FDA Admits to Massive Conflict of Interest

This is a quote from Mercola.com...I couldn't have put it any better myself, so I left well-enough alone. It's nice to see there has finally been some light shed on the corruption. I'm ready for our current medical model to surrender to one based on wellness and, oh I don't know, health! (The introduction is below, and the full article is here. Log in with "hilltopchiro AT gmail.com" if you are prompted.)

"It’s FDA corruption déjà vu.

You’ve had heart attacks from Vioxx and Avandia and contaminated toothpaste from China; E. coli in your spinach, and salmonella in your spinach and peppers. Tainted pet food has killed hundreds, if not thousands, of your pets. And your children have gotten sick from toys painted with leaded paint.

What will be the next ill-fated product “approved” by the FDA?

The agency’s list of corruptions and collusions is now a mile long. And each piece of new legislation aimed to improve its function seems to do just the opposite—making the FDA even more dependent upon financial support by Big Pharma.

Perhaps the fact that the agency is now publicly questioning its own procedures and affiliations is a step in the right direction. But will that be enough?

Unlikely."


In Health,
Dr. Scott
www.hilltopwellness.com

Appendix Useful?

It turns out all the doctors and "experts" in biology were wrong!

In the last couple years there has been a resurgence in new information about the true purposes of the appendix. Once thought to be pointless, worthless, and an-accident-waiting-to-happen, it appears the appendix has its uses after all:

- Your appendix may serve as a vital safehouse where good bacteria can lie in wait until they are needed to repopulate the gut after a case of diarrhea.
- Past studies have also found the appendix can help make, direct and train white blood cells.

Now, if you're thinking "big deal!" - well, you'd be correct! It's a HUGE deal.

The appendix essentially serves as a “backup factory” for beneficial commensal bacteria, the symbiotic germs that aid digestion and help protect your body against disease-causing germs.

If the good bacteria in your colon dies, which could happen as a result of cholera or dysentery (for instance), it appears your appendix steps up to help recolonize your gut with good bacteria.

Modern society has become so hypervigilant against bacteria that many forget a very important point - the bacteria in your body actually outnumber your cells by about ten to one, and without them you would die.

So work hard to keep your appendix and body healthy...God designed every part for a purpose.

In Health,
Dr. Scott
www.hilltopwellness.com

Vaccine More Risk Than Flu?

Well here's an interesting perspective - it's one I never thought I'd hear on television, so it threw me for a loop. Take a look at the video and see for yourself...




If you have questions about this topic, please feel free to give us a call.

In Health,
Dr. Scott
www.hilltopwellness.com

Vaccine Marketing 101

Here we go again...the WHO (World Health Organization) is warning everyone that the production of H1N1 vaccine will not be sufficient. If you think you’ve heard this before, it's because you have. Every year, without fail, you will see the following press releases in this order:

“It is going to be a bad flu season”

“If you are at risk (and even if you are not) get vaccinated”

“Flu shots are coming”

“Vaccine production is short”

“Get your vaccines quick, supply is low”

“Oops, we guessed wrong and the vaccine covered the wrong strain - it wasn't nearly as effective as we thought it would be...”

The funny thing is this is called marketing 101 - create a demand or buzz and limit the supply. My question to you: is the WHO simply creating buzz for a product or are they looking out for us?

Pfizer to pay $2.3 billion settlement

Well, this little headline was sort of swept under the radar...at least away from most major news media. A few smaller papers caught wind of it.

So, if you haven't heard, please let me be the one to spill the beans: Pfizer, one of the largest (correction - THE largest) drug company in the world has been found guilty of illegal prescription drug promotions - they "wined and dined medical doctors and sent them on exotic trips to induce them to prescribe its drugs, including the impotence treatment Viagra and cholesterol medicine Lipitor." (for notes on Lipitor, please take a look at one of our previous posts here - you will want to get off cholesterol drugs as soon as possible after reading it).

There's a blog about it here, on the News & Observer website...I can't seem to find a link to one of the published stories (most require a subscription). I'll keep looking, though.
** UPDATE - I found a great article in our very own Columbus Dispatch, viewable here!

So, I guess a lesson to take home from this is this: if you decide it is absolutely NECESSARY to take a prescription drug, ask the doctor to show you paperwork that the drug is FDA approved for the intention it is to be used. If everything is as it should be, the request should not be a problem to fulfill.

Don't be a sheep, blindly following anyone in a white coat - educate yourself on the drugs you and your family are taking...it could save your life.

In Health,
Dr. Scott

www.hilltopwellness.com

Swine Flu Vaccine Makers to Profit $50 Billion a Year!!

Do you feel bombarded with information on the impending doom from the fast-approaching Swine Flu? I say "YES!" (unfortunately)

Do you feel like your body was created with a shortage of swine flu vaccine? I say "NO."

Last question: did you know that Swine Flu Vaccine makers could stand to profit $50 billion a year from the sale of swine flu vaccines? FIFTY BILLION A YEAR! I didn't know that.

Take a look at this article from The Guardian, out of the U.K. It's interesting to point out that Relenza, the vaccine for the swine flu, isn't even marketed to cure or stop the swine flu....in most cases it simply states: relenza is an anti-viral treatment, which can relieve swine flu symptoms. Note that it doesn't say it WILL relieve symptoms.

It's not even addressing the problem (which isn't that big of a surprise to me), but is only covering and POSSIBLY easing the symptoms.

Here's my favorite quote from the article: "In a sign of how quickly GSK is working to make sure a vaccine is available from September, the company said that 'clinical trials will be limited, due to the need to provide the vaccine to governments as quickly as possible.

"Additional studies will therefore be required and conducted after the vaccine is made available.'"

Yes, you read that correctly - from the mouth of the manufacturer directly - "additional studies will...be required...AFTER the vaccine is made available." I would URGE you to thoroughly look into this vaccine before being injected with it - don't let your kids, grandkids, or grandparents get this injection. You will be signing up to be a human test subject.

Please call our office if you have any questions on this topic. I would love to help you find ways to avoid getting this potentially deadly vaccination.

In Health,

Dr. Scott

www.hilltopwellness.com

Gardasil Injuries & Deaths (from this vaccine and others)

It is a modern-day tragedy that millions of women in the U.S. have been scared by Merck’s powerful ad campaign to become “one less” victim to cervical cancer by getting vaccinated with Gardasil. Sadly, now an increasing number of formerly healthy girls are turning into “one more” victim of vaccine adverse reactions.

There have been a total of 47 deaths linked to Gardasil since it was brought to market in 2006, according to a press release issued by Judicial Watch, which says it has obtained records from the FDA. In 2008 alone 28 women and girls died after receiving Gardasil injections (up from 19 deaths in 2007).

In all the FDA documented 6,723 adverse events related to Gardasil in 2008, of which 1,061 were considered "serious," and 142 considered "life threatening,” the group reported.

Further, as Barbara Loe Fisher reported in the video above, by the summer of 2009 Gardasil had already caused more than 15,000 reports of vaccine reactions, including more than 3,000 injuries and 48 deaths.

However, it’s estimated that only between 1 percent and 10 percent of vaccine adverse events are ever reported, which means there could actually be anywhere from 150,000 to 1.5 million vaccine injuries related to Gardasil.

Get the Facts, Not the Fear

Merck has convinced millions of girls to get vaccinated with Gardasil by instilling in them a fear of the sexually transmitted disease human papilloma virus, or HPV. While it’s true that many women get HPV, and in a small number of cases HPV can progress to cervical cancer, this fear-mongering is only revealing a select assortment of facts.

Merck would like you to hear that 6 million women contract HPV annually -- but they do not tell you that most of those cases are harmless. Your body can clear up HPV on its own, and does so more than 90 percent of the time!

At least 50 percent of sexually active men and women acquire genital HPV infection at some point in their lives, according to the National Prevention Information Network (NPIN). Most often, the infection causes no symptoms at all, and is easily cleared up by your immune system.

Even the National Cancer Institute says:

"It is important to note, however, that the great majority of high-risk HPV infections go away on their own and do not cause cancer."

In some cases the infection can result in genital warts, and much less often, cervical and other genital cancers. But cervical cancer actually claims less than 3,900 women a year -- most of which are due to not getting regular Pap smears.

So before you even think about getting vaccinated with Gardasil (or having your daughter vaccinated), realize that it’s for a virus that clears up on its own 90 percent of the time.

Further, this infection is sexually transmitted. It is not some big bad hairy virus that will cause you any harm if you are leading a healthy lifestyle. It is 100 percent preventable through lifestyle choices. Talking to your kids about HPV, and how it’s transmitted, is therefore the first step to prevention.

You should also know that Gardasil does not protect against all types of HPV, and you can still get cervical cancer even if you’ve been vaccinated. As the CDC states:

“About 30% of cervical cancers will not be prevented by the vaccine.”

Of course, you will also want to know that the safety of Gardasil has never been proven. As the National Vaccine Information Center (NVIC) writes:

“Even though Gardasil was only tested on about a thousand young girls before licensure in 2006, CDC officials told doctors to give three doses of the vaccine to millions of little girls at a cost averaging $165 per dose.

Because Merck did not test Gardasil in pre-licensure clinical trials in combination with all other vaccines routinely given to pre-teen and teenage girls, the CDC suggested that safety could be assumed and directed that Gardasil be given simultaneously with other vaccines.”

What this all boils down to is that Gardasil is largely ineffective, potentially very dangerous and a major waste of money.

If you have any questions about this, or any other vaccine, please feel free to give our office a call. I'd be happy to discuss better and healthier options than vaccines.

In Health,
Dr. Scott
www.hilltopwellness.com

Muscle Damage Caused by Statins (cholesterol lowering drug)

I would be very surprised if you see this on the front page of the newspapers or the headlining story of the 11 o'clock news: PERMANENT Muscle Damage Caused by Statins! Statins are a class of drugs used to lower cholesterol and have recently been implicated in cases of muscle damage; in many cases this damage was considered to be permanent.

PERMANENT!

Take a look at this article at Forbes.com - if you're a research buff, you can find the original research paper from the Canadian Medical Association Journal here.

If you'd like the cliff-notes summary, here it is: if you are taking a statin drug to lower your cholesterol there is a 53% chance you will suffer muscle damage because of the drug. If you are taking a statin there is an 18% chance you will suffer permanent muscle damage because of the drug!

Yes, you read that correctly, 1 of every 5 people taking a statin will have permanent muscle damage.

Did you know a statin called Baycol was removed from the market because of a high incidence of system-wide muscle destruction? That was in 2001, and it was only one drug. There are 5 other major statin drugs on the market: Zocor, Pravachol, Lipitor, Lescol, and Crestor.

Do you or someone you love take one of these drugs? Chances are good the answer is "Yes" as statins are the highest selling drug in the United States.

Known risk factors for muscle pain include old age, high doses of statins, exercising vigorously while on statins and certain medications (including warfarin (Coumadin), cancer drugs, oral medications for fungal disorders and certain antibiotics, which interfere with the removal of statins from the body). This means if you are taking a statin and exercise to better yourself, you are at a higher risk of damaging your muscles. And if you are taking other medications concurrently with the statin you are at a much higher risk of damage.

If you are currently taking a statin and are experiencing muscle pain or weakness, I would URGE you to consult your medical doctor with this information readily available. Print the Canadian study and bring it to him or her. Let the doctor know you demand a HEALTHY alternative to this garbage.

I get worked up talking about this stuff because it's so easy to prevent high cholesterol in the first place. If you have high cholesterol and would like an excellent alternative recommendation, please give our office a call. I will gladly sit down with you and help you improve your life!

Dr. Scott
www.hilltopwellness.com

*If you would like to read Dr. Mercola's commentary on this information (I did and the information was invaluable), you can read his article on statins HERE - and please feel free to use my email address if you are prompted to log in - hilltopchiro AT gmail.com)

Bathe Your Pet - How Often?

Good morning! I'm not a veterinarian, but I do like animals, and I found this video very interesting. You might notice that she mentions Omega 3 oil, which we have been talking about quite a bit in Hilltop WellNews and on the blog here.

Take a look at some of Dr. Becker's tips and let me know what you think! (If it asks to register with your email address, feel free to use mine at hilltopchiro AT gmail.com)

In Health,
Dr. Scott
www.hilltopwellness.com

Can Calcium Actually Make Your Bones Weaker?

One of the most common questions I get in the office is this: "what kind of calcium should I be taking?" And, as this video addresses, it's a complicated answer... (if you are asked to register, please feel free to use my email - hilltopchiro AT gmail.com)

First of all, most people aren't aware that MUSCLES need calcium as much as bones, but the TYPE of calcium is very different. That's one of the reasons why this is a tough topic to address quickly - the issue a person is facing (muscle cramps, muscle fatigue, joint pain, osteoporosis, osteopenia, etc...) can correlate to different recommendations of supplementation.

In the link, Dr. Mercola discusses many related topics, but the key point should be that "a person's diet DIRECTLY affects a person's bone density and health." (increasing omega 3 fats, calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin K2; lowering omega 6 intake). The problem is most food is so void of nutrition, it's an impossible endeavor trying to get all the vitamins and minerals you need in a day's worth of food. I read a study the other day stating something along the lines of, "a person would have to eat 6 (or 9, I forget) apples to get the nutrition from ONE apple in 1960." I may have messed that up, but the point is unmistakable! Our food is depleted of nutrients, because of over-farming the soil, over-use of fertilizers, and over-use of genetic modifications.

Sorry if I'm rambling...I get a little worked up on this topic because people don't get it. We eat more than we have ever eaten and we are getting less nutrients than we have ever received. It's easily summarized as "calorie RICH, nutrient POOR."

Well, I'm off to celebrate our country's independence with about a bazillion other people in Columbus...I wish you all a wonderful holiday weekend!

Give our office a call if you have any questions about this topic, or post a response on the blog.

In Health,
Dr. Scott
www.hilltopwellness.com

ADHD Drug Warning!

Once again, we hear the warning sirens, which ring far too late for many who have been negatively affected - take a look at this link to CBS news: ADHD Drug Warning.

As I have mentioned in earlier posts, it's unfortunate that our country lives in this "crisis mentality" - American's prefer to take a pill over other (read: "safer, but involve work") options. I mean, why on Earth would someone want to get all sweaty with exercise when s/he could just sit, like a bump on a log, and pop an "exercise pill" (for those of you who think I'm making this up, take a look at this story from 2008...)?

Although she mentioned "dietary changes" as an option, I'm surprised the CBS doctor didn't mention the benefits of fish oil or restricting sugar intake, which have been shown to have equal, if not greater, benefits as ADHD meds....and that doesn't take into account all the other benefits a person would reap from utilizing these strategies.

Have a question about ADHD or how you or your child could benefit from chiropractic care, as mentioned by the CBS doc? Pick up a book called "Dr. Bob's Guide to Stop ADHD in 18 Days" by Dr. Robert DeMaria. If you have trouble finding it, give our office a call - we have a few copies in our office library, or we might have an extra you can purchase, if you'd like to go that route.

And feel free to give us a call - I love helping people take control of situations that feel out of control at times, and I'd be glad to partner up with you and give you my best.

In Health,
Dr. Scott
www.hilltopwellness.com

$30 Million Dollars to Push Vaccines

What would you do for $1 million? Probably just about anything, if you're like most people. Wasn't that movie Indecent Proposal all about that whole concept...well, that concept and sex? I'm asking because I never saw it - but I think that's what it was about. So, think about what you would do for a million...and then think about what you would do for 30 million bucks.

That's a ridiculous amount of money.

I don't want to know all the things you would be willing to do for that money, but I do want to ask: can you blame this guy (use my email address if it asks for one: hilltopchiro AT gmail.com) for what he did for 30 million? It's articles like this that make me wonder how our population will look 30 years from now...heck, even 10 years from now. People don't think the state of our collective health can get much worse, but I don't think they have any idea how bad it's going to get.

And this is just one of the many many MANY reasons why we chose not to have Jack immunized (I'm going to say 'immunization' is the same as 'vaccination' for the ease of reading). People say, "Well, he won't be able to go to school without his shots!" And those people are sadly mistaken. Do a google search for "vaccination exemption forms" for your state and look at all the ways to avoid letting your children be poisoned by this garbage. And I'm not even going to start talking about all the vaccinations our military are forced to receive...

I could go on and on about this topic, but I need to get back to work. Call our office if you have a question about this topic, or any topic in general. I'll do my best to collect information to help you make smart and informed decisions.

In Health,
Dr. Scott
www.hilltopwellness.com

Big Pharma and the FDA: Banning Vitamin B!

Yep, that's right...the FDA has officially banned companies selling from selling a vitamin - a form of vitamin B6 called pyridoxamine, to be precise. The original article can be read here, on the website of the American Association for Health Freedom. And, as per usual, Dr. Mercola has some interesting commentary on the issue, it's a little wordy, but push through it (use my email address if it asks for one: hilltopchiro AT gmail.com) - you'll be glad you did. I'm just getting sick of drug companies getting (biasically) everything they want in the United States...

I'm curious to know what on Earth is going to happen with this health care reform. Congress is apparently in quite the pile of poop on trying to get their budget in order - apparently they may cut chiropractic out of the medicaid budget for next year.

That would stink. It' too bad most people on medicaid don't even know chiropractic care is a covered benefit to which they have access. I just recently began seeing medicaid patients and I've found they need chiropractic as much as anyone else...and maybe even more!

I could go on and on, but I'll stop there...if you have a minute, please call your congressperson and let him/her know that you would hate to see medicaid's chiropractic benefits cut next week.

Thank you,
Dr. Scott Gosselin
www.hilltopwellness.com

Is Your Weight Issue Related to Limited Good Bacteria in the Gut?

It seems like I'm talking about this topic an awful lot lately, but that's alright, because it's a great topic - probiotics. And no, I'm not talking about how many servings of sugar-filled yogurt you have eaten today - the amount of sugar in most flavored yogurts totally outweighs any benefit of good bacteria you may receive, so it's in your best interest to just purchase a good-bacteria supplement and skip the unnecessary calories, artificial colors, and sweeteners.

As per usual, Dr. Mercola has an amazing article on his site entitled: 'The Newfound Link Between Probiotics and Your Weight.' (if it prompts you to register before you can see the website, feel free to use my email address 'hilltopchiro AT gmail.com ). His commentary at the end of the article (at the time of my writing) is amazing as well.

Looking for an excellent form of probiotic? Take a look at what we have to offer: Optiflora - and, as usual, we offer this product at the discounted member's price (15-20% off retail) and we always offer our 100% MONEY BACK GUARANTEE with anything SHAKLEE sells.

Call our office and let us know if we can answer any questions you might have - we'd love to help!

In Health,
Dr. Scott
www.hilltopwellness.com

How Safe is the Pill?

What percentage of American females would you guess have used a form of oral contraceptive? 30%? Way too low. 55%? Still not even close. According to the American College of cardiology, the answer is about 80%. It's a wonder that more people don't ask 'How Safe is the Pill?' before taking it. It seems nowadays the pill is taken for granted, in my opinion.

There are stacks of research out there touting the dangers of the pill, and the multiple effects on those who take it. Ranging from increased chances of blood clots to cancers to sexual dysfunction, the pill's whole purpose is to mess with a woman's hormone levels and basically change the chemistry of her being...is it any surprise that it will cause a problem?

Take a look at Dr. Mercola's article 'How Safe is the Pill?' (if it prompts you to register before you can see the website, feel free to use my email address 'hilltopchiro AT gmail.com ) and then do a little research yourself - do a quick google search of "side effects of the pill" or "oral contraceptive side effects." I got about 12 million links to peruse on my first search - take special note of which sites support the use of the pill - it's interesting to see who sponsor's those websites (hint: although sometimes a drug company will sponsor the website, it's more often a less-obvious campaign - for example, drug companies will be the primary contributor to a company called Women's Health First, which strongly encourages use of the pill, but on the exterior, looks like an independent organization promoting the safety and efficacy of the pill...just an example).

Leave your comments and questions - I'd love to hear them.

In Health,
Dr. Scott
www.hilltopwellness.com

Tips to Lower Cholesterol Naturally

Good evening and welcome to another interesting blog post - this one features a video from Dr. Mercola entitled 'Tips to Lower Cholesterol Naturally.' (if it prompts you to register before you can see the website, feel free to use my email address 'hilltopchiro AT gmail.com )

This short video has some amazing points, but there is a missing point of information, and that is a discussion about those with high cholesterol levels because of a thyroid issue or related hormone imbalance. The number of hormones the thyroid regulates is small, but amazing - did you know that every cell in the body depends upon thyroid hormones for regulation of their metabolism?

Two other parts of the brain directly and indirectly regulate the thyroid, so a problem with either one of those two (pituitary and hypothalamus) could cause disruption of the thyroid and related hormones.

So, without getting too deep into this topic, take a look at the video and let me know what you think - I'd love to hear your comments.

In Health,
Dr. Scott
www.hilltopwellness.com

Slash Incidence of Infant Eczema and Allergy by 58 Percent

Wow, it's been a week since I posted something on the blog, but this article on Dr. Mercola's site caught my eye: Slash Incidence of Infant Eczema and Allergy by 58 Percent (if it prompts you to register before you can see the website, feel free to use my email address 'hilltopchiro AT gmail.com ).

For those of you who may be new to the blog, I am an incredible supporter of taking probiotics regularly...and even more so if you have or currently take prescription medications or antibiotics, which can wipe out all good bacteria in the intestines very quickly, leaving it a prime target for pathogenic bacteria.

For readers who have been here for awhile, you already knew my view on probiotics...but are you taking the supplement daily? If not, why? Did you know Hilltop Wellness & Chiropractic sells an incredible source of probiotic bacteria called Optiflora and it's 100% guaranteed to make a positive difference in 8 weeks or less or we'll give you your money back. Yep, almost too good to be true, but it's the truth.

Ask our office about the details - it's not a special, we offer the guarantee EVERY DAY! Give our office a call and ask us a question - we love to help!

In Health,
Dr. Scott

Warning: Food Labels Can Fool Even the Smartest People

Wow, talk about an eye opener! Does anyone even know who to believe and trust anymore?

Take a look at what I'm talking about here (if it prompts you to register before you can see the website, feel free to use my email address 'hilltopchiro AT gmail.com ), then feel free to leave some feedback on the issue. Keren and I are fervent nutrition-label readers, but I think people need to become more than that. We need to learn which foods are inherently bad, regardless of how little calories are in them, or the amount of saturated fat we will ingest. We need to avoid the foods that will harm us later in life and learn to delay gratification...and I think that's the key: delay the instant gratification of stuffing that hamburger in your mouth for the benefits of feeling GREAT 30 years down the road.

It's tough, but I know we can all do it.

Once again, this also stresses the importance of taking an excellent quality multivitamin and key nutritional supplements. Call our office if you have any questions about these important issues.

In Health,
Dr. Scott
www.hilltopwellness.com

Are Doctors Causing Infant Brain Damage by Clamping the Umbilical Cord Prematurely?

Well, this isn't really news to anyone who has taken the Bradley Birthing Method or similar natural birthing classes, but, sadly, for the majority of the medical community this information is groundbreaking.

Actually, it's more than sad; and it's horrible for the little ones that are being so negatively affected by something so simple to avoid.

Take a look at the article "Are Doctors Causing Infant Brain Damage by Clamping the Umbilical Cord Prematurely?" (if it prompts you to register before you can see the website, feel free to use my email address 'hilltopchiro AT gmail.com ) and read some of Dr. Mercola's commentary on the topic. He has some great insight on the subject.

If you are pregnant or have questions about how chiropractic can make your delivery easier and less likely to end in Cesarean section, please call our office or schedule an appointment to learn more. My wife, Keren, has a great amount of knowledge of natural birthing techniques as well, so ask us a question - we'd love to help!

In Health,
Dr. Scott
www.hilltopwellness.com

Could This Powerful Breakthrough Beat Cancer and Auto-Immune Diseases?

There's not much to say about this except that I have been hearing a lot about it over the past several months for treatment of everything from multiple sclerosis to Crohn's to rheumatoid arthritis. Seems versatile, but I'm still on the fence about it.

Take a look at this short video (if it prompts you to register before you can see the website, feel free to use my email address 'hilltopchiro AT gmail.com ) and feel free to bring it up at your next appointment.

In Health,
Dr. Scott
www.hilltopwellness.com

Nasal Irrigation: Spring Cleaning for Your Nose

Good morning and welcome back from the long Memorial Weekend! This post is something I have been recommending to patients since I started at Hilltop Wellness & Chiropractic, but I have heard it called different names. The true name is 'nasal irrigation,' but I have heard people call it 'neti pot' (which is actually the name of the tool used to perform nasal irrigation).

The idea is simple - flush all the junk from the sinuses using a solution that is the same pH as the mucus membranes in the sinus cavity. There are many variations on the recipe one can use, although I use: 1 cup water, 1/2 teaspoon non-iodized salt, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda. If you do a google search of neti pot, there's no doubt you'll find an instructional video.

So feel free to read through Dr. Mercola's article Nasal Irrigation: Spring Cleaning for Your Nose, and enjoy the spring!

In Health,
Dr. Scott
www.hilltopwellness.com

Some Baby Foods are Worse Than Junk Food

So here's the latest headline - Some Baby Foods are Worse Than Junk Food.

To tell you the truth, I'm not surprised one bit. Why wouldn't food companies put the same garbage in baby food that they put in adult food? It's cheaper, tastes better (read "sweeter"), and I'm sure allows for a larger profit margin.

In my opinion, it's just one more reason EVERYONE needs to be taking a good multivitamin (not a synthetic pill of food coloring and preservatives), as well as probiotics and a clean source of fish oil. Contact our office with any questions you may have on this subject.

In Health,
Dr. Scott
www.hilltopwellness.com

Brave Med Students Buck the Establishment

whoa Whoa WHOA! It's about time we had some people in the medical community with some common sense and ethics about Big Pharma! If you have no idea what I'm talking about, take a look at this short article, hot off the press: Brave Med Students Buck the Establishment.

Way to take a stand. I think it's interesting that this was initiated by students, which probably means they haven't had time to become jaded by the current systems we have allowed.

Enjoy the read and the hope for the future that comes with it!

In Health,
Dr. Scott
www.hilltopwellness.com

Asthmatics: Have You Tried this Yet?

Well, the warm weather has finally come (I'm pretending the last couple nights didn't happen) and people have started to talk to me about allergies....and asthma again. When spring comes in all its glory, pollen comes right along side, bringing the sneezes and sniffles right along with it.

So, I guess I'm wondering - Asthmatics: Have You Tried this Yet?

I thought it was particularly interesting to see that the recommended daily allowance of Vitamin D is a mere 400 units a day, which is about ten times lower than most people need for optimal health.

If you're looking for an excellent source of Vitamin D, look no further than our clinic - we carry only the best supplements and offer a 10% discount to first-time supplement purchases; just print out this blog and bring it in.

Another possibility of allergy-related asthma is liver congestion, which hinders the removal of histamine from the body. Many many people have liver congestion because of the toxic world we live in - the poor liver just can't detoxify all the junk we put into it. Ask us about our liver purification cleanse or histamine detoxifying supplements - it's the perfect time of year to make a decision to improve your health.

In Health,
Dr. Scott
www.hilltopwellness.com

Warning: Never Swallow Regular Toothpaste

growing up, I never really thought much about drinking water or brushing my teeth. We lived out in the country and drank well water. My parents are Shaklee distributors and we used Shaklee toothpaste. Over the last few years (and as new research becomes available) I've been reading more and more about the downside of fluoride - there are many unpublished side-effects, many reasons to opt out of fluoride treatment and to vote against fluoridation of water.

Take a look at this short video - I guarantee you'll learn something that could change your outlook on life.

And if you are intersted in purchasing the Shaklee toothpaste I mentioned earlier, give our office a call - it's fluoride-free, all natural, and organic to boot. Best yet, it's guaranteed to make you happy or you'll get your money back. Mention this post and you'll get a nice discount, too!

In Health,
Dr. Scott
www.hilltopwellness.com

Natural Remedies for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Another good video from Dr. Mercola's webpage focuses on Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), which I know affects many many people because of the Standard American Diet (SAD). Take a look at this short video on Natural Remedies for Irritable Bowel Syndrome and feel free to leave a comment or two below.

I'd love to read your thoughts - unfortunately, I have found that most people are unwilling to even try the first piece of advice in the video...which is really too bad.

In health,
Dr. Scott
www.hilltopwellness.com

Common Treatment for Stomach Flu Makes it Worse!

Have you heard the news? Common Treatment for Stomach Flu Makes it Worse! Whoa!

While it may be be news to you, it's not new news. The common myth Dr. Mercola writes about - drinking sweet and sugary drinks to "calm" a sour stomach - does more harm than he mentions in his article. The effect of the sugar/corn syrup in one can of soda can reduce your immune function by 45%! This reduction in immune function not only prevents you from recuperating as quickly, it can mean your illness may become WORSE as your body struggles to combat its enemy with less tools in its arsenal.

I wholeheartedly agree with Dr. Mercola's advice on probiotics as well. I recommend that patients take a probiotic for general intestinal health, but ESPECIALLY when an illness is being combatted and WITHOUT QUESTION if antibiotics are being taken. I personally feel that the damage antibiotics inflict on a person's body far outweighs the benefit - not to mention the diarrhea, constipation, and who-knows-what other side effects.

If you have questions about this topic or are looking for advice on excellent probiotics, give our office a call; we'll help you wade through all the myths to discover better health!

In Health,
Dr. Scott
www.hilltopwellness.com

*45% reduction of immune function as described in Dr. Bob's Guide to Stop ADHD in 18 days, page 46; we have copies in our clinic library for anyone interested.

25 Things You Probably Didn't Know About Your Body and Health

Whoa! What a list of facts! I'd have to agree with the majority of these statements, with the exception of #20, mostly because of the amount of research I have read to the contrary. Now, if they were studying synthetic vitamins, like the cheap stuff sold at Walgreens and Walmart, then, yes, I agree. But when you compare the benefits of natural vitamins and whole-food supplements, then I would whole-heartedly disagree.

Take a look at the consolidated list on Dr. Mercola's website (or the original, more wordy version on MSN's site).

In Health,
Dr. Scott
www.hilltopwellness.com

Important Swine Flu Update

Are you considering getting a flu shot or taking a medically-directed step to try and prevent the Swine Flu? I would be worth your time to consider your options and their possible side-effects first.

I can't really add any commentary to an article as comprehensive as Dr. Mercola's. At one point or another, it will answer any question you have ever had about the Swine Flu, and I gotta say I agree with him 100%.

Take a look at his article here, and let me know what you think.

In Health,
Dr. Scott
www.hilltopwellness.com

Germany Bans Cultivation of GM Corn

Well, this is an interesting turn of events for the EU: Germany Bans Cultivation of GM Corn!

Why would they do something like that? you might ask...wow, where do I even start? The article sites the primary reason as explaining that numerous scientific studies demonstrated that GM corn was a danger to the environment. That's reason enough, but the current literature on possible health consequences are staggering as well. Take a look into the subject and let me know what you think about it.

In Health,
Dr. Scott
www.hilltopwellness.com

Learn the Secrets of the Super-Organized

If any of you have seen my office at the clinic, you will instantly know that organization is one of my weak points. I'm improving, and making progress daily, but I'm a natural-born pack-rat and Keren is helping me to change my ways. I'll get there....and articles like this help push me toward my goal of not having any clutter anywhere.

How many of these tips to you already use? I utilize around 50% at the moment.

In Health,
Dr. Scott
www.hilltopwellness.com

News Flash: Acid Reflux Caused by Too Little Acid, Not Too Much...

I don't think I will ever forget the reaction on a patient's face when I first mentioned this information about a year and a half ago. After I told her 95% of heartburn is caused by hypochloridia (too little stomach acid), the lady said, "If that's true then why would my [medical] doctor give me this antacid?" My answer was simple, "Probably because of one of two reasons; 1) he never studied nutrition, or 2) he was getting too nice a kickback from Big Pharma." In retrospect, I guess the most likely answer would have been both 1 and 2.

In Ohio, I'm not licensed to give recommendations to alter prescriptions (thankfully), but it is very common to be able to stop taking antacids after adding some natural acidifiers to the diet. At Hilltop Wellness & Chiropractic, we carry excellent sources of probiotics and betaine hydrochloride (which I take). If you have any questions about this topic, feel free to call the office and set up an appointment to discuss this, or anything else that may be of interest to you.

In the meantime, take a look at this short video and feel free to leave your comments or feedback on the blog.

In Health,
Dr. Scott
www.hilltopwellness.com

Poor Nutrition in the Womb Triggers Permanent Genetic Changes

Wow, what a statement: Poor Nutrition in the Womb Triggers Permanent Genetic Changes. Is it really a surprise that the food you put into your body can affect more than just you, while growing and supporting another human inside of you?

For those of you who are interested in this article, I URGE you to read Pottenger's Cats, which is basically a long-term study on this exact topic. As people continue to rely on the SAD (Standard American Diet) more and more, things will just continue to get worse.

And it's articles like this that reaffirm why I am such a strong proponent of supplements before, during, and after pregnancy, as well as at any other stage of life. Stop by the office to receive nutritional advice that will be personal and specific to your needs.

In Health,
Dr. Scott
www.hilltopwellness.com

The Disgusting Truth about Sports Drinks Revealed...

Hi everyone. I hope all the Ohioans out there are outside enjoying the fantastic weather we've been having this weekend. Summer is a great time to be outside exercising and working on your fitness level and a common line of questions I get as the weather heats up is, "What is the best sports drink for what I do?"

The answer for most people is surprisingly the same, "Water!" Contrary to the millions of dollars of marketing spent on promoting sports drinks, there is really very little health benefit to them, and the vast majority are downright bad for you. Unless you are exercising for longer than 60 minutes, water will supply everything your body needs, without all the sugar, corn syrup, and artificial colors. If you are working out longer than 60 minutes, or doing such high-intensity workouts that you are actually depleting your electrolyte supply, the only sports drink I recommend is Shaklee's Performance, with no sugar, artificial colors, artificial sweeteners, or preservatives. If you'd like to know where to get it, drop us a line and we can hook you up with some.

And take a look at this short article on sports drinks...it'll make you think twice about putting that garbage in your body.

In Health,
Dr. Scott

Natural Constipation Relief Strategies You Should Know

Wow, Dr. Mercola once again brings a powerful message, although it's on a sensitive subject this time - constipation. People just don't want to talk about it because they think it's embarrassing OR maybe they think it's NORMAL because it's gone on for so long. Dr. Mercola mentions a TON of great ways to help with this issue naturally, but he does fail to mention how chiropractic care can help with the issue, especially in infants and young ones. Misalignments in the pelvis and lower back can EASILY interrupt proper nerve flow to the stomach, gall bladder, and intestines, which can adversely affect how food is processed by those organs.

Take a look at the short video Dr. Mercola created and, as usual, email or call us with any questions you may have on the topic. This is FAR TOO IMPORTANT to be sidestepped because of embarrassment.

A New Low in Drug Research: 21 Fabricated Studies

A New Low in Drug Research: 21 Fabricated Studies - Wall Street Journal March 11, 2009

There is just so much of this sort of information in the news lately I can't imagine anyone feeling safe taking their prescription drugs anymore. I'm nervous and I don't take any drugs! Researchers are finding more and more evidence that eating certain foods and PREVENTING the diseases these drugs are produced for is a FAR better way to maintain health and wellness for yourself.

You didn't read it first here, but you've read it AGAIN here: preventative healthcare TRUMPS crisis medical intervention EVERY TIME! Feel free to give us a call and ask what we can do for you to help you meet your health-goals - it would be our pleasure to serve you.

-Dr. Scott

Sure-Fire Ways to Help Asthma Naturally!

Sure-Fire Ways to Help Asthma Naturally!

This video on Mercola.com has some great tips relating to all those suffering from asthma - whether it's you or someone you know or love, watching this video could change your life!

Let me know what you think about Dr. Mercola's commentary on the subject, or if you have had similar experiences with the treatments and life-style modifications he talks about.

-Dr. Scott

Vitamins

Take your vitamins!

Welcome

Welcome to the Hilltop Wellness and Chiropractic blog. You can expect to find posts related to general and specific health and wellness topics. Please feel free to comment or post questions as I hope to maintain an open discussion in this forum.

- Dr. Scott