ALS, Lou Gehrig's Disease
Lou Gehrig's disease or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) causes progressive degeneration of the nerves within the central nervous system that control muscular activity. The disease generally occurs after age 50 and is more common in males. About 5 to 10 percent of cases run in families.
The first symptoms usually involve weakness and then wasting of the muscles of the hands and arms. Muscular fasciculations (spontaneous irregular contractions of small areas of muscle) and muscle spasms are also common. The throat muscles can be involved making speech difficult and eventually eating as well. The prognosis is usually bleak, with progressive decline and death within 3 to 5 years. However about 20 percent survive more than 5 years and 5 percent more than 10 years.
While ALS is very challenging to treat, a comprehensive programme of natural treatments may prove very helpful and may slow or even stop the progression of the disease. A qualified health practitioner experienced in treating neurological problems is essential.
One of the most important aspects of treatment is to check for heavy metal toxicity. Heavy metals, especially mercury, are very toxic to the nervous system. Mercury fillings usually have to be replaced with white fillings. Since mercury is released when the old fillings are removed, intravenous vitamin support, high doses of vitamin-C and homeopathic mercury are recommended after every dental session.
Following the removal of mercury fillings, it is imperative to have 10 to 20 sessions of intravenous chelation therapy to pull out all the heavy metals from the system. Some studies have shown that people with ALS have high levels of manganese, mercury and aluminum in their systems, and low levels of calcium and magnesium. Chelation therapy as well as appropriate mineral supplements will correct this.
A complete nutritional program is vital with particular emphasis on lecithin, oil of evening primrose, fish oils, a high quality multi-mineral and vitamin supplement and a supergreen drink containing spirulina or other sea algae. Daily injections of vitamin-B-12 and folic acid are often very helpful. Vitamin-B-12 and folic acid are known to improve nerve cell function. Taken orally, these two vitamins are less effective.
Dr. Andrew Eisen of the Neuromuscular Unit at Vancouver General Hospital is conducting a trial in which he is giving men with ALS large doses of DHEA. His previous research indicated that a low level of DHEA or more probably a rapid rate of decline of DHEA may result in a male preponderance of ALS.
Dr. Hans Nieper of Hanover, West Germany has documented excellent results in the long term treatment of ALS with intravenous and oral calcium EAP (calcium 2-aminoethanol). Calcium EAP is the component of the cell membrane needed for the binding and flow of electrical charges. It also inhibits the auto-immune response.
Nieper has treated thousands of MS patients successfully with this compound and it is an officially recognized treatment for MS in Germany. In his book, Dr. Atkin's Health Revolution , (Bantam Books, 1990) New York physician, Dr. Robert Atkins discusses his successful treatment of ALS and MS with the use of calcium EAP, which he believes should be approved by the FDA on compassionate grounds.
In addition to all of the above, all dietary and lifestyle stresses must be eliminated. Food allergies, candida and parasites must also be treated appropriately. Special attention must also be paid to improving digestion and liver function.
In his patient report in the Townsend Newsletter (June, 1997), Peter Ganzel says he believes that ALS is caused by a severe acid base imbalance and outlines a detailed treatment programme. One of the recommendations is the use of Edgar Cayce's wet cell (which sends low voltage electrical impulses into the system) to help restore acid base balance. Peter can be reached at Pganzel@aol.com or 516-352-5522.
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