ask the experts - Letter to the Editor

dry skin

question

In the wintertime, my hands and heels of my feet get so dry, they crack and peel. Then, I sometimes get an infection in the cracks. This is driving me crazy! I have tried all kinds of creams, lotions and potions recommended by my dermatologist, but nothing really solves the problem.

answer

Many people are prone to this during the winter months. First, make sure that you are not washing dishes, using cleaning fluids, chemicals or doing any handiwork without wearing gloves. Try a pure liquid vitamin E oil with nothing added to it (or puncture some vitamin E capsules) and apply it directly to your hand several times a day, especially after washing your hands. You can also mix some natural vitamin E with pure shea or cocoa butter for a thicker coating when you go outside. If you do get cracks or cuts in your hands, try applying a little tea tree oil with a cotton applicator (beware of its strong smell) to prevent bacteria from settling in, as tea tree oil has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. Some of the hand lotions that contain petroleum, mineral oil, artificial colors and fragrances also may be irritating to your hands. Petroleum and mineral oils clog your pores and do not allow them to properly regulate natural oil production, actually making your skin dryer in the long run.

acidophilus

question

Do acidophilus supplements need to be refrigerated? I know that these supplements are good for yeast infections, digestion and diarrhea. Is acidophilus beneficial for other things as well?

answer

Studies have suggested that Lactobacillus acidophilus (L.acidophilus) and other friendly bacteria, in addition to protecting your body against yeast and other "bad" bacteria, may be protective against colon cancer. In addition, since acidophilus inhibits reabsorption of estrogen back into the bloodstream, it appears to offer protection against breast and other estrogen-related cancers. While some acidophilus supplements are kept refrigerated, others keep well at room temperature, keeping it in the refrigerator can't hurt. (See article on page 50)

heartburn

question

I suffer from terrible heartburn due to dilation of my esophagus. This occurs because my esophagus is too narrow. I use papaya enzyme, and both herbal and pancreatic digestive enzymes. This has helped to some degree. I have also cut down on Zantac. Any other suggestions?

answer

Food-wise, try to avoid drinking fluids with meals; drink fluids between meals instead. Avoid fat, oils and cream. Eat smaller, more frequent meals, rather than three full meals a day. Also, aloe vera gel or juice is excellent for heartburn. Beta carotene and DGL licorice are also good for healing the tissue that surrounds the esophagus, which normally causes problems related to an enlargement of the esophageal sphincter muscle and gastroesophageal feflux. Remember that heartburn and reflux can signal a variety of serious diseases, including (but not limited to): gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), Barrett's Esophagus (a serious pre-cancer condition) and esophageal cancer -- so make sure that serious disorders are ruled out first before you go down the self-care route.

chronic bronchitis

question

My husband suffers from chronic bronchitis. None of the medications have helped. What can we do?

answer

Important nutrients for the immune system include: vitamin A, beta carotene, vitamin C and zinc. B vitamins also play an important role. A good multi-vitamin-mineral supplement may contain many of these nutrients, and additional vitamin C may also help. The following herbs have been successfully used for centuries for bronchitis: lobelia, licorice root, wild cherry bark, coltsfoot, white horehound, pleurisy root and catnip. Many of these can be found in combinations as tinctures, capsules, teas and tablets. They may be used daily, and when the bronchitis appears to be under control, use them a few times each week.

Shari Lieberman holds a Ph.D. in clinical nutrition and exercise physiology. She is a certified nutrition specialist (C.N.S.), a fellow of the American College of Nutrition (F.A.C.N.) and serves on the board of the American Preventive Medical Association. Write to her in care of Better Nutrition magazine, Sabot Publishing, 9 Riverbend Drive, South, Stamford Ct 06907. She can not answer questions by mail or telephone. "Ask the Experts" is intended for educational purposes only. If you have a medical problem, consult your physician.

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