RETURN TO "OVERCOME YOUR HEALTH PROBLEMS"



FINDING THE RIGHT PRESCRIPTION FOR HEALTH

by Harvey Milstein

1. HEALTH REVELATIONS

Here I am, the date is November, 1984, the setting is a hospital room, where I am lying in a bed with an intravenous needle in my arm. The needle is attached to a long rubber tubing, which runs into a plastic bag that contains a solution being used to flush out my kidneys. I was brought here due to a severe attack from kidney stones. I am feeling quite helpless, and all that I can think of is that I never want to be here as a patient again.
I have a young man for a roommate, who has just undergone an ileostomy, in which the large bowel is removed. Also a surgical fistula is made between the ileum and the anterior abdominal wall. The waste fluids are drained into an "ileostomy bag," that is worn outside the body and acts as an "artificial anus." I remember, to this day, the doctor standing by his bedside, and saying that: "now you can have a normal life again". (Just what did this doctor consider as a normal life?). I shuddered in my bed, because I had suffered digestive problems for many years. I felt that I could be the next victim to have this horrible operation.
I saw many other health tragedies during my brief hospital stay, such as operations performed for body malfunctions, that could have been avoided with "proper Hygiene", (that I will explain later).
I kept thinking: "how wonderful the human body is, and how, through our ignorance, we work to destroy it." By the time I left the hospital, I had decided that I must take all matters of my health into my own autonomy. My wife asked me to think of all the patients that passed through my pharmacy, and to recall any that had been "cured" of their illnesses with drugs. I could only remember them getting worse and taking more drugs!
In the hospital, and at my follow-up office visits, the doctors gave me specific instructions, as their training dictated. Fortunately, now I was ready to make a decision that would change my life. I decided that I would not take their advice, (including diet and drugs), but instead, use the knowledge that I had acquired outside of my formal college education.
I was already trying various nutritious diets, which was difficult for me, because of the lack of discipline in my eating habits. My heritage dictated a very unhealthy diet, consisting of hard to digest foods. These were cooked foods that lacked "enzymes", which are needed for the digestive process. The foods were also high in cholesterol, which can be deposited in the arteries, causing atherosclerosis, and lead to high blood pressure. They also consisted of processed foods, such as white floor, white rice, and white sugar, which have had most of the nutrients destroyed. Lots of red meat was also included, (high in cholesterol, saturated fat and chemicals fed to the animal).
Was it any wonder that my family (my father, uncles and grandfather) suffered from diabetes, high blood pressure, heart attacks, digestive disorders, and varicose veins, just to mention some of the ailments? My father died from a "coronary thrombosis" at the age of only 59 years. In the following, I shall go into detail about the illnesses that I suffered from, and what I did to get rid of them.

Notes of interest: In the hospital, my diet consisted of non-nutritional foods, (jello, sherbert, popsicles, etc.,). These "so-called" foods were administered to me to give me energy, because of their high sugar content. This is the reverse to what was needed.
A sudden "high" may be reached, but then a "down" will occur and remain, because there are no "lasting carbohydrates" in sugar to be broken down into "lasting energy". Sugar also depletes Vitamin B's, which are needed to help produce energy.
As a result of this diet, and the intravenous solution, I was depleted of essential minerals needed to keep the muscles in good working order. I developed leg cramps, and could not walk without assistance. This occurred right after my release from the hospital, and cleared up in a few days with a proper nutritious diet.



2. FIGHTING MY LEARNED WAYS OF TAKING MEDICATIONS

I shudder when I think back on all the times that I was ill, and succumbed to my first impulse to see a doctor, and take any prescribed medications. I never gave my body's "defense mechanisms" a chance to work. This was a dangerous cycle, because I would become sick more and more often. It was a "state of mind" that I entrapped myself into accepting and expecting disease. I was afraid that if I did not see a doctor immediately, I would become sicker.
During my university days, through my pharmacy teachings, it became a habit to take "prescription drugs," such as antibiotics, at the first sign of a cold, sore throat, etc.,. I, along with my student colleagues, were in perpetual fear of becoming too sick to attend lectures, and falling behind in the new teachings. I thought nothing of drugging myself, for this was exactly what I was told was best for me. I did not argue with these teachings. My illness symptoms were "masked" each time, so I felt that this was the right thing to do. However, having to take more drugs each time for the same illness, made me a little nervous.
I can now happily say that I have not taken any antibiotics for years, and have not suffered any ailments. I have learned that the body must be allowed to get rid of "toxins", without being interfered with drugs. Then the body's "natural healing process" can take place, and the immune system is strengthened.
I would like to give an example of how I conquered one of my consistently occurring diseases. For many years, I would be inflicted with terrible sore throats, that often blistered, and made swallowing difficult. A few years ago, I decided that enough was enough, and that I had to be brave to break this routine of drugging myself. I refused to take medication of any kind, and instead, I used "mind control". I got plenty of rest, and did lots of meditation in thinking of myself well. I would not allow the pain to bother me. I altered my diet to only "soft foods" to facilitate swallowing. My diet was already under control, and it was easy for me to cut back on my food intake. I ate mostly fruit.
For the soreness, I drank lots of distilled water with natural honey. This proved to be quite soothing. I also had a fever, which did not scare me. I was now equipped with the knowledge that a fever represented an alarm system that signals the body is fighting off "invading organisms." The fever broke by itself in a couple of days, and the throat soreness soon disappeared. I had won!
This was my first major victory without drugs. At last, I proved to myself that I no longer had to fear illness. I was always scared that an infection could worsen, for this thought was instilled in me by my college professors, as well as the physicians that I had consulted. I had believed that there was no way that I could do without medication. This was a great mental victory!
By allowing my throat to heal naturally, my "body defense mechanisms" were able to function at optimum. This put my body in a much better position to resist any future invading organisms As time went on, I felt my body's strength, as if a shield had been formed to protect it. From this time on, my mind carried positive thoughts regarding achieving wellness.



3. CLEANSING THE BODY: FASTING

"Fasting is the closest thing to a `panacea' that one can find" It is applicable to all ages, from infancy to the very old. It is the quickest assist to the efforts of the body to overcome acute disease, pain and discomfort. It was used in ancient times, and is used now. We should spread this great knowledge that can be had by all." _ Dr. William L. Esser, D.C., N.D.

I find it appropriate to start this chapter with the above quotation to emphasize the importance of "fasting" as a possible cure-all of any diseases that may inflict the body. It is shunned by the medical profession through ignorance and fear.
I had read about fasting in books, but just did not consider this for me. As I became more and more a "Natural Hygienist," I realized that a true fast (i.e. a diet of water only) was necessary in order to thoroughly cleanse the body. My initial question was: when and how long? I decided to wait til I was at "optimum health," and could be properly supervised.
When I was ready, I was fortunate to be supervised by a leader in the Natural Hygiene movement. Being a student of this movement I knew what to expect, but I still had to dispell my fears of fasting. I was best able to overcome this with mind control through positive thinking of all the benefits.
Since I had been on a strict Natural Hygiene diet, it was determined that for my first fast, a short term could be tried. We decided on 3 days. Knowing this, helped me relax, and have my mind in the best state possible. This is absolutely essential for a fast to be as successful as wanted.
My fast took place at a small retreat in a different city. I shall give a complete account of all proceedings. The evening before my fast, I ate only watermelon, which is a good "cleansing food." Some of my vital statistics, such as blood pressure, pulse rate, respiration rate, body temperature, and weight were taken before I went to sleep. (I have given all these statistics in a chart at the end of this chapter.)
I had a restful sleep. and awoke full of eagerness to experience my first fast. My "vital statistics" were to be taken every morning at 9:00. After this was done, I was allowed to do some stretching exercises, and go for a walk. It is essential to get lots of fresh air and sunshine when fasting, because the body is also "rejuvenating." I also sat in the sun for about one hour.
My diet consisted of only distilled water. Whenever I have need for water, I drink distilled water, because it is the purest. Most waters are contaminated with minerals, heavy metals, other elements, chemical compounds, and organic materials (many of which are toxic). I have been asked if distilled water "leaches nutrients." Water does not have the ability to leach nutrients. The body carefully controls its nutrient balance with an array of hormonal and biologic controls. Claims that distilled water is dead or "hungry" or can "leach" minerals have absolutely no scientific support. I drank as much as I could in order to help the "detoxification process." I must mention that you do not wash your teeth when fasting, because you do not want to wash off any white coating that will form on your tongue. This coating is an indicator of the detoxifying process that is taking place. I felt no adverse effects by early afternoon. I also had a normal bowel movement. I did a lot of reading to keep my mind off food. Lots of rest and sleep were in order.
Later in the day, my tongue became white-coated, and my breath foul. My sinuses were congested, and began to drain at night. My urine was dark and foul-smelling.
I was able to fall asleep rapidly, but had to urinate several times during the night. Since I did not drink an excessive amount of water during the day, I have to surmise that my body was at work getting rid of excess body fluids.
I awakened feeling fine and ready for my second day of fasting. My vital statistics were recorded, and I did some morning exercises. I had no severe hunger pains, and , in fact, felt no hunger at all. I did have some dizziness. My pulse rate was elevated, due to the body working hard to detoxify itself. My tongue had a much heavier white coating, and my urine was darker and more foul smelling. My sinuses were still congested, and my eyes were feeling gritty. I took an hour of sun.
I spent the day reading and resting. I cut back on my water intake, and drank only when I was very thirsty. Toward the evening my eyes became watery, and I had lots of drainage from my sinuses. I continued to have some dizziness, and started a little headache I went to sleep with no difficulty, but again, I had to urinate frequently during the night.
Upon arising on my third day of fasting, I could feel that I was weaker, yet still in complete control of my body. After my vital statistics were recorded, I was able to do less exercise than previous, because of more dizziness that was occurring. I had no drastic hunger pains, only a slight sensation in my mouth to desire food. This went away when I drank water. My tongue had a lighter white coating now. My urine was not as dark or foul. My sinuses were more congested, and more drainage was coming from my nose.
I sat in the sun for only one-half hour. I noticed that my skin was flaky. This concerned me because I had been subjected to skin problems. However, no skin irritations occurred, for the skin was simply "rejuvenating" itself.
During the day, my mind was very active, and produced thoughts that were very distinct. A lot of old memories were extremely vivid. Again, I had no difficulty in falling asleep, and had to urinate quite often during the night.
The next day I awoke with exuberance, knowing that my fast had ended, although I felt that it was too soon. My body did not have enough time to completely detoxify, for there was still a white coating on my tongue. My sinuses were still congested, and my eyes still felt gritty. My urine was still dark, but not foul.
My vital statistics indicated that my body was still actively detoxifying, because my blood pressure was increased. Another sign that I was not ready to end my fast was that I had no severe hunger sensations in my mouth or throat.
I had no dizziness, and was able to do more exercise. I went for a longer walk, and sat in the sun for about a half hour. I was careful not to overdue it, because I felt tired.
During the day, I gained strength from the fruit that I was now eating. Fruit is the best food to break a fast with, because it is the easiest to digest. It is also full of enzymes, which are "protein molecules" found in plants and animals. These enzymes are utilized to greatly speed up chemical reactions, such as needed in digestion. I can still vividly remember the beautiful taste that the first fruit had. I never thought that a banana could taste so good.
I made sure to get lots of rest, and had a nap in the late morning. Rest and sleep is the body's "natural healer." When I got up, I felt refreshed and quite stronger.



4. SEARCHING FOR ANSWERS

Several years ago, before I was a full-pledged Natural Hygienist, I had a tremendous financial loss. This put me under a lot of stress, which I was not knowledgeable on how to handle it at the time, and which aggravated my ailments. One of these was diarrhea bouts, that started occurring much more frequently and severely. This irritated my hemorrhoids so badly, that it was very painful for me to defecate. This was accompanied by much bleeding from the rectum.
Visiting my doctor on several occasions, I was prescribed medications for the above mentioned problems, with limited beneficial results. Some of these drugs were very potent, such as Lomotil, which is classified as a narcotic, for diarrhea, and Cortisones, of the steroid family, for hemorrhoids. Both of these cause very dangerous side effects, which I will elaborate on in another chapter.
I became very frightened, and realized that I must take responsibility for my health into my own hands. I had remembered reading that many African tribes never suffered from digestive problems, nor cancer of the colon. I discovered that these tribes had diets consisting of high fiber content from raw natural foods. The fiber acted as a sort of broom, that swept the intestines, keeping them free from bacterial and cancerous buildup. These people, due to the large amount of roughage they consumed, defecated several times a day with a solid heavy amount of feces, and thusly, keeping the rectum clean.
I knew that this is what I had been searching for. A way to clean my digestive tract, and allow it to heal naturally. I pursued this further by studying many books on Natural Hygiene diets written by leading preventive medicine physicians, biochemists, nutritionists, etc.,. I always found a common recommendation consisting of high fiber foods such as whole wheat bran, raw nuts and seeds, and fresh fruits and vegetables.
I had been a big meat-eater, so I adjusted my diet slowly. I started to eat more fish instead of meat. Gradually, I cut my fish consumption down to only once or twice a week. After several weeks, I was on a complete diet as just discussed.
I started to note remarkable results almost immediately. My diarrhea became so infrequent, that within two weeks of my new diet, it completely stopped. It is now many years later, and I have never been inflicted with diarrhea again.
My feces attained a soft texture, which allowed for ease in defecating, and therefore no irritation of the rectum. All rectal bleeding stopped, and my thrombosed hemorrhoids shrunk into oblivion, never to bother me again.
I noted that I no longer suffered from excess gas or any stomach irritation. My Natural Hygiene diet prevented flatulence and "putrification" from taking place. In fact, my feces were almost odorless, which is an excellent indication that proper digestion is taking place.
When I thought of how easy it was to have a healthy body, I was startled by how I was taught to complicate my health by experimenting with drugs, and even operations. How far away from natural health has our modern culture ventured?
In closing this chapter, I want to quote some leading authorities on Natural Hygiene:
"Inflammation is a reconstructive process, and should not be suppressed. Every acute disease is a result of a cleansing and healing effort of Nature." [Henry Lindlake}
"The common cold is the predecessor of most of our chronic diseases. We use drugs to suppress the symptoms, and not allow the body to get rid of the toxins, thusly storing these toxins, which later surface as serious illnesses." [Bernard Jensen]
From what I have just discussed, you can see that drugs do NOT cure, and cannot help the body replace old tissue. Drugs may suppress symptoms, but they do not remove "cause." They may kill germs (they also kill patients), but they do not clear up the systemic condition that permits germs to thrive and grow in the body. "Frozen sleep" may temporarily check the growth of a tumor or cancer, but it does not and cannot remove the cause of cancer. Radium or powerful X-rays may destroy a cancerous growth, but they do not and cannot remove the cause of the cancer. It must be emphasized that: "if it does not remove cause, it does not cure." Cutting out an organ, suppressing a symptom, destroying a growth, removing a stone -- these processes touch effects only.
They fail to restore health for 3 vital reasons: 1) they do not remove the cause of ill-health; 2) they are not the factors out of which good health is built; 3) they produce positive injury to the body. "To avoid sickness, avoid the cause of sickness." Only madness can lead us to attempt to prevent disease by producing disease.
"To build health, employ the cause of health." Of the reader I ask only an intelligent hearing. Lay aside your prejudices and prepossessions and do some real honest thinking as you study the principles of Natural Hygiene. Then, when you thoroughly understand them, give them a fair and honest test. Heed the ancient admonition: "Prove all things, and hold fast that which is good."



5. LIVING WITH NATURE

"Nature has created a wonderful human body." All we need to do is to help keep it that way. Instead, we work to cause disease in our bodies. This bothered me for some time, and finally got me wondering how I could correct this harm, and allow my body to be at "optimum health."
The first answer for me was to consider my diet. It alarmed me to see how far away my diet was from our very beginnings, ("God's Garden of Eden" - FRUIT). "Eating for Life" means eating natural uncooked food. We must eat "living" food prepared by Nature, and not changed by man.
To find the solution to the best natural diet, I observed Nature itself. I studied the dietary habits of animals. I noted that they tended to eat only one food. Some ate only meat, others only fruits or vegetables, and perhaps only leaves. Their instincts guided them to choose the best food for their digestive system. They avoided eating anything injurious to their bodies.
Man's dietary guiding instincts have been so blunted and perverted, and his senses of smell and taste so corrupted, that he takes "unwholesome substances" into his system. Man has become confused in a "bewildering forest of dietetic substances," and must find his way back by re-establishing his normal dietetic character.
Man's structure of his mouth, including the shape of his teeth, dictate that he is not a flesh-eater, but very suited for eating fruits and vegetables, and nuts and seeds.
At first it was very difficult for me to severely alter my diet because I had been a meat-lover. I started a gradual transition so as not to cause myself too much stress. I cut back my meat consumption to every second day, instead of twice a day; then to twice a week; and then to once a week. I substituted the meat by eating more fish (baked or broiled with NO condiments).
After a few months, I was able to stop the meat. I would eat fish only once or twice a week. I ate lots of raw nuts and seeds, which supplied me with sufficient protein. Of course, my main diet consisted of raw fruits and vegetables. After a few more months, I gave up eating fish, and ate even more raw nuts and seeds. It was almost immediately that I felt my digestive system working so much better (gone was the constant gastric distress and flatulence). Not being fatigued after a big meal was certainly a great joy!
I would like to offer some suggestions here. As I mentioned, I did everything I could not to put too much stress on myself in making this drastic transition to a non flesh-eater. An ancient "yogic principle" suggests that the best way to change a deeply embedded habit is NOT to "pull it out by the roots," but rather to plant, nurture and cultivate an opposing habit next to the old one, and to give the new habit a lot of care, love and attention. Very soon this new habit will grow strong and beautiful, and, with hardly an effort, the old weed, i.e., the flesh-eating habit, will wither and drop out of sight.
Here are some ideas for cultivating this new habit:
* Buy 2 or 3 vegetarian cookbooks and keep them where you will see them often. (An imaginative, delicious, high-protein vegetarian diet can cut the average food bill by 50%).
* Learn 1 or 2 easily prepared vegetarian dishes and substitute them occasionally for a meat dinner.
* If your having a difficult time , take a visit to a slaughter- house -- this will be all the encouragement you will need.
I have found that the task of changing from a carnivorous diet to a diet of living, fresh, nutritious foods is much easier than it might initially seem. There are literally thousands of highly nutritious, tasty dishes non-vegetarians have never had the opportunity to sample due to habit, conditioning, and lack of information.
The great feelings of well-being that followed thoroughly convinced me that I was on the right path to health. Besides "fat" loss, I noticed that my complexion and skin looked much younger. Due to much less energy that was needed to digest my food, my energy level was greatly increased. My blood pressure was significantly lowered, thusly opening the door for me to be very physically active, without risk of "heart attack."
I even felt much lighter on my feet, so that I could walk and run faster than I had done for many years, without getting fatigued. Many studies have shown vegetarians to be stronger, more agile, and to have more endurance than meat-eaters.



6. THE MENACE OF MIGRAINES AND CONSTANT HEADACHES
Headaches plagued me since early childhood. I can first remember suffering this disease in elementary school. At this time, I experienced my initiation to pressure of getting better grades, and competition with other students. I am a firm believer that stress is one of the major causes of headaches. With added pressures in high school, I started experiencing migraines.
My headaches would create a constant throbbing pain, which could last up to several hours, and might occur again on the next day. Migraines occurred less frequently, but when I was inflicted by one, the pain would be excruciating. There was little warning of an attack, and I would be overcome suddenly. The "migraine attack" made me very dizzy and nauseous, with vomiting usually occurring. At times, it was so bad that I could not even sit up, thusly, rendering me quite helpless.
I had frequent visits to my family physician, who prescribed the routine drugs. Aspirin was a favorite, at that time, for the common headache. For migraine, much more drastic medication was in order, such as Ergot preparations, in the form of tablets and suppositories. It was necessary at times to use suppositories, because of the severe nausea.
My family physician sent me to an ophthalmologist, who prescribed eye glasses, because I had slight myopia. It was believed that "eye strain" could lead to headaches, and my doctors hoped that wearing glasses when needed would help alleviate my headaches. But the attacks still arrived as often.
Next, I was sent to a neurologist for an "encephalogram," which is a "brain examination." This proved out negative, for no abnormalities appeared.
Of course, I was given many complete physical examinations over a period of years. Nothing was ever found that could be blamed for my attacks. I started to wonder if the doctors were ever going to find out any sources to my problem.
The drugs rarely helped at all, and I mostly had to suffer through each attack. My physicians never did find an answer, and it was only through my own efforts that I finally conquered this ailment.
Even as a very young boy, I sensed with my first headaches that something had been troubling me, causing me anxiety. I realized that I had to dissolve my sources of anxiety, before I would obtain any lasting relief. Unfortunately, I was not experienced enough at this age to be able to figure out how to go about this. I also had no assistance from all my doctors.
In later years, I discovered that as soon as I felt uncomfortable, uneasy, or distressed, I would be best to try to relax by lying down and thinking of pleasant things. In other words, to try to change my "thought patterns" away from thinking of another headache. Quite often this was completely successful, and even when it was not, still softened the pain considerably.
My migraines were not as receptive to this method, because I found it much harder to relax when I felt a bout coming on. I would be too preoccupied with the thought of the severe agony that was brought on by my last migraine. It was not until many years later that I was able to understand myself better, and start to combat these ordeals (through stress management).
I rigorously studied many psychology books, and religiously applied many of the techniques for relaxation. I started to find my answers, and I began to suffer less and less from migraines, as well as headaches. One day, I realized that I no longer had to suffer another attack, for I was now in control of my mind, and thusly my body. It has been many years since this realization, and I have never suffered another pain from this affliction again.
Over the past few years, I have studied various methods of "mind control," in order to fully understand the functions of the body. After all, are we not a mind with a body?
In these studies, I found that meditation is an essential ingredient in dealing with my every day problems. Meditation must be done in as restful an atmosphere as possible. By meditation, I refer to similar methods that the yogis used. Deep breathing is very important, and the mind must be cleared of any unpleasant thoughts. Once the mind is cleared, the body can truly relax.
I know that through this system of mind control - meditation - relaxation, all headaches and migraines can be alleviated. Our mind is in control of what happens to our body. Outside forces will have very little effect on us, if we know how to be "in tune" with our body through correct mind control.
The mind exercises two influences among the functions and organs of the body -- "stimulation" and "inhibition." It may either increase or decrease function, and if such influences are intense or prolonged, they may result in "functional derangement" or disease. If this is maintained sufficiently long, structural changes may result. (e.g. "death due to fear") Fear, anger, jealousy, anxiety, self-pity, etc., should be avoided like the plague. Instead, we should cultivate faith, hope, courage, cheerfulness, contentment, love and self-respect .
If the cause of an illness is mental, the mental state must be corrected (e.g. "chronic worry"). "Mind cure" will have to give way to nature cure, for the mind is natural, not super-natural or extra-natural. (You cannot believe that all is mind, and that nothing matters, for the mind and body work in unison ). The noted scientist, endocrinologist, and Nobel Laureate Hans Selye, points out that stress means something different to various people, is present in everyone's life and should NOT be tried to be avoided. He noted that you cannot avoid stress, for the abscence of stress is DEATH. Its how we handle stress that determines our mental health and in turn our general body health.
I must end this chapter by emphasizing that a proper diet is essential in keeping a "clear" head. This diet is free from "toxins" and irritants. Even today, if I digress from my Natural Hygiene diet, I will suffer some head distress, such as dizziness.
There are many excellent books available on the handling of stress and the changing of our attitude to life. Two of these authors are Dr. Hans Selye and Dr. Gerald Jampolsky. The writings of Dr. Norman Vincent Peale are also suggested.



7. SOME ILLNESSES CONQUERED

I have mentioned some illnesses that I have had to deal with, but in this chapter, I will put more emphasis on these ailments, as well as discuss several others. The purpose of my narrating my experiences is to point out what the body can accomplish, if not interfered with by the administration of drugs. We must always remember that our birthright is to have a disease-free body.

I can still remember my first "allergy attack". It was in the month of May, when I was 17 years old. It happened with a sudden swelling and watering of my eyes, followed by constant sneezing and profuse running of my nose. Of course, I immediately thought it was a bad "cold". But these symptoms were different, due to the effect on my eyes. The rigorous sneezing and nose blowing were very tiring, and , at times made me feel disabled. These attacks proved uncontrollable, unless I took very potent "antihistamines".
The action of antihistamines is to dry up the mucous membranes, thusly, causing a severe dryness of the mouth and throat. At times, I felt that I could not breath or swallow. Another side effect is dulling of the senses, causing drowsiness.
The taking of these drugs created a "mad cycle". The more you dose yourself with a specific antihistamine, the more "immunity" you build against this drug. So you have to keep switching drugs, and experimenting on yourself. The pharmaceutical manufacturers are aware of this, and are always developing new antihistamines. An example of this, is all the commercials given to cold preparations, such as nasal decongestants, cough syrups, etc.

One of the most painful diseases that I have ever suffered was kidney stones . I am sure that anyone who has been inflicted with this, knows what I mean. My attacks occurred in 1981 and 1984.
Both times I had to be hospitalized. The routine was performed, with an "intravenous solution of dextrose and normal saline" administered constantly, until after 3 days, I passed some very tiny stones. (Now there are other methods that are also used.)
This disease made me decide that I would never return to a hospital as a patient again,(except from an accident), and that I no longer had to suffer from any diseases again. My second attack got me to change my ways of thinking and eating. The change in your thought process"must come first, if any lasting accomplishment is to be attained. By this time, I was so frightened that all that I was able to think of was to take my body back to "pristine health."
The most sensible way was to start "living in harmony with Nature." I had lived through enough years contra-Nature by constantly medicating myself. I proceeded to throw away all my drugs, and worked on my psyche through "positive thinking." (Daily affirmations of seeing myself well and happy were in order.) I knew that with my better way of living, I could conquer any illnesses. I adopted a total Natural Hygiene diet of raw fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds. Happily, I can say that I have not had any further problems with kidney stones, and I have no doubts that I will not have to worry about them again.
Next, I will discuss my severe hemorrhoids , that had plagued me for years. My doctors excused them to being an occupational hazard of pharmacists, because of all the constant standing. This, they said, put pressure on the veins of the anus, and since hemorrhoids are protrusions of these veins, it was very difficult to avoid problems. For years, I administered the usual drugs to subside the pain and shrink the hemorrhoids. These drugs included such dangerous substances as Cortisones. The relief was always only temporary.
My frequent bouts of diarrhea aggravated my hemorrhoids. With diarrhea, you defecate lots of "acid" with your feces. This acid irritates the anal veins, and complicates the hemorrhoidal problem.
Along with the aforementioned digestive problem, was the incorrect formation of very "hard stools." These stools made it very difficult to deficate, because they caused my hemorrhoids to give me extra pain. At times the pain was so severe, that I was actually afraid to deficate. Often bleeding ocurred, which sometimes was so profuse, that I would be weakened.
My Natural Hygiene diet provided me with the proper nutrients to allow for good formation of stools. The texture and size became just right for ease in deficating with no irritation. It wasn't long before my hemorroids started to shrink without the use of any drugs. Of course, my "diarrhea" was no longer happening. My hemorrhoids have disappeared, and have never been thought of again.
Since I have just referred to my diarrhea, I will discuss this affliction next. I would like to start with how diarrhea occurs. The initial step begins with improper digestion, which produces "putrefaction" and "fermentation," which produce "toxins."
These toxins consist of harmful bacteria that interfere with the bacterial flora of the intestine. Thusly, proper digestion cannot be completed, and the feces will be improperly formed. Proper absorption of nutrients through the intestinal walls does not take place, and are excreted. This also accounts for the watery constituency of the feces.
Weakness is associated with diarrhea, because of this loss of needed nutrients. Also, due to the irritation of the intestinal walls, your diet has to be altered drastically. This is very taxing on your body. Now what do the hygienic doctors recommend? Mostly to eat only bananas, which are readily digested. Since there is only one classification of food (fruit) involved, they are practicing correct "food combining." (I will discuss this later.)
This diet will provide enough nutrients through good digestion and absorption to alleviate the diarrhea. Of course, if you go back to your old incorrect dietary habits of improper food combining, irritants, lack of nutritious foods, etc., you will not keep your diarrhea away indefinitely.
It has been many years since my last bout of diarrhea. I have not administered myself any drugs, instead, I have just kept on a strict Natural Hygiene diet.
Before closing this chapter, I must mention that some extremely harsh drugs are prescribed for diarrhea. One that I used to take was Lomotil, which was classified as a narcotic, because of its addicting properties. Many "antispasmodics" are prescribed, which cut down the mobililty of the stomach. This is a drastic interference of the digestive system. Many "antacids" are also advised, which cause the destruction of the hydrochloric acid in the stomach. This acid is absolutely essential for proper digestion. I have witnessed the total destruction of people's digestive system with these drugs.
My diet was so poorly constructed that I constantly suffered from the common problem of acid indigestion . This is a popular terminology used by the pharmaceutical industry to promote their numerous remedies. These health-destroying products consist of "antacids," "antiflatulents," and other so-called "digestive aids." The market in North America is unlimited for these products, which tells us just how many people have unhealthy diets.
I was among these people, and, of course, owning a pharmacy, I could help myself to any of these "wonder remedies." I sure did dose myself (after each meal and at bedtime). I would always carry some of these drugs with me. I must have taken every new product that came along. I kept on destroying or neutralizing more and more of my hydrochloric acid, which, as I have stated is vital for proper digestion. It was a hopeless cycle until I discovered the cause, and was determined to take action.
With my very first day on my complete Natural Hygiene diet, I noticed a remarkable change in my digestion. It felt wonderful not to have lots of gas and burning sensations in my stomach. There was no need for any medications! Many years have passed, and I havenever had to even think of this ailment again.
I'll note here that with the consumption of "wholesome natural food," and proper "food combining," there is no "putrefaction" or "fermentation." Thusly, there is excellent absorption of nutrients. Also, no "digestive aids" are necessary, because copious amounts of enzymes are supplied from the raw foods in a Natural Hygiene diet. These enzymes act as "catalysts" in the biochemical actions of the body's "metabolic system," and thusly, aid digestion and assimilation of essential nutrients. Cankers or "mouth ulcers" had been regular pests for several years. They would occur on my inner cheeks, and on the inner parts of my upper and lower lips, and could last up to several weeks. Applications of canker medications only reduced the painful discomfort, but never the length of time it took for them to clear up, for only the symptoms were being treated.
One speculation of a cause has been a virus, but this has been an oft-used blame for too many ailments. Through my own experiences, I have found that stress was the main cause of my cankers. When I did not handle sudden stressful situations properly I would allow myself to get "run down." This condition would deplete me of essential nutrients, which would make me suseptable to infections.
Learning how to cope with stress, has greatly reduced the frequency of my cankers. Often, I would not have an affliction for many months. I know that it will be very soon when I will completely conquer this disease. (I am working on learning to love myself more and not to be critical.)
I should mention the many severe skin rashes that I have had problems with since childhood. One was a very irritating rash around my crotch. I would notice that this condition would be at its worst when I was under a lot of stress. I have also suffered through athlete's foot , white blotches on my face, and scaling behind my knees. (These diseases can be considered allergies.)
I was successful in clearing up most of these conditions with the application of such drugs as cortisones, antifungals, and antibacterials. Sometimes, skin lubricants worked. But all this relief would only be temporary . I found that the use of cortisones was addicting, for I would have to apply more and more of the drugs to obtain the same effect. Also, many of the irritations started to occur more often.
I noticed a quick disappearace of my facial skin blotches when I began my Natural Hygiene diet. Slowly, but surely, my athlete's foot problem left me, as well as all my other skin ailments.
As I have mentioned previously, the skin is the body's largest organ through which "toxins" are excreted. Thusly, the surfacing of these harmful substances can cause skin afflictions. Get rid of these toxins, and you get rid of your skin problems. I, also, believe that stress produces certain chemicals in the body, which interfere with normal metabolic functions, and leads to the production of toxins. (Proper handling of stress is essential.)
Since I have discussed several digestive diseases that I had suffered, I find it appropriate to give some details on constipation, which I rarely suffered, but so many Americans are afflicted with. First, let me state that as with all other functions in the body, the digestion of food and the "evacuation" of the remaining unuseable wastes take place in the normal, healthy body completely without effort, pain, coaxing, or concern on the part of the individual.
Perhaps no other function has been subjected to so much imaginative discussion, and so many "fairy tales" as has the colon . Many people have been led to believe that the colon actually "cakes up" with years of fecal matter. It is with this depressing picture of the body's inadequacies that people fall prey to the habitual use of purgatives, colonic irrigations, and enemas.
Since the body was created perfect, it is natural for the bowel to contain discarded and decaying food wastes. It is equally natural for the bowel to contain certain broken-down and discarded body constituents. From these facts, the Hygienist believes that the wall of the large intestine must be designed to resist the absorption of toxic materials. If this were not the case, there would be a constant poisoning occurring from the colon, and there could not be a healthy person alive.
Constipation so-called cures not only do not remedy constipation, but they produce a lot of troubles that are worse than the disease. The colons of those who have taken "enemas" and "colonic irrigations" over a long period of time are in worse condition than any other class of colons. The colons of those who use "laxatives" and "cathartics" and those who eat large quantities of bulk and roughage are also in poor condition.
Constipation is due to anything that causes "enervation" (loss of nerve energy). Any and all enervating habits of body and mind produce constipation. The answer for the constipation remedy is to: REMOVE ITS CAUSES! (discontinue all enervating habits of mind and body). Your bowels will function if you will give them an opportunity. Their action is as automatic as that of the heart or the liver. You must cease abusing them with all kinds of treatments.

The nature of the food eaten has much to do with normalcy, or lack of it, in bowel action. All the errors in diet such as the wrong foods, wrong combinations, hasty eating, poor mastication, unpleasant surroundings, etc., contribute greatly to constipation.
The Hygienist knows that all cases, with the exception of a paralysis or of a large obstructing malignancy, can be successfully eliminated by the removal of cause and the restoration of health through "Hygienic principles." These principles include a natural diet, fasting, daily exercise of the abdominal area, sufficient rest, and the solicitation of a bowel movement immediately upon the slightest desire or urge to encourage the re-establishnment of intestinal sensitivity.
I find it appropriate to close this chapter with some quotes from doctor Herbert M. Shelton, D.C. , who was a great leader in the promotion of Natural Hygiene:
"Wounds heal of themselves -- so also do diseases."
"All Nature heals itself when causes are removed, and the condition of Health supplied."
"The 'Law of Healing' states that every living thing, from the tiniest plant to the grossest animal, repairs, replenishes, renews, and heals its structures, or tends towards healing, even where death is inevitable, as a result of overwhelming animal influences and agencies, without the means of artificial means that life may be preserved."



8. FOOD COMBINING - "NATURAL HYGIENE DIET"

Proper "food combining" is necessary for complete digestion. The human body is designed to digest only one "concentrated food" in the stomach at one time. Any food that is not a fruit or vegetable is concentrated. There are rules for proper food combining that we can follow:
1. Eat acids and starches at separate meals. Acids "neutralize" the "alkaline medium" required for starch digestion, and the result is "fermentation" and "indigestion."
2. Eat protein foods and carbohydrates at separate meals. Protein requires an "acid medium" for digestion, and carbohydrates an "alkaline medium."
3. Eat but one kind of protein at a meal.
4. Eat protein and "acid foods" at separate meals. The acids of acid foods inhibit the secretion of "digestive acids" required for protein digestion.
5. Eat fats and proteins at separate meals. Some foods, especially nuts, are over 50% fat and require hours for digestion.
6. Eat sugars(fruits) and proteins separately. Sugars are carbohydrates.
7. Eat fruits and starchy foods separately. Fruits digest in the intestines for greater absorption, but are held up in the stomach if eaten with other foods that digest in the stomach.
8. Eat melons alone. They combine with almost no other food.
9. Always try to keep meals as simple as possible. A meal should not consist of more than 4 foods. ("The simpler the meal, the better you'll feel").
An easy way to keep foods classified is to buy a chart that lists the most common natural foods into categories such as "sweet" fruits (bananas, dates, figs, raisins); "acid" fruits (grapefruit, oranges, pineapple, strawberries); "proteins" (nuts, seeds); "starches" (carrots, peas, corn, potatoes); "non-starchy" vegetables (asparagus, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, celery, cucumber, lettuce).
This chart will also indicate in a "box and arrow" fashion foods best combining with other foods. Examples are: nuts combine well with leafy greens; carrots combine well with celery; grapefruit combine fairly well with apples; leafy greens combine poorly with oranges; and fresh corn combines poorly with bananas.

Some typical food-combined meals are:
A. 3 to 5 bananas (depending on size) alone or with celery and/or lettuce.
B. 2 to 3 apples alone or with pears and peaches.
C. 2 to 3 large peaches alone or with grapes and plums.
D. 2 to 3 oranges alone or with grapefruit and tangerines.
E. 1 large cantaloupe alone or with other melons.
F. 2 or 3 tomatoes with non-starchy vegetables such as lettuce, celery or cucumber.
G. 2 to 4 ounces of nuts or seeds with lettuce, celery, or cabbage.
H. 1 or 2 large avocados eaten either as a starch or protein with leafy green vegetables.
A note to remember is that fruit should ALWAYS be eaten alone on an empty stomach.

Through my own personal experiences, I have found that eating only fruit in the morning helps my body's elimination or defecation processes. On a typical morning, I will eat 2 to 3 large bananas early, followed in around 2 hours with 3 to 4 ounce of raisins. The bananas are very rich in potassium and sugars and are an excellent way to start the day. Raisins are even richer in potassium and are an exellent source of iron.
Around noon time, I will usually eat fruits that are in season. In the summer, I will eat lots of melons, because these fruits will be at their full ripeness at this time. In the late autum, I will be eating lots of grapefruits and oranges. I always stay with one classification of fruit by itself; i.e. melons with melons, and citrus fruit with citrus fruit.
I will continue to eat only fruits during the afternoon. If I am "on the run," it is very convenient to eat an apple or a pear at my desk or in my car. Since fruits do not need refrigeration if eaten within a short period of time, you can always keep an apple or two in your desk drawer.
Late in the afternoon, I usually have some nuts or seeds. I have found that around 3 to 4 ounces of nuts, or 2 ounces of seeds will suffice me til I have my evening meal.
My evening meal gives me my greatest eating pleasure of all. I pride myself in my "artistic ability" in creating a giant salad. I will include as many as 10 to 12 vegetables. Since most vegetables are always in abundance, it is very easy to do so. I will stay within the rules of good combining of vegetables, while using as many different brightly-colored vegetables as possible. These vegetables will include green leafy lettuce, red cabbage, celery, carrots, cucumber (with skin), broccoli (raw), cauliflower (raw), red pepper, tomatoes, and alfalfa sprouts. I may squeeze some juice from a half of a lemon onto the salad. As I mentioned, the salad will be quite large, and I will savor it for as much as 1 hour.
A note to remember is to chew all the starchy vegetables as much as you can. The more you chew, the more "amylase" or starch enzyme is secreted in your saliva, and thusly the better will be the digestion.
Two or three times a week, I will have some steamed grain, such as brown rice, buckwheat, or quinoa. Since grains are classified as "concentrated starches," they can be eaten following a salad, as long as the salad did not contain a "heavy" starch vegetable such as carrots. I would like to suggest also steaming potatoes (white, red, sweet). Having a steamer will be very useful!
If you are accustomed to having something before retiring, try fruit. (As long as it is 2 to 3 hours after eating a "concentrated starch"). Fruit, since it is the easiest of all foods to digest, will not disturb your ability to fall asleep.
I have not made reference to drinking, because on a Natural Hygiene diet, you rarely would be thirsty under normal conditions. If you find a need to drink after rigorous exercise, or after sweating while sunbathing, etc., then do so with distilled water. This water is the purest form available to us.

If, as a struggling "Natural Hygienist," you sometimes feel that your efforts are in vain, and that you are deprived, or worse yet, abused or punished because you can't have steak and chocolate cake anymore, and are, instead, forever doomed to cucumbers and lettuce, perhaps the following comparisons between your old and new diet will provide the encouragement you need to preserve:

Your Old Diet (Conventional U.S.) . at least 50% pure junk food . fragmented, nutritionally deficient for health . cooked food -- as much as 80-90% . many vitamins destroyed . many minerals rendered inorganic . ALL enzymes destroyed . harmfully high in toxic animal protein . averages 40-50% fat . high in saturation . high in cholesterol . averages 130 lbs. refined sugar . averages 5 lbs. chemical additives per year . highly salted . highly condimented . poorly combined . water deficient . acidic, leaches alkaline . yields 60% of its caloric

Your New Diet (Natural Hygiene) . 100% nutritionally-complete food . whole, nutritionally sufficient for health . raw food -- as much as 80-100% . all vitamins remain intact . all minerals remain organic . ALL enzymes remain alive . low in nontoxic plant protein . averages 2-4% fat . low in saturation . NO cholesterol . 0 lbs. refined sugar per year per year . 0 lbs. chemical additives per year . saltfree . condiment-free . properly combined . water sufficient . alkaline, maintains proper pH minerals . yields 90% of its caloric potential potential

As a result of my "Natural Hygiene" diet, I can report excellent improvements in my "body chemistry":

Tests taken: 7/9/81 Glucose: 86 mg/dl * Cholesterol: 230 mg/dl Total Protein: 7.3 g/dl Potassium: 3.5 meq/L Calcium: 10.0 mg/dl Sodium: 139 meq/L Bun: 12.0 mg/dl CO2: 25.0 meq/L Creatinine: 1.3 mg/dl Albumin: 4.6 g/dl Total Bilirubin: 1.0 mg/dl Alkaline Phosphate: 81 U/L Globulin: 2.7 g/dl

Tests taken: 9/26/88 Glucose: 79 mg/dl * Cholesterol: 158 mg/dl Total Protein: 6.9 g/dl Potassium: 4.8 meq/L Calcium: 9.5 mg/dl Sodium: 143 meq/L Bun: 13 mg/dl CO2: 29 meq/L Creatinine: 1.0 mg/dl Albumin: 3.9 g/dl Total Bilirubin: 0.4 mg/dl Alkaline Phosphate: 132 U/L Globulin: 3.1 g/dl

Note: My current Blood Pressure (taken: 9/26/88) is: 105/68 ; my Blood Pressure (taken: 7/9/81) was: 120/80.
I need to mention that my current age is 50 years (1989).

Note: My " Life Insurance " company had a Physician take my "vital" statistics on February 15, 1989 .
The following results were obtained: Height [5 ft. 8 inches]; Weight [128 pounds]; Chest [33 inches]; Blood pressure [ 104/62 ]; Pulse [ 52 ]; Cholesterol [ 156 ]; Triglycerides [ 110 ] and Glucose [ 84 ].
Needless to say, the insurance company was more than happy to issue me an "upgraded" policy (i.e. a preferred policy for a person in EXCELLENT health -- with a much lower premium)!



9. CASE HISTORIES FROM MY PHARMACY

Note: In all cases, the real names and identities of the patients and doctors are withheld to protect their privacy.

I am certain that the case histories that I am about to narrate will shock most readers, while some may have witnessed these ill-effects on themselves or on someone. To the best of my recollection, I have tried to give every correct detail.
As I have mentioned, my pharmacy was in a medical clinic, and therefore received most of its business from prescriptions. Thusly, my pharmacy was very patient-oriented. I was in close contact with their physicians and nurses, as well as the lab and x-ray technicians. I tried to have the most professional relations with this team as possible by providing "medication records" (listing all medications) so that their physicians could cross-check drugs prescribed by others for possible conflicts.
In every case that I am discussing, the patient became a "pitiful" person, relying on his medications from day to day. (It was as if these people had nothing to look forward to, except their medical clinic visits.)

1. One such patient was Margaret Haney (pseudonym). Margaret was in her early forties when I first met her. She had been suffering from several chronic ailments (migraines, ulcers, arthritis, etc.,) for years. Thusly, she was already on many drugs. She made sure that she visited a physician in our clinic, who she knew prescribed lots of medications for every illness. Her first prescriptions were plentiful (in relation to other patients), but did not seem to satisfy her. Within a month's time, she was back with even larger prescriptions (although she could not have completed all her previous drugs under the recommended doseage).
I became alarmed, because I felt that she was overdosing herself, and put an "alert" on her file. I briefly spoke to her as to check her "coherency" for she was on tranquilizers and sedatives. I detected some inconsistency in her talk, but her actions seemed alert enough, and I let it go at that. (She had built up a "tolerance" to large doses of drugs.)
She became a regular monthly patient (sometimes bi-monthly) and soon was taking more drugs than any of my other customers. Fortunately she did not drive, for she would have been a menace on the road! (She made me wonder about how many people such as her were driving?) After a few months, I spoke to her physician about her "file," but was received coldly. Her doctor merely thanked me for my concern, but made no indications that he was going to cut down on her prescritions.
Quite often, she would have some prescriptions refilled between doctor visits, and had them delivered to her. My delivery people did not like going to her place, because they did not know what to expect. It always took her a long time to come to her doorway, and at times was not fully-dressed. Sometimes her speech was incoherent and she would try to get the delivery person to sit down with her and have something to eat or drink (at times, alcohol). These actions made my help very uncomfortable.
I had only known her for a few years, when she was rushed to a hospital due to an overdose of drugs. I immediately knew about this, because the police visited me at my pharmacy to question me about her medications that we had dispensed. (It was a very frightening experience!) The police told me that they intended to talk to her physician as well. I conferred with her doctor after they had visited him, but again, I found him not too concerned. (This disturbed me greatly, for we were both in professional danger of breaching our "Code of Ethics.")
Well, the inevitable happened, because she continued on her extremely heavy doses of drugs (drugs to put her asleep and drugs to help her wake up, etc.,), she was again rushed to a hospital. This time things did not turn out the same, for she had finally KILLED herself! (All the "stomach pumps" and emergency drugs could not save her.) This was followed by more visits from the police and her medication files seized. Fortunately, neither I nor her physician were prosecuted.

2. Another severe case involves Mrs. Heim, who was only in her mid-thirties when she first entered my pharmacy. (She looked much older.) Her situation was similar, in that she was already taking a considerable amount of drugs for several illnesses (migraine headaches vertigo, aching back, anxiety, sleeplessness, hypertension, heart murmur, etc.,). Her initial visit to my pharmacy produced several prescriptions for high doses of potent drugs. The prescriptions were written by a physician in our clinic, who was known for being quite liberal with his prescribing. (Again, this patient knew who to see!)
Within only a couple of weeks, she was phoning for repeats on her prescriptions (although she had been dispensed sufficient drugs for a conmplete month). Obviously, she was not adhering to the correct doseages. I phoned her doctor to inform him of this situation, but he simply instructed to refill all the prescriptions. And again, I put an "alert" on her "medication file."
In 2 more weeks, she was at the clinic again for her monthly doctor's visit. Of course, she walked into my pharmacy with another "handful" of prescriptions! (The medications were all a repeat of what she had just been dispensed only 2 weeks ago.) At this point, I was very concerned about having another recurrence of a "suicide." I briefly, discretely spoke to this patient to check her mannerisms (speech, visual contact, etc.,). Her speech was somewhat "slurred" and her "eye pupils" were "dilated" (both signs of "drug Intoxication").
Mrs. Heim was to become my best, but most "dreaded" customer! Month after month, she would request refills about every 2 weeks. Often, new prescriptions were added to her daily "addiction." After about 2 years of knowing her, I became concerned because of not hearing from her for a complete month. I checked with her physician and was informed that she had to be rushed to a hospital, after attempting to commit "suicide." (My fears were correct.)
Mrs. Heim spent several months in a "mental hospital," were she was administered "shock treatments." (Most times, these treatments do more harm than good!) When she was released, her first stop was to see her Physician in our Clinic to obtain more prescriptions. Her next stop was to have them filled at my pharmacy. I talked with her for awhile and cautiously advised her to take care in how she took her medications. (Always, I had to be very discrete in advising one of my customers, because of possibly infringing on the "territorial rights" of doctor and patient.) This is an extremely difficult situation for pharmacists to be in, because of their knowledge of what dangers are occuring with the drugs that they are dispensing.
Mrs. Heim became very "frail," and at times could barely get around unassisted. She gave up driving her automobile (which was a good thing) and limited her activites. This debilitation only added to her "anxiety attacks," and she increased her doseages of "tranquilizers" and "sedatives." (What a MAD cycle!) The drugs caused her restrictions in her activities, and now she was taking higher doses!
Her condition worsened until she finally was rushed again to the hospital! (And again, for an overdose of drugs.) This time, her stomach had to be "pumped" and she was administered "anticonvulsive" drugs to keep her from elapsing into a "coma." After her doctors deemed her to be over the "critical" point, she was again placed in a "mental hospital." "Shock treatments" were repeated, but this time had severe adverse reactions on her. She went into a "heavy, depressive state" and managed to take her life!
I was informed of her DEATH by the police, when they visited my pharmacy to make inquiries about her "drug file." (The police were becoming familiar with my pharmacy and the clinic.) I was sure by this time that the "College of Pharmacists" had been informed, and would be scruitinizing my prescription files carefully.

3. Mr. Whalings was a prime example of what "socialized medicine" can create. He was a product of our "welfare society," having been born into an existence of being "cared for from craddle to grave." His schooling was very limited, and he had no ambitions. He grew up to be extremely overweight and in poor health. His diet consisted of the "standard American diet" -- lots of "empty calories."
Mr. Whalings lived in the "Welfare Housing Project" in the neighborhood of my pharmacy, and thusly, chose our medical clinic. He always was undergoing various lab tests, because of his constant complaints of different illnesses (most turned out to be "psychosomatic"). Of course, he was on many drugs! He took medication for every little complaint that he thought he was suffering from.
His frequency of repeating his prescriptions was unmatched at my pharmacy. (It's still hard for me to think about the massive doses of the drugs that he consumed.) His "medication file" was enormous, and was reported to his physician. Fortunately, his doctor was concerned enough to take action and cut back his prescriptions. This did not stop Mr. Whalings, for he simply went to another doctor and appeared at my pharmacy with several new prescriptions as well as repeats for all his old ones. I phoned his new physician to inform him of his "medication file," but the doctor insisted that I fill all the prescriptions -- he did say that he would be monitoring him very carefully. I was not satisfied with this answer, but had no alternative, other than to do as the doctor requested.
After a few months, both I and his physician began to suspect that Mr. Whalings may be "selling" some of his drugs. He mostly would have his medications delivered to him and have the delivery person enter his place for some conversation. My delivery people started coming back with stories of noticing a new expensive color television, stereo system, couch, etc.,. It was just not possible for him to acquire these items with the small amount of money he received from the "welfare department."
His doctor informed the police of what he suspected. It was only a short while after doing so, that the police reported to him that they had "arrested" Mr. Whalings for "pushing" drugs! Thereupon, an investigation was conducted by the police, which turned up the vast quantities of prescriptions written by his physicians. His second doctor was "disciplined" by his "College of Physicians and Surgeons." Mr. Whalings spent some time in prison, and when released, he was moved to a different "Welfare Housing Project" because the police thought it would be best. (Since it was completely out of our clinc's area, Mr. Whalings visited a closer clinic and had his prscriptions transfered to a new pharmacy -- this was one time when I was happy to lose a customer this way -- rather than by "suicide.")

4. This next story is about the Seganey family, which consisted of a mother, daughter and son. Their ages were around 60, 40 and 35 respectively. All of them arrived at my pharmacy with a full "medication file." These people were also on welfare and thusly did not have to pay attention to the costs of all their drugs. (I am certain that this system of paying for peoples' medications contributes to their careless administration of their drugs.)
They chose a physician at our clinic who was a "prolific" prescription writer. This doctor not only gave them repeat prescriptions for all their previous drugs, but also added to them! It was the same story over again - constant early repeats of their prescriptions. The quantities of drugs that they were to be consuming were impossible for a human being to still be alive with! Thusly, I again suspected that here were more people on welfare, who were making money by selling some of their drugs. I discussed this with their doctor, but as usual, he did not seem too concerned.
Their "prescription accounts" that I submitted to the Welfare Dept. were being carefully scrutinized for abuses. (I found out about this when I received a letter from the Welfare Dept. telling me so.) Their doctor was visited by an inspector from the Welfare Dept. to discuss their "medical histories." This accomplished nothing in having their medications cut down, for it is the sole right of the physician to determine what and how much medication his patients need.
The Seganeys did not drive a car, which I was thankful for, because they often kind of "stumbled" into my pharmacy. (Although I suspected that they sold some of their drugs, I was certain that they took most of them.) They were very "psychosomatic" and made a lot of use of the clinic's lab (blood and urine testing). Often, they had copious X-rays taken (for any aches or pains in their back, etc.,).
Then, suddenly, a police detective visited my pharmacy to inform me that Mr. Segany had "taken his life." He demanded to see his "medication file" and took it with him to make copies. I was questioned at length and told that a thorough investigation was going to take place. This detective next spoke to the doctor.
It was only a short while after this investigation began, that the physician was called before his discipline committee of the "College of Physicians and Surgeons." They did their own inquiry, and found that this physician had been "negligent" in the manner of his care and prescribing to Mr. Segany. Whereupon, the committee cancelled his licence to practice medicine for one year.
I was sent a formal letter from my "College of Pharmacists" informing me that they had received a copy of Mr. Seganey's "medication record" from the police. They had reviewed it and commented that I must be more "attentive" when "drug abuse" is obvious. This did not make sense to me, because I always informed the doctor involved. (As I mentioned, it was my professional duty to dispense medications to patients, if their physician so insisted.)

5. One of the physicians was from a small town, about 50 miles away, and brought with him a big following of his patients. He had practiced in this town for many years, and was "revered" by his patients. Dr. Grenery was a very amicable person and readily obliged his patients (with prescriptions, lab tests, x-rays, etc.,). His practice was more "sociable" than professional (all his patients called him by his first name, as he did them). This "friendliness" spilled over into how he practiced medicine -- loose and carefree.
Dr. Grenery was the most prolific prescription writer in the clinic. He paid little regard to patient "medical" and "prescription" records. I was constantly speaking to him about heavy doses of drugs that so many of his patients were receiving. (He just said not to worry, for this was the way he had been practicing medicine for many years.) But how can you not be concerned when you know that many of his patients are definately taking "overdoses?"
Dr. Grenery also had the biggest practice in the clinic, and did not have time to be bothered with such "trivial" matters as the "overdoses" of drugs that his patients were administering to themselves. I took it upon myself to talk to many of these patients (again, in as discrete a manner as possible). Unfortuneately, my trying to help was to no avail, because these patients had been "addicted" to high doses of drugs for so many years. Many of them left my pharmacy with a large bag full of medications (oral drugs, intravenous medications, topical medications, etc.,).
When the weather was bad, and these patients could not make the trip to the clinic, they would simply phone Dr. Grenery to have him refill their prescriptions. He would have his nurse phone these refills into my pharmacy and ask to have them mailed. My pharmacy had quite a "mail-order" business going (eventually, a lot of these patients would have drugs sent to them in between doctor visits, no matter what the weather).
This manner of practicing medicine was much too frivolous for my liking, and it contantly made me anxious. It was a wonder, that during the 10 years that I was associated with Dr. Grenery, that no situation arose with a "suicide" or "accidental poisoning." (I was never paid a visit by the police concerning any of these patients.)
Dr. Ellen was very well known to readily perform "vasectomies" (male "sterilization" -- most times reversable). People from all over the city used to have this minor operation done at our clinic. Saturdays was a favorite time -- most men did not have to take off work. The operation was accomplished using only a "local anaesthetic" and the patient suffered little discomfort. It sure was a "money-making" situation for this doctor! (Was he ever busy!)
It was at a time when there was a lot of controversy over the "pill" (oral contraceptives). From this part of his practice, my pharmacy was kept busy with many prescriptions for "pain relievers" and "antibiotics." (The lab was extremely busy testing "semen" to see if it was "sperm-free.")
Dr. Ellen was also a big believer in drugs and had quite a reputation of passing out prescriptions readily. He kept NO "controlling" records of the medications that his patients were taking and too often would duplicate their drugs. I would inform him of this, but he would tell me that it was just an oversight, and to dispense the drugs anyway.
Along with his carefree manner of practicing, he suffered from alcoholism (so did his wife, who acted as his nurse). They sure made some pair! There was a standard joke in the clinic about him being "inebriated" one day while performing a vasectomy and cutting the wrong part (the penis) by error. I witnessed, on more than one occassion, him being under the influence of alcohol while operating! I don't know how he got away with it so many times without suffering any consequences.

6. Dr. Higgins was the "antithesis" of the two physicians previously discussed. He graduated from a proper English Medical School and followed in the footsteps of his father, who had a very respected medical practice in England. After starting his practice in England, he became disenfranchised with "socialized medicine" and set up practice at our clinic. He arrived and began seeing patients in his "dignant" manner (everything was very "proper" -- he was in complete command, and his patients were merely his subjects).
His prescribing of drugs was conservative, and it seemed that people who became his patients were resigned to this. Even his use of the lab and x-ray department was limited (in fact, he was always being confronted by the other doctors regarding this). I felt that I could trust his judgement when it came to his practice.
Dr. Higgins was a very "temperamental" and "sensitive" person who was also quite overweight. He had marital problems, which ended in divorce. (He had to also leave his two children.) He began to heavily consume alcohol, and became addicted. With this, he would have severe bouts of depression, and more than once, tried to commit suicide. Of course, his well-established practice suffered and many times all his daily appointments had to be cancelled at the last moment (due to his intoxication).
This situation was embarassing for me because his patients confronted me regarding his problems. Ethically, I was prohibited from saying anything that could hurt his practice, but professionally, I felt that I had an obligation to my customers. (I was under constant pressure -- torn between whether I should hurt this doctor's practice, who I had known for several years, or should I do disservice to so many of my customers, who I also knew for many years?)
Eventually, some of his patients complained about him to the "College of Physicians and Surgeons." The college commenced an investigation and sent an inspector, as a patient to visit Dr. Higgins. The inspector's appointment was cancelled only hours before he was scheduled to see the doctor, and when he saw him at a later date, he caught him in an inebriated state! It was only after a few weeks of this inspector's visit that Dr. Higgins was summoned before the "Discipline Committee" of the college to answer to charges of professional incompetence. The committee produced evidence from many of his patients and had him cornered. The conclusion was the cancellation of his "Medical practicing licence" until such time that he could prove his competence. I do not know the conclusion -- if Dr. Higgins "rehabilitated" himself and received back his licence -- I sold my pharmacy and moved away shortly after this episode.

7. Nurses played a major role in the Climic's operation. Since the doctors were always "overbooked," they were responsible for a lot of duties that a Physician would usually do. They got "questionaires" filled out, asked questions if it was necessary, and tried to make the patients as comfortable as possible. These procedures would save the doctors a lot of time, and they could keep "skipping" from one examing room to another (they merely had to glance at the data that the nurse received from the patients).
The rapid pace that the doctors kept in trying to see as many patients as possible in a day prevented them from really learning enough about their patients. In fact, many physicians insist on their patients just listening to them and to talk only when they request them to do so. Are they treating "human beings" or animals? (A "veterinarian" does not need any talking response when he treats his animal patients.)
It was the nurses' responsibility to administer vaccinations, injections of all medications -- antibiotics, hormones, vitamins, etc. They were instrumental in helping keep the patients "drugged." I know of many times, when the doctor was unavailable, that the nurses took it upon themselves to hand out previously written prescriptions for common ailments (colds, flus, sore throats, coughs, etc.,). The patients trusted the nurses because they usually got to know them better than the physician (for they spent more time with them).

8. The lab was a very intricate part of the clinic. It was the "data processing center" where all the testing of blood, urine, sputum, feces, sperm, etc. was performed. The physicians were part-owners of the lab and had a "vested interest" in keeping it busy. They sure did a splendid job in doing so! There was a steady, full waiting room of patients at all times.
Lab procedures are quite costly and brought in much revenue into the clinic. I always suspected that there were many needless tests performed, for in so many cases, what was tested for had no relationship to the suspected illness. Recently, my suspicions have have been founded. Many articles have appeared regarding the findings of "needless testings," as well as the exhorbitant costs. (Insurance companies are starting to clamp down on payments.)

9. The x-ray department also was a key factor in the success of the clinic. Again, this department was owned by the physicians and fed a constant flow of patients. There was always a crowd of people waiting outside the x-ray room. It puzzled me how the doctors could find so many reasons for all these x-rays (I couldn't begin to list all the ailments that were mentioned in the x-ray files). There was little regard given to the harmful effects of the "radiation."

10. I feel that this is a good place to discuss the role of the "Pharmaceutical Detail Men." Their principal function was to "push" their company's drugs! This was accomplished in several ways. One of the most effective was giving the doctors copious supplies of "drug samples" so that they could get their patients started on them. Often a prescription was given to the patient before any results were obtained from the samples. (What was the purpose of these samples?) There were many times when one of the clinic's physicians made a "housecall" and sold these samples to his patients. This is highly unethical because the doctor was supplementing his income by prescribing drugs.
These "salesmen" would frequently bring the doctors and nurses gifts in one form or another (desk ornaments, pen and pencil sets, plants, flowers, and even free trips, etc.,). They were often responsible for setting up seminars for the physicians, which turned out to be more of a "party" than an informative gathering. (Much alcoholic beverages were served, thusly, putting the doctors in a "partying mood" rather than a learning mood.)
Pharmaceutical companies have always been large contributors to "Medical School Scholarships," and thusly, familiarize physicians with their names very early in their careers. These companies often sponsor many events for both the medical students and graduates (giving out prizes and awards if called for).
The detail men also have an influence on the pharmacists. They are forever coming up with "deals" (such as free goods) to get them to recommend their products. They pay the pharmacies for advertising their products in a circular or for putting up a sign that features their wares. If a "discount sale" is made on their items, the pharmacy is reimbursed to make up the difference. Several times a year, various pharmaceutical companies would put on a promotion for their products, in which a pharmacist could win an "all-expense paid" trip to exotic destinations (many times spending money would be provided). There were always "deals" on prescription drugs (extra "discounts" or "free" drugs provided) if the pharmacy purchased a sufficient quantity. This, of course, ensured the dispensing of their drugs when called for on a prescription (rather than "substituting" for another brand or "generic" equivalent).

11. This chapter's purpose is to give the readers a "behind-the-door" view of what happens in the functioning of a medical clinic. In no case was there any exaggeration, and wherever possible, I tried to give a simplified version so that the layman can understand. If any part of this history shocked you, it was meant to do so! (As I previously mentioned, only when a "health revolution" takes place in this country -- when people are demanding better healthcare through more preventive methods, taught and used by their doctors -- will the forementioned problems and abuses vanish. We MUST all take full responsibility for our bodies and our HEALTH!

An article titled: "Physicians who own laboratories prescribed 45% more tests on Medicare patients," appeared in The Wall Street Journal on May 1, 1989. This increased utilization of clinical lab services by patients of physician-owners cost the Medicare program $28 million nationally in 1987, according to a report to Congress by Richard Kusserow, the Inspector General of the "Department of Health and Human Services."
The increasing tendency of doctors to own labs, testing, x-ray and other health care facilities to which they can refer patients has generated concern about conflicts of interest and the impact on medical costs. The study found that referring physicians own at least 25% of the independent clinical labs that conduct blood, tissue and other tests; 27% of the independent physiological labs that administer stress, ultrasound and othe examinations; and 8% of the suppliers of durable medical equipment.



10. QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Question: How did you start on the Natural Hygiene diet?

Answer: It did not happen overnight! After many years of suffering from many illnesses and not being cured by our "conventional methods", such as with drugs, I decided to seek the answers elsewhere. Basically, reading a lot of the books available in "Health Food" stores (esp. by the author, Herbert M. Shelton ) started me on the right path to health.

Question: Did you give up all your old bad eating habits at one time, or did you do it gradually?

Answer: I did it gradually by stopping some of the most "poisonous" foods or substances first. The very first to go was all medications. Next was "red" meats, followed by other meats and poultry. Fish, which I considered the least harmful, was the last flesh to disappear from my diet. I was successful in accomplishing this by cutting back my flesh consumption from daily to every second day -- then twice a week, -- and then once weekly. This occurred over a period of about one year. (After all, I had been a "flesh-eater" for over 45 years.)

Question: Did you not have cravings for sweet stuffs such as candy, soft drinks, ice cream, etc.,?

Answer: Yes, I did have these cravings, for I used to consume a lot of these addictive foods. Since I was no longer addicted to drugs, I knew that I could do the same with these addictions. The best way that I found was to eliminate them "cold turkey." I managed to exist without them!

Question: Eating a Natural Hygiene diet sounds great, but are you not hungry all the time?

Answera: No, I am not hungry all the time. A Natural Hygiene diet is very easy to get used to. You learn to enjoy the beautiful foods of nature by relishing them and eating only when you are truly hungry. At these times, you eat your fill with no harmful effects. (in the proper combinations.) You learn to eat the right amount that will carry you over to the next meal.

Question: What foods do you start off your day with?

Answer: In the morning, I will eat only fresh fruit. (bananas, raisins, figs, dates or other "sweet" fruits) I find that sweet fruits give me that extra fruit sugar (fructose) that I desire for a fast ready source of energy.

Question: How do you manage to find fresh fruits and nuts or seeds during the day, if you are very busy and cannot take off time to either go home or to a store?

Answer: It is very easy to carry with you a cooler packed with your needs. Since you are eating everything raw, you do not have to worry about preparation. You can eat anytime in a matter of minutes!

Question: What about your "social life?" How do you manage to stay on your Natural Hygiene diet when you are at a restaurant or visiting friends for a meal?

Answer: I try not to frequent restaurants unless I know that they will serve me a Hygienic meal. As for visiting friends for a meal, I have no problems, because all my freinds respect my diet and will serve me properly. (In fact, most times they will use this time as an opportunity to try my diet.)

Question: What about when traveling? How do you keep to your strict observance of your diet?

Answer: This is an example of how easy it is to stay on this diet without inconveniences. How easy it is to carry a cooler full of your natural foods, even on an airplane.

Question: Are you not worried that you will lose too much weight?

Answer: No, I am certainly not worried about my weight. On a strict Natural Hygiene diet, your body will acquire its best natural weight, and remain at this weight. This is one of the great benefits of "living in harmony with Nature."

Question: What if you become very sick? Are you not going to see a doctor?

Answer: As a Natural Hygienist, I don't intend to get sick. If my body needs to "detoxify" itself with dis-ease, I will not interfere with this natural process by visiting a doctor and probably be prescribed medication.

Question: Are you not concerned that you will not get enough protein in your diet, because you do not eat any flesh?

Answer: I am able to get all the protein that I require from raw fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds. This protein comes to me in the form of "amino acids," which is the form that is utilized by the body. (Therefore no loss of protein by cooking, causing "deaminization" -- destruction of amino acids.)

Question: Are "colonics" and "enemas" needed to clean out the lower intestine?

Answer: Colonics and enemas are NOT needed to clean out the colon because the colon is fully capable of cleansing itself. Once you stop eating the wrong types and amounts of food, the colon will be able to completely cleanse itself. Contrary to common belief, there is NO hardened, "caked-on crust" of toxic waste materials lining the colon which can only be removed by colonics.



QUOTATIONS:

"Man usually adopts the right remedy after he has exhausted every wrong one." [Herbert M. Shelton]

"The more we work with Mother Nature , the less we have to depend on Lady Luck." [W. Wade]

"Only by understanding the wisdom of natural foods and their effects on the body shall we attain mastery of disease and pain, which shall enable us to relieve the burden of mankind." [W.Harvey]

"How strange a creature is man, who will at times go to such extremes to preserve his life, only to shorten it at the dinner table [Wm. H. Gordon]

"Regimen is better than physic. Everyone should be his own Physician. We ought to assist and not force nature. Eat with moderation that agrees with your constitution. Nothing is good for the body, but what we can digest." [Voltaire]

"The first wealth is Health. Sickness is poor-spirited, and cannot serve anyone. It must husband its resources to live. But Health answers its own ends, and has to spare; runs over and inundates the neighborhoods and creeks of other men's necessities." [Emerson]

"Joy, temperance and repose slam the door in the Doctor's face." [Longfellow]

"Be sober and temperate, and you will be healhy." [Franklin]

"Doctor, no medicine. We are machines made to live -- organized expressly for that purpose. Such is our nature. Do not counteract this living principle. Leave it at liberty to defend itself, and it will do better than your drugs." [Napoleon]

"The human body is always striving towards perfection." [Sir Isaac Jennings]

"The proper way to study disease is to study health and every influence, favorable or not, to its continuance. Disease is `vitiated' (spoiled) health. Any influence that lowers nerve energy becomes disease-producing. Disease cannot be its own cause; it always has `antecedent' (previous) cause." [John H. Tilden, M.D.]

"All the best work which has ever been done searching for "cause" commences with "effect." Certainly no reasoning mind can believe that an effect is its own cause!" [John H. Tilden, M.D.]

"Many diseases are considered to be of a dangerous nature, and many attempts are made to combat the danger, with, however, no perception of its nature. This is particularly true with epidemic diseases, such as measles, influenza, scarlet fever, and diptheria. As a consequence, proposals have at different times been put forward to treat individuals who suffer from these diseases upon some general plan, without consideration of the peculiarities of the individual case -- and thus, we get that `rule of thumb treatment' which is shown in the indiscriminate use of a serum or vaccine ." [Sir James Mackenzie]

" Immunization is a `cowardly dodge' -- a vain effort to avoid confronting the problems of life in a manly fashion. Were we to recognize, as we should, that our troubles are of our own making, then we would not waste our time or stunt our growth by looking for some vaccine which will absolve us from our sins. Truth exposes the germ fallacy." [Sir James Mackenzie] "I firmly believe that, if the whole `materia medica' could be sunk to the bottom of the sea, it would be all the better for mankind and all the worse for the fishes." [Oliver W. Holmes,M.D.]

"The greatest danger in all disease lies in the treatment of it, not in the sickness itself." [Purinton]

"It has always been one of the most difficult practical problems in the world to present new truths so as not to offend old errors; for people are very apt to regard arguments directed against their opinions as attacks upon their reasons; and many there are who mistake their own ingrained prejudices for established principles." [Dr. Robert Thacker Trall]

"What is fairly called `Modern Scientific Medicine' contents itself with `experimental toying' with a never-ending succession of drugs and with symptoms, while utterly neglecting the `Laws of Life '." [Herbert M. Shelton]

"Medical researchers are searching feverishly today under huge research grants for specific cures for every disease from colds to cancer. This is self-evidence that `Medical Science' has NO cures." [Herbert M. Shelton]

"Natural Hygiene is the only system based on the `Eternal Laws of Life,' and is the once and future way of life for the world's millions. Natural Hygiene alone has slain the `dragon of therapeutics' with her `club of truth.' The eternal principles of Natural Hygiene stand for freedom from suffering , not for exploitation of the suffering millions by health and life-destroying drugs and mutilating operations. Natural Hygiene is truly the democratic system of life and health, whose principles are built into the very fabric of human beings." [Herbert M. Shelton]

"We are builders of tomorrow. We need not pay a fortune teller, or a doctor to tell us what will happen tomorrow. Nothing will happen except effect from cause. The inevitable will transpire. We shall inherit the fruits that we sow." [John H. Tilden,M.D.]


Harvey Milstein, 1989



RETURN TO "OVERCOME YOUR HEALTH PROBLEMS"

Harvey N. Milstein Diplomate L.Ac. (NCCAOM), B. Sc. Phm. Acupuncturist HOUSTON 12126 Briar Forest "Country Village" Houston, TX 77077 Phone:  (281) 496-1510

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