalmic drug in treatment of human cataracts.” Peptides (USA) 2001, 22(6): 979-994.

Babizhayev MA, Yermakova VN, Deyev Al, Seguin M-C “Imidazole-containing peptiomimetic NACA as a potent drug for the medicinal treatment of age-related cataract in humans.” J. Anti-Aging Medicine 2000, 2, 43-62.

Babizhayev MA, Yermakova VN, Semiletov yu A, Deyev Al “The natural histidine-containing di-peptide N-acetylcarnosine as an antioxidant for ophthalmic use.” Biochemistry (Moscow), 2000, 65, 588-598.

Babizhayev MA, Yermakova VN, Sakina NL, Evstigneeva RP, Rozhkova EA, Zheltukhina GA “N-Acetycarnosine is a prodrug of L-carnosine in ophthalmic application as antioxidant.” Clin. Chim. Acta., 1996, 254, 1-21.Babizhayev MA, Bozzo Costa E “Composizioni farmaceutiche contenenti N-acetilcarnosina per il trattamento della cataratta.” A61K gruppo 37/00 cap 20122 MI 15.10.1993. Italian patent.

Babizhayev MA, Bozzo Costa E “Pharmaceutical compositions containing N-Acetylcarnosine for the treatment of cataract.” European Patent PCT/EP 94/03340 10.10.1994 Ref. SCB 238 PCT.

Babizhayev MA, Seguin M-C, Gueyene J, Evstigneeva RP, Ageyeva EA, Zheltukhina GA “L-carnosine and carcinine act as natural antioxidants with hydroxyl-radical-scavenging and lipid peroxidase activities.” Biochem J. 304, 509-516.

Babizhayev MA, “Antioxidant activity of L-carnosine, a natural histidine-containing di-peptide in crystalline lens.” Biochem. Biophys. Acta., 1989, 1004, 363-371.