Medical Case Studies

Patient History: 

Subject suffered from chronic acne breakouts over face.     

Patient interview revealed lack of Omega 3 fatty acids, excess consumption of Omega 6 fatty acids, trans fatty acids and refined sugar (cookies, chocolate bars, and other junk food -multiple sources).

Intervention: 

Problem foods eliminated or avoided.  Fresh vegetable intake increased.  Therapeutic daily doses of 1.5 tablespoons flax oil (freshly pressed, non-heated, organic, nitrogen sealed), and 70,000 IUs emulsified Vitamin A for 1 week.  

Maintenance dose of flax oil 3 x per week thereafter. 

Results: 

Acne began to clear up within days, and skin healed within 3 weeks.

Patient History

Subject suffered from chronic breakouts primarily around nose and cheeks.  Symptoms reduced with use of topical medication.  

Patient interview revealed lack of Omega3 fatty acids, excess consumption of Omega 6 fatty acids (vegetable oils and potato chips), trans fatty acids (potato chips), and refined sugar (multiple sources). 

Intervention

Problem foods eliminated or avoided.  Vegetable intake increased.  Vitamin and mineral supplementation added.  Therapeutic daily doses of 1.5 tablespoons flax oil (freshly pressed organic, nitrogen sealed) and 70,000 IUs emulsified Vitamin A for 1 week.   

Maintenance dose of Flax oil 3 x per week thereafter. 

Results

Acne completely cleared up and skin fully healed within 15 days.  This subject wrote the following:  “I incorporated all of your suggestions and I am so thrilled with the results.  My skin has totally cleared up, I’ve lost at least 10 pounds, I no longer crave any sugar or processed food, and mentally I feel so calm and clear headed.”

Patient History: 

Subject was an extremely fit professional hockey player who used metabolic testing to determine appropriate doses of supplemental nutrients required for enhanced performance in pro sport: ie. vitamins, minerals, fatty-acids, amino-acids and other nutrients.  His resting morning heart rate was normally 42- 44 BPM.  

However, at one point in a season he began to develop numerous symptoms: tired upon waking, chronic fatigue, muscle weakness, inability to recover form training, irregular heart rate, and an inability to shake a common cold.  

Suspected cause: 

Previous HTMAs on file demonstrated a history of low reference ranges for intracellular potassium, sodium, and phosphorus.  The subject’s interview regarding his recent lifestyle habits further revealed sporadic periods without adequate sleep, chronic over training, and excess consumption of caffeine, all which may have led to diminished adrenal function which can cause the above symptoms.  This was confirmed with measurements of blood pressure and pulse — taken first while lying down and then standing (postural reading) — a simple test of the adrenal gland’s ability to efficiently regulate normal blood pressure changes required for normal movement and changes in body position. 

(In that test the subject lies down flat for 10-15 minutes to allow pulse and blood pressures to drop very close to full resting levels.  This is confirmed by taking multiple readings, i.e.: at 5, 8, 10, and 12 minutes after lying down.  When the readings are no longer dropping and stabilize in a specific range, the desired blood pressure and pulse required to perform the test have been achieved.  Those last 2 or 3 reading are noted.  Then the subject stands, and the postural blood pressure and pulse are recorded immediately.  If adrenal function is normal, postural blood pressure will rise 10-20mmHg, and pulse will only rise 0-10 BPM, as the adrenal glands respond to secret hormone necessary to constrict blood vessels, increase BP, and ensure efficient blood flow to the brain (which is then no longer level with the heart, but instead a foot or so above it when standing). 

Every 10mmHg below the normal increase of 10-20mm that should be seen, indicates an increasingly severe case of hypoadrenia.  This test can be done at home with any electronic machine that records pulse and requires no pumping — as the subject must remain perfectly still and relaxed when doing this test.  An associated dizziness or lightheadedness may also be present when you stand, so do this test with someone besides you, or have something you can grab on to you in case you become dizzy or lightheaded.)   

When lying down, this subject’s resting blood pressure & pulse taken were measured at 110/60 and 60 respectively.  Upon standing, instead of rising 10 points, his postural BP fell to 80/50 and his pulse rose to 85, revealing the inability of the adrenal glands to respond to constrict his blood vessels and thereby efficiently drive blood to the head.  The systolic BP was 40 points below normal, and pulse was 25 BPM above normal, indicating severe adrenal exhaustion.  Despite little exertion upon standing, his heart-rate was forced to quickly increase by 42% to keep him from getting dizzy. 

Intervention: 

Additional 2-3 hours of bed rest; or 10 - 11 hours total sleep per day.  All strenuous exercise, except very light walking and stretching, prohibited for 5 days.  Intake of Vitamin C increased to 1/2 bowel tolerance.  Intake of sodium, potassium, and phosphates all increased.  One cup per day of freshly made vegetable juice: spinach, parsley, celery, carrot, garlic for 10 days.  All alcohol, stimulants, sweets, and refined foods were eliminated while healing.

Results: 

Adrenal function and related blood pressure & pulse indicators returned to within 95% of normal within 4 days.  Normal EKG and heart beat restored.  

Although advised to continue the regimen for another 1-2 days to achieve full recovery, and avoid a relapse, this athlete began light retraining at that point, so it took another 10 days after that for he to achieve a full recovery of his adrenal function.  

Note: The same athlete had a relapse 2 years later, and once again it was due to a combination of lack of sleep, over-training, caffeine use, and occasional binge eating of sweets. 

Recovery from adrenal fatigue in less conditioned patients can take a few weeks, and potentially much longer if disciplined adherence to therapy is not maintained.  

For additional information on the diagnosis and treatment of adrenal fatigue, see Adrenal Fatigue, The 21st Century Stress Syndrome, James L. Wilson, N.D., D.C., Ph.D., Forward by Jonathan V. Wright, M.D.

Patient History: 

This pro hockey player began to develop heavy legs followed by a rapid build up of lactic acid when skating.  This had frequently been a problem on and off throughout his career.  As discussed below, this was determined to be primarily due to a subclinical anemia related to imbalances of iron, zinc, and copper. 

The trace elements iron, zinc, and copper directly, or indirectly, affect thousands of critical enzyme reactions affecting almost every aspect of human health & physiology including oxygen transportation, immune system function, hormone balance, detoxification, and many other critical functions.  

Further, dietary intakes of iron, zinc, and copper all affect each other’s absorption. More so, those individual absorption rates are affected by both the relative and absolute levels of each mineral, both in the food eaten, and by what is already in storage in the body.  Collectively all these factors impact the corresponding physiological functions each of those minerals affects within the body.  

This being the case, it’s not surprising that most common health problems are usually directly or indirectly affected to some degree by imbalances between these three critical elements.  For this reason, these nutrient levels and balances should always be carefully monitored in any full-time athlete or highly active person.  

The average healthy body has 2.5 - 4 g of iron, 2 - 3 g of zinc, but just 100 mg of copper.  

What is important to recognize is that this relatively small requirement for copper — in comparison to iron and zinc — means that copper levels must be maintained within a relatively narrow optimum range (compared to most other nutrients), if functions related to copper, zinc, and iron are to occur in an optimum manner.  And unless one is using metabolic testing, this optimum level of copper is very tricky to achieve without a very strong knowledge of nutrition and the symptoms of copper excess or deficiency.

As relates to this narrow range and anemia specifically, too little copper prevents the proper re-absorption of iron already in the body.  Too much copper prevents additional absorption of iron from food.

This individual’s HTMA showed a significant excess of copper in his tissues, which was due to a large intake of seeds, nuts, and nut butters.  The resulting high tissue copper level was antagonistic to iron absorption and was made worse by regular consumption of coffee which also inhibits iron absorption.  High tissue copper interferes with zinc uptake and testosterone production, reducing the potential for recovery after training.  High tissue copper also enhances tissue calcium accumulation which inhibits intracellular potassium, sodium, and phosphorus uptake, which slows metabolic rate and cellular ability to produce energy.

Intervention: 

Increased potassium, iron, and zinc supplementation, and reduction of nut butter, seed and coffee intake. 

Results: 

Due to his very high metabolism, within 48 hours this athlete’s metabolism responded and within a few days had fully renormalized.  

Important Note: Anemia can also result from an excess of zinc, which can cause a copper deficiency, which will also prevent the proper absorption of iron.  See next case study.

Patient History: 

When skating, this pro hockey player began to re-develop a syndrome where his legs became less responsive and heavy, followed by a rapid build up of lactic acid.  This had frequently been a problem throughout his career, and previously had been due to an excess of copper which was interfering with iron absorption and many related metabolic functions in the body (see previous case study).

Research, Testing & Analysis:

The trace elements iron, zinc, and copper directly, or indirectly, affect thousands of critical enzyme reactions affecting almost every aspect of human health & physiology including oxygen transportation, immune system function, hormone balance, detoxification, and many other critical functions.  

Further, dietary intakes of iron, zinc, and copper all affect each other’s absorption. More so, those individual absorption rates are affected by both the relative and absolute levels of each mineral, both in the food eaten, and by what is already in storage in the body.  Collectively all these factors   impact the corresponding physiological functions each of those minerals affects within the body.   

This being the case, it’s not surprising that most common health problems are usually directly or indirectly affected to some degree by imbalances between these three critical elements.  For this reason, these nutrient levels and balances should always be carefully monitored in any full-time athlete or highly active person.  

The average healthy body has 2.5 - 4 g of iron, 2 - 3 g of zinc, but just 100 mg of copper.  

What is important to recognize is that this relatively small requirement for copper — in comparison to iron and zinc — means that copper levels must be maintained within a relatively narrow optimum range (compared to most other nutrients), if functions related to copper, zinc, and iron are to occur in an optimum manner.  And unless one is using metabolic testing, this optimum level of copper is very tricky to achieve without a very strong knowledge of nutrition and the symptoms of copper excess or deficiency.

As relates to this narrow range and anemia specifically, too little copper prevents the proper re-absorption of iron already in the body.  Too much copper prevents additional absorption of iron from food.

In the past this individual’s observed symptoms (which included hyperactivity and frequent colds and skin rashes) indicated potential for excess copper.  Subsequent HTMAs had shown a significant excess of copper in his tissues, which was determined to be due to a voracious intake of seeds, nuts, and nut butters.  The resulting high tissue copper level was antagonistic to iron absorption and was made worse by regular consumption of coffee which also inhibits iron absorption.  High tissue copper interferes with zinc uptake and testosterone production, reducing the potential for recovery after training.  High tissue copper also enhances tissue calcium accumulation which inhibits intracellular potassium, sodium, and phosphorus uptake, which slows metabolic rate and cellular ability to produce energy.

Due to his very high metabolism, once the athlete increased his potassium, iron, and zinc intake, and reduced his intake of nut butter, seeds, and coffee, his metabolism significantly responded within 48 hours and began to normalize.  Subsequent metabolic testing showed that the desired increase in intracellular potassium allowed his intracellular sodium levels to rise and normalize as well.   

(Note: A few months later this athlete’s energy levels were improved further with additional phosphorus intake.) 

Once this athlete’s previously depleted iron and zinc tissue stores had re-accumulated, he no longer needed higher therapeutic amounts of those nutrients to prevent future depletion from occurring due to active training.  As well, since his diet while on the road traveling was constantly changing, this athlete required regular metabolic testing to confirm and/ or adjust the balance of his nutrient intake.

However, for one period of more than 8 months that athlete went without any metabolic testing.  As higher levels of zinc supplementation had previously been so beneficial to him, he maintained his intake of zinc.  However, he began to exhibit signs of copper deficiency (rising LDL cholesterol levels, falling hemoglobin of 13.5 gm/dl vs normal of 14-18 gm/dl, and the same symptoms of sub-clinical anemia).  An initial HTMA showed high levels of copper, which initially indicated low copper might not be the problem.  However, as the symptoms persisted, another set of tests was done which included enthrocyte (red blood cell - RBC) copper and zinc.  Despite another high HTMA copper reading, the RBC copper was border-line low relative to a normal reference range.  Because the RBC zinc was middle normal, and red blood cell copper is required for normal hemoglobin metabolism, and because an athlete’s needs for some nutrients are sometimes higher than the normal reference range, this lower RBC copper reading indicated the athlete might be copper deficient despite the high HTMA. 

Intervention: 

The athlete’s zinc intake was eliminated for 2 weeks, and copper supplementation was cautiously begun at a somewhat lower therapeutic level than normal due to the high HTMA.  Two weeks later, this therapeutic copper intake was reduced by 1/3rd, and his zinc intake was recommenced at half the previous level. 

Results: 

Within 36 hours he began to recover his stamina, and subsequent blood tests saw hemoglobin return to normal with regular supplementation of iron, zinc, and copper.  Because of his very demanding training schedule, high tissue & hemoglobin regeneration needs, and unusually high metabolism, this high level of supplementation was required to maintain — among many other functions — adequate oxygen delivery (iron dependant), hormone synthesis (zinc dependant), and iron absorption (copper dependant).

This is one of the most common afflictions facing (1) overly-hard-working people, and (2) others with stressful problems they are unable to resolve.  In almost every case of the many dozens we have seen, the anxiety has been cured or significantly alleviated with nutritional supplementation, and lifestyle modifications.

Typical Patient History: 

The person is usually working or training too hard, and/or consuming alcohol, and/or experiencing business / personal / family related stress.  This combination of factors usually results in a gradual depletion of the body’s nutrient reserves, producing anxiety and disturbed sleep patterns.  The anxiety makes it more difficult to think logically, and make pragmatic decisions necessary to solve challenges, thereby making the anxiety worse and feeding a viscous circle, which depletes nutrient reserves even further.  Consumption of comforting junk foods just makes the problem worse.

Treatment Advised:

Magnesium depletion is usually the principle nutrient factor behind the development of anxiety.  Magnesium is easily depleted by exercise, intense thinking, consumption of refined sugars and/or other junk foods.   

The B vitamins, vitamin C, zinc and other synergistic nutrients are also important co factors in magnesium metabolism and the related metabolic processes that prevent stress-related reactions and anxiety.  However, while these cofactors are usually readily available in most vitamin and mineral formulations, bio-availbale magnesium is usually not.  This is because there are only a few forms of magnesium which are absorbed and utilized efficiently by the body, and most magnesium supplements available for sale are in the wrong biochemical forms for efficient absorption.  As a result many people taking magnesium supplementation do not realize the intended benefits.

Calcium deficiency can also cause similar symptoms.  Metabolic testing is the best way to determine which deficiencies and or toxicities may be causing the anxiety. 

Successful and rapid treatment of anxiety may require a combination of nutrients & supplementation, moderate exercise, and a plan to proactively deal with whatever outside stress is affecting the patient.  However, In many of the case studies we have seen, often just the nutritional changes were necessary to provide the patient with the more relaxed & sound thinking required to solve the problems that initially caused the anxiety.

Patient History: 

About six years earlier this case study subject began to notice heart palpitations after going for a run or after lying down.  Over the next few years it became more frequent and would happen two or three times per day. He was alarmed and went to his doctor who referred him to a well known heart specialist in Montreal.  He was then put through stress tests, ultra-sounds, 24 hour heart rate monitors with the conclusion that he had a heart arrhythmia that he could not explain, but that it was a benign type and that he should go home and relax and “be glad you are alive every day when you wake up”.

He did this but the stress of the daily palpitations wore on him and he met with another heart specialist who also concluded It was stress and that the patient was not to worry.  He then met with a heart surgeon in New York state who again said the same thing.  The subject noticed over time that the palpitations increased in frequency and happened more and more when he was in a prone position at any time of day or night.

Suspected cause and treatment advised:

The 2-3 times daily palpitations ceased as soon as the subject began the supplementation.  In the first month since he began the protocol he had just one palpitation.  In communication to us he said, “I am finding out now how stressed I was over this because I feel as though a dark cloud has been lifted. Every time I lie down I expect something to happen and then it doesn’t. What a great feeling. The stress relief is huge.”

The subject also chronic reflux problems for the past three years and did not have another episode since beginning the nutritional intervention.  He no longer needed medication and told us that he felt  the best he had in years. When he had a massage and it was the first time ever that there were no knots in his back that had to be worked on extensively to relieve. He began t ramp up his training level for competitive squash.  The subject made it to the World Doubles Squash final in the Mens 40s the following year.

Patient History: 

If this individual exercised too hard he would frequently suffer attacks of atrial fibrillation where his heart rate would soar to 200+ bpm and stay there for a minute or longer before the electrical function of his heart would return to normal.   

Suspected cause and treatment advised:

Individual’s poor diet and lack of conditioning were causing several problems.  One, under strenuous exercise, his bloodstream was easily depleted of oxygen.  Second, his intracellular tissues were probably low on magnesium, as his less-than-optimum diet would not provide this.  This could lead to excess intracellular calcium, which would lead to premature atrial contractions, as well as mal-functioning of the magnesium-dependant SA node, which senses oxygen levels in blood returning to the heart. 

When exercising he would push himself too far, further depleting his venous blood of oxygen, thereby causing the SA node to signal the heart to pump rapidly beyond its capacity.  As his heart reached beyond it’s capacity (about 160 bpm) it would suddenly and dramatically loose its ability to pump blood due to the ineffective atrial quivering caused by chaotic conduction of electrical signals through the upper chambers of the heart.  

This would further reduce the flow of oxygen-depleted blood past the SA node, causing the SA node to signal the heart to pump even faster.  During this period of ineffective pumping his heart rate would very rapidly sore to 205-215 bpm and stay there for a minute or two.  After resting, his heart would finally subside from this dangerous, inefficient state as his returning venous blood gradually recovered enough oxygen to allow the SA node to signal the heart to beat more slowly, allowing his heart’s atrial mechanics to return to normal. 

To counter this he was started on gradual exercise, the consumption of omega 3 fatty acids to improve oxygen transport throughout his body, and magnesium aspartate to rebalance intracellular magnesium and reduce intracellular calcium, necessary to prevent premature atrial contractions and mal-functioning of the SA node.

Results: 

Palpitations and arrhythmia were much better immediately.  Within 3 weeks significant improvement was achieved while exercising due to improved blood oxygen levels that resulted from omega 3 supplementation and more efficient use of oxygen by his muscle cells due to nutrition & exercise program.  The arrhythmia was fully eliminated within 6 weeks.

Patient History: 

The subject had lost almost all of her capacity to produce breast milk to feed her 4 month old baby.

Suspected cause and treatment advised:

The subject was a new mother who was concerned about loosing the additional weight she had put on during her pregnancy.  To loose weight while breast feeding, she had begun training for a marathon and had eliminated many sources of fats and oils from her diet which are necessary for. Over a period of 4-5 weeks she began to gradually loose her capacity to produce breast milk.

It was explained to her that she needed to immediately restore a rich source of essential and other fatty acids necessary to produce a rich breast milk.  She was also advised to quit the marathon training until she was done lactating, as it was consuming too much energy required for generating milk, and might also be affecting hormonal balances necessary for lactation.  She replaced the marathon training with yoga to remain active.

Results: 

Prior to the intervention the subject was having a difficult time pumping 1 oz at night.   But her milk supply came back quickly. Within a few weeks she was pumping 4 oz.

Chronic back pain is one of the more common problems seen.  Paragon has solved dozens of similar cases, most of which have been related to excess stress, deficiencies of magnesium, B-complex, zinc and other synergistic nutrients.  The problem is usually initially triggered when the individual uses his/her back without adequate warm-up, and then strains its, putting the affected muscles into spasm.  From there the problem usually worsens due to lack of proper therapy and nutrition.

Even those with disc degeneration can benefit and possibly even heal, as specific nutrients are required to relax the muscles which are compressing the discs.  Once the nutrients allow the damaging pressure to be removed, the disc can begin to heal with therapeutic nutrition and hot and cold hydrotherapy which can be done at home. 

Patient History: 

The subject was suffering from chronic sciatica and lower back pain. “Constantly felt like there was a hot coal in my upper right glute.” Had also been diagnosed with disc degeneration in the lower back.  Was told by specialist that he would need disc surgery to solve the problem.

Suspected cause and treatment advised:

Subject was highly stressed at work, not eating or hydrating properly, not excising properly, and having difficulty sleeping.  In addition he was consuming alcohol which further depletes the nutrients and water required to relax the affected back and glute muscles, and for proper sleep.  Subject was also wearing hard soled business shoes on long daily walks to work.

A HTMA confirmed the suspected nutrient imbalances.  Subject was advised to temporarily avoid all alcohol and refined sugar, to make other dietary changes, and to supplement with therapeutic dosages of magnesium vitamin C, B vitamins, and zinc until the back was healed.  He also began smaller normal  dosages of vitamin E and selenium as indicated by HTMA.  Subject was also advised to change shoes, do a few basic stretches and squats — increasing the range as he became more capable — and to do hot and cold hydrotherapy upon rising and prior to sleeping.

Subject did not eat fish.  This was contributing to the lack of muscle strength and development of memory problems.  He was advised to supplement his diet with Krill and Flax oils in order to nourish the brain with clean sources of Omega 3 fatty acids.  Additional zinc and B6 would allow enzyme synthesis of the complex brain fats from the simple omega 3s in the Flax oil. 

Results: 

Patient’s back began to loosen immediately, but did not fully recover for another 8 weeks.  The muscles required gradual strengthening, and the subject had a few setbacks due to excessive alcohol consumption.  But eventually he loosened and strengthened all the muscles, and now has no problems.  His ability to handle his stress calmly was made possible with the supplementation.  The proposed back surgery was  unnecessary.

Patient History: 

4 month old baby girl was suffering from bloating and colic.  Mother was conscientious eater, and confused as to why this was happening. 

Suspected Causes and Recommended Interventions: 

The bloating indicated that this case of colic could be related to inability to fully digest excess sugar or some other component of the mother’s milk.  

The mother was interviewed  to determine whether she was inadvertently digesting too many refined sugars.  While most of her food choices were excellent, there were three foods (being consumed pretty much daily) with a total of 45 grams of added sugar that might have been contributing to the problem — organic granola bar (15g), organic fruit yogurt — cow (15g) , and some biscuits (15g).

The mother was advised to discontinue all three, and just in case milk proteins were the problem, she was also advised to substitute easily digested goat yogurt with added fresh fruit.  

Results: 

Within four days the colic had disappeared.

Patient History: 

Patient was experiencing chronic fatigue, low blood pressure, little skin eruptions, sporadic asthma, and cardiac arrhythmia.  

Suspected cause and interventions:

The patient interview revealed excessive consumption of cheese, and large predator fish like swordfish and tuna.  Her Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA) also showed very high tissue levels of calcium & copper, and low levels of potassium, magnesium, iron, manganese, and zinc, all of which contribute to lowered metabolic rate and fatigue.  HTMA also showed highly elevated mercury, most likely from contaminated fish oils from sword fish, tuna, and EPA / DHA supplements.  Mercury contamination interferes with heme oxygen transport, causing fatigue and other problems.  It can also contribute to skin eruptions as the body works to clear itself through the skin’s pores.  Fortunately the patient was not yet showing any neurological symptoms associated with acute mercury toxicity.

The HTMA results explained why she suffering from fatigue and had significantly slowed metabolism.  This patient’s love of cheese and dairy were causing potassium and magnesium deficiencies — slowing metabolism and causing collection of copper.  As well her clinical HTMA profile indicated potential for hypoglycemia, low blood pressure, and irregular heartbeat, as well as copper related anemia, skin problems, and food allergies.  Magnesium deficiency often contributes to asthma as well.

The patient was given dietary and supplement recommendations to improve her metabolic state.  She was advised to continue to get regular easy/moderate exercise (3-5 times per week 20-30min), and to keep her lymph system clean and moving with moderate exercise while she was eliminating the mercury that has been collecting for many years.

Results: 

Within weeks she began to notice significantly increased energy levels, reduction of skin problems, and overall improvement in her health. 5 years later, at age 42 this patient gave birth to a healthy 7 pound boy.

Patient History: 

Patient is suffering from a very severe 12 year case of Chronic Pancreatitis, a debilitating potentially life-threatening disease in which stones accumulate in the pancreas, blocking the pancreatic duct, preventing passage of digestive enzymes necessary to digest food, and more problematically, causing the digestive breakdown of the pancreatic tissue about the blocked duct.  The patient, 32, is in serious but stable condition, 6’4” tall, weighs just 132lbs, and is prone to constant attacks which often leave him hospitalized.  Measuring 1 inch in diameter, his pancreatic duct and the pancreatic tissue around it has been severely eroded, and is full of stones.  The patient suffers another attack and is hospitalized.  His doctors advise removing most of his diseased pancreas. 

Intervention:

Paragon’s medical team is asked to intervene and asked to research a method to reverse the patient’s condition.  Bock does 200 hours of research, both on the disease, and on how this patient’s metabolic test results relate to his disease.  That research also quickly reveals the intense controversy & confusion within the medical field as to the causes of Chronic Pancreatitis and the different stones generated. 

Bock’s intensive research effort generates a new theory as to the nutrition-related cause of most cases of chronic pancreatitis.  Paragon then provides the patient’s medical team a preliminary targeted nutritional intervention in an attempt to:

• stabilize the pancreas to prevent its removal

• help dissolve and pass the stones accumulated there

• prevent the future accumulation of stones

• enhance the patient’s ability to digest and absorb food 

Results:

Within weeks the patient begins a remarkable and unexpected recovery after 12 years of steady deterioration.  Within 3 months, and without the use of anabolic steroids, the patient gains 35 pounds of lean muscle mass, and accomplishes 20 pull-ups — a strength level few full-time athletes achieve.  A barium test done at that point shows unprecedented recovery of circulation and regeneration in previously diseased pancreatic tissue.  The patient remains in full health today.

Patient History: 

Patient was suffering from intense headaches, debilitating insomnia, and chronic fatigue.   The headaches were so severe that she had to quit school for several months and was confined to bed for 10-13 hours per day, although she was unable to sleep for more than a few hours at any given time.  Any cerebral activity such as reading or computer use would trigger the headaches.  

A battery of tests were performed by various specialists, as her mother worked in the pharmaceutical industry and had access to all the best care.  However, the only conventional medical intervention that provided any relief from the headaches were antibiotic treatments.  Yet as soon as the antibiotics were discontinued the headaches would return. 

Suspected Causes and Recommended Interventions:

The fact that the antibiotic worked, albeit temporarily, indicated that her condition was at least in part bacterial in nature, even though the only sites of bacterial infection appeared to be somewhere in her cranial cavity, and in her mouth (14 new dental carries after never having any).  Bacterial infections often are caused by excess consumption of simple or refined sugars. 

An in-depth patient interview revealed that her extremely poor diet contained a very high percentage of refined sugar and transfatty acids.  

Paragon recommended an initial HTMA to determine other potential dietary and related metabolic issues.  The report from the intracellular tissue analysis predicted most of her symptoms, indicated severe potassium and magnesium deficiencies, a relative zinc deficiency (all which were missed by her blood tests), as well as several other mineral and vitamin imbalances.  These were addressed with a mix of synergistic supplements, EFAs, and dietary changes.

Achieving the dietary changes involved teaching this young person how to eat properly for the first time.   

Further, to monitor the effects of these dietary changes on her condition, she was instructed to keep a log, and to email it to be reviewed by Paragon’s research team at least once a week.

Results: 

Fully recovered by 8 weeks:  Sleep began to normalize immediately.  Within 2 weeks the headaches were gone.  Began part-time return to school within 6 weeks.  Began swimming training.  Took summer job as lifeguard.  Re-enrolled in school the following semester.

Patient History: 

The patient was a former NHL hockey player who was in tremendous physical shape and trained vigorously most days.  However he had developed recurring diverticular disease.  Diverticulitis develops from diverticulosis, which involves the formation of pouches (diverticula) on the outside of the colon.  Diverticulitis results if one of these diverticula becomes inflamed.  

The patient had five episodes of Diverticulitis in a three year period, and was experiencing intense pain followed by explosive diarrhea.  Three of the episodes required hospitalization.  After the last period of hospitalization, the patient’s GP indicated that the only way to solve this recurring problem was through surgery.  He referred the patient to a colorectal surgeon who, after several examinations and numerous tests, agreed that a sigmoid colon resection was the only answer.  A friend of his suggested that he contact Paragon about alternative solutions.

Suspected Causes and Interventions: 

The patient interview revealed that in addition to poor dietary habits, he was playing evening hockey, and then having a few beers with team-mates after the game.  

The poor diet and intense exercise followed by beer was causing several problems: (1) a dehydration from sweating and alcohol, and (2) a depletion of magnesium required for involuntary smooth colonic muscle function that together were causing constipation.  Skeletal muscle required for sport, and the metabolism of refined carbohydrates like beer, both require magnesium.  This was leading to a lack of magnesium required for normal colonic muscle function.   (3) The beer after playing was also feeding intestinal bacteria that were generating a build up of gas that was becoming trapped between the constipated meals / bowel movements within the colon at a given time.  That gas pressure was leading to the formation of diverticula, which were becoming infected with pathogenic bacteria. 

Temporary elimination of problem sugars and alcohol would be needed to reduce the generation of pathogenic bacteria in the gut.  Additional magnesium would be required to reestablish proper colon function.  Balanced  consumption of essential fatty acids, and other beneficial nutrients would be required to heal the colon, and to ensure the formation of normal softer stools.

Results: 

Upon colorectal examination 5 weeks later there was no sign of any diverticular disease.  The dietary changes prescribed have since become part of the patient’s everyday living.  Twelve years later there have been no issues, and the patient continues to pursue his very active athletic lifestyle with more energy than he had previously.

Typical Patient History:

There are several common scenarios that produce depression in patients today, all of which are ultimately preventable and treatable through targeted therapeutic nutrition.  This requires determining a proper balance of fatty acids, amino acids, minerals, and vitamins which are all required to ensure a properly functioning and stable neuro-biochemistry.   

The most common cause of mild to severe depression Paragon now sees is the result of an unbalanced “mostly vegetarian” diet —  which can be: 

1. too high in dairy products, copper, and calcium relative to important nutrient counterparts, and which:  

   • slows patient metabolism 

   • contributes to an underactive thyroid, and 

   • contributes to emotional behaviour;

2. lacking balanced protein, particularly if the patient does not know how to mix vegetarian foods to assure adequate protein intake; and/or 

3. too high in carbohydrates and refined carbohydrates.

Regardless of whether one is vegan, vegetarian, or eating meat, a lack of balanced protein intake affects neurotransmitter synthesis and function necessary for stable mental function.

Also very common, a deficiency of omega 3 fatty acids can cause depression, as additional sunlight required for full energy and mental health is stored in the multiple double-bonds of omega 3 fatty acids.  These fatty-acids are required for any person working in any environment and/or living at any latitude with limited year round exposure to adequate sunlight.  They are critical to enhancing oxygen transport & utilization within the body and are necessary to generate higher levels of energy required to meet the challenges faced in life.  Scientists at the National Institutes of Health associated the increase in depression in North America during the last century with the decline in consumption of DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) during the same period.  Although many stresses of modern life contribute to the prevalence of depression, Joseph R. Hibbeln, M.D., and Norman Salem, Jr., Ph.D., concluded in 1995 that the “relative deficiencies in essential fatty acids may also intensify vulnerability to depression.”  They also pointed to lower rates of major depression in societies that consume large amounts of fish, a key dietary source of DHA.  North American and European populations showed cumulative rates of depression 10 times greater than a Taiwanese population that consumed a lot of fish.  The Japanese, whose diet is rich in fish, have a significantly lower prevalence of depression compared to North America and Europe.¹ Belgium researchers at Antwerp’s University Hospital found that seriously depressed patients had lower omega-3 fatty acid levels than mildly depressed patients.²

As well, patients who do not eat a properly balanced diet and consume too many junk foods can first succumb to anxiety, which is often initially misdiagnosed as depression.  However, such anxiety left untreated can ultimately lead to depression if the grind of that daily anxiety gets to be too much for certain individuals.

Uncontrolled stress and/or substance abuse can deplete the body of nutrients leading to depression and other mental illness and problems.  

Treatment usually advised:

Paragon normally uses a patient interview and HTMA to determine whether there are absolute and/or relative mineral imbalances and/or other food deficiencies which are known through clinical research to predispose the subject to depression.  If the results of such a preliminary analysis are inconclusive, or if the patient continues to suffer depression after preliminary treatment, we next recommend comprehensive metabolic testing to properly asses (1) fatty acid balance, (2) amino acid balance necessary for proper neurotransmitter function, and (3) other important bio-chemical function supporting normal neurological function. 

(Note: Toxicity problems related to modern pollution affect most foods found higher in the food chain.  The potential for concentration, or bio-magnification, of toxins is significant and cause for concern.

The US EPA estimates that fish can accumulate up to 9 million times the levels of PCBs in the water in which they live and feed.³ Moreover, half of the world’s fish catch is fed to livestock (including farmed fish), where toxins get further concentrated again by the animals eating them.⁴

As well, because the vast majority of industrial chemical production is petroleum derived, many toxic compounds are fat-soluble and can store in fatty tissues.  These residues concentrate in fat based animals at the top of the food chain.  It has been estimated that 90-95% of all the pesticide sprayed on conventional food concentrates in meat, fish and dairy products, or animals highest in the food chain.⁴ We are the highest such animals.

As humans (and animals) have not evolved the necessary enzymes to efficiently process such toxins, we do not have much capacity within our lymph systems to properly process synthetic foods or compounds that enter our body.  A build-up of synthetic compounds can interfere with or block the body’s normal biochemical function. 

While many fish are normally high in healthy fatty acids and detoxifying sulfur amino acids, the vast majority, including swordfish, tuna and farmed fish, are now too toxic in mercury to eat.  The explosion of coal-fired power generation in Asia and America has caused mercury levels in fish and the environment to climb dramatically in just 15 years.  

Smaller fish, like anchovies and sardines are still relatively low in mercury.  Ocean perch, wild salmon, and wild canned salmon were both still very low in mercury when tested in 2006 by the EPA.  Krill oil is a clean rich source of Omega 3s, but may cause reactions in those allergic to shell fish.  

All farmed fish is 10-20 times higher in heavy metals and other bioaccumulated toxins than wild species, and should always be avoided.  The same applies to all large predator fish.   For the most recent and accurate information on mercury content of fish sold in the USA see http://www.gotmercury.org/   

Flax oil provides an excellent, clean vegetarian source of ALA necessary to synthesis EPA and DHA for optimum brain health.  It needs to consumed with other nutrient cofactors involved in the synthesis of EPA and DHA.  

Paragon_Sciences_ recommends that whenever possible eat organic foods, especially when eating meats, dairy products, and any fats & oils, which can contain undesirable hormones and accumulated pesticides.  Eat only wild fish that you know is low in mercury.)

Typical Results:

Healthy foods and nutrients exert powerful effects on the brain.  As does effective counselling when there are added emotional stresses contributing to the patient’s problems.  We try to address any case in the most holistic manner possible.

In most cases an immediate improvement is seen in the patient.  More difficult cases require more time, often because the patient needs to develop good habits and this tends to take longer with some individuals, as once they start feeling better they can forget they need to continue eating and living in a more sustainable manner.  Such patients can suffer setbacks if not carefully monitored and coached to help them develop the discipline to eat, think, live, and sleep well.

Footnotes

1.  http://www.fi.edu/learn/brain/fats.html#fatsbuild ↩

2.  Journal of Affective Disorders 1996;38:35-46 ↩

3.  Robbins, J. Diet For A New America, Wallpole, N.H., Stillpoint Publishing, 1987 ↩

4.  Ibid ↩ ↩²

Patient History: 

Subject was NHL professional hockey player who rapidly developed chronic hip pain.  For more than 4 weeks he had been having difficulty sleeping, could not push when he skated, and was limping when he walked.  He was diagnosed with a torn hip labrum by three different leading hip surgeons.  All three said he needed surgery to correct the painful problem.  Athlete would miss the first half of his season, possibly ending his professional career.

Suspected Causes and Recommended Intervention:

Paragon Director of Research Sam Bock had been coaching this athlete for the past 6 years and disagreed with the surgeons’ diagnosis, as the athlete’s pain was not in the hip but on the very outside of his hip where a number of muscle tendons insert to the hip.  The symptoms he was experiencing were indicative of multiple muscle spasms due to over zealous off season training that had created a debilitating and chronic tendonitis at the affected hip insertions.

Results:

Bock traveled to the athlete’s home for one week of therapy and rehabilitation training.

Day 1: Upon his arrival the athlete could not walk properly, no less skate.  A 15 minute hot bath and 1.5 hour treatment of deep tissue massage immediately located several spasmed muscles, which were then treated with massage, A.R.T., and hip mobility stretching.  This was followed by alternating hot and cold tub treatments to flush the athlete’s tissues and reduce inflammation.  The athlete was finally able to sleep well that night. 

Day 2: After heat treatments/massage, starts therapeutic squat training with just 85 lbs. to re-strengthen atrophied glutes and related skating muscles.  Also does a few other general strength exercises and very light, slow, interval-style skating.  Followed by another hour of massage and stretching, followed by alternating hot and cold treatments.  

Day 3: same process, but with squats to 135lbs., and slightly faster, longer interval skating.  

Day 4: same, w/ squats up to 185 lbs. and faster & longer interval skating than previous session.  

Day 5: rest day from weights, and more skating, which was dramatically improved, with athlete reaching 80-90% of top speed with no pain. 

Day 6: squats to 225 lbs., first light sprints, and longer faster interval skating.  Athlete is now skating effortlessly. 

Day 7: squats up to 285 lbs. squats, sprint drills, and a full out 2 on 2 scrimmage for 20 minutes. 

Athlete resumes normal training at this point, avoids unnecessary surgery, and two years later became the oldest player in NHL history to score two goals in a playoff game.

Patient History: 

Bock and Paragon are asked to intervene on behalf of a terminal liver cancer patient hospitalized with a severely impacted ascending colon.  Patient has not passed any solid stool in more than 8 weeks, and has not been able to eat solids.  Despite the patient’s previous complaints, the impaction is only discovered after an attending physician orders an x-ray to determine the cause of a large hardened mass on the patient’s lower right side that is noticed when addressing the patient’s repeated complaint.  The x-ray reveals a very large fecal mass stuck in the ascending colon.  For the next 10 days the medical team then tries all conventional methods to get the obstruction to move, but with no success.  The attending team believes the patient’s colon has suffered nerve damage from previous drug therapy used to recently treat acute pancreatitis.  They are now getting ready to surgically remove the mass from the patient. 

Intervention:

Paragon offers the medical team an alternative intervention based on its analysis of the patient.  Paragon deduces that prior & massive antibiotic infusions used to treat the acute pancreatitis have likely killed all beneficial flora in the bowel necessary to make normal stool.  Paragon further suggests the involuntary muscle within the patient’s colon is not necessarily damaged, but dehydrated, physically and nutritionally exhausted, and as a result, no longer able to contract effectively to move the hardened enlarged mass.                

Paragon develops an intervention to (1) replenish nutrients & rehydration to the colon, (2) provide probiotic to help digest the impacted fecal matter and build healthy stool, and (3) provide lubrication to help move the mass along, while fully taking into account the patient’s liver cancer, recent acute pancreatic infection, and enhanced potential for recurring bacterial infection.

The intervention provides the patient with sources of high-calorie, dense nutrition for the first time in over 8 weeks — it’s high oil content to not only provides lubrication to move dried, impacted fecal masses out, but to provide high energy, oxygen-uptake-enhancing oils to the body and colon tissue as well. 

The protocol uses: (list does not indicate order of importance)

• probiotic to help digest the impacted debris (as demonstrated in recent medical research)

• therapeutic doses of magnesium citrate taken w/ lightly salted water — to fuel and relax the spasmed bowel muscle, and to draw critical water into the colon to soften the impacted debris and provide fluid to help push it out (would normally have used Magnesium Asporotates, however none were available locally)

• L-carnitine & digestive enzyme, to ensure that colon and other cells can absorb and use the oil for fuel (required for high energy aerobic beta oxidation of fats within cells)

• flax oil: to provide lubrication, oxygen enhancing omega 3s, fuel, and fatty acids for cellular repair; and for rebuilding of red blood cells (patient’s RBC count has been dramatically reduced by chemo treatment)

• olive oil to provide lubrication, energy, and taste

• green vegetable juices: nutrient rich super food to provide nutrients for hemoglobin synthesis, alkalizing mineral and necessary vitamins for normal  liver, pancreatic, and other cellular function

• vegetable soups: to provide protein; healthy oil to fuel cells & rebuild tissues; and limited amounts of complex sugar that can be slowly digested to provide fuel for the brain without feeding cancer cells

• Co-enzyme B vitamin food complex and NAD (activated Vitamin B3): to provide vitamins required to restart aerobic respiration in cells with cancer or cells with acidosis approaching cancer

• CoQ10: also to provide vitamin required to restart aerobic respiration in cells with cancer or acidosis approaching cancer

• ALA / ALCAR to also provide vitamin required to restart aerobic respiration

• Oral Saltwater Enema flushes to purge digestive system from top to bottom

• calcium carbonate, should the patient initially have trouble falling to sleep at night

• Subsequently, if the bowel opens up, ground flax seed (rich in fiber and Omega 3 oil) to be added to cereals and diet, to improve elimination and enhance oxygen transport necessary to fight cancer, virus, and pathogenic bacteria.  

Basic strategy:

1. Draw fluids into the dehydrated colon with magnesium, salt, and water — to soften impacted mass, provide lubrication, and create hydraulic pressure to move the fecal mass

2. Provide abundant additional oil lubrication between fecal mass and colon wall by providing frequent doses of slippery flax and olive oils.  This lubrication to be achieved by exceeding intestinal potential for absorption, allowing excess oil to travel directly to the colon to provide physical lubrication

3. Aid bacterial digestion of impacted mass with probiotic.  Repopulate bowel with healthy bacteria necessary for normal stool formation & bulk

4. Lightly massage affected area of bowel 2-3 times per day to help breakup and stimulate movement of impacted mass

5. Do light hip swivels and gentle gut mobility and stretching to stimulate movement of water, oils, and impacted food through bowel

6. Flush system regularly with gentle but effective oral saltwater hydraulic purge until impacted solids are removed

7. Enhance and ensure adequate intestinal and cellular absorption of easily-digested, energy-rich, healthy oils — using L-carnitine and digestive enzyme — to power colon action and to provide the rest of the patient’s muscles and organs with energy to function

8. Gradually and continually sip alkalizing juices, soups, and water — to: optimize bile and pancreatic function & digestion, keep circulating sugar levels low and constant to help reverse acidosis and cancer, but still provide a trickle of sugar to the brain and adrenal medulla; prevent hypoglycemia capable of wasting muscle mass; and provide protein and fats necessary to rebuild and/or replicate cells.

9. Absolutely avoid rapid consumption of juice or soups - sip only to prevent any surges of blood sugar capable of feeding just cancer cells.

10. Use magnesium, B vitamins and juice to help reduce anxiety.  Add calcium carbonate to the mix if patient is edgy or feeling too hyper from ingestion of salt water.

11. Get extra rest to allow bowel and other cells to alkalize and re-energize.

12. Consider supplemental lipase in addition to that found in digestive enzyme if patient’s ability to digest oils seems to be a problem.

Results:

Within 36 hours the patient moves and eliminates enormous amounts of matter (over the course of two prolonged movements), and his bowel resumes function.

Typical Patient History: 

The person is most often not drinking enough water, lacking magnesium required for proper bowel muscle function, and/or lacking essential fatty acids necessary to soften the stool.  The patient may also not be eating enough vegetables, other fiber, and eating too much bread, meat & cheese.

Treatment Advised:

Use HTMA to determine whether an absolute or relative magnesium deficiency is present.  Use patient interview or fatty acid testing results to assess overall fatty acid and fiber intake, and adjust diet and food intake accordingly.  Ensure adequate hydration.

Patient History: 

Patient was suffering from symptoms of MS.  An MRI confirmed 11 active scleroses in her brain.  Paragon’s research team did an analysis of the patient’s diet and lifestyle as well as other research to help determine the potential cause of the patient’s symptoms, and possible therapy. 

Initial Research and Analysis:

Previous blood tests and a detailed patient interview regarding dietary and lifestyle habits indicated:

• she was normally an extremely active person (indicating possible low B complex, magnesium), 

• she was vegetarian (indicating possible low B12, anemia, and protein deficiency), 

• she had very low dietary fat intake, no oil supplements (indicating probable essential fatty acid deficiency), 

• she had been through two recent pregnancies and breast feedings.  Babies require a large amount of essential fatty acids for their rapidly developing brains.  They also require zinc for the enzyme synthesis of more complex fatty acids in the brain.  These same nutrients are also required for the health and regeneration of the mother’s brain.  However, when pregnant or breast feeding, Nature provides these essential nutrients to the baby prior to mother.  Since this mother’s diet was deficient in essential fatty acids and other nutrients, and because she was a nurturing mother, her own body would have become depleted during two 9 month pregnancy  terms and two 12-18 month long periods of breast feeding, a total of 42-54 months (or 3.5- 4.5 years) in the past eight years.

• blood tests also showed high serum calcium, due to excessive calcium supplementation (indicating high intracellular calcium, which would cause lowered intracellular potassium, phosphorus, sodium, and magnesium uptake), 

• blood tests also showed high homocysteine (11.0 - which would have been damaging myelin and inhibiting its regeneration due to the lipid oxidation/degeneration it can cause).  This also usually indicates a deficiency in B vitamins necessary for healthy regeneration and detoxification.  High homocysteine, also leads to low levels of SAM-e, as homocysteine is not being converted to this molecule, as it normally is.   

Studies have shown cerebrospinal fluid levels of S-adenosylmethionine (SAM-e) to be low in patients with methyltetrahydrofolate reductase enzyme deficiency (folic acid, part of the b complex of vitamins), resulting in demyelination in the brain and degeneration of the spinal cord.  Trimethylglycine (TMG) has been shown to restore levels of SAM-e in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).

SAM-e deficiencies have been identified in individuals who have nerve damage from HIV/AIDS, multiple sclerosis, or spinal cord degeneration.  We needed to test this patient’s SAM-e related metabolism promptly.

Initial Intervention:

Prior to having comprehensive metabolic testing done, the patient immediately began essential fatty acid supplementation (essential to myelin synthesis) in conjunction with Interferon therapy (a derivative of vitamin C metabolism), and continued to take her own vitamin and minerals. 

Subsequent Metabolic Testing & Analysis:

The initial HTMA that came back showed potential calcium and copper toxicity; higher manganese levels (associated with neurological disorders); potassium and magnesium deficiency (impairing metabolism); as well as disturbed iron metabolism (which can both damage and prevent the repair of myelin).  Most importantly it  showed a problematic phosphorus deficiency — phosphorus is a critical component in the formation of myelin. 

Two months later the patient had Paragon’s PS3 Comprehensive Medical and Metabolic Testing and Analysis done, which confirmed: 

•  low B6, low methylcobalamin (neuro B12), and low folic acid 

•  low SAM-e, required for synthesis of methylcobalamin

•  low anti-oxidants (especially ubiquinol), required to protect existing myelin.

•  extremely low retinol (0%), which is required for both antioxidant and regenerative roles, the decreased regenerative capability possibly being very serious in this case.  

• Despite adequate levels of ALA (since taking flax oil), her testing indicated no ability to synthesize DHA necessary for brain lipid formation (from ALA).  Indicated need for B3, B5, B6, 5P5, zinc, magnesium, insulin, Vit C, and biotin.  

While each of the above test findings would potentially inhibit normal myelination, phosphorus and EFA deficiencies are particularly critical to impaired myelination, as these are the primary components of myelin.  

The patient’s HTMA, blood and urine results confirmed most of what we were expecting to see regarding the SAMe cycle and methylation blockages, very low anti-oxidant levels, impaired iron metabolism, low DHA levels, low B6 &12, as well as other vitamin & nutrient deficiencies necessary for enzyme synthesis of myelin.

Due to the factors cited above, which were further backed up by additional detailed research done, Paragon hypothesised that this patient’s degenerating myelin was caused by a biochemical chain reaction due to a primarily vegetarian diet, 56 months of pre and post-natal nutrient depletion, subsequent excess calcium supplementation, insufficient essential fatty acid intake, and a lack of B vitamins, zinc and other nutrients required for normal metabolism, as well as the proper synthesis of complex fatty fatty acids, all of which:

• caused a build-up of homocysteine, which led to a higher and damaging oxidation rate of lipids within her tissues, as well as a depletion of anti-oxidants stores,

• inhibited phosphorus uptake necessary for:

  • the normal regeneration of bi-lipid membrane from which myelin is formed;

  • the conversion of precursor metabolites to Methylcobalamin, necessary for proper brain and spinal cord function

• prevented the formation of DHA lipids necessary for brain function and myelin formation,

• interfered with iron metabolism within the brain necessary for oxygen utilization and normal regeneration & healing.

Final Intervention:

Paragon designed a comprehensive targeted nutritional intervention meant to lower high homocysteine levels, restore normal SAM-e levels and B12 metabolism, enhance proper regulation of iron, increase plasma antioxidants, and restore other elements of her metabolism necessary for healthy nerve maintenance.

Methylcobalamin supports a healthy brain and spinal cord, and is the only form of vitamin B12 found in the brain.  When preparing the formulation we noted research showing that Methylcobalamin and that the liver can fall behind in converting synthetic cyanocobalamin (Cn/Cbl), into an ample supply of methylcobalamin (Met/Cbl).  Furthermore, not only is Cn/Cbl difficult to convert and slightly toxic, it requires adequate phosphorus, or alternatively SAMe, to be converted to Met/Cbl.  This patient was very low in both.  

All the factors discussed above were addressed with a mix of synergistic supplements, EFAs, and other dietary changes.  

Results: 

The patient’s symptoms went into remission once beginning EFA supplementation and Interferon.  6 months after beginning the comprehensive nutritional intervention determined by the metabolic research,  testing, and analysis, the patient’s next MRI showed no new scleroses, and no activity at the previous sites.  She has been taking a comprehensive formula since that time and continues to have no symptoms.  

To review the full report on the research, testing and analysis done for this patient see Sample Reports.

Patient History: 

The patient in this case was Paragon’s Director of Research Sam Bock.  He had previously been a full time athlete for 9 years in Canada’s bobsled program where he and his athletes did large volumes of heavy lifting and sprint training on hard surfaces in track shoes for much of the 4-6 hours of training each day, 11 months a year.  The cumulative wear & tear eventually caughtup, and he was forced to quit fulltime training at age 34 due to a recurring stress fracture in his right foot.  This eventually cleared up, and was not a problem for normal running, but would flare up under any heavy sled pushing or sprinting in spikes.  So he resorted to running and stair training to keep in shape.

However within three years Bock had chronic pain deep in both groin insertions and about the outer sides of both hips.  He had to quit running, and eventually even light walking, as even this was causing the chronic pain that made standing and sleeping at night uncomfortable.  Skating without pain was impossible due to the jarring impact on the hips.

Suspected Causes and Recommended Interventions:

An initial consultation from one of Montreal’s leading hip specialists indicated that Bock probably had the same deteriorating hips as his father.  He based that preliminary analysis on the inner groin and outer hip pain that was typical of those with arthritic hips, like Bock’s father who had experienced the exact same symptoms since his early 60s when playing hockey, and had been forced to quit when his arthritic right hip was replaced at age 68.   

Bock was not interested in surgery.  He began research to try to develop a strategy to delay such surgery as long as possible.  The research indicated that excess omega 6 fatty-acid consumption promoted pro-inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis, and that an excess of tissue calcium relative to magnesium could be capable of causing chronically tight muscles capable of creating chronic tendon pain and compressed sore joints.  It also indicated that cartilage was very slow to repair, as it had just a fraction of the blood and nutrient flow of other tissues, and that body tissue pH needed to be maintained above 7.0 for full cellular regeneration and recovery.

With this new information he developed an experimental protocol to try to rehabilitate his hips.  He began a period of several months rest, followed with no other leg training other than slowly executed light weight lifting — to strengthen what he felt were weak groin and hip muscles.

Results:

Gradually over the next 3 years the hips began to strengthen.  The improved nutrition and regular pH monitoring allowed better healing, regeneration, and prevented the previous muscle cramping capable of causing more joint-related trauma. 

Mid way through the 2nd year of the program he was able to re-begin very light stair work outs with no discomfort.  

The following year at age 40 Bock invented Paragon’s MSR weighted shoe inserts for his elite track athlete’s sprint training.  He decided to test the inserts out on an uphill grade that would minimize impact to the hips on any faster running he might achieve.  

After a gradual start, he soon found himself running very quickly. Just six weeks after starting training, he was electronically tested, and despite no proper speed training, was just 4 1/100ths off his fastest ever 30 meter sprint time, and just half a second off his 300m PB set eight years earlier when he was 32.

Two years later in 2002 Bock invented a new MSR hip training machine for his Olympic bobsled and sprint athletes that eliminated any vertical impact while training.  At age 43, he trained on this for just a few weeks and out-skated one of the NHL hockey players he was training, despite no skating for the past 6 years.  From age 45-47 he began playing regular hockey again in order to train with his professional athletes, doing sprints and other high-level workouts with no pain.  He was able to match some of his NHL players sprint times in full equipment. 

The new training and nutrition programs eliminated joint impact and let his hips regenerate.  At age 51 Bock has no pain, and is able to train normally.

Patient History: 

Patient is a professional hockey player with a history of asthma and prior bouts of pneumonia. He has fallen behind in his normally diligent off-season training and is working hard to get back into shape.  However, after over-training and then getting very cold & wet while playing golf in a rain storm, he develops serious pneumonia and is hospitalized in an oxygen tent with an Oxy Sat of 78 and irregular heart rhythm. 

Suspected Causes and Recommended Intervention:

Paragon provides an intervention designed to reverse the pneumonia and regulate the heartbeat.  It comprises of high therapeutic doses of NAC (3 x 500Mg 4 times per day) and other synergistic nutrients for his lungs, and magnesium and B vitamins required to help regulate the SA node in his heart.

Results:

The player rapidly recovers and resumes light training just 4 days later.

Patient History: 

The patient was a young, overweight, single, mother of three who had suffered a stroke, been left paralyzed on her left side, and was in a wheel chair.  No progress or recovery of lost neurological function had been seen in more than 10 weeks since the stroke.  The patient’s family was told by the attending neurological team to expect permanent paralysis of the left side.   

This patient was in the same rehabilitation hospital as the previous paralysis patient (discussed directly above) and had seen that patient make an unexpected recovery.  Her family members asked if Paragon could help her recover.   

Initially we were not sure we could help this patient for several reasons:  One, we were not technically responsible for that patient, as her care was being provided by the province and was out of our hands.

Second, Paragon did not have the ability to provide the comprehensive metabolic testing the previous patient had had to generate his comprehensive formula.  Nor could she afford to have such a comprehensive formula made, as she was very poor.  

Third and more problematic, in most stroke cases if a patient is to recover lost function, usually some signs of recovery, no matter how small are seen with 5 -14 days.  This patient had shown absolutely no sign of recovery for 10 weeks.   

Fourth, and equally problematic was the patient’s heavy dose of warfarin used to control her abnormal blood platelet aggregation which had initially led to her stroke.  As her platelet function was only being monitored once a week at the hospital, this meant the family would need to limit the amount of any supplemental omega 3 fatty acids they might provide in meals brought to the patient, as Omega 3s reduce platelet aggregation, and might push the patient’s INR too high, possibly causing bleeding.  As such, given these circumstances the treatment options that could be used (1) safely and (2) within the regulations of the hospital were very limited.  

Regardless, Paragon has a policy of trying to help those less fortunate if at all possible.  So we met with the family and explained the limitations faced, and tried to work out a plan.  

Intervention advised: 

It was not realistic to expect the attending medical team to approve Paragon’s recently developed neuro-regenerative protocol, as it was experimental and derived from an analysis of a compilation of related peer-reviewed research found by Paragon’s research team on behalf of the previous patient.  Rather than unnecessarily upset the attending medical staff, we suggested the family consider providing a simple OTC supplementation of the patient’s hospital food — a very good multi vitamin and mineral tablet, just 500mg of Krill oil (so as not to cause a rapid & sharp drop in platelet aggregation and a corresponding increase in INR), flax oil, and high quality bio-available magnesium to ease potential for muscle spasticity.  As the patient had been paralyzed with no improvement for so long, and this simple intervention was not the comprehensive formula she probably needed to optimize biochemical function and healing, we did not realistically think it would have a significant effect.  However, we did not overly emphasize that when speaking with the patient, as quelling her positive spirit would only be counter-productive.  Instead we cautioned the family and patient not to get their hopes up too much, but that those added nutrients might possibly help.

Results: 

Surprisingly, 3 weeks later the patient’s leg began to move.  Another 3 weeks later she was up and walking with a cane.  While no function returned to her paralyzed arm, she is no longer in a wheel chair, can take care of herself, and enjoys dancing and life again.

Patient History: 

Patient suffers from Stage 3 terminal Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, has refused all conventional treatment, is being treated in her home, and does not want to be hospitalized. The patient is also taking supplemental nutrients that support overall metabolism and keep her free from pain and nausea.  She is active and walking around two city blocks per day for some exercise.  However, the patient decides to stop taking the supplements, and within approximately 24 hours of doing so goes into severe renal and respiratory failure.  She accumulates large amounts of fluid in her legs and lungs and is gasping for air with every breath by 9PM.    

Intervention:

Bock & Paragon’s medical team work through the night to compound a special liquid formula comprising of water and potassium & magnesium phosphates, other related synergistics, and provide very large therapeutic doses of NAC by capsule. Bock remembers how effective  high doses of NAC had been in reversing acute pneumonia in a patient 6 years earlier (see Pneumonia case study). Paragon’s experimental emergency liquid phosphate protocol was prepared by emptying capsules of custom compounded nutrient that had been prepared ahead of time by Paragon’s Bock and Kuhzarani. 

Results:

This provides life-saving sustenance, and along with the other physical massage treatments, almost entirely reverse the respiratory and renal failure in the patient, as determined by the attending provincial medical staff that arrived in the morning.  The nutritional treatments provided allow the patient to clear the fluid from her lungs and restart her kidneys. Her lower back and legs are gently massaged — pushing from her feet towards her abdomen — helping to remove most of the accumulated water.  During the night the patient survives blood oxygen saturation levels as low as 60 with no supplemental oxygen, and recovers to an Oxy-Sat of 93 just 12 hours later, again with no supplemental oxygen or prescription medications.  The patient is fully alert, talking, and in excellent spirits.  Lasix is prescribed and administered in the morning and reduced the next day.  Within 3 days the Lasix is discontinued, the patient has a normal Oxy-Sat of 98 and is back to walking around the block.

Patient History: 

This patient (from NYC) suffered a severe and prolonged arthritic attack.  She had one knee and both ankles seize and swell up to the size of grape fruits that confined her to her bed for much of each day.  She had had similar, but less serious attacks at age 9 and 17.  She was formally diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and put on Remicade she was told she would need for the rest of her life.  Paragon was then asked to intervene on her behalf.  

Suspected cause and intervention advised: 

The patient was in film sales and entertained regularly.  Paragon’s interviewing process revealed that she had let her diet and exercise slip over the previous 6 —12 months.  She was consuming too many refined sugars and excessive alcohol, and was no longer getting regular exercise.  Our analysis indicated that her arthritis was probably the result of a severe bacterial inflammation fueled by the bacteria’s anaerobic digestion of excess sugar, and further complicated by a lack of anti-bacterial oxygen in her blood due to her reduced aerobic capacity.

She and her doctors were advised to use high therapeutic doses of Vitamin A, C, B complex, essential fatty acids, probiotics, and that she was to eat mostly organic vegetables, organic brown rice & other complex grains, and wild fish.  She was temporarily not permitted any fruit, simple sugars, and/or refined carbohydrates.  She was removed from the Remicade to prevent future problems with her endocrine gland production and balance. 

Results: 

Within one week all inflammation was gone and she was walking normally again.  She was able to resume more serious exercise and running within a few weeks.  She was in top aerobic shape within a total of 8 weeks.  She has not had another episode since then (2001).

Patient History: 

In his late teens, the subject developed a lump of calcified tissue before the first knuckle on his ring finger.  It continued to grow until his mid twenties, when it finally stabilized — at about a centimetre long and a half/centimeter wide.  

Suspected cause and intervention advised: 

The subject had an HTMA which showed excessive consumption of calcium, and deficiencies of phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, and potassium, all of which can contribute to calcification of  tissues.  Much of the imbalance observed was likely being caused by regular daily consumption of milk and yogurt.  A regimen of dietary changes to reduce dairy intake was begun, along with increased consumption of salt and supplementation of magnesium asporotates and potassium phosphates. 

Results: 

Over a six month period the calcification in the tendon gradually disappeared.  The subject also had increased energy, and relief from previously cramping muscles.

Patient History: 

Patient called 5 days before his entire colon was to be surgically removed to see if he could be helped.  He had been referred by a Paragon patient with a sigmoid colon that had healed very quickly, thereby avoiding its surgical removal.   

Patient was suffering from severe ulcerative colitis.  It began 18 years earlier and steadily worsened.  8 years later he began continuous medication, but with no improvement.  The last 2 years had been so severe that he was suffering from diarrhea as many as 20 times in one day.  He became confined to the house.  His bowels were disintegrating and showing up in the toilet as bits of mucous, tissue and blood.  His saliva pH was very low, 4.8-5.2.  His blood pressure was 160/85.

Suspected cause and intervention advised: 

His previous nutrition habits were very poor due to consumption of overly refined foods.  He was deficient in most important nutrients required for healthy GI function.  He was put on a restricted diet and provided with therapeutic levels of many different nutrients.

Results: 

For the first two weeks he showed no real improvement, then after 5 weeks he formed his first fairly normal stools in 18 years.  His blood pressure returned to low normal of 110/65.

Patient History: 

Patient had developed a painful advanced case of mosaic planter-type in his two feet.  OTC remedies, repeated freezings, and an experimental anti-viral prescription drug therapy had all failed to alleviate the problem.  The patient had between 25-30 warts with deep roots on each foot.  The patient was also suffering from low energy, arrhythmia, and muscle cramping. 

Suspected cause and intervention advised: 

The human papillomavirus causes warts.  All viruses require low oxygen environments to thrive.  Dietary and lifestyle analysis indicated the viral problem was probably due to a lack of oxygen and other nutrients required to enhance immune system strength.  This low oxygen was contributing to the arrhythmia as well.  In addition to a stressful executive lifestyle, he ate a lot of meat rich in growth and inflammation promoting Omega 6 fatty acids and had very little omega 3 fatty acid intake form fish flax or other sources.   

The patient began using fresh organic flax oil (necessary to increase oxygen transport, absorption & utilization within the body), and taking a full range of supplemental vitamins and minerals the analysis indicated would beneficial to his case.  

Results: 

Over a six week period all the warts gradually disappeared.  The subject also had increased energy, and relief from previously cramping muscles, and no longer had any arrhythmia.