Male Health & Chinese Medicine

Subfertile men 50% less likely to get prostate cancer

2012-02-09T12:27:00.000+11:00

A study at Lund University, Sweden show's that men who have sub fertile sperm results and find it difficult to conceive actually have a 50% less chance of contracting prostate cancer.

Full Article Here

Study: Vitamin D proves good for fertility

2012-02-08T17:30:00.000+11:00

Evidence from study that shows vitamin D from sunlight balances male and female hormones. Vitamin D receptors found in male testes and female ovaries and uterus; removal of this receptor found reduced sperm parameters and changes in ovarian/uterine structure.

See Full Article Here

New Sperm test with greater accuracy and detail

2012-02-04T10:24:00.000+11:00

There is a new sperm test on the streets called 'The Male Factor'. It is a post-conception sperm test which can identify certain DNA aspects and structural sperm abnormalities. The benefit of this is that a more focused treatment regime can be approached.
Read more Here

Enlarged Prostate & Prostate Cancer Prevention

2011-10-16T14:34:00.001+11:00

A recent study in the US showed that neither selenium or vitamin e, or a combination of the 2 prevented prostate cancer in men. In fact, vitamin d alone increased chances of prostate cancer risk. Article.

We have been successfully treating Benign prostate hypertrophy (non-cancerous enlarged prostate) in our clinic using traditional Chinese herbs. The benefit of these herbs is that they will not interfere with blood pressure, thus not causing orthostatic hypo tension (dizziness on standing from sitting/lying position), tiredness, headaches, retrograde ejaculation or erectile dysfunction.

Our formula contains only herbal ingredients, water and ethanol. Herbs can also have side effects and react with other medications. It is always wise to consult with your GP especially if you are on any other medication.

Our 'P+' Prostate formula is developed by our clinic and can only be prescribed by consultation as it must be dispensed by a practitioner.
Extractions are laborious and take 2-3 weeks per batch (40 bottles). We apologize when stocks are unavailable when bulk orders come through. Please call clinic ahead of time for bulk orders. 9670 0443.

Propecia & Sexual Dysfunction

2011-08-25T17:32:00.000+10:00

Makers of propecia, a male pattern baldness drug, have been issued a law suit in the US by a 26 year old man who claims it has affected his sexual abilities. This follows many cases of the link between male sexual dysfunction and use of propecia. Link

Vitamin D for sperm health

2011-05-29T21:30:00.000+10:00

Link to article

Gat Goren varicocele technique unique

2011-04-28T21:07:00.000+10:00

Israeli Dr's Gat and Gore have patented their own technique to treat scrotal varicoceles. The uniqueness of the technique is that treatment is bi-lateral. Dr's Gat and Goren claim that of all men with infertile sperm parameters, 85% have a varicocele issue.
Gat Goren Clinic

Acupuncture relieves hot flushes caused by prostate cancer treatment

2011-04-28T20:51:00.000+10:00

One of the main prostate cancer treatments is a drug that blocks testosterone. This drug also produces side- effects of anxiety, heart palpitations and hot flushes. Bi-weekly acupuncture treatments halved the severity of hot flushes of men in the trial by 50% in only 2 weeks.
Science Daily

Omega 3 Oils Increase Prostate Cancer Risk

2011-04-27T17:02:00.000+10:00

Confused? So are the researchers at the Fred Hutchison Cancer Research Center. In the largest study ever conducted, involving 3,400 men, to examine the effect of fatty acids in prostate cancer risk, the results showed that Omega-3 increased prostate cancer risk by 2 and a half times. Whats even more perplexing is that Omega-6, which normally increases inflammatory responses in the body, decreased prostate cancer risk by 50%! Read more at Science Daily.

First evidence that the skeleton plays a role in male fertility

2011-02-18T20:44:00.000+11:00

Recent studies due to be released next month, in March, revel that osteocalcin, released from bones in men have a role in fertility.
Read more at Science daily

Bag Balm for skin, not just cow udders

2011-02-01T12:57:00.005+11:00

Bag Balm, discovered in 1899, has been used for softening cow udders for over 100 years. Farmers with dry, chapped hands found that after applying bag balm to their cows udders and milking them, had releif from their skin conditions.
Read more about Bag Balm
Bag Balm
Bag Balm Australia. Where can I get bag balm in Australia?

We Just Received a shipment of Bag Balm. Purchase online at http://herblab.bigcartel.com/category/ointment

Please be aware that we only have 1oz tins of bag balm. 1oz is equivalent to approximately 30g. It is a small tin. The size of the tin is around 4cm x 4cm.
The 1oz tins are $11.95 each plus postage. Australia post standard fee of $5 plus $1 for padded bag and 80cents to cover pay pal fees.

Laser Acupuncture Most Effective for Fertility

2011-02-01T12:34:00.000+11:00

LASER ACUPUNCTURE BEFORE AND AFTER EMBRYO TRANSFER IMPROVES ART DELIVERY RATES study

Research, IVF-ART

Laser Acupuncture Before and After Embryo Transfer Improves ART Delivery Rates: Results of a Prospective Randomized Double-Blinded Placebo Controlled Five-armed Trial involving 1000 Patients.
J.L. Fratterelli, M.R. Leondires, K.Fong, A Theall, S. Locatelli, R.T. Scott, Reproductive Medicine Associates of new Jersey, Morristown, NJ
OBJECTIVE: Acupuncture has been advocated for the treatment of infertility, including immediately prior to and after transfer. Unfortunately, data are conflicting and adequate studies with appropriate controls are lacking. This study evaluates 2 forms of acupuncture on outcomes in ART patients.
DESIGN: Prospect randomized double blind and placebo controlled.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: On the day of transfer, participants were randomly assigned to a study group; needle acupuncture (AC), laser acupuncture (LZ AC), sham laser acupuncture (LA sham), relaxation (RX), or not treatment (NT). The AC and LZ AV puncture groups were considered treatment groups, the RX controls for the additional rest before and after transfer, and NT is the non-intervention groups. Most significantly, the LZ sham group provided an important control group. The laser acupuncture device was randomly preprogrammed per case to either fire (and provide LZ AC) or to not fire and thus provide a true double blind control group (LZ sham). It was not possible for the patient of acupuncturist to know if the laser fired. No contact occurs with the patient in laser acupuncture so there is no acupressure effect of contact with the wrong meridians. All treatments were administered for 25 minutes before and after embryo transfer. Out comes were compared by Chi-square and multiple logistic regression analysis to control for the potential confounders including female age, embryo quality, and day of transfer (Table 1).
RESULTS: All treatments were well tolerated. No differences in terms of patient demographics, cycle type, stimulation outcomes, embryo number and quality, day of embryo transfer, transferring physician, or acupuncturist were found between the 5 study groups. Implantation rates were significantly improved with laser acupuncture. Traditional needle acupuncture had outcomes equivalent to the 3 control groups. Subanalyses of patient age and embryo transfer day produced similar findings with laser acupuncture enhancing outcome rates.
CONCLUSIONS: This large prospective randomized and well controlled study consistently demonstrated benefit to LZ AC. Treatment was well tolerated and significantly improved implantation rates.

Table 1. Clinical outcomes (%)

Rates	AC (n=200)	LZ AC (n=202)	LZ Sham (n=198)	RX (n=203)	NT (n=197)	P Values
Implantation	28.9	33.7	26.8	24.9	30.2	<0.05
Chemical Pregnancy	61.5	60.9	53.0	53.7	60.4	0.22
Clinical Pregnancy	51.5	54.5	43.9	45.3	50.3	.019
Ongoing Pregnancy/Delivery	39.0	42.1	34.4	37.4	39.6	0.71

Supported by: EMD Serono
Reproduced from: Fertility and Sterility
From: Acubalance website

how to boil chinese herbs

2011-01-10T16:43:00.000+11:00

Everyday Chinese Medicine: Dampness and Phlegm: Physics and Diet

2010-12-07T14:33:00.000+11:00

Everyday Chinese Medicine: Dampness and Phlegm: Physics and Diet: " v\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);} o\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);} w\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);} .shape {behavior:ur..."

Scientists discover mechanism that turns healthy cells into prostate cancer cells

2010-12-05T14:21:00.000+11:00

Scientists discover mechanism that turns healthy cells into prostate cancer cells

Paracetamol use linked to asthma and male infertility

2010-11-11T19:41:00.000+11:00

Paracetamol use linked to asthma and male infertility

congee

2010-10-11T23:41:00.000+11:00

Cholesterol Drug Suppresses Prostate Cancer Cells

2010-09-21T11:08:00.000+10:00

Cholesterol controlling drug 'Crestor' has been shown in trials on mice, to effectively suppress prostate cancer cell growth.
Science Daily

New Prostate Cancer Blood Test

2010-09-16T21:08:00.000+10:00

A new blood test developed by cancer centers in New York & Sweden, when taken at age 60, can predict that a man will die from prostate cancer in the following 25 years.

science direct article

Chris Eddy Sunday Life Magazine

2010-08-26T22:04:00.000+10:00

See my article on male infertility in 'Sunday Life' Magazine in the Sunday Age. I will be writing more articles here from time to time.

Sundays Age Article

2010-08-15T10:08:00.000+10:00

See our article in todays Suday Life Mag!

Asthma drugs may lead to higher incidence of prostate cancer

2010-08-12T16:28:00.000+10:00

Frequent use of asthma inhalers may increase chances of prostate cancer by 36%, a recent Melbourne study shows.
Medindia

Male Menopause Hormone Treatment Questionable

2010-06-21T13:30:00.002+10:00

Experts from the Drug & Therapeutics Bulletin (DTB) suggest that testosterone therapy for "male menopause" is inconclusive and questionable.
Science Daily

Chinese Medicine treats groupings of symptoms such as tiredness, loss of libido, memory loss and loss of muscle strength quite often as 'Yang Decline' in men and women with herbal medicine and acupuncture. This therapy has been used for over 3,000 years safely and effectively.

Red Wine & Green Tea...Our Friends Again! Prostate Cancer Cells Blocked

2010-06-16T14:50:00.004+10:00

New research leading to the discovery red wine and green tea may slow the growth of prostate tumors.

Science Daily

Periodontal and prostate disease link?

2010-05-17T13:54:00.002+10:00

Research comparing PSA (prostate specific antigens) and CAL (Clinical Attachment Level of gums to teeth) with some level of correlation.

Science Daily

Varicocele repair not suited to globozoospermia

2010-04-26T16:58:00.003+10:00

Globozoospermia is a primary sperm condition that cosists of rounded heads and absence of an acrosome, and is generally thought of as genetic. The nature of the sperm head makes penetration of the sperm to the egg twice as difficult because the acrosome, when in contact with the egg reseases enzymes which digest the egg coating and injects the male genetic material into the egg to meet with the female genetic half. The roaunded shape also makes penetration of the egg difficult due to the non-tapered, rounded shape.

As this condition is a phenotype (physical expression of a gene) genetic trait, varicocele repair will not help or change the sperm morphology in this case.

Journal of Andrology

MALE INFERTILITY

2010-04-24T21:05:00.001+10:00

MALE INFERTILITY:

NATURE AND TREATABILITY OF CAUSES OF MALE INFERTILITY
Untreatable male sterility 12%
Primary Seminiferous Tubal Failure 12%
Treatable conditions 13%
Gonadotrophin Deficiency 0.5%
Obstructive Azoospermia 6%
Sperm Autoimmunity 6%
Disorders of Sexual Function 0.5%
Reversible Toxin Effects 0.02%
Untreatable subfertility 75%
Oligozoospermia 35%
Asthenozoospermia and Teratozoospermia 35%
Normozoospermia with functional defects 5%

Access

L-Carnitine and Cinnoxicam

2010-04-22T21:19:00.003+10:00

Combination of Cinnoxicam suppository + L-carnitine/acetyl-l-carnitine shows significant sperm parameter progress in men with varicocele-associated oligoasthenospermia.

Journal of Andrology

Soy and Fertility

2010-03-05T09:58:00.003+11:00

The soy debate of fertility has been going on for years. Recent studies in the lab on mice and questionaires of men reveled a strong correlation between high soy intake and drops in sperm counts. I have personally seen this correlation in my clinic and suspected it for some years. Sufficient and reliable data is yet to be reseased, however there are some strong indicators.

See article.

askmen

Son's of IVF parents acquiring father's ifertility

2010-02-21T11:56:00.003+11:00

In a new Anglo-German study found that in a study of 195 naturally conceived children and 211 ICSI/IVF conceived children found that in the IFV group more boys had shorter fingers. Shorter fingers, they believe, may correlate to higher chances of becoming infertile.

IVF article

MedIndia

New Premature Ejaculation Drug...Good or Bad?

2010-02-21T11:36:00.003+11:00

A new drug treating premature ejaculation (PE) will soon enough grace our shores. The new drug Priligy is currently in use in Europe and soon to be approved by the American FDA. Question is, do we need it and will it add or mask sexual anxieties in men. We are already bombarded with signs and radio commercials posing questions to us as to 'do you last long enough?', and insighting fear of loosing your girlfriend or partner if you can't perform. I think it's a perfect market for drug companies. I mean , guys don't talk about these things to each other, most would probably contemplate sexual timing and vigour in silence.
Hopefully when the drug is released, GP's will be well informed about options to treat PE in a rounded fashion including sex psychology, while the drug companies are taking them out for lunch.

Mens health news full article

New discoveries in sperm activation and what burns them out too early

2010-02-11T09:52:00.003+11:00

An article from Science Daily explains that scientists have discovered the tiny cell marker (HV1) that switches the proton gradient on/off on the sperm wall, changing the internal environment from acidic to alkaline, thus turning on the propellers and swimming to victory. Interestingly, what switches on this proton gradient is acidic/alkaline environment, the removal of zinc from the sperm and presence of an endocannabinoid called anandamide. This is a very similar composition to cannabis and may explain the problems with sperm in users of marijuana.

Sciencedaily full article

Aspartame not so good for sperm

2010-01-21T11:40:00.002+11:00

A rather old article that came up in some random searches. Aspartame (ie, nutrasweet etc found in diet drinks) fed to rats over a 1 week period lowered their sperm counts significanly. Not a conclusive study with a small test group and short test period, however worth further study and consideration.

Mercola

Helthy diet supports health sperm

2009-06-14T16:16:00.003+10:00

New research from Spain supports common sense. 60 men attending fertility clinics were studied to correlate diet links to healthier sperm. The study found that men who ate more carbohydrates, fiber (veggies/fruit), folate (greens, broccoli, oranges), vitamin C (fruit) and lycopene (tomatoes), and ate less fat and protein, had healthier sperm.
Read more: click here.

Men taking Anti-Depressants have reduced fertility chances

2009-06-14T16:04:00.003+10:00

Research conducted by NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center found that 50% of men taking anti-depressant medication-Selective Serotonin Re-uptake Inhibitors (SSRI's), Specifically Paroxetine (trade names Seroxat and Paxil), have increased DNA fragmentation thus reduced ability to conceive.
Read more: Click here.

Jack and the bean stalk- velvet bean increases sex drive, sperm count and reduces stress

2009-03-16T22:37:00.003+11:00

Li Dou (藜豆) also know as velvet bean as been shown in recent research to reduce psychological stress, return the testicular oxidative defence system and incease sperm count and motility.
Read more at CMN

What is men's role in IVF?

2009-01-28T14:51:00.006+11:00

In the process of IVF men often aren't well informed as to what their contribution to the process is and what they can do to improve it, and even the appropriate check-ups.
When men come into my clinic, they are often told by their wives to come in because their sperm counts are low. When questioned, they know very little about what is happening, if anything is physically wrong with them or exactly what part they play in the IVF process besides giving a sample into a cup for fertilization.
This of course is a man's responsibility to become interested and ofay to the process of conception with their wife, especially if they are undergoing IVF. However, in some circumstances, the men have not even had a check-up from their GP.
The way it happens in my clinic is generally like this: The patient arrives at my clinic and says "i need help to get my sperm levels up so we can have a baby".
So i ask "how long have you been trying, family history" etc and "have you been checked by a GP for hormone levels, testicular abnormalities, varicocele?" etc..
"No" and "Whats that?" are the responses at least 80% of the time.
So, more often than not, guys get side lined in this fertility health loop. Women receive a lot of tests and attention to get their hormones tested and checked, blood test, ultrasounds, BBT charts, not to mention IVF drugs, nasal sprays etc.
When fertility issues lay 50% male issues 50% females issues, doesn't it make sense to examine both partners equally?
What is offered it terms of treatment for men? Unless there is a hormonal deficiency, tumour or varicocele, there is not much option to rectify the problem. However, if these issues are not tested for, then it is difficult to know how to treat the fertility issue. Also, you could be overlooking a very serious condition.
ICSI is not a cure, it is an option where all other options and treatments have been exhausted. We do not know for sure how this form of treatment will effect future generations yet.
Most importantly for men wishing to conceive with their partner is to see your GP first and ask lots of questions.
More reading on this issue: ABC Science

Folate: Good for him, good for her

2008-04-29T11:41:00.002+10:00

Recent research for the University of California, showed that male diets high in folic acid (leafy greens etc) had better quality sperm and fewer defects.

Full Article MedIndia

Current Antisperm Antibody (ASA) treatments need practical prspective

2008-03-14T10:11:00.003+11:00

In light of current perspectives and treatments in relation to ASA treatment, better understanding of how different Immunoglobulins affect sperm and fertility needs to be established. An interesting journal article highlighting the need to clarify ASA diagnosis and appropriate treatmentment protocols.
Americal Journal of Reproductive Immunology

Sperm Antibody Therapy

2008-03-14T09:56:00.002+11:00

Dexamethasone therapy of infertile men with sperm autoantibodies, immunological and sperm follow-up shows reasonable results.
PUBmed

Infertile men more likely to develop testicular cancer

2008-02-18T12:53:00.003+11:00

A study involving 51,000 couples showed that men in these infertile couples had a 60% higher chance of developing testicular cancer.
Medindia

PSA test for Prostate Cancer

2008-02-18T12:40:00.003+11:00

Study from MSC cancer center in New York and Sweden shows that PSA tests for men can predict prostate cancer well in advance, sometimes up to 25 years.

Link MEDindia

Watch that coffee intake!!

2008-02-06T12:08:00.000+11:00

An older article that I felt worth digging up again discusses coffee cosumption in men and its link to sperm abnormalities and infertility. This report from Bradford University and the University of California, Berkeley, was conducted on normal men between 22 to 80 years old. It found increased genetic damage in the sperm of men who consume even average amounts of caffeine (around 3 cups per day), unsuccessful fertilisation, or children with deformities or genetic disease resulting from DNA damage. Although sperm quality does decrease with age, the effects of the coffee were independent this factor. One of the most frightening things about this study is that not only does the coffee effect the sperm quality but also the DNA effecting the child if fertilized.

Medindia

Varicoceles, infertility and testosterone

2008-01-29T16:12:00.000+11:00

Recent research in New York by urologists shows that scrotal varicoceles in men may not only improve fertility, thus conception chances, but can also increase lowered testosterone levels. Interestingly, in the study, it was believed that the lowered testosterone levels were related to the varicosities.

To see full article

Medindia

Testosterone & Cognitive Function in Old Age

2008-01-29T15:39:00.001+11:00

Not only does testosterone help sharpen your pencil, it also helps sharpens your mind. New research has suggested that testosterone levels might help improve men's cognitive performance. With age, all the characteristics of body including mental functions change.

From an article Harvard Men’s Health via:

Latest Men's Health News

Ling Zhi & Prostate Cancer

2008-01-23T15:23:00.000+11:00

The Mushroom called Ling Zhi in Chinese or ReiShi in Japanese has been credited by Isreali researchers as inhibiting porstate cancer in men. This follows previous research that Ling Zhi may also help prevent the progression of breast cancer.

Sperm Rates Review

2008-01-02T14:47:00.000+11:00

So sperm rates have been dropping dramatically over the last 100 years. We know this. From when they started to record counts in the 1930's till now, avereage rates for men have dropped to around 1 fifth of what they used to be, or more. So we keep asking ourselves whats gone wrong? This is not an easy question to answer, especially as industrialization booms along creating better, faster, cheaper, more effective everything, that requires newer, cheaper, more effective chemicals to produce it.

So chemicals look like the things to blame, and i agree to a point. Over the last 100 years there are a lot more chemicals, genetically modified foods, pollution and hormone analogues that make their way into our lungs and stomachs.

But, chemicals are easy to blame, its someone elses fault. However i think that there are other things closer to home that add to mens decreasing sperm results that can be dealt with personally. Stress being one, diet the other.

These topics will be discussed in more depth later in the month, however, for now i'd like to breifly touch on them.

We have a much more varied diet and array of unseasoned foods available to us all year round. I feel this leads it's self to build up of intollerances and adverse reactions. Gut irritation leads to immune and Ig responses, these responses lead to more obvious symptoms such as diarrhoea and skin erruptions which lead to more stress, and malabsorbtion of essential minerals and vitamins. Also to a release and accumulation of toxins such as histamine. This reacts to sperm, and causes 'heat' in the body, which in Chinese medical terms reduces motility and morphology.

Of course every case is not the same, and other primary factors can include trauma and previous infections. However, I feel what is most important at this stage is to identify every possible causative factor and create a diagnostic framework to incorporate these factors to acheive more affective treatments and preventions.

By Dr Chris Eddy

Laptop on your lap. Is the radiation level dangerous to testicles or the heat the problem?

2007-10-14T14:19:00.000+10:00

MEDIREPORTS article discussing the type of radiation that emits from laptops and how harmful it is to humans.

Posted by Dr Chris Eddy

Low Sperm Count...worth getting your testicular size checked out by your GP

2007-09-24T13:32:00.000+10:00

Size does matter when it comes to testicular diameter. As the testicles are where sperm is produced and matured & testoserone produced, if you have low levels of either, it is worth while getting the size of your testicles measured. Sizes not to scale.

Posted by Chris Eddy

Original article. AGE melbourne.

Age article

Male Menopause

2007-08-17T16:25:00.000+10:00

Male menopause, andropause, androgen deficiency, testosterone deficiency... Whatever the name, a brief article on this recently recognised and publicised male disorder. Is testosterone replacement a cure for you.
newsobserver article
Andrology Australia Website

Trichloroethylene (TCE) & Male Infertility

2007-08-03T10:00:00.000+10:00

"TCE is a volatile chemical used extensively in the automotive and metal industries as a de-greasing agent. It is also found in adhesives, lubricants, paints, varnishes, paint strippers, pesticides, spot removers and rug cleaning fluids, and has been detected in both underground and surface water sources". It has been linked to infertility in men among other more serious diseases.

Science Daily Link

Low testosterone levels found in boys conceived by ICSI

2007-08-02T22:58:00.000+10:00

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Levels of the male sex hormone testosterone in infant boys who are conceived using an assisted fertility technique called intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) are significantly lower than in their naturally conceived counterparts, according to Danish researchers.

LINK

Obesity and Fertility

2007-07-30T18:06:00.000+10:00

Male obesity linked linked to poor sperm quality and infertility. Fertility may be reduced by as much as a third or more in over weight men.
Full Story Link Here

ICSI always necessary or not?

2007-07-24T20:05:00.000+10:00

ICSI has dramatically increased as part of the IVF process. A useful process, but is it always necessary? Basically, if the sperm is healthy and within normal parameters, it isn't and can add greatly to your IVF bill. Not only this and something that is unfortunately often ignored is that many couples of course want the closest means possible to a natural selection of egg and sperm. On the other hand it can be a useful tool to select healthy sperm in men with low morphology or genetic disorders. Then again, there are no treatment options to improve sperm quality in western medicine. Either way, the more informed choices the better.
emaxhealth
medpage

Loose fat-get pregnant...a good idea

2007-07-24T19:54:00.000+10:00

Not a testament, just an article I noticed...a few sensible tips.

Infertile couples may see hope in lifestyle change
By DEBORAH KOTZ
U.S. News and World Report

Who's MIFfed?

2007-07-24T19:46:00.000+10:00

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is the new name science has donated to male infertility. Basically along the same lines of an excess heat diagnosis in Chinese medicine. The correlations continue.
CNN Article

Drug News: Cytoxan linked to sperm damage

2007-07-24T19:42:00.000+10:00

Lupus Drug "Cytoxan" linked to sperm damage and infertility.
CBS News

Man or Mouse??

2007-07-24T19:38:00.000+10:00

New cell cloning techniques. Mouse sperm stem cells fertilizing human eggs...
AHN Globalnews

Anything but Congee...it's soooo booooring!

2007-05-23T21:48:00.000+10:00

Congee Recipe

Congee, or "zhou" in mandarin or "jook" in cantonese, is what they tell you to eat in Asia if you've got a tummy ache, recovering from illness or wanting to build your body up. But if you lived in China and were forced to eat it for breakfast every day because you didn't trust anything else or you always seemed to accidentally order the pig intestine one, then this recipe might win you back.
I'm not a big fan, but I do love this recipe & it's probably one of the best things you could eat, especially for breaky this winter. Great for the digestion!!
This style of congee is called "Lu Gao" and comes from the Phillipines. A friend of mine passed it on to me, I love it and I hope you enjoy it too.

Lu Gao
Ingredients
long/Medium grain glutinous rice
salt
stock (chicken, beef or veggie)
pork mince
garlic
water
crispy shallots or meat floss
lemon
olive oil
seasame oil
ginger
fish sauce (squid brand)

Preparation

You can make as much as you want and adjust the flavour to suit you. But here is a standard recipe for 4-6 people.

1. 2-3 cups of rice in pot. Fill with water 4-5 litres and boil.

2. While the rice is boiling (it will take over an hour to prepare) chop ginger thinly about the size of a match stick until you have an amount about a hand full, and put in with the boiling rice.

3. Add around 1 tbl sp of salt, 1 tbl sp/1 cube of stock and 1 tbl sp of sesame oil to rice.

4. In a seperate pan heat olive oil and add 2 cloves of chopped garlic. When oil is hot add 100g of minced pork. Stir the pork separating the pieces into small pieces and cook until done.

5. Add the minced pork to the boil.

6. Boil congee for around an hour, or until you get a thick glutinous soup with very soft rice.

7. When ready to serve, add fresh lemon juice, a splash of fish sauce, freshly chopped spring onions and garnished with crispy shallots (Malaysian/Indonesian style) or beef floss.

Ready to eat... Yum yum!!

When to Eat?

2007-05-23T20:08:00.001+10:00

Chinese Medical Body Clock

* Between 7am and 9am are the times when the spleen and stomach are in phase. This is why the Chinese say eat like a king in the morning, a prince at lunch, and a pauper at night.

* The most efficient time for your body to gain energy from food to set you up for the day is between 7 & 9am. Ever wondered why you have breakfast at 8am and your starving again at 10am, even after a huge breakfast? Then you have a big lunch at 12.30pm and feel lethargic, then the hunger will last till around 5pm. You ate the right amount at the right time in the morning and the body converted it well, but you ate too much and probably too many carbs at lunch time. Eating to 75% fullness is the best aim. Otherwise your body is too full and stagnation begins to occur.

* What if I don't feel like breakfast or breakfast makes me tired? Either your digestion is not strong with perhaps too much dampness and phlegm in your system, or your eating the wrong things. Try congee for breakfast.

Winter in the south

2007-05-23T19:37:00.000+10:00

Winter

Colour: Blue/Black
Smell: Putrid
Sound: Groaning/Moaning
Taste: Salty
Orifice: Ears
Tissue: Bones & Marrow
Fluid: Urine
Music: Violin/Trumpet
Planet: Mercury
Number: One & Six
Blind Point: Arrogance

Winter in Chinese Medicine is a time for storage. It is a time when the grains and produce of the previous season’s harvest are conserved for the cold months to come. As the seasons change, our body adapts and conserves its own grains and energies.
Winter is a time of reduced activity, introspection, rest and time for staying indoors, but it is still important to keep our bodies moving to stay limber and maintain a healthy circulation. Otherwise muscles can cramp, joints can become stiff and our health will suffer.

Staying Warm & Strong
Susceptibility to illness is increased in Winter. In Chinese Medicine our Wei Qi (immunity) fights off colds and flu’s. Wei qi, as termed in CM, is a warm energy that circulates on the surface of the body to protect us from invasion of illness. Wei Qi is especially nourished from the warmth of the stomach, which is why diet is so important in winter.
On the outside: back, chest and abdomen warm and covered to keep the Qi and blood circulating.
On the inside: Internal warmth is also important in winter. It strengthens the function of our organs to support a healthy immune system.
The ancient classic Chinese Medical text Nei Jing (inner cannon) advises that, In Winter it is better to go to sleep early and rise late when the sun’s rays have warmed the earth.

Diet Tip’s or Eating Well
As CM aims to balance disharmonies, eating certain foods with the appropriate properties, according to the seasons will encourage a balanced body. The basic properties of food are: nourishing/tonifying, hot/cold, pungent, sweet, purgative and neutral. The cold nature of winter means raw and cold foods should be taken cautiously and that warm cooked meals are best, warm drinks rather than cold and some alcohol can benefit. Warm water may also aid to moisten the mucosa of the upper respiratory tract, making it easier to expectorate lingering phlegm.
Food to Eat
Root vegetables: Turnips, potato, beets, carrots, burdock, daikon, sweet potato, parsnip. The reasoning for this is that the energy of the planet has returned down and internally back to the earth to regenerate before spring and the cycle returns and the energy outwardly expresses.
Herbs: Onions, scallion, garlic, and ginger root will all stimulate digestion and prevent colds. Mild spices like turmeric, fenugreek, coriander, fennel, cumin, white and black pepper, cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg.

Erection without sildenafil... MD's tackle ED

2007-03-09T16:25:00.000+11:00

The journal 'Medical Acupuncture' has an interesting article on acupuncture, moxibustion and light/music therapy treating erectile dysfunction.The conclusive results for the mono-patient treatments gained complete success in maintaing erection without the use of sildenafil. 25 - 35 acupuncture treatments were carried out. Frequency in one case was twice weekly for 5 weeks, then 25 treatments following. The correlating diagnosis in the two cases was a kidney yang deficiency.

Unfortunately there is not enough english translated text from China in the realm of andrology. I feel that reliable journals such as 'medical acupuncture' are useful sources, and at least a guide to frequency and duration of treatments. I mean, the points that were used in this study are common sense in regards to the condition and TCM, and anyone could look them up in any acupuncture book or internet. But often overlooked, and what is difficult for the green horn acupuncturist, is "ok, i know what points to use, but when my patient asks me 'how many times do you think i'll have to come back', i'ts a hard guess".

True, this knowledge or 'prediction' comes from experience, but you gotta start somewhere, and I think at least knowing a 'ball park' time limit helps. I mean, lets be straight, people generally want to know how long, how much and is it going to hurt. Fair questions, and most patients want the quickest, most effective and cheapest (in various positions on the ladder of importance) treatment.

However, digression aside, i found this article useful in terms of whats worked for people and how long it took.

Follow this link to: Acupuncture And MoxibustionFor Erectile DysfunctionW. Watere, MD Vol 15, #3

Cycling & Impotence....Does Saddle Type Matter??

2007-01-17T21:16:00.000+11:00

A study by the University of Cologne, Germany, researched that cycling while seated leads to compression of the perineal and penile arteries. Four different types of seats were tested; 1. Narrow, 2.Medium with 'V' padded groove, 3.Wide unpadded leather and 4.wide padded womens seat with no nose. The blood flow and pressure was recorded in 20 young athletic young men with no history of erectile dysfunction. The decreased percentage of blood flow from 1 to 4 was 82, 72, 64 and 20% respectively. Conclusively, the study showed that a bicycle seats that don't support the pelvic bones significantly decreases penile perfusion.

Testosterone...Do I need more?

2007-01-17T17:30:00.001+11:00

In a 2005 journal article by the international journal of andrology, a study explains the role of testosterone in erection. The study states that; 'Interstingly, both cyclic GMP (cGMP) formation and degradation are effected by testosterone (T)'. cGMP is a secondary messenger in the process of erection, where parasympathetic signalling releases nitric oxide (NO) which leads to an intracellular increase of cGMP.
It is well known that testosterone has an important role in libido and erection, however evidence from the study shows that T also regulates expression of phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), which is an enzyme involved in the breakdown of cGMP. Thus, testing the level of plasma T in patients who do not respond to PDE5 inhibitors (viagra), may be helpful.

'It should be considered that, both in animals and men, T acts mainly on sexual interests (Rocira et al., 2003; Vignozzi et al., 2005) and only partially on sexual potency'. 'Hence erections are possible without androgens, although less frequent because of the low sexual interest'.

Basically put, testosterone is, as in all bodily functions, most effective when in normal levels. Men can still have an erection when testosterone is low, but desire for sex is decraeased. Testosterone has an improtant role in the healthy growth of cavernous cell growth and normal levels synchronize sexual desire with erection. Testosterone also regulates the expression of PDE5, which is what stops cGMP (the one that makes the eretion happen), which is also what is targeted in drugs such as Viagra (c). So, in patients who use the little blue pill and it's not effective, tesosterone levels may be of use.

Morelli, A. et al,. (2005) Peripheral regulatory mechanisms in erection. International journal of andrology, 28 (Suppl.2): 23-27.

Clifton Karhu

2006-12-18T20:46:00.000+11:00

Categories of Libido and Erectile dysfuctions

2006-12-18T14:44:00.000+11:00

Erectile dysfunction can be divided into 2 broad categories of psychologic and organic, and often it is a mix, as most men with erectile dysfunction have an element of performance anxiety.

Organic Causes:
1. Vascular: Decreased blood flow to the penis. Decreased intrapenile circulation occurs, which can be through vascular problems (atherosclerosis, failure of nural or chemical factors), or occlusion from muscular tension/trigger points in perineal muscles. Venous leakage occurs with incomplete filling of the corpora, or from intracavernosal fibrosis, causing failure of the veins to shut against the tunica albuginea.
2. Hormonal Abnormalities: Most problems of a hormonal nature center around the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, and in rare cases maybe caused from tumours in this area. They generally are assosiated with excess prolactin or decreased testosterone. Other problems are hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, adrenal insufficiency and excessive adrenal corticosteroids Hypogonadism, or decreased production of free testosterone can be caused by mumps orchitis in early stages of development, auto-immune destruction of the testes or just decrease in testosterone from aging. One thing to be aware of with men suffering testosterone deficiency is poor sexual desire/performance, accompanied by osteoporosis, anemia, muscle weakness, depression and lassitude.
3. Neurologic Causes: Stroke, demyelinating disease (ALS, MS), seizures, spinal cord damage, nerve damage from diabetic autonomic neuropathy.
4. Medical Conditions: As mentioned previously, diabetes and demyelinating diseases are a big problem for ED. However any medical condition causing lack of energy and muscle/general weakness can attribute to low sexual desire and performance. Pelvic injury has found to be a quite common and very treatable condition treated effectively by physiotherapists for ED. Radiation therapy, tobacco, excessive alcohol also effect ED and microcirculation.
5. Drug-related Causes: Prescription and over the couter medications have been known to cause erectile problems. Some medications effect libido, some effect erectile & ejaculatory function. Some non-prescription medications such as antihistamines or decongestants, may effect erectile function. Most psychotropic and some antihypertensive drugs can affect libido, however they may also be beneficial in improving libido in depressed men.
Ketoconazole and aminoglutethimide: decrease testosterone production
Reserpine, Guanethidine, hydralazine: cause sexual dysfunction
b-adrenergic blockers: cause sexual problems
spironolactone, cimetidine, flutamide, cyproterone: may block peripheral androgen receptors.

Erectile dysfunction & coronary artery disease

2006-12-18T14:08:00.000+11:00

A study from the University of L'Aquila, Italy, correlates Erectile dysfunction as a possible warning sign in old age for coronary artery disease.
In summary, the article titled 'Vascular aetiology of erectile dysfunction', says:
'Erectile dysfunction (ED) shares the same vascular risk factors (VRF's) with coronary artery disease (CAD). A reduced biological activity of endothelium-derived nitric oxide links human atherosclerosis to ED and underscores the role of an altered endothelium in the pathogenesis of both conditions. ED is associated to a systemic endothelial cell activation/dysfunction independent from VRF's or from a diffuse vascular damage, indicating that ED is a marker of an early systemic endothelial damage, a relevant determinant of atherosclerosis.' Complications related to atherosclerosis and the correlation between ED and CAD should especially be a concern in patients with microalbuminuria, diabetes, hypertension, LDL cholesterol more than 160 mg/dL, low levels of HDL and a smoker.
Full Article: 'Vascular aetiology of erectile dysfunction', International journal of andrology, 28 (Suppl.2):35-39 (2005)

Story of the lost Baculum... Premature ejaculation Vs. Erectile dysfunction. A Correlation

2006-12-12T14:15:00.000+11:00

Evolution... You win some, you lose some.

Through evolution, if you believe in it, or dared to debate your university anatomy teacher about, we have gained some useless appendages (ie. appendix) and lost some maybe useful bones (baculum). The baculum, possibly where the term "boner" was derived, was the penile bone used to assist erection. In animals, sexual intercourse is usually a brief episode (Hong, 1984), and the male genitalia is designed to ejaculate quickly. This is basically a procreative survival mechanism, to get in and get out as quickly as possible, before the alpha-ape comes to club you while doing the business. Chimpanzees actually last 6 seconds for this reason.
In a study by the international journal of andrology, a study was designed to postulate a correlation between ejaculatory and erectile dysfunction. As part of their diagnosis it was stated: ...'It could be inferred that premature ejaculation (PE) and erectile dysfunction (ED) share a vicious circle, where a man trying to control his ejaculation instinctively reduces his level of excitation (which can lead to ED) and a man trying to achieve an erection basically attempts to increase his excitation (which can lead to PE). It was concluded in the study that PE is a hidden condition and a symptom of numerous medical pathologies, and frequently complicated by ED. In some cases to lack of attraction or loss of libido towards the partner, unwanted penetration, led to a want to ejaculate quickly. This led to a pattern of early ejaculation (PE) and was clinically explained to the doctor as a case of ED. An interesting study, stressing the importance of increased medical awareness as to underlying causes of erectile and ejaculatory dysfunctions.
Correlation between ejaculatory and erectile dysfunction, International journal of andrology, 28 (Suppl. 2): 45-45 (2005). E.A. Jannini, F. Lombardo and A. Lenzi.

Pelvic Floor Muscle Activity in Erectile Function

2006-12-12T13:26:00.000+11:00

A recent randomised controlled trial of the effect of pelvic floor muscle exercise treatment or erectile dysfunction (ED), shows promising results. The British Journal of General Practice compared the efficacy of pelvic floor muscle exercises and manometric biofeedback with lifestyle changes for men with ED.
The results showed that, at 3 & 6months, out of 77, 22 men gained normal function (40%), 19 (34.5%) had improved erectile function and 14 (25.5%) failed to improve.

For reference: Authors Dorey G Speakman M. Feneley R.Swinkels A. Dunn C. Ewings P. The Somerset Nuttfield Hospital, Taunton, UK. grace.dorey@virgin.net
Sorce: British Journal of General Practice. 54(508):819-25, 2004 Nov.

For some advice on pelvic floor exercises for men, visit: BBC

Welcome!

2006-12-06T19:27:00.000+11:00

Welcome to the first edition of 'Your Health & Chinese Medicine'. It is my hope that this blog will benefit the interest's of patients, practitioners, student's and people just generally interested in maintaining their health and well being.
This blog will cover modern research and ancient methods of health preservation, focusing on Chinese medical treatments, especially men's health and fertility.
I hope you enjoy reading and find the information useful.
Enjoy!