What Supplements Does the Doctor Take and Why?

I am asked all the time which supplements I take, so I thought I would share the what and why with you of my medicine cabinet. Understand that hormones, supplements and vitamins needed to be individualized for each person. I have added and subtracted various ones as the need arose over the years. If you are part of our HTCA bio-identical hormone replacement pellet therapy program or have had your advanced lipid and genetic testing done through our Berkeley Heart Lab or had BRCA testing done to evaluate your risk of ovarian and breast cancer, then you have been given recommendations about hormones, supplements and vitamins based on your own results. This blog can be a good guide for you, though, and hopefully will encourage you to think about becoming healthier!

1. ADK vitamins- a capsule taken daily containing 5000iu Vitamin A, 5000iu Vitamin D, and 500mg Vitamin K. The vitamin D is primarily for healthy bones. My vitamin D level was low, and the Vitamin A and K are needed to help vitamin D work properly. In it's active form- 1,25 (OH)2 D3-vitamin D can also help lower blood pressure. More than one study has shown Vitamin D deficiency to be associated with worsening symptoms of Parkinson's Disease and Alzheimer's disease.

2. Vitamin C-  1000 mg per day. This vitamin is extremely important for collagen synthesis which is why I started taking it. Vitamin C applied topically helps decrease wrinkles and dryness. It is also important for wound healing and supports our immune system. Vitamin C will increase iron absorption, decrease the risk of cataracts and help lower blood pressure.

3. Vitamin E- 1000iu capsule each day. I started taking this years ago for the benefits to my skin and also to decrease cysts from fibrocystic breast disease. It is also effective in reducing LDL (the bad cholesterol). Absorption is best when taken with a meal.
 

4. Astragalus- specifically TA-65. This is the newest supplement I've started based on what I've learned for the board exam in anti-aging medicine. It works for anti-aging by decreasing telomere shortening in the DNA. Breaks and failed repairs in our DNA is what ages us. Astragalus is taken as 100 units per day in capsule form. It is also an immune stimulant, is used in some cancer treatments, enhances digestion, and helps treat peptic ulcer disease. One drawback....the cost. 30 capsules is $100. There are other brands of astragalus that are cheaper, but I chose to stick with TA-65 because this was the one used in research studies.

5. Iodine Plus- 12.5 mg capsule each day. 72% of the world has an iodine deficiency. Why? There is an environmental decline in iodine. Plus, diets are loaded with pasta and breads which contain bromide and fluoride and these compete with iodine for binding in the thyroid. Iodine is needed for the thyroid to work properly so for those who are hypothyroid, like myself, iodine supplementation is often needed. Iodine supplementation is beneficial in a host of other diseases as well, such as fibrocystic breasts, fatigue, migraines, ovarian cysts, parotid duct stones and sebaceous cysts.

6. B complex vitamin- one tablet a day. I don't have a specific brand I prefer. I take this for a variety of reasons. B6 helps decrease blood pressure and improve insulin resistance. B vitamins also help in the conversion of T4 (a thyroid hormone) to active T3. Ridges on the nails can be associated with a low vitamin B6. Vitamins B2, B6, B12 and folate help estrogen break down into a safer form that is less likely to cause breast cancer. Vitamin B6 is also used as a treatment for PMS and as an adjunct for overactive adrenal glands.

7. Krill Oil-  2000mg each day. Krill oil is packed with omega-3 fatty acids. I prefer it over fish oil because I don't tend to get those fishy taste burps with Krill oil. Omega-3s have so many benefits that they almost deserve a blog post of their own. They decrease the risk of heart disease and heart attacks and act as anti-inflammatories as well as improve the body's sensitivity to insulin and decrease blood pressure. Studies have shown that prenatal vitamins containing omega-3s result in fewer children with ADD, dyslexia and higher IQs.
 

8. L-carnosine-  one tablet a day.  Carnosine is found primarily in the brain and muscle. It is a powerful anti-oxidant. I take it to improve the appearance of my skin and to increase muscle strength and endurance since I am a runner. I just recently started this one, so I'll keep you updated on how "speedy" I become! It has also been touted as an anti-aging supplement working similar to astralgus mentioned above. L-carnosine has been shown to reduce cataracts and help heal peptic ulcer disease when combined with zinc.

9. Reservatrol-  one capsule a day. There are many functions of this supplement derived from red grapes and found in red wine, peanuts, mulberries, blueberries and cranberries. Reservatrol decreases blood pressure and risk of cardiovascular disease. It decreases glucose, HBAIC and neuropathy while increasing insulin sensitivity in patients with diabetes. It has anti-cancer properties and helps decrease amyloid plaques in Alzheimer's patients.

10. CoQ-10- 200 mg per day. Vital for patients who take statins to lower their cholesterol, CoQ-10 also helps reduce blood pressure. It is a potent anti-oxidant. Our levels of CoQ-10 decrease as we age. CoQ-10  has been shown to increase cancer survival, decrease blood pressure, help heal periodontal disease, and slow the decline of Parkinson's and Alzheimer's Disease.
 

These are just a few of the many supplements out there. You may need one, all or none of the above. Again it depends on your underlying medical conditions and your genetics. Since I am menopausal, have hypothyroidism, run and have a bad genetic profile on my Berkeley advanced lipid and genetic testing, I chose some of the supplements above. Because of my interest in aesthetics, I chose some of the others for their anti-aging properties. I strongly advise everyone to check with their doctor before starting a new vitamin or supplement to ensure it is right for you and that there are no drug interactions with your other medications.

Top 10 Life Extension Nutrients and Drugs

 


According to the 2013-2018 Edition of "Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine" published by the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine, there are 10 nutrients and drugs that can extend your life when combined with a healthy diet and exercise. We all have genetic and environmental factors that determine longevity, and there are things we can do to enhance or overcome those factors. As with any medication, vitamin or supplement, you should consult your own physician to see if the following are right for you!

1) Metformin-  a medication derived from the French lilac. Most commonly prescribed for diabetes, metformin also reduces cancer incidence, lowers insulin levels, and treats PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome).  There are studies showing decreased incidence of cardiovascular deaths, probably due to decreased LDL and triglycerides (bad lipids). Metformin increases the body's repair mechanisms as well.

2) Statins- this class of medications which includes Crestor, Lipitor, Zocor and Pravachol, inhibit cholesterol synthesis and are potent anti-inflammatories. This is the most commonly prescribed drug class for people with elevated lipid profiles. In Alzheimer's patients, increased cholesterol is associated with increased amyloid plaques in the brain, characteristic of Alzheimer's Disease. Statins also promote DNA repair, can help prevent first heart attacks, decrease the risk of blood clots and decrease the risk of breast and prostate cancer. As these medications can cause muscle aches and fatigue, CoQ-10 is often prescribed along with them.

3) CoQ-10- a fat soluble vitamin found in high levels in the kidneys, heart, pancreas and liver. It is a potent antioxidant, and has been shown beneficial in treating congestive heart failure, diabetes, periodontal disease, high blood pressure, and increasing cancer survival. In Alzheimer's patients it increases their cognitive function, while in Parkinson's patients it slows their decline and lessens their disability. CoQ-10 can have drug interactions with chemotherapy agents, blood pressure medications and blood thinners. So even though CoQ-10 may be purchased at your local pharmacy, please do not start it without first checking with your doctor.
 

4) EPA/DHA- these are omega-3 fatty acids and are found in cold water fish (herring, haddock, salmon, mackerel, tuna, trout, and cod), seafood, flaxseed, and human breast milk. They are potent anti-inflammatories. They increase insulin sensitivity and decrease blood pressure, pancreas inflammation and triglycerides.  DHA is one of the building blocks of the brain and retina. Dosage is usually about 3g/day.

5) Astralgus- this is an adaptogenic herb which assists in adrenal function and digestion. It is an immune system stimulator and has been found useful in chronic upper respiratory infections, HIV and cancer treatments. It enhances digestion and helps in the treatment of peptic ulcer disease. 

6) Vitamin C- extremely low Vitamin C levels are associated with scurvy which causes inadequate collagen synthesis. This is rarely seen in the modernized world because this vitamin is so common in the fruits we eat. Vitamin C is a water soluble antioxidant which helps with wound healing as well, but is probably best known for building up the immune system and preventing infection. It is also very beneficial in reducing wrinkles and dryness when applied topically. Vitamin C will help enhance iron absorption, decrease the risk of cataracts, and lower blood pressure. 

7) Vitamin D3- very low vitamin D is associated with rickets which causes weak and fragile bones, so Vitamin D is very important for decreasing fracture risks. Vitamin D  has been used to stimulate the immune system during the treatment of tuberculosis, viral upper respiratory infections, and multiple sclerosis. Low Vitamin D levels have been associated with Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Disease. Vitamin D has also been shown to inhibit the proliferation of some cancers and decrease cardiovascular disease risk. Dietary sources of Vitamin D include tuna, salmon, sardines, mackarel, catfish, eel, and cod liver oil.  Vitamin D requires calcium for normal bone metabolism. 

8) Reservatrol- found naturally in red grapes, red wine, peanuts, mulberry, blueberries, and cranberries. Reservatrol has been shown to decrease blood pressure and cardiovascular disease risk. It decreases glucose, increases insulin sensitivity and helps with diabetic neuropathy.  And reservatrol is another agent shown to decrease amyloid plaque in Alzheimer patients. 

9) DHEA- is is an endogenous steroid (meaning our own bodies produce it) secreted by the adrenal glands as well as the gonads and brain. It is a precursor to testosterone and estrogen. DHEA increases sexual interest, sexual thoughts and mood while decreasing fatigue and joint pain. So it is often used in menopause and andropause. However, let me caution you!! Men who take DHEA need to have regular prostate exams and PSA screening. Women require a lower dose than men. I personally noticed a lot of anxiety and agitation when I took a low dose at 5 mg. DHEA is extremely beneficial when prescribed and taken correctly, but please consult a health care professional who is VERY knowledgeable about DHEA and hormone replacement before you buy it and start taking it!

10) Carnosine- is found primarily in the brain and muscle. It is a very potent antioxidant and red meat is the chief dietary source. It decreases LDL (bad cholesterol), reduces cataract formation, improves the appearance of the skin, increases muscle strength and endurance, and helps heal peptic ulcer disease when combined with zinc.  

I hope you found this blog helpful. At Sei Bella our motto is Health|Wellness|Beauty.

There is no substitute for a healthy diet and regular exercise, however the above medications and supplements may enhance your quality of life and longevity. Again, please consult your own physician before starting any vitamin, nutrient or other supplement.


Bio-identical hormones.......they're not just for hot flashes!

When I went through menopause at 45, I just suffered through, because I didn't want to take synthetic hormones which increase the risk of breast cancer and heart disease. I knew about bio-identical creams and gels, but frankly I didn't think I was disciplined enough to rub them on my body everyday, and I worried about the rates of absorption if I was out running, sweating, swimming or if it happened to be in the dead of winter. Then I learned about bio-identical pellets...a LOT about pellets! I trained on them in Texas, talked to lots of patients and other doctors and then got them myself. What a difference it made in my life! Dr. Bayles has joined us at Sei Bella and would be happy to give you his perspective on them as well. There are so many benefits to bio-identical hormones, other than relieving hot flashes. And you only have to have them inserted 2-3 times per year in a quick, simple, painless office procedure. 

The average weight gain at menopause is 20 lbs due to loss of estrogen and testosterone. Women complain of memory problems, as do men who go through andropause and develop low testosterone. Women who are thin lose estrogen even faster. Estrogen has over 400 functions in our bodies. Some important ones include helping prevent Alzheimer's, increasing your metabolic rate, decreasing risk of cataracts, maintaining collagen in the skin (which keeps us looking young), decreasing risk of tooth loss, as well as decreasing the risk of heart disease and colon cancer.

Both men and women need testosterone. Besides the obvious symptoms of low testosterone we know about such as decreased libido, erectile dysfunction and fatigue, a low testosterone can cause other problems as well such as droopy eyelids, sagging cheeks, thin lips, and anxiety. Testosterone helps decrease fat and build muscle mass, maintains memory and supports bone strength. Medications such as birth control pills and statins (Crestor, Zocor, Pravachol, etc.) can lower tetosterone levels. I'm not advocating you stop these medications, just be aware. Endometriosis can also lower testosterone. 

Although progesterone is not given as a pellet, it can be taken orally or as a compounded cream. Synthetic progesterones are called progestins and can increase your appetite, lead to hair loss, and acne. Natural progesterone acts as a natural diuretic, increases libido, and helps you sleep. If you have a uterus and take hormone replacement therapy of any kind, you need progesterone to protect your uterus. Even if you have not had a hysterectomy, progesterone is necessary to balance your hormones.

And this is a very important thing to remember....balance is the key! Your hormone levels need to be evaluated and your bio-identical hormone therapy individualized for YOU! Bio-identical hormone replacement pellet therapy has been proven safe, effective and convenient to relieve the symptoms and consequences of menopause and andropause. Hormone replacement is not a one size fits all kinda game. With HTCA, we not only check the hormones mentioned above, we also check a full thyroid hormone panel, Vit D, B12, metabolic panel, lipid panel and CBC. You will not feel good and you will not be healthy if your hormones aren't balanced. Call us today for your consult!! 501-228-6237




HTCA Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy


At Sei Bella we focus not only on your outward appearance, but also strive to help you be more healthy on the inside. That's why we offer HTCA bio-identical hormone pellets. Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy is exactly what it sounds like. It is using hormones that are identical to the hormones naturally made by your body. Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) has transformed the healthcare of men and women as they enter the second half of their lives. It provides an alternative to hormones that are synthetic, like injectable testosterone, or concentrated from horse urine (Premarin). Patients receiving BHRT have their pellets prepared by specialty compounding pharmacists, and their pellets can be given in dosages tailored to their individual need, instead of the narrow choices available with mass-produced hormone therapies (one size fits all). You can read more on our website at www.seibellamedspa.net.  Call today for your consult with Dr. Trussell......501-228-6237

At the end of June or first of July we will be offering Ultherapy!!

This is the only FDA-cleared non-invasive procedure to LIFT skin on the BROW, CHIN and NECK and improve fine lines and wrinkles on the chest!

Below are some frequently asked questions:

What is Ultherapy?

Ultherapy is a safe, non-surgical ultrasound treatment that counteracts the effects of time and gravity on your skin. Ultherapy uses the body's own regenerative response to gently and gradually lift skin on the eyebrow, under the chin and on the neck, and smooth lines and wrinkles on the decolletage.

What is unique about Ultherapy?

Ultherapy is the only non-invasive treatment cleared by the FDA to actually lift skin. Ultherapy is also the only cosmetic procedure to use ultrasound imaging, which allows us to see the layers of tissue targeted during the treatment to ensure the energy is deposited where it will be most beneficial.

With the addition of the new Ultherapy Decolletage  Treatment, Ultherapy is also now the only non-invasive procedure specifically indicated by the FDA to improve lines and wrinkles on the chest.

Can Ultherapy replace a facelift?

Ultherapy treats the deep foundational layer addressed in cosmetic surgery, but won't duplicate the results of a facelift. Ultherapy is a great alternative, however, especially for those not ready for surgery or if you are looking to extend the effects of cosmetic surgery. 

How does Ultherapy differ from laser treatments?

Ultherapy uses sound energy - tried-and-true ultrasound -which has unique properties that allow it to bypass the surface of the skin to treat depths not matched by any other non-invasive cosmetic device. Ultherapy ultrasound stimulates collagen production in the skin's foundation, resulting in a clinically significant lift of tissue over 2-3 months.

Lasers rely on energy, which can not reach deeper skin layers at an optimal temperature, so laser treatments typically only treat superficial skin and are not FDA-cleared to lift skin. Since the two technologies often treat different types of skin issues, they're actually very compatible.

How does Ultherapy stimulate the creation of collagen?

Ultherapy deposits focused ultrasound energy deep beneath the skin at the optimal temperature for collagen rejuvenation. The treatment jumpstarts a natural process, known as neocollagenesis, to produce fresh, new collagen. Ultherapy doesn't involve any creams, fillers nor toxins; it just relies on your body's own collagen-building process for natural, noticeable results.

How long does Ultherapy treatment take?

This depends on the area being treated and your individual treatment plan. A face and neck procedure typically takes 60-90 minutes, while a chest treatment takes approximately 30 minutes. 

Will I need to take time off?

There is no downtime! After your procedure, you can resume your normal activities immediately,

 without having to follow any special post-treatment measures. 

What does Ultherapy treatment feel like?

As the ultrasound energy is delivered, you will feel tiny amounts of energy being delivered to precise depths, indicating that the collagen-building process has been initiated. Comfort levels vary from person to person, but the sensation only lasts while the ultrasound energy is being delivered. 

When will I see results? How long do they last?

After your Ultherapy treatment, you may see some initial effect, but the ultimate results will take place over 2-3 months, as your body naturally regenerates collagen. Since the procedure stimulates your own collagen production, how long the results last really depends on you. The treatment produces new collagen on the inside, but your natural aging process will dictate how long that translates into visible results on the outside. 

How many Ultherapy treatments will I need?

Most patients only need one treatment. However, based on the severity of your skin laxity, the biological response to ultrasound energy and your own collagen-building process, you may benefit from additional treatments. Because our skin continues to age, future touch-up treatments can help you keep pace with your body's natural aging process. Dr. Trussell can give you many pointers on how to further slow down the aging process. 

Are there any side effects?

You skin might appear flushed at first, but the redness should disappear within a few hours. Some patients may experience slight swelling, tingling or tenderness to the touch, but this is temporary. Other, less common post-procedure effects may include temporary bruising or numbness on small areas of the skin. As with any medical procedure, there is the possibility for other rare effects, which Dr. Trussell will go over with you. For even more information visit ultherapy.com/IFU.

Is Ultherapy safe?

The FDA-cleared Ultherapy procedure has been used safely in over 350,000 treatments worldwide. Ultrasound therapy has been used safely in the medical field for more than 50 years. In addition, Dr. Trussell and her nurse received extensive training in Ultherapy.

How much does an Ultherapy procedure cost?

Cost depends upon the area being treated. The treatments are very personalized so it is best to talk with Dr. Trussell about your specific concerns. A price guide will be posted on the website in the near future, so keep checking the website.....www.seibellamedspa.net.

Who is a good candidate for Ultherapy?

A good Ultherapy candidate has mild to moderate skin laxity where the skin begins to feel and look less firm. Examples include a lowered eyebrow line,loose skin on the neck, sagging under the chin, and lines or wrinkles on the chest. But the best way to find out is to ask Dr. Trussell!! 501-228-6237