Health, Wellness & Nutrition Center, LLC

10/11/2025

More Concerns About Gabapentin

Gabapentin (Neurontin, Neuraptine, Horizant, Gralise) is an approved drug for treating seizures and pain caused by shingles (postherpetic neuralgia). Over the years, it has been prescribed off label for numerous other applications. What is “off label?”

Off label refers to prescribing it for a purpose, patient, or dosage that has not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This practice is common, legal, and typically based on a healthcare provider's judgment. How does this differ from “label” use?

Label use. It is important to note before a drug can be approved, a company must submit clinical data and other information to FDA for review. The company must show evidence the drug is safe and effective for its intended uses. Please keep in mind, “safe” does not mean that the drug has no side effects. Instead, it means the FDA has determined the benefits of using the drug for a particular use outweigh the potential risks. Back to Gabapentin.

Gabapentin, due to off label use, is now the 5th most prescribed drug. The number of people taking gabapentin rose from 5.8 million in 2010 to 15.5 million in 2024. Prescriptions dispensed outside of retail pharmacies (in hospitals or long-term care facilities, or through mail-order pharmacies) were not included in the preceding statistics.

What does this mean to the patient? The most common side effects of gabapentin include drowsiness, dizziness, blurry or double vision, and difficulty with coordination and concentration. In 2019, the FDA issued a warning for those with reduced lung function, COPD, are taking other drugs to depress the central nervous system or are of an older age.

Gabapentin can cause serious breathing issues—especially when combined with other pain killers. There is also an elevated risk for overdose when combined with opioids. Additionally, some people experience suicidal thoughts. Furthermore, abruptly stopping Gabapentin can trigger seizures. Gabapentin also has the potential for addiction and withdrawal issues.

It has been recommended; careful assessments of patient be made when prescribing, and during the duration of use with this drug. It is projected to continue to rise especially with the more vulnerable aging population.

If you have concerns rising from the use of this drug, please contact your physician and discuss options and how this information applies to you personally.

Dianna Richardson, ND October 2025

References:
Andrea E. Strahan, S. Michaela Rikard, Kristine Schmit, et al.Trends in Dispensed Gabapentin Prescriptions in the United States, 2010 to 2024. Ann Intern Med. [Epub 30 September 2025].

https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-warns-about-serious-breathing-problems-seizure-and-nerve-pain-medicines-gabapentin-neurontin

https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_chem_info/gabapentin.pdf

https://www.fda.gov/patients/learn-about-expanded-access-and-other-treatment-options/understanding-unapproved-use-approved-drugs-label

09/24/2025

Thyroid Medications/Supplements in the News

In August, it was announced by the FDA it would be taking action against both manufacturers and distributors of certain natural thyroid medications. There has been a lot of confusion surrounding these statements. Here is a rundown on what it known at this time.

Multiple companies received warning letters from the FDA concerning desiccated thyroid extract (DTE) medications. DTE products contain thyroid hormones such as T3 and T4, are explicitly marketed to treat hypothyroidism. Some names of DTE products you may recognize are Armour Thyroid, NP Thyroid, Nature-Thyroid, and Natural Thyroid.

Please note these are not FDA approved medications (and never have been). FDA approved thyroid medications are levothyroxine and liothyronine (T-4 & T-3 synthetics). Due to the nature of DTEs, the variability between tablets creates an environment where the person may be receiving too much or too little of the thyroid hormones from pill to pill. This is considered a patient safety risk falling under the FDA jurisdiction.

In order for physicians to shift patients from these DTE products to FDA approved drugs, there is a transition period that has been approved. Please be aware these means these prescriptions will not be available to you any longer. The exception would be if those manufacturers went through the process to become FDA approved drugs. This process is both expense and time consuming.

How is this going to affect supplements you are purchasing through our office? It is most likely it will not. Why? Thyroid glandulars have been part medicine for centuries. Here in the United States, they became part of the pharmacopeia in the 1890s. This allows them to be part of the “grandfathered rule” stating “any dietary ingredient that was marketed in the U.S. before October 15, 1994, is legally recognized as a dietary ingredient and can continue to be sold without additional pre-market approval.”

The FDA’s legal argument hinges on the fact that DTE medications are drugs. That same argument doesn’t apply to thyroid supplements” (Mike Grubb, 2025).

However, be aware, if a supplement company is manufacturing and advertising glandulars outside the parameters set down by the FDA they too will also come under scrutiny. Although many salespeople would like to promote supplements as drugs, supplements and drugs are too very different categories and are regulated differently. In the end, public safety is the main concern.

Dianna Richardson, ND September 2025

References:
FDA. FDA’s Actions to Address Unapproved Thyroid Medications. August 6, 2025. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/enforcement-activities-fda/fdas-actions-address-unapproved-thyroid-medications

National Institutes of Health, ODS. Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994 (DSHEA). https://ods.od.nih.gov/About/DSHEA_Wording.aspx

HWNC— achieving wellness through natural approaches & awareness

09/23/2025

https://www.mountsinai.org/about/newsroom/2025/mount-sinai-study-supports-evidence-that-prenatal-acetaminophen-use-may-be-linked-to-increased-risk-of-autism-and-adhd

Researchers at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai have found that prenatal exposure to acetaminophen may increase the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), in children. The study, published today in BMC....

09/21/2025

Strawberry Mousse —makes 3 cups (gluten free, dairy free, vegan)

1 pound (16 oz.) fresh strawberries
2 tablespoons sweetener of choice
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream (non-dairy Silk or Country Crock works)
Cinnamon to sprinkle on top (optional)

Instructions:
Thoroughly wash the strawberries.

Slice the stems off the strawberries

Place strawberries and sugar in a blender and mix until pureed (about 2-3 minutes; will be thick)

Set aside.

Pour cream into a bowl, add cream of tartar, and mix on high until soft peaks form.

Once you have soft peaks, gently fold the strawberry puree into the cream, until everything is well combined.

Divide the strawberry mousse into smaller containers and refrigerate for 30-60 minutes

Mousse will be good in refrigerator for three days.
Enjoy!

09/21/2025

Every September, a spotlight is shined on the power of positive aging, inspiring adults 45 and older to take charge of their health, happiness, and future. (I know at 45 we don’t think of ourselves as “growing older.”) Healthy Aging Month is recognized as a time to celebrate life and the positive aspects of growing older.

Our physical, mental health, dietary, and social needs change over time. As we age, responsibilities of child raising, career building move to a different priority status. Take charge of your well-being by taking steps to age with a healthy body and a healthy mind.

This year’s theme— “Never Too Late to Reinvent Yourself” —reminds that no matter your age or stage, it’s always possible to chart a new course. This may be a career shift, new lifestyle habit, or personal growth goal. Here are a few tips for a healthier, happier you as the sands of time continue to trickle through the hourglass!

Get Moving
How about adding play to your day! Finding an activity you enjoy makes physical activity seem like less of a chore. Maybe you dust off that bike in the garage. Or you take up dancing (separately or maybe while cleaning house). Perhaps you are content with just walking. Or take up something new like pickleball. Whatever you choose to do the key is commitment to do it on a regular basis.

If you have been a couch potato, it is important to consult your doctor before exercising. Start slow, know your limitations and modify activities if needed. Adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week. Moderate it defined as you can still carry on a conversation, but your heart rate is being elevated.

Beginning physical activity can be as easy as walking for ten to fifteen minutes for three to four days per week and increasing as you go. Start slow if you are not normally active. Maintaining regular physical activity can help maintain a healthy weight, lower blood pressure, blood cholesterol, and blood sugar levels.

Micro-adventures!
Break up monotony! Rediscover things in your area. Perhaps a walking or hiking trail. Maybe a local museum or botanical garden are of interest.

Be a lifelong Learner!
Take a class, read a book, join a club. Free classes are often found within the community or online. Book clubs are great for expanding knowledge and views. These are also good ways to stay social.

Maintain a Healthy Diet
Eat proper portion sizes. Overeating can lead to unneeded weight gain and increase the risk of diabetes and heart disease. Eat a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables and have them make up half of your plate. Of course, if you have conditions that limit fiber intakes, watch the level of fruits and vegetables so as not to trigger flares.

Avoid excess processed foods. Stimulate yourself out of an eating rut by trying one new recipe a week. Websites such as Oldways.com, Allrecipes.com and Food.com offer a variety of cultural and easy recipes. This makes it easier to get new variety in your diet. Single? Try a meal sharing with a friend for both the food and social aspects of eating.

Finally, stay hydrated! While fluid intakes are driven by kidney function and activities a good baseline is 48-54 oz. of water daily as a baseline minimum.

Reset Your Relationship with Technology!
Instead of endless social media scrolling, try checking out Senior Planet from OATS or TechBoomers.

Balance your body and mind
Keep a positive attitude! Find something each day that puts a smile on your face and gratitude in your heart. Likewise, keep your mind active by reading, doing puzzles or other mentally challenging activities. Keep your body active through stretches, yoga, and other forms of physical activity.

Be proactive
Schedule regular checkups, physicals and medical tests when needed, as many diseases can be prevented when caught early. Don’t forget appointments with the dentist and optometrist too. Take vitamins, supplements and medications as prescribed. Not every advertised vitamin/supplement is right for you. Seek professional guidance before wasting valuable resources!

Reconnect with Purpose
Often seniors feel lost once retirement and child rearing is completed. Find your new purpose, whatever that may be. For some a starting point is through volunteer work. This allows “sampling” of potential things one may do…without making a long term or time-consuming commitment.

Small things can greatly benefit the aging process. Be proactive in your own wellbeing!

Dianna Richardson, ND September 2025

08/24/2025

Parasites 101

What is a parasite? A parasite is an organism that lives off another organism (host). Parasites use the host's body for nourishment and shelter. Does everyone have parasites that need cleansed from the gut? Short answer is no. Doing parasite cleanses when no parasites are present can strip the gut of beneficial bacteria. This leads to a host of health complications.

So, let’s take a look at the straight talk about parasites. A healthy human body contains billions of good parasites like bacteria that are essential for functions like digestion and immune system response. Most harmful intestinal parasites are transmitted through ingesting soil contaminated with f***s, ingesting p**p, or water containing the parasite. I hear you…gross! In some cases, parasitic infection is spread by insects (in tropical areas).

Most people get intestinal parasites by ingesting eggs that get passed along through p**p. The eggs are microscopic, so there’s no way to know you’re swallowing them. Thorough hand washing is a must! Some parasite eggs can survive on surfaces for a long time. If you touch the surface and then touch your mouth, you can get infected.

Other ways of becoming infected include consuming contaminated water. Water sources include public and private drinking water sources, pools, rivers and lakes. Also, avoid consuming foods grown in contaminated soil (fertilized with human waste). Likewise, eating raw or undercooking meats with parasites will lead to transmission.

Animals can carry parasitic eggs in their fur. For example, fleas can transmit tapeworm eggs to the host. In addition, parasites can be transmitted through the handling of animal waste and not utilizing protective gloves or frequent hand washing.

Hygiene plays an important role here. Use clean water and soap to keep your hands free of parasite eggs. Wash your hands after going to the bathroom, before handling food or eating, and after cleaning up after children (dirty diapers) or pets. Likewise, thoroughly wash hands and arms when gardening or working with soil.

Symptoms of parasite infection can include abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, a**l itching, unexplained weight loss and exhaustion. However, these are common to a number of other health conditions.

Diagnosis of parasite infection must come from reliable testing vs. vague symptom a**lysis. F***l exams to look for parasites or parasite eggs. Both endoscopic exam of the intestines as well as colonoscopy reveal evidence of parasites. Again, simple blood work can reveal specific types of parasitic infections. Finally, imaging scans can detect. Parasite-related organ damage.

Are internet parasite cleanses damaging to your health. If you do not have live parasites or eggs in your body, the answer is yes. Many of the herbs utilized in cleanses have toxicity levels in the human body. Likewise, they are designed to strip the intestinal tract—this includes all your beneficial bacteria as well! Some herbs interfere with prescription drugs and other herbs, placing added stress on the body. Unfortunately, some of the herbs used in cleanses are also tainted with heavy metals.

The laxative effect can be dehydrating., creating electrolyte imbalances. Kidney, liver, pancreas damage can occur from cleanses if the is not a need for cleanse. Nutrient depletion can occur due to the bowel flushing before nutrients are absorbed. Most importantly, if not parasites are present, worsening of underlying conditions can occur.

If you are concerned about parasites, please have physical testing (even if just bloodwork or stool sample) before you jump on the cleanse bandwagon. Even in natural approaches, treatments are dictated by specific confirmed parasites.

Dianna Richardson, ND August 2025

References:

Halliez MC, Buret AG. Gastrointestinal Parasites and the Neural Control of Gut Functions. Front Cell Neurosci. 2015 Nov 25;9:452.

Strothmann AL, Berne MEA, Capella GA, de Moura MQ, da Silva Terto WD, da Costa CM, Pinheiro NB. Antiparasitic treatment using herbs and spices: A review of the literature of the phytotherapy. Braz J Vet Med. 2022 Sep 11;44
Pereira MA, Santos-Gomes G. Parasitic Infection and Immunity-A Special Biomedicines Issue. Biomedicines. 2022 Oct 12;10(10):2547

National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. "Detoxes" and "cleanses": what you need to know.

Strothmann AL, Berne MEA, Capella GA, de Moura MQ, da Silva Terto WD, da Costa CM, et al. Antiparasitic treatment using herbs and spices: A review of the literature of the phytotherapy. Braz J Vet Med. 2022 Sep 11;44:e004722.

Batiha GES, Olatunde A, El-Mleeh, et al. Bioactive compounds, pharmacological actions, and pharmacokinetics of wormwood (Artemisia absinthium). Antibiotics (Basel). 2020;9(6):353.

08/18/2025

High Homocysteine: What is it?

Homocysteine is an amino acid that is an intermediate in the production of two other amino acids, methionine and cysteine. Methionine is an essential amino acid and antioxidant that synthesizes (creates) proteins. Cysteine is a nonessential amino acid synthesized from methionine. It reduces inflammation, increases communication between immune cells, and increases liver health.

Normally, your homocysteine levels are low. It is maintained through utilization of vitamin B12, vitamin B6, and Folate (vitamin B9) to quickly break down homocysteine. High levels of homocysteine in your blood may be a sign that this process isn't working properly; or that you're lacking certain B vitamins.

High levels of homocysteine can damage the inside of your arteries and increase your risk of forming blood clots. This may increase your risk for heart attack, stroke, and other heart diseases and blood vessel disorders.

A clot inside your blood vessels is called a thrombus. Since it is inside your bloodstream it can travel anywhere in your body. It may become stuck in your: Lungs—pulmonary embolism; Brain—cause a stroke; Heart cause heart attack.

Many studies have confirmed the connection between high homocysteine and both large and small vessel issues. More recent studies have linked high homocysteine levels with impaired verbal memory, and fine motor skills as well.

Additionally, homocysteine is also important to neurologists since most anticonvulsants (for seizure disorders) raise homocysteine levels, an effect that may explain the teratogenic effects of these drugs. Research has found anti-seizure medications negatively affect homocysteine levels in the body. This may result from medications reducing the nutrients needed to metabolize homocysteine. Additionally, links are being investigated to Alzheimer’s disease.

Furthermore, people with the genetic condition MTHFR (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase) lack the enzyme production needed to convert the essential B-vitamins to breakdown homocysteine. In addition to afore mentioned conditions, MTHFR can affect fertility, pregnancy, and anxiety disorders. Again, leading to high risk for a variety of serious health conditions if not corrected.

A homocysteine test is a simple, inexpensive blood draw. Age and various chronic health conditions may impact the results. However, a safe range by age for homocysteine is available for reference.

Dianna Richardson, ND August 2025

References:

Varga et. Al. (2005). Homocysteine and MTHFR Mutations. Circulation , 111(19): e289-e293.

Sener et. Al. (2006). Effects of common ant-epileptic drug monotherapy on serum levels of homocysteine, Vitamin B12, folic acid and Vitamin B6. European Journal of Epilepsy, 15(2): P79-85.

Sachdev et. Al. (2004). Homocysteine and the Brain in Midadult Life. JAMA Neurology 61(9): 1369-1376.

Diaz-Arrastia (2000). Homocysteine and Neurologic Disease. JAMA Neurology.

Smith AD Homocysteine, B vitamins and cognitive deficits in the elderly. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 2002;75785- 786PubMedGoogle Scholar

Toole JFJack CR Food (and vitamins) for thought. Neurology 2002;581449- 1450PubMedGoogle ScholarCrossref

Boushey CJBeresford SAOmenn GSMotulsky AG A quantitative assessment of plasma homocysteine as a risk factor for vascular disease: probable benefits of increasing folic acid intakes. JAMA1995;2741049- 1057
ArticlePubMedGoogle ScholarCrossref

Moller JNielsen GMTvedegaard KCAndersen NTJorgensen PE A meta-a**lysis of cerebrovascular disease and hyperhomocysteinaemia. Scand J Clin Lab Invest 2000;60491- 500PubMedGoogle ScholarCrossref

Fassbender KMielke OBertsch T et al. Homocysteine in cerebral macroangiography and microangiopathy. Lancet 1999;3531586- 1587PubMedGoogle ScholarCrossref

Hogervorst ERibiero HMMolyneux ABudge MSmith D Plasma homocysteine levels, cerebrovascular risk factors, and cerebral white matter changes (leukoaraiosis) in patients with Alzheimer disease. Arch Neurol 2002;59787- 793

08/18/2025

Inflammation: Inflammation can play a role not only in the development of cancer but in growth. We are learning that the "microenvironment" surrounding cancer cells may play a role in whether a cancer progresses or not. Some foods have anti-inflammatory properties which could change this process.

Apples & Pears
Phloretin found in apples and pears markedly induced programmed cell death (apoptosis) in cancer cells.

Green Tea
Theaflavin and epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) were found to potentiate the effect of the chemotherapy. Skip the creamer, as dairy products can combine with and neutralize ECGC. Consider adding a touch of lemon instead, which enhances the absorption of this compound.

Salmon (or other fatty fish)
Most cancer patients are low in vitamin D. The reason being cancer cells utilize the body’s supply to build their network. When cancer cells were treated with 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 it was found that in this setting vitamin D3 inhibited the growth of lung cancer cells (as well as other cancer cells).

Vitamin D which is found in fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and herring appears to have other health benefits as well and a deficiency in vitamin D can lead to many medical problems. In addition to dietary sources, vitamin D can be absorbed outside from the sun, but sunscreen interferes with this process. Given its role in cancer, and how easy it is to know your level with a simple blood test.

Ginger
Well known for its digestive benefits, ginger is also anti-inflammatory and contains pain reducing properties.
Ginger contains a compound 6-shogaol. Through its actions on the pathways that help cancer to spread, it may lower the risk of metastases from a cancer already present. Evidence of the benefits of ginger were noted in treating lung cancer cells in the lab.

Quercetin
Quercetin inhibits a signaling pathway in lung cancer cells that is necessary for the cells to divide and multiply. Earlier studies found that in addition to inhibiting cancer cell growth, quercetin also plays a role in programmed cell death (apoptosis) of cancer cells.

Foods rich in quercetin include dill w**d, red onions, blueberries, apples, and green and black tea. Capers are one of the highest known sources of quercetin. This powerful antioxidant appears to inhibit the growth of several cancers, especially cancers of the lung, brain, blood, and salivary gland. [FYI: quercetin is a great antihistamine as well as being anti-inflammatory. It is NOT nature's hydroxycholorquine.]

Berries
Berries such as blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, and cranberries are loaded with compounds known as anthocyanidins. One form of anthocyanidin known as delphinidin.

Dietary delphinidin has shown to inhibit the growth of the tumors, limited the ability of the tumors to create new blood vessels in order to expand (something known as angiogenesis) and induced cell death (apoptosis) among the cancer cells.

An added benefit are studies finding that anthocyanidins may help prevent the formation of blood clots (thrombosis). Considering that 3% to 15% of people with lung cancer develop blood clots, berries may help in more ways than one.

Carrots
Carrots are an excellent source of chlorogenic acid. In order for tumors to grow and invade tissues, they must grow new blood vessels to supply the tumor. Some treatments for cancer are designed to interrupt this process which is called angiogenesis. In other words, if the tumor is unable to create a blood supply for itself, it cannot continue to expand.

Chlorogenic acid appears to disrupt a signaling pathway in lung cancer which is necessary in order for angiogenesis to occur. While carrots are very rich in this compound, it may also be found in significant quantities in flaxseed, apples, strawberries, potatoes, and pineapple.

Unlike some foods which can lose their protective phytochemicals during cooking, carrots are an exception to the rule.

Resveratrol
One of the problems with cancer treatment is that cancer cells have a mind of their own. They are "smart" if you will, and become resistant to treatments designed to eliminate them. Thankfully it's been found that compounds such as resveratrol may sensitize tumors to the effects of treatment.

Specifically, with lung cancer, an intake of this nutrient may help to improve the effectiveness of common chemotherapy medications such as Taxol (paclitaxel), Platinol (cisplatin), and Iressa (gefitinib).

Of course, there is controversy in recommending an alcoholic beverage, but don't be worried. Red grape juice packs a powerful punch, as do other foods containing resveratrol such as dark chocolate and blueberries.

Lycopene
Lycopene works at several points in the progression of cancer. It may inhibit growth of tumors, interfere with the process in which lung cancer cells divide, inhibit the spread of cancer, and assist in ridding the body of cancer cells through apoptosis.
In addition, lycopene has anti-inflammatory properties which may help lessen both the promotion and progression of lung cancer.

Zinc
For those who don't get enough zinc to begin with, it's important to know that zinc deficiency is associated with a decline in immunity—something very important for cancer patients.
Meat, shellfish, legumes (especially lentils and chickpeas), seeds (h**p, pumpkin, sesame), pine nuts, cashews, eggs, green beans, potatoes, sweet potatoes, kale and dark chocolate are all good sources of zinc.

As with all disease, dietary choices play a role in preventing, managing, and resolving conditions.

Dianna Richardson, ND August 2025

References:
1. Murata M. Inflammation and cancer. Environ Health Prev Med. 2018;23(1):50. doi:10.1186/s12199-018-0740-1

2. Ma L, Wang R, Nan Y, Li W, Wang Q, Jin F. Phloretin exhibits an anticancer effect and enhances the anticancer ability of cisplatin on non-small cell lung cancer cell lines by regulating expression of apoptotic pathways and matrix metalloproteinases. Int J Oncol. 2016;48(2):843-53. doi:10.3892/ijo.2015.3304

3. Pan H, Kim E, Rankin GO, Rojanasakul Y, Tu Y, Chen YC. Theaflavin-3,3'-Digallate Enhances the Inhibitory Effect of Cisplatin by Regulating the Copper Transporter 1 and Glutathione in Human Ovarian Cancer Cells. Int J Mol Sci. 2018;19(1). doi:10.3390/ijms19010117

4. Verone-boyle AR, Shoemaker S, Attwood K, et al. Diet-derived 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 activates vitamin D receptor target gene expression and suppresses EGFR mutant non-small cell lung cancer growth in vitro and in vivo. Oncotarget. 2016;7(1):995-1013. doi:10.18632/oncotarget.6493

5. Hsu YL, Hung JY, Tsai YM, et al. 6-shogaol, an active constituent of dietary ginger, impairs cancer development and lung metastasis by inhibiting the secretion of CC-chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2) in tumor-associated dendritic cells. J Agric Food Chem. 2015;63(6):1730-8. doi:10.1021/jf504934m

6. Chang JH, Lai SL, Chen WS, et al. Quercetin suppresses the metastatic ability of lung cancer through inhibiting Snail-dependent Akt activation and Snail-independent ADAM9 expression pathways. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Cell Res. 2017;1864(10):1746-1758. doi:10.1016/j.bbamcr.2017.06.017

7. Mehta HJ, Patel V, Sadikot RT. Curcumin and lung cancer--a review. Target Oncol. 2014;9(4):295-310. doi:10.1007/s11523-014-0321-1
8. Farkhondeh T, Samarghandian S, Pourbagher-shahri AM, Sedaghat M. The impact of curcumin and its modified formulations on Alzheimer's disease. J Cell Physiol. 2019;234(10):16953-16965. doi:10.1002/jcp.28411

9. Pal HC, Sharma S, Strickland LR, et al. Delphinidin reduces cell proliferation and induces apoptosis of non-small-cell lung cancer cells by targeting EGFR/VEGFR2 signaling pathways. PLoS ONE. 2013;8(10):e77270. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0077270

10. Park JJ, Hwang SJ, Park JH, Lee HJ. Chlorogenic acid inhibits hypoxia-induced angiogenesis via down-regulation of the HIF-1α/AKT pathway. Cell Oncol(Dordr). 2015;38(2):111-8. doi:+10.1007/s13402-014-0216-2

11. Gupta SC, Kannappan R, Reuter S, Kim JH, Aggarwal BB. Chemosensitization of tumors by resveratrol. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2011;1215:150-60. doi:+10.1111/j.1749-6632.2010.05852.x

12. Ono M, Takeshima M, Nakano S. Mechanism of the Anticancer Effect of Lycopene (Tetraterpenoids). Enzymes. 2015;37:139-66. doi:10.1016/bs.enz.2015.06.002

13. Kocdor H, Ates H, Aydin S, et al. Zinc supplementation induces apoptosis and enhances antitumor efficacy of docetaxel in non-small-cell lung cancer. Drug Des Devel Ther. 2015;9:3899-909. doi:10.2147/DDDT.S87662

07/21/2025

Did you know…

Many of you have heard me repeatedly state that too much of a good thing can be disastrous to your health. Usually, this comes up in supplement conversations. When supplements are utilized properly, they can be quite beneficial in restoring balance in the body. However, when misused or overused the end result can be less than desirable.

It is very important to understand the role marketing plays in decision making. Billions of dollars are spent each year on supplement sales (roughly $63.94 billion in 2024). In order for one product to catch your attention over another, marketing plays a large role. While the FDA does monitor for false claims, unauthorized ingredients, contaminates, etc., the time from action to you hearing about it is often years. In the meantime, marketing is pushing for strong sales. In today’s technological society marketing is taken directly to the people. We see this with both prescription drugs and supplements.

A popular item on the market is turmeric/curcumin. Used properly it can be a great asset for reducing pain and inflammation. Medical studies have investigated it for numerous other properties as well. However, there is growing concern due to misuse and extreme dosing.

Several years ago, many suppliers began adding black pepper to turmeric supplements. This was due to a small study that possibly indicated this increases absorption. (Turmeric is actually better absorbed with a healthy fat.) As a result of the combination of excessive use and added piperine reports of liver damage are on the rise.

Turmeric appears to have become the most common cause of clinically apparent, herbal-related liver injury in the United States. Recent reports have shown a close association of turmeric induced liver injury with the HLA allele B*35:01, which was found in over 70% of cases. In some cases, as little as 1,000mg of curcumin/turmeric with 5 mg added black pepper resulted in acute liver toxicity. Please keep in mind this was associated with specific brands of turmeric/curcumin and well documented.

Thankfully in most cases discontinuing the supplement resulted in liver damage reversing within 3-4 months. Again, please understand, these were high doses that were taken for an extended amount of time. Combinations with other prescriptions or certain supplements also played a significant role increased liver damage. It is reported some people sustained liver damage to the point of needing liver transplants.

It a time of social media driven medical advice, take note of your own individuality. Marketing continues to drive supplement sales and misuse. As stated earlier, just because a product/herb has the potential to be beneficial, it does not necessarily make it safe or the right choice for you.

Dianna Richardson, ND July 2025

References:
National Library of Medicine (2025). LiverTox: Clinical and Research Information on Drug-Induced Liver Injury. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK548561/

Halegoua-DeMarzio, Dina et al. (2023). Liver Injury Associated with Turmeric—A Growing Problem: Ten Cases from the Drug-Induced Liver Injury Network [DILIN] The American Journal of Medicine, Volume 136, Issue 2, 200 – 206

Jefferson health (2024). The trouble with turmeric as associated liver injury. Retrieved from https://www.jeffersonhealth.org/your-health/living-well/the-trouble-with-turmeric-associated-liver-injuries

Grandview Research (2024). U.S. Dietary Supplements Market Summary. Retrieved from https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-a**lysis/us-dietary-supplements-market-report