Helicobacter pylori, also known as H. pylori, is a bacterium that is commonly found in the stomach. It is present in approximately one-half of the world's population, yet most people infected with it have no symptoms. Others may develop problems, such as gastritis or stomach ulcers. It is not clear why some people with H. pylori get these conditions and others do not. I would think one’s DNA might show if they are at risk. H. pylori is commonly transmitted person-to-person by saliva. The bacteria can also be spread by fecal contamination of food or water. In developing countries, a combination of untreated water, crowded conditions, and poor hygiene contributes to higher prevalence of H. pylori This bacteria weakens the protective mucous coating of the stomach and duodenum (small intestine), which allows stomach acid to get through to the sensitive lining beneath. Both the acid and the bacteria irritate the lining and cause a sore, or ulcer. H. Pylori can cause chronic inflammation in the walls of the stomach (gastritis) or duodenum, resulting in abnormal changes in the stomach lining. Though rare, this chronic inflammation can lead to certain forms of stomach cancer. Ulcers may have no symptoms, or may cause pain or discomfort (usually in the upper abdomen), bloating, feeling full after eating a small amount of food, lack of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and dark or tar-colored stools. Ulcers that bleed can cause a low blood count. H. pylori testing is recommended for anyone with a peptic (stomach or duodenal) ulcer. Tests for H. Pylori Breath tests — Breath tests (known as urea breath tests) Stool tests — Tests are available that detect H. pylori proteins in stool. Blood tests — Blood tests can detect specific antibodies (proteins) in the body's immune system. However, concerns over its accuracy have limited its use. Conventional medicine treats this condition with a regimen of two different antibiotics for two-four weeks, and an acid suppressor like omeprazole, targeting the organism’s ability to survive in acid. A more natural approach would utilize DGL, bismuth, berberine, and zinc carnosine. It is important to retest after treatment to insure the H. Pylori is cleared up, and any others living in your home should be tested for H. Pylori also.

Melanocyte-stimulating hormone is a name for a group of peptide hormones produced by the skin, pituitary gland , and hypothalamus . In response to ultraviolet (UV) radiation , its production by the skin and pituitary is enhanced, and this plays a key role in producing colored pigmentation found in the skin, hair , and eyes. It does this by making specialized skin cells called melanocytes produce a pigment called melanin; melanin protects cells from DNA damage, which can lead to skin cancer (melanoma). MSH secretion from the pituitary is increased by exposure to UV light. Unlike most hormones, MSH release is not thought to be controlled by a direct feedback mechanism. Melanocyte-stimulating hormone is produced from the same precursor molecule as adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) It is produced by the pituitary gland, and Its key function is to stimulate the production and release of cortisol from the outer part of the adrenal gland. A direct consequence of high levels of MSH is the increased production of melanin. Abnormal darkening of the skin is found in patients with primary adrenal insufficiency ( Addison's disease ) . In Addison's disease, the adrenal glands do not produce enough hormones (including cortisol ) . Melanocyte-stimulating hormone deficiency can cause increased inflammation , pain, and sleeping problems. A deficiency in MSH results in a lack of skin pigmentation and subsequent loss of natural protection from UV rays of the sun.

Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist that is typically used to treat drug and alcohol addiction, at oral doses of 50 or 100 mg. Low-dose naltrexone (LDN), at doses of 5 mg and lower, can be used in the treatment of chronic pain syndromes, neuropathies, PCOS, depression, hormonal or neurotransmitter imbalances, cancer, type II diabetes, and autoimmune conditions, just to name a few. LDN has been demonstrated to reduce pain, and depression, improve physical and mental function and increase the quality of life in patients with chronic conditions. It acts as an antagonist on toll-like receptor 4 (TLR-4) and it modulates glial cells, which downregulate cytokines, thereby reducing inflammation and associated pain. Right, did any of that make sense? All you need to know is that downregulates inflammation in the body, and inflammation is the root of most chronic conditions. It acts as an immune modulator, balancing out the immune system so it doesn't become hyperactive. LDN also causes the body to release substances that can calm us, and improve our mental outlook. When you begin using LDN it is important to use a titration schedule to minimize possible disturbances in sleep (eg, vivid dreams and/or insomnia) and gastrointestinal side effects (eg, nausea, cramping, vomiting, and/or diarrhea). These symptoms usually only last a few days, but if they continue the dose and formulation of LDN can be modified to avoid these side effects. It is important that the LDN you are prescribed comes from a compound pharmacy, and not a commercial pharmacy because they are different formulations.