The Doctor’s Corner
by
Robert W. Boxer, MD

In my practice of allergy, in general, we are obviously concerned that our patients obtain adequate nutrition. This is especially important, and perhaps difficult, in patients who of necessity must be placed on restricted diets because of food allergies or because of the yeast imbalance syndrome. Other patients needing assistance are those who suffer from hypoglycemia, hyperactivity and related disorders (more currently being called "attention deficit disorders"), the PMS system, etc.

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Our recent awareness of the importance of essential fatty acids, as well as amino acids, is exciting. In the next few years, we hope to acquire more knowledge about indications, contraindications, interactions, and other refinements concerning supplements.

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Supplementation in the form of vitamin B5 (panthonic acid) is often useful in allergy patients. Anti-stress vitamins and anti-oxidant factors such as vitamins E, A, C, and selenium as well as the B vitamins are frequently of value.

It is important to keep a perspective in terms of dosage, especially when dealing with the fat soluble vitamins. It appears that all nutritional supplements have the potential for toxicity if care is not taken to individualize the application, and if monitoring is not done when unusually high doses seem to be indicated.

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Some patients who continue to have difficulties need to be temporarily off all supplements to ensure that they are not reacting to a component of one or more of them.

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Our recent awareness of the importance of essential fatty acids, as well as amino acids, is exciting. In the next few years, we hope to acquire more knowledge about indications, contraindications, interactions, and other refinements concerning supplements. Some patients who continue to have difficulties need to be temporarily off all supplements to ensure that they are not reacting to a component of one or more of them.

Finally, concerning NOHA, those of us on the Professional Advisory Board are grateful for a long and beneficial association with the pioneering spirit and wisdom of the founders of NOHA, especially Barbara Sachsel.