Our prayers are with you as you find your pathway to healing.

You may want to listen to the audio (or read the summaries) from Dr. Cherry’s KCEO radio programs on June 3 and 10, which relate to diabetes, and June 24 which discusses heart disease. Here is the link: http://www.thepathwaytohealing.com/drcherryradio

In Bible Health Secrets, Dr. Cherry specifically recommends potassium, magnesium and polyphenols (such as in olive oil) for managing blood pressure. He also recommends hibiscus tea (see http://www.thepathwaytohealing.com/hibiscusteavideo032309), omega-3 fatty acids and garlic.

Also in Bible Health Secrets, Dr. Cherry discusses the benefits of chromium, vanadium, biotin, magnesium, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, alpha-lipoic acid, gymnema, bitter melon, B vitamins, and bilberry for managing blood sugar. He also recommends cinnamon and banaba leaf.

Taking the Basic Nutrient Support and Blood Sugar Support will supply almost all of these nutrients.

As always when dealing with medical conditions and taking prescription medications, consult your healthcare professional before beginning or changing a supplement program. You will need to closely monitor your blood pressure and blood sugar levels; when you are on the supplement program, you may need to reduce the amount of medication you are taking, and this should be done under a doctor’s supervision.

A full spectrum nutritional supplement (such as Basic Nutrient Support) that specifically includes magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids/fish oil, coenzyme Q10, vitamins A, C, E and B vitamins, grape seed extract and antioxidants is a good place to start.

From Bible Health Secrets (pages 133-134): “Serotonin levels are low in people who have fibromyalgia and other pain disorders…5-HTP is proving to be an extremely useful supplement with fibromyalgia…5-HTP is helpful in counteracting the chronic pain, fatigue and depression that accompany fibromyalgia. Doses should begin at 50 mg three times daily and increase to 100 mg three times daily after 2-3 weeks, if adequate responses are not noted.” SAM (S-Adenosylmethionine) has been shown in studies to be helpful as well.

Because fibromyalgia is an immune disorder, a supplement that helps to balance the immune system, such as Immunity Support may be beneficial. Also, malabsorption problems are common in people with fibromyalgia, so digestive enzymes and probiotics, such as those found in Digestion Support help break down the nutrients and provide a healthier digestive environment.

Be sure to drink plenty of liquids, eat a low-inflammatory diet (eliminate saturated fats, sugars and processed foods) and exercise to the extent you are able.

As always when dealing with a medical condition, consult your healthcare professional before beginning or changing a supplement program.

I buy the tea at Whole Foods grocery store. You can order it from Frontier Natural Products in Norway, IA. Frontiercoop.com, 800-669-3275.

Directions are on the bag, steep 3-5 minutes. I steep for 3-5 hours. It really works! It is not inexpensive, as a 16 oz. bag costs betwen $17.00-$20.00. It lasts a long time and is worth every penny. It is a lot cheaper than medication, in more ways than just price.

You may want to talk to your doctor about how certain supplements such as Omega-3 fatty acids, Krill oils, policosanol and red yeast rice may fit in your protocol. The B-vitamin niacin is well-known for it's cholesterol-lowering effect, but amounts above the RDI should be taken under doctor's supervision.

Foods that have been shown to have a positive effect on cholesterol are oats, soy protein, plant sterols(such as in Benecol), red grape juice/red wine, green tea, blueberries, almonds, and garlic. Some of the active compunds in these foods are also available in supplement form.

A diet rich in high fiber foods and vegetables - such as the Mediterranean diet - will also support your heart health.