New study shows that Acupuncture may help ease hot flashes

A recent study in the Journal of Clinical Oncology has found that acupuncture can be helpful in easing hot flashes in women undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer.   "Acupuncture offers patients a safe, effective and durable treatment option for hot flashes, something that affects the majority of breast cancer survivors. Compared to drug therapy, acupuncture actually has benefits, as opposed to more side effects," researcher Eleanor Walker, MD, division director of breast services in the department of radiation oncology at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit.  The women recieved twice weekly acupuncture sessions for 12 weeks.  Acupuncture has already been shown to alleviate hot flashes in menopausal women, but this is the first study conducted on women undergoing chemotherapy from breast cancer.

In terms of Chinese Medical theory, this makes sense to me because chemotherapy has a heating nature, killing cancer cells as well as healthy cells.  The acupuncture points used have a focus of reducing heat and promoting the body's fluid production, which in turn helps to cool the body.

You can find the whole story HERE

Can a mocha latte cure GERD?

Recently, I read a post on Blue Poppy Herb Company's blog which I found very interesting.  It was written by Shawn Kirby, an acupuncturist who described his struggle to treat one patient's GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disorder) and mild dysphagia (speech difficulty) as a result of a stroke.  Her speech difficulties were causing a great deal of frustration.  The patient, "Beth", diligently followed her acupuncturist's and her family's suggestions for changing her diet and lifestyle.  This included cutting out caffeine, sugar, and dairy; suggestions I'm sure we've all heard at some time or another. Eventually, Beth began to feel even more frustrated and angry that she wasn't able to indulge in any of the so-called "bad" things.  So, she went to Whole Foods and enjoyed a mocha latte, one of her favorite indulgences.  And had 3 more the same week.

The next week Beth returned to her acupuncturist and reported that her GERD had improved about 90%.  The acupuncturist noted that as she excitedly told him the news, her speech was normal again.  Over the next few weeks, her GERD remained improved, and the dysphagia was lessened but still present.

To me, this story was very powerful because so often, I feel overwhelmed by all the dietary and lifestyle restrictions I hear people impose on themselves. I'm sure there are those who truly find bliss with eating kale, brown rice, and meditating for 90 minutes every day, but most people crave the occasional cupcake, slice of pizza, or night out on the town.  The key is moderation.  A relaxed attitude has a more powerful effect on one's health than all the vitamins money can buy.  Allowing one's self to indulge occasionally, without guilt, can have a profound effect on stress levels and overall happiness.  It only makes sense that this, in turn, will lead to improved health.

 See also this article from the New York Times, which I noticed a few hours after originally adding this post!