c r e a t i n g h e a l t h n o w

SierraSil™, Nature's Ultimate Mineral Complex

SierraSil™
Arthritis is one of the most prevalent diseases in the United States, affecting approximately 70 million American adults, or one in three, in 2001. This includes 49 million individuals who reported being diagnosed with arthritis, and another 21 million people who reported persistent joint symptoms.

Arthritis is also the leading cause of disability in the United States, afflicting individuals more frequently than back problems, heart troubles, respiratory difficulties, high blood pressure, stiffness or deformity of limbs, diabetes, blindness, deafness or stroke, according to statistics released by the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (CDC) in 1999. Although arthritis is commonly associated with Caucasians and with the elderly, the disease attacks individuals from all demographic groups, and as many as two-thirds of sufferers are less than 65 years of age, according to CDC.

Since arthritis is a widespread ailment, it puts significant strain on many individuals and families, and on the U.S. health care system. Annually, arthritis accounts for 750,000 hospitalizations, 36 million outpatient visits, 9,500 deaths, 36 million ambulatory care visits, $51 billion in medical costs and $86 billion in total costs (including medical care and lost productivity).

Arthritis’ prevalence is advanced by the abundance of its varieties. There are 100 different forms of arthritis, the most common being osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia and gout. Some forms of the ailment, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, can affect multiple organs and cause an array of symptoms. The signs of arthritis— pain, aching, stiffness and swelling in or around the joints—can substantially impact lifestyle and severely limit ordinary activities once taken for granted; for example, those with joint symptoms report difficulty participating in sports, typing, bathing, dressing, preparing meals, driving and doing housework.

Luckily, there are strategies for reducing symptoms and improving quality of life amongst those with arthritis. General guidelines to guard against or lessen the effects of arthritis include maintaining a healthy weight and engaging in regular physical exercise. Arthritis patients are also advised to get adequate nutrition, particularly with regard to minerals. For example, according to a study published in Seminars in Arthritis and Rheumatism, patients with rheumatoid arthritis should be taught about nutrition or receive supplementation including calcium, zinc and selenium to the daily recommended intake.1 Another study, this one in The Journal of Rheumatology, showed patients receiving corticosteroids to treat rheumatic disease would benefit from supplementation including calcium.2

Another strategy to prevent or mitigate symptoms in joints is available via a new supplement supplied by Vancouver, British Columbia-based Sierra Mountain Minerals. SierraSil™ is a patented proprietary blend marketed for its preventive and therapeutic effects on joint symptoms. The complex is derived from a naturally occurring volcanic mineral deposit located in the Sierra Mountains and gained its distinctive composition of more than 65 macro and trace minerals when the original igneous rock was altered by an underground hot water solution.

Due to its rich mineral content, SierraSil can be used by individuals with joint symptoms as a vehicle for reaching daily nutritional requirements for minerals. In addition, the complex may have beneficial effects beyond nutritional support, although the mechanism behind SierraSil’s ability to reduce joint symptoms continues to elude researchers. No conclusions have been drawn to date, but the specific configuration of minerals in the supplement is thought responsible for its therapeutic effects.

Researchers are working to elucidate the ingredient’s efficacy and method of action. An unpublished pilot study showed SierraSil was effective alone and in concert with Vincaria®, an extract of Uncaria guianensis (cat’s claw), shown effective in alleviating symptoms of osteoarthritis in patients diagnosed with the disease.3 Based on the positive results of this internal study, SierraSil is currently being tested in a six-week, multi-center, randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled study to determine its value as a treatment for osteoarthritis and whether its effectiveness would be enhanced through concomitant or combined therapy with a natural tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibitor. The study consists of 120 patients, at least 20 years of age, with osteoarthritis of the knee. The subjects are divided into four groups: placebo (control group); SierraSil 1 and SierraSil 2, in which subjects receive two different dosages of SierraSil, respectively; and SierraSil taken with Vincaria. The results of the study are slated for publication in the fall of 2004.

SierraSil also promotes its user testimonials, available at www.sierrasil.com. For example, Ken Venturri, a U.S. Open champion and former CBS television analyst who retired from professional golf due to severe carpal tunnel syndrome, said using SierraSil alleviates symptoms and has allowed him to resume playing golf. “After using SierraSil for a short period of time, I was able to hit practice balls without incurring any discomfort. I continue to take it daily,” Venturri said.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

References

1. Stone J et al. “Inadequate calcium, folic acid, vitamin E, zinc and selenium intake in rheumatoid arthritis patients: results of a dietary survey.” Semin Arthritis Rheum. 27, 3:180-5, 1997.

2. Warady BD et al. “Effects of nutritional supplementation on bone mineral status of children with rheumatic diseases receiving corticosteroid therapy.” J Rheumatol. 21, 3:530-5, 1994.

3. Piscoya J et al. “Efficacy and safety of freeze-dried cat’s claw in osteoarthritis of the knee: mechanisms of action in the species Uncaria guianensis.” Inflammation Research, 50, 9:442-48, 2001.

Natural Agents for Arthritis

Addressing pain, Inflammation and Autoimmunity
by Helen Kimber BSc (Hons) PGCE, ECNP

Arthritis is one of the most debilitating diseases of modern times. It is thought that 90% of people in the UK will suffer from some form of arthritis by the time they reach 60 years of age. Quality of life for sufferers and their families is severely affected.
There are two forms of arthritis:
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the lubricating mechanism and cushioning of joints. It is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the joints and other parts of the body. Bone surfaces are destroyed and the bones fuse together creating stiffness, swelling, fatigue and crippling pain.
Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, results primarily from a progressive degeneration of cartilage glycosaminoglycans (GAG). The smooth surface of the cartilage becomes rough and this results in friction. The joint becomes deformed, painful and stiff, and the muscles holding the joint together become weak (see Figures 1 above and 2 below). Osteoarthritis affects the weight-bearing joints like knees, hips and ankles, and tends to be more common in older people.
The cumulative effects of decades of use and mis-use leads to degenerative changes in joints. This damage is further compounded by a decreased ability by the body to repair joint structures, much of which can be attributed to poor nutritional status.

Orthodox medications
There is a great deal of research indicating that the drug therapy used in osteoarthritis may produce short term benefit, but actually accelerates the progression of joint destruction. Standard drug therapy suppresses pain and inflammation, but actually promotes progression of the disease process by inhibiting GAG synthesis and cartilage repair.1,2
So, whilst these drugs are fairly effective in suppressing the symptoms, they possibly worsen the condition by inhibiting cartilage formation and accelerating cartilage destruction.
Aspirin is commonly used as a pain reliever and anti-inflammatory. However, high doses are required to achieve efficacy and these can be associated with side effects such as tinnitus and gastric irritation. Other non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and indomethacin are also associated with side effects including gastrointestinal upset, headaches and dizziness. Long term usage is therefore not recommended.

Natural Approaches
Nutritional intervention may well give relief to many sufferers of these debilitating conditions and this review will discuss several of the well researched natural agents that may be incorporated into a regime to help relieve the pain and inflammation associated with degenerative joint disease, concentrating mainly on osteoarthritis.
Boswellia (Boswellia serrata) has traditionally been used for a myriad of disorders and today its major use is as an anti-inflammatory agent for musculoskeletal problems.
Research has compared Boswellia with non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory agents and it has been shown to be as effective with fewer side effects. Non-steroidals such as ibuprofen can cause gastrointestinal side effects, but Boswellia has no such activity.
The mechanism of action of Boswellia is still not fully understood, but it is thought to be due to the Boswellic acid and its derivatives exerting anti-inflammatory effects by reducing the inflammatory and immune response, which leads to faster healing.3
Due to its inhibitory effects on the immune system, Boswellia is not recommended for pregnant women or those with compromised immune functions. Boswellic acid has shown to be a potent 5-lipoxygenase inhibitor. (5-lipoxygenase is an enzyme, which stimulates eicosanoids to be produced from fatty acids thus causing an increase in pain and inflammation.)3,4
Curcumin (Curcuma longa) is the yellow pigment and active component found in the spice turmeric, obtained from the powdered rhizomes of the plant Curcuma longa. It is commonly used as a colouring agent in foods. Curcumin appears to have a variety of actions that make it a potent anti-inflammatory agent, including its ability to scavenge nitric oxide, act as an antioxidant, inhibit synthesis of interleukin-1 and tumour necrosis factor, and inhibit lipoxygenase and cyclo-oxygenase.5,6,7
Curcumin has also been shown to induce the production of glutathione, suggesting it may be beneficial in conditions of impaired detoxification.8
Curcumin has been used clinically as an anti-inflammatory for conditions such as post-operative inflammation, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.9,10,11
White Willow (Salix alba) contains bitter phenolic and flavonoid glycosides. The most active is salicin, which is converted in the liver to acetyl-salicylic acid, an effective anti-inflammatory agent, but which does not have the gastrointestinal toxicity associated with aspirin (salicylic acid).
The salicylates inhibit the activity of the cyclo-oxygenase enzyme and thus inhibit the production of prostaglandins, which can lead to a reduction in pain and inflammation.12
Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is another well-known culinary herb which has been studied and contains gingerol, an active phenylketone which has a structure similar to aspirin, which may explain the similar effect these two compounds have on prostaglandins.13,14,15
A small clinical study in Denmark involving seven patients, who took an average of 5g of fresh ginger daily for three months, reported less pain, better mobility and a reduction in swelling and stiffness.16
MSM (Methyl Sulphonyl Methane) is an organic salt found in plants and animals and manufactured in the body from sulphur-containing amino acids. It is a primary sulphur donor which has antioxidant properties. Studies have demonstrated the efficiency in reducing the signs of arthritis in animals. It may also inhibit autoimmune reactions.17,18,19
Glucosamine sulphate is one of the most well-known and well-researched formulas for improving joint health. Glucosamine sulphate (GS) provides the joints with the building blocks they require to repair the damage caused by osteoarthritis. GS is a simple molecule composed of glucose, an amine (nitrogen and two molecules of hydrogen) and sulphur. GS stimulates the formation of chondrocytes (cartilage cells), which helps to build up the cartilage matrix by converting glucosamine into proteoglycans. As well as this, GS promotes the incorporation of sulphur into cartilage. Therefore GS not only stimulates the manufacture of substances necessary for proper joint function, it is also responsible for stimulating joint repair.20
It appears that as some people age they lose the ability to manufacture significant amounts of glucosamine, resulting in cartilage that can no longer carry out its role efficiently. This could be a major factor leading to osteoporosis.
Because GS is a relatively small molecule it is easily absorbed and travels primarily to joint tissue where it is incorporated into cartilage.
The sulphur component of GS appears to play a critical role in the beneficial effects noted from this compound. Sulphur is an essential nutrient for joint tissue where it functions in the stabilization of the connective tissue matrix of cartilage, tendons and ligaments. As far back as the 1930s, researchers demonstrated that individuals with arthritis are commonly deficient in this essential nutrient.21 Restoring sulphur levels brought about significant benefit to these patients.22 Other essential nutrients required for joint function include vitamin C for collagen formation and copper as a co-enzyme for lysyl-oxidase, essential for the conversion of collagen and elasticin.

Clinical trials
Numerous double-blind studies have shown GS to produce much better results compared to NSAIDS and placebos in relieving the pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.23,24
In one study comparing GS to ibuprofen, pain scores decreased faster in the first two weeks in the ibuprofen group (see Figure 3 below);24 however, by the 4th week the group receiving GS was doing significantly better than the ibuprofen group.24

In another large open trial carried out in Portugal,25 patients receiving 500mg of oral GS three times a day over a period of approximately 50 days, showed a significant improvement in mobility and a reduction in pain. Overall, 95% of patients achieved benefit from GS. Both doctors and patients rated the GS as being significantly better than NSAIDs.
NSAIDs tend to offer purely symptom relief, and as described earlier, may even exacerbate the disease. GS appears to address the cause of osteoarthritis by getting to the root of the problem, therefore GS not only relieves pain but also can help with the repair of damaged joints. This is truly outstanding considering its safety and lack of side effects.
The latest findings of a large, three year European study of the effects of GS were recently presented at The American College of Rheumatology.26 Before and after X-rays of 212 osteoarthritis patients showed that 22% of those taking a daily 1500mg supplement of GS had deterioration in their knee joints compared to 38% of patients taking a placebo. Over the three years, pain, stiffness and physical function improved in the glucosamine group but worsened in the placebo group.
Which form is best? Glucosamine sulphate is available stabilized with one of two mineral salts: sodium chloride (NaCl) or potassium chloride (KCl). Although they both appear to be effective, the use of KCl is preferable as the average Western diet already provides far too much sodium chloride in the form of salt.
How much is usually taken? Most of the research into glucosamine sulphate uses 500mg three times daily, and there have been no reports of toxicity or side effects. As GS is not a drug, it may take a little longer to produce results and the benefits become more obvious the longer it is taken.

Summary
It can be seen that natural substances are important adjunctive agents in the treatment of inflammatory musculoskeletal conditions. By employing a natural approach, pain and inflammation may well be decreased, joint movement and flexibility improved and unpleasant side effects associated with drugs avoided.

References
1. Brandt KD. Effects of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs on chondrocyte metabolism in vitro and in vivo. Am J Med. 83 (5A): 29-34. 1987.
2. Shied MJ. Anti-inflammatory drugs and their effects on cartilage synthesis and renal function: Eur J Rheumatol Inflam. 13: 7-16. 1993.
3. Ammon HP, Safayhi H, Mack T, Sabieraj J. Mechanism of anti-inflammatory actions of curcumin and boswellic acids. J Ethnopharmacol. 38(2-3): 113-119. Mar 1993.
4. Boswellia serrata: A unique Ayurvedic Anti-Rheumatic. Vitamin Research Products Inc. May/June 1996.
5. Sreejayan, Rao MN. Nitric oxide scavenging by curcuminoids. J Pharm Pharmacol. 11: 1551-1556. 1995.
6. Chan MM. Inhibition of tumor necrosis factor by curcumin, a Phytochemica. Biochem Pharmacol. 11: 1551-1556. 1995.
7. Huang M-T, Lyszt, Ferraro T, Abidi TF, Laskin JD, Conney AH. Inhibitory effects of curcumin on in vitro lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase activities in mouse epidermis. Cancer Res. 51: 813-819. 1991.
8. Susan M, Rao MNA. Induction of glutathione S transferase activity by curcumin in mice. Drug Res. 42(7): 962-964. 1992.
9. Satoskar RR, Shah SJ, Shenoy SG. Evaluation of anti-inflammatory property of curcumin (diferuloyl methane) in patients with post operative inflammation. Int J Clin Pharmacol Therapy Toxicol. 24: 651-654. 1996.
10. Deodhar SD, Sethir, Srimal RC. Preliminary study on anti-rheumatic activity of curcumin. Ind J Med Res. 71(12): 632-634. 1980.
11. Kulkarni RR, Patki PS, Jog VP, et al. Treatment of Osteoarthritis with a herbomineral formulation: a double blind, placebo controlled, crossover study. J Ethnopharmacol. 33: 91-95. 1991.
12. Flynn R, Roest M. Your Guide to Standardized Herbal Products. World Press. 1995.
13. Srivastava KC, Mustafa T. Ginger (Zingiber Officinale) in rheumatism and musculoskeletal disorders. Med Hypotheses. 39(4): 342-348. Dec 1992.
14. Kiuchi F, Iwakami S, Shibuya M, Hanaoka F, Sankawa U. Inhibition of prostaglandin and leukotriene biosynthesis by gingerols and diarylheptanoids. Chem Pharm Bull (Tokyo). 40(2): 387-391. Feb 1992.
15. Srivastava KC, Mustafa T. Ginger (Zingiber Officinale) and rheumatic disorders. Med Hypotheses. 29(1): 25-28. May 1989.
16. Srivastava KC, Mustafa T. Ginger and rheumatic disorders. Med Hypotheses. 29: 25-28. 1989.
17. Beilke MA, Collins-Lech C, Sohnle PG. Effects of dimethyl sulfoxide on the oxidative function of human neutrophils. J Lab Clin Med. 110(1): 91-96. Jul 1987.
18. Murav'ev Iu V, Venikova MS, Pleskovskaia GN, Riazantseva TA, Sigidin IaA. Effect of dimethyl sulfoxide and dimethyl sulfone on a destructive process in the joints of mice with spontaneous arthritis. Patol Fiziol Eksp Ter. 2: 37-39. Article in Russian. Mar 1991.
19. Morton JI, Siegel BV. [Effects of oral dimethyl sulfoxide and dimethyl sulfone on murine autoimmune lymphoproliferative disease] [Russian]. Proc Soc Exp Biol Med. 183(2): 227-230. Nov 1986.
20. Glucosamine sulphate: effective osteoarthritis treatment. Am J Nat Med. 1(1): Sept 1994.
21. Sullivan MX and Hess WC: Cysteine content of finger nails in arthritis. J Bone Surg. 16: 185-8. 1935.
22. Senturia BD: Results of treatment of chronic arthritis and rheumatoid conditions with colloidal sulphur. J Bone Joint Surg 16: 119-25. 1934.
23. Puljalte JM, et al: Double blind clinical evaluation of oral glucosamine sulphate in the basic treatment of osteoarthritis. Curr Med Res Opin. 7: 110-4. 1980.
24. Vaz AL: Double blind clinical evaluation of the relative efficacy of ibuprofen and glucosamine sulphate in the management of osteoarthritis of the knee of out-patients. Curr Med Res Opin. 8: 145-9. 1982.
25. Tapandinhas MJ, et al. Oral glucosamine sulphate in the management of arthrosis: report on a multicentre open investigation in Portugal. Pharmatherapeutica. 3: 157-68.1982.
26. Dr Jean-Yves Reginster, University of Liege, Belgium. American College of Rheumatology. November 1999.

Arthritis.... Prescription for Healing

Arthritis can no longer be viewed as a disease associated with senior citizens. Although the incidence does increase with years, it can affect women at any age, including during childhood. In fact, nearly three out of every five people with arthritis are under age 65.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), arthritis is the number one cause of disability in the US, affecting 43 million men and women. And they predict that number will rise to 60 million by 2020.

Fortunately, having arthritis doesn't have to mean the beginning of the end if you enjoy physical activities. Here's how you can ease the pain if you already have arthritis, and possibly lower your risk of developing it if you don't.

Lignisul MSM™ (MethylSulfonylMethane) is a naturally-occurring sulfur compound found in our bodies as well as in many common beverages and foods, including milk, coffee, tea and green vegetables. In its purified chemical form, it is an odorless, white, water soluble crystalline solid. It is a natural based product derived from certain trees and is one of the least toxic substances in biology, similar in toxicity to water.

Some of sulfur's essential functions include maintaining structure of the proteins in the body, helping the formation of keratin which is essential for hair and nail growth, aiding in the production of immunoglobulin which maintains the immune system and catalyzing the chemical reactions which change food into energy.

Lignisul MSM temporarily relieves joint stiffness. It is widely used by athletes to reduce soreness and pain associated with injuries, strained or cramped muscles and over-extended joints.

CMO™ (cerasomal-cis-9-cetylmyristoleate), developed at the San Diego International Immunological Center, directed by Dr. Len Sands, is neither an immunosuppressant, nor an immunostimulant; it is an immunomodulator, the only immunomodulator available today to correct the memory T/cells in autoimmune conditions. It is a naturally derived substance (naturally associated Bovine fatty acids) that has received the highest safety level attainable by certified independent laboratory LD-50 testing. Designed to protect and support healthy joints, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, muscles, connective tissue and bones.

Dr. Jeff's joint Health™strong>
For Stiff and Painful Joints
SUGGESTED USE: As a dietary supplement, for normal daily maintenance, on an empty stomach, take 1 caplet before breakfast and 2 caplets at bedtime. For overly stiff and painful joints, muscles, tendons, etc., take 3 caplets, on an empty stomach three times daily. As symptoms subside, decrease to normal daily maintenance.

First 30 days: Absolutely avoid alcohol, coffee, black tea, sodas, chocolate and greasy foods which will impede effects of product. To improve benefits, add ActiVin® OPC 50™, Assimilator™ to your daily intake and drink plenty of Alka-Line Coral Calcium™ treated water .

KEEP OUT OF CHILDREN'S REACH.
STORE IN COOL, DRY PLACE

Serving Size: 1 Caplet/1450 mg
Caplets Per Bottle 90
Amount
per Serving % Daily Value
MSM Lignisul™ (MethylSulfonylMethane) 750 mg *
CMO™ (Cerasomal-cis-9-cetylmyristoleate)
from (naturally associated Bovine fatty acids) 250 mg *
Propreitary Blend 450 mg *
Di-calcium Phosphate, Coral Calcium Basic pH +™ Ca:Mg=2:1 Powder, Glucosamine Sulfate
Percent Daily Values based on 2000 calorie Diet.
* Daily value not established
Other ingredients: Magnesium stearate, vegetable coating.

Arthritis and Autoimmune Diseases
Following are excerpts reprinted from a memo released by Dr. Len Sands, Director of the San Diego International Immunological Center

The Arthritis Process Step-By-Step with CMO™ Intervention

1. Infection, trauma, or excessive wear affects some joints. (Usual infections are rheumatic fever, flue, or bacteria. Traumas are auto wrecks, falls, sports injuries, etc. Excessive joint wear comes from being overweight, or from repetitive use of keyboards, jackhammers, etc.)

2. #1 causes damaged or infected cartilage particles to become dislodged. This happens regardless of whether it's "osteo" or "rheumatoid" or "reactive" arthritis.

3. Macrophages of the immune system begin cleanup of dislodged cartilage particles.

4. Macrophages report their activities to dormant memory T-cells (m/T-cells).

5. Dormant m/T-cells programs activate and develop aggressive anti-cartilage cleanup programs, which do not distinguish between healthy and damaged cartilage.

6. The m/T-cells programs stimulate more macrophage activity, which in turn activates even more dormant m/T-cells.

7. Increased m/T-cell population stimulates even more macrophage activity, and the self-perpetuating cycle of cartilage destruction expands. Because m/T-cell programs don't limit macrophage activity to damaged cartilage only, destuction of healthy cartilage also occurs. It has developed into a destructive autoimmune process. But, until sufficient cartilage has been destroyed, symptoms are not evident. The initiating factor (infection, trauma, or wear) may have disappeard months or even years ago, but the destructive autoimmune process remains active. It is self-perpetuating and no longer dependent upon the initiating factor.

8. The cycle is compounded by the fact that the mechanism which should deactivate certain m/T-cells (those that have completed their mission) fails to function. The constant restimulation of the m/T-cells keeps them active. So now there is an overabundance of m/T-cells propelling macrophage cartilage destruction. The immune system is totally out of control and massive cartilage destruction begins. Early symptoms of pain and inflammation appear.

9. Cartilage destruction accelerates. The cycle reaches critical mass. Macrophages are now scouring the body to find and destroy any cartilage anywhere it can be found. Symptoms become more severe. Pain, inflammation, and joint deformity appear at new sites as they suffer macrophage attacks.

10. Symptoms of pain, stiffness, swelling, nodules, and deformation often reach intolerable and crippling levels - especially as joint cartilage disappears and bone-on-bone erosion occurs. Conventional arthritis medications take their toll on the liver, kidneys, and heart. Normal life span is often shortened by up to ten or twenty years from both the ravages of arthritis and medication side effects.

11. By deactivating the m/T-cells, CMO™ INTERVENTION (the sooner the better) can stop the autoimmune process at any point.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dr. Len Sands, PhD, is the clinic director of the San Diego Immunological Center and the author of the books Arthritis Defeated at Last - the REAL Arthritis Cure and Arthritis Beaten Today, which have been translated into five languages so far, including Chinese. He is currently writing other books on arthritis, cancer, and viral diseases.

After ten years working on classified government projects, Dr. Sands began his direct active participation in clinical matters in 1970, as an associate of Manhattan Fifth Avenue Clinic in New York City. Within the next four years, he opened and became the owner and director of six medical clinics, as well as acquiring Southland General Hospital in Texas. Later, he opened two medical clinics in Mexico. He became involved in medical research projects concerning autoimmune diseases, viral diseases, diabetes, and cancer.

By the mid-1980s, he was thoroughly disillusioned by the limitations of conventional medicine and spent ten years traveling the world researching innovative therapies involving both conventional and alternative medicines, especially seeking those which were documented by exacting clinical trials in the major European countries. He also explored many unconventional as well as documented therapies in various Asian, Middle Eastern, Latin American, and Oceanic countries.

As clinical director of the San Diego Immunological Center, he encourages his researchers and medical staff to specialize in what he calls "curing the incurable" - diseased for which convetional medicine offers no hope of true remedy. Curing the Incurable was the title of a one-hour interactive weekly radio program Dr. Sands hosted in 1997.

Early in his career, he produced scientific and marketing material for industrial corporations, as well as for Parke-Davis and the pharmaceutical division of the Dow Chemical Company, among others.

It was Dr. Sands' own bone-grinding arthritis that prompted him to relentlessly prod his research associates into finally finding a lasting cure for arthritis. The research resulted in the development of the world's first and only true immunomodulator, a naturally occurring substance that is expected to impact the course of medical history. It certainly is changing the way autoimmune diseases will be treated in the future. That discovery, CMO™ (cerasomal-cis-9-cetylmyristoleate) in 1995, is now proving to be of great value for numerous other incurable diseases with strong autoimmune factor ailments like multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia, lupus, ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease), emphysema, Crohn's disease, scleroderma, sarcoidosis, and myasthenia gravis among others. It is also relieving or curing ankylosing spondylitis, psoriasis, carpal tunnel syndrome, prostate inflammation, Sjogren's syndrome, TMJ, Behcet's syndrome, macular degeneration, Reiter's syndrome, sciatica, tendonitis, and more - all of which have strong autoimmune components. CMO™ is now being used to treat autoimmune diseases on every continent in the world. Its phenomenal success with these diseases uncovers more options and the research goes on. Nothing could please Dr. Sands more, including the continuing research and clinical studies on even more diverse incurable diseases.

Therapies using CMO™ combined with the proper supportive nutritional products and proper diet for a minimum of the first 30 days have been proven to be beneficial for all autoimmune diseases like those mentioned above, plus muscular dystrophy, chronic fatigue syndrome, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Raynaud's, hypertension, and heart and vascular diseases, as well as ridding the body of conditions caused by environmental, dental amalgam, medicinal, chemical, metallic, and other toxins.

CMO™ is the world's first and only true adaptogenic autoimmune immunomodulator. CMO™ is not an immunosuppressant or an immunostimulant. CMO™ is considered "adaptogenic", meaning: it is capable of altering the course of a disease, because of its corrective and restorative immunomodulatory properites for autoimmune diseases and inflammatory processes. Other so-called "immunomodulators" are not. They function as immunosuppressants or immunostimulants. They are capable of one principle action, either temporarily suppressing or stimulating immune function, not correcting or restoring it. CMO™, on the other hand, permanently corrects the programmed autoimmune attacks controlled by the memory T-cell (m/T-cells) themselves. That is why a single 30-day CMO™ therapy program of three 90 caplet bottles (270 caplets) ordinarily lasts indefinitely without any need to repeat the therapy or use any additional medications of any kind thereafter. To maintain protection against autoimmune diseases, one 90 caplet bottle per month is recommended with the necessary supporting nutritional products.

Some practitioners have theorized that, in the case of arthritis for example, CMO™ merely acts upon pain receptors at the arthritic site. It that were so, their theory cannot explain why CMO™ has the following effects:
1. It benefits virtually any and all ailments associated with autoimmune diseases.

2. It lowers blood sedimentation in lupus patients.
3.It relieves certain symptoms of multiple sclerosis.
4. It reverses lung inflammation in emphsema.
5. It lowers the need for insulin in diabetics.
6. It reverses prostate inflammation.
7. It corrects Crohn's disease.
8. It reverses fibromyalgia.
9. It improves the health of ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease) patients.
10. It lowers high blood pressure, yet elevates low blood pressure.

Obviously, CMO™ is a general remedial immunomodulator that acts upon the memory T-cells, which control the autoimmune processes within our bodies. It is also important to understand the CMO™ acts only upon memory T-cells and does not inhibit the activities of any of the several other types of T-cells that are responsible for combating infective microorganisms or invading substances. Unlike the immunosuppressants commonly used to try to temporarily control the symptoms of autoimmune diseases, CMO™ does not leave the body vulnerable to attack by disease-causing agents. Nor does it inhibit the body's resistance to tumor formation, as do the dangerous new tumor necrosis factor (TNF) suppressants of some new arthritis drugs.

Authentic CMO™, as reasearched and developed by the San Diego Immunological Center is the primary ingredient in our HTN product,
Dr. Jeff's Joint Health™ - a link to which can be found on our Products page.

Dr. Jeff's Joint Health™ which combines CMO™, Lignisul™ MSM, and Glucosamine Blend was developed using the combined research of Dr. Sands, Dr. Grange, Dr. Bennert, and a host of other professionals, who collectively believe this is the most effective combination of ingredients available on the market today to combat and prevent autoimmune disfunctions. It is important to follow the directions. Take 3 bottles, 90 count each, totalling 270 caplets in the first 30 days, three upon waking, one hour before eating, three one hour before lunch, and three before dinner. Dr. Jeff's Joint Cream™ will help to curb immediate pain and those dull aches. For full effectiveness you must follow the recommended diet for the first 30 days, and on an ongoing basis supplement the Dr. Jeff's Joint Health™ combination by drinking 1 1/2 quarts of Alka-Line™ Coral Calcium treated distilled water daily. You should also supplement this program by taking Assimilator™, enzymes and minerals, Omega 3/60+ with Shark Liver Oil, bioflavonoids like ActiVin® OPC 50, and Nature's SBO's (soil-based organisms). (All of these ingredients come packaged together to save you money in HTN's Pak-of-Life Plus More.)

After 30 days, you can return to your normal diet. But to maintain your health on a monthly basis, we recommend one bottle of Dr. Jeff's Joint Health™ and a monthly supply of the other support ingredients mentioned above. Prevention of autoimmune diseases is what we all should strive to achieve. Cleanse, Nourish, and Balance Your Body so it can heal itself Naturally!

San Diego International Immunological Center (SDC) is a research and treatment facility and does not sell or benefit from the sale of CMO™ or any other product. We do, of course, dispense CMO™ and the supporting nutritionals to subjects enrolled in our studies and to clinic patients who may be part of our diagnosis and treatment programs. CMO™ counterfeiters seem to show up every week. Most are hit and run artists and quickly disappear. CMO™ is made in 6%, 11%, 40%, 50%, 80%, and 100%. It is difficult and confusing to know if youi have found the real 100% authentic CMO™ source or some ineffectivbe imitation.

The reliable sourse for 100% authentic CMO™, Lignisul™ MSM, and Glucosamine Blend of Dr. Jeff's Joint Health™, Dr. Jeff's Joint Cream™ and the recommended support nutritionals is: Health Thru Nutrition - HTN. (This website is a retail outlet for HTN nutritionals exclusively. Use the "Our Products" link on the upper left of this page. This website also provides the means for becoming a member and receiving significant discounts and other benefits of membership - check the Discounts link at the upper left of this page.)

NOTE: This document is supplied for information and educational purposes only. It is not intended to recommend or prescribe any treatment for any condition or illness. Contact a doctor or medical professional who is trained in natural nutritional supplements before adding any new protocol or when starting any health or exercise program.

© Dr. Len Sands. All rights reserved

ARTHRITIS & Autoimmune Diseases

Arthritis and Autoimmune Diseases
Following are excerpts reprinted from a memo released by Dr. Len Sands, Director of the San Diego International Immunological Center
The Arthritis Process Step-By-Step with CMO™ Intervention 1. Infection, trauma, or excessive wear affects some joints. (Usual infections are rheumatic fever, flue, or bacteria. Traumas are auto wrecks, falls, sports injuries, etc. Excessive joint wear comes from being overweight, or from repetitive use of keyboards, jackhammers, etc.)
2. #1 causes damaged or infected cartilage particles to become dislodged. This happens regardless of whether it's "osteo" or "rheumatoid" or "reactive" arthritis.
3. Macrophages of the immune system begin cleanup of dislodged cartilage particles.
4. Macrophages report their activities to dormant memory T-cells (m/T-cells).
5. Dormant m/T-cells programs activate and develop aggressive anti-cartilage cleanup programs, which do not distinguish between healthy and damaged cartilage.
6. The m/T-cells programs stimulate more macrophage activity, which in turn activates even more dormant m/T-cells.
7. Increased m/T-cell population stimulates even more macrophage activity, and the self-perpetuating cycle of cartilage destruction expands. Because m/T-cell programs don't limit macrophage activity to damaged cartilage only, destuction of healthy cartilage also occurs. It has developed into a destructive autoimmune process. But, until sufficient cartilage has been destroyed, symptoms are not evident. The initiating factor (infection, trauma, or wear) may have disappeard months or even years ago, but the destructive autoimmune process remains active. It is self-perpetuating and no longer dependent upon the initiating factor.
8. The cycle is compounded by the fact that the mechanism which should deactivate certain m/T-cells (those that have completed their mission) fails to function. The constant restimulation of the m/T-cells keeps them active. So now there is an overabundance of m/T-cells propelling macrophage cartilage destruction. The immune system is totally out of control and massive cartilage destruction begins. Early symptoms of pain and inflammation appear.
9. Cartilage destruction accelerates. The cycle reaches critical mass. Macrophages are now scouring the body to find and destroy any cartilage anywhere it can be found. Symptoms become more severe. Pain, inflammation, and joint deformity appear at new sites as they suffer macrophage attacks.
10. Symptoms of pain, stiffness, swelling, nodules, and deformation often reach intolerable and crippling levels - especially as joint cartilage disappears and bone-on-bone erosion occurs. Conventional arthritis medications take their toll on the liver, kidneys, and heart. Normal life span is often shortened by up to ten or twenty years from both the ravages of arthritis and medication side effects.
11. By deactivating the m/T-cells, CMO™ INTERVENTION (the sooner the better) can stop the autoimmune process at any point. Dr. Len Sands, PhD, is the clinic director of the San Diego Immunological Center and the author of the books Arthritis Defeated at Last - the REAL Arthritis Cure and Arthritis Beaten Today, which have been translated into five languages so far, including Chinese. He is currently writing other books on arthritis, cancer, and viral diseases.
After ten years working on classified government projects, Dr. Sands began his direct active participation in clinical matters in 1970, as an associate of Manhattan Fifth Avenue Clinic in New York City. Within the next four years, he opened and became the owner and director of six medical clinics, as well as acquiring Southland General Hospital in Texas. Later, he opened two medical clinics in Mexico. He became involved in medical research projects concerning autoimmune diseases, viral diseases, diabetes, and cancer.
By the mid-1980s, he was thoroughly disillusioned by the limitations of conventional medicine and spent ten years traveling the world researching innovative therapies involving both conventional and alternative medicines, especially seeking those which were documented by exacting clinical trials in the major European countries. He also explored many unconventional as well as documented therapies in various Asian, Middle Eastern, Latin American, and Oceanic countries.
As clinical director of the San Diego Immunological Center, he encourages his researchers and medical staff to specialize in what he calls "curing the incurable" - diseased for which convetional medicine offers no hope of true remedy. Curing the Incurable was the title of a one-hour interactive weekly radio program Dr. Sands hosted in 1997.
Early in his career, he produced scientific and marketing material for industrial corporations, as well as for Parke-Davis and the pharmaceutical division of the Dow Chemical Company, among others.
It was Dr. Sands' own bone-grinding arthritis that prompted him to relentlessly prod his research associates into finally finding a lasting cure for arthritis. The research resulted in the development of the world's first and only true immunomodulator, a naturally occurring substance that is expected to impact the course of medical history. It certainly is changing the way autoimmune diseases will be treated in the future. That discovery, CMO™ (cerasomal-cis-9-cetylmyristoleate) in 1995, is now proving to be of great value for numerous other incurable diseases with strong autoimmune factor ailments like multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia, lupus, ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease), emphysema, Crohn's disease, scleroderma, sarcoidosis, and myasthenia gravis among others. It is also relieving or curing ankylosing spondylitis, psoriasis, carpal tunnel syndrome, prostate inflammation, Sjogren's syndrome, TMJ, Behcet's syndrome, macular degeneration, Reiter's syndrome, sciatica, tendonitis, and more - all of which have strong autoimmune components. CMO™ is now being used to treat autoimmune diseases on every continent in the world. Its phenomenal success with these diseases uncovers more options and the research goes on. Nothing could please Dr. Sands more, including the continuing research and clinical studies on even more diverse incurable diseases. Therapies using CMO™ combined with the proper supportive nutritional products and proper diet for a minimum of the first 30 days have been proven to be beneficial for all autoimmune diseases like those mentioned above, plus muscular dystrophy, chronic fatigue syndrome, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Raynaud's, hypertension, and heart and vascular diseases, as well as ridding the body of conditions caused by environmental, dental amalgam, medicinal, chemical, metallic, and other toxins. CMO™ is the world's first and only true adaptogenic autoimmune immunomodulator. CMO™ is not an immunosuppressant or an immunostimulant. CMO™ is considered "adaptogenic", meaning: it is capable of altering the course of a disease, because of its corrective and restorative immunomodulatory properites for autoimmune diseases and inflammatory processes. Other so-called "immunomodulators" are not. They function as immunosuppressants or immunostimulants. They are capable of one principle action, either temporarily suppressing or stimulating immune function, not correcting or restoring it. CMO™, on the other hand, permanently corrects the programmed autoimmune attacks controlled by the memory T-cell (m/T-cells) themselves. That is why a single 30-day CMO™ therapy program of three 90 caplet bottles (270 caplets) ordinarily lasts indefinitely without any need to repeat the therapy or use any additional medications of any kind thereafter. To maintain protection against autoimmune diseases, one 90 caplet bottle per month is recommended with the necessary supporting nutritional products. Some practitioners have theorized that, in the case of arthritis for example, CMO™ merely acts upon pain receptors at the arthritic site. It that were so, their theory cannot explain why CMO™ has the following effects:
1. It benefits virtually any and all ailments associated with autoimmune diseases. 2. It lowers blood sedimentation in lupus patients.
3.It relieves certain symptoms of multiple sclerosis.
4. It reverses lung inflammation in emphsema.
5. It lowers the need for insulin in diabetics.
6. It reverses prostate inflammation.
7. It corrects Crohn's disease.
8. It reverses fibromyalgia.
9. It improves the health of ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease) patients.
10. It lowers high blood pressure, yet elevates low blood pressure.
Obviously, CMO™ is a general remedial immunomodulator that acts upon the memory T-cells, which control the autoimmune processes within our bodies. It is also important to understand the CMO™ acts only upon memory T-cells and does not inhibit the activities of any of the several other types of T-cells that are responsible for combating infective microorganisms or invading substances. Unlike the immunosuppressants commonly used to try to temporarily control the symptoms of autoimmune diseases, CMO™ does not leave the body vulnerable to attack by disease-causing agents. Nor does it inhibit the body's resistance to tumor formation, as do the dangerous new tumor necrosis factor (TNF) suppressants of some new arthritis drugs. Authentic CMO™, as reasearched and developed by the San Diego Immunological Center is the primary ingredient in our HTN product,
Dr. Jeff's Joint Health™ - a link to which can be found on our Products page. Dr. Jeff's Joint Health™ which combines CMO™, Lignisul™ MSM, and Glucosamine Blend was developed using the combined research of Dr. Sands, Dr. Grange, Dr. Bennert, and a host of other professionals, who collectively believe this is the most effective combination of ingredients available on the market today to combat and prevent autoimmune disfunctions. It is important to follow the directions. Take 3 bottles, 90 count each, totalling 270 caplets in the first 30 days, three upon waking, one hour before eating, three one hour before lunch, and three before dinner. Dr. Jeff's Joint Cream™ will help to curb immediate pain and those dull aches. For full effectiveness you must follow the recommended diet for the first 30 days, and on an ongoing basis supplement the Dr. Jeff's Joint Health™ combination by drinking 1 1/2 quarts of Alka-Line™ Coral Calcium treated distilled water daily. You should also supplement this program by taking Assimilator™, enzymes and minerals, Omega 3/60+ with Shark Liver Oil, bioflavonoids like ActiVin® OPC 50, and Nature's SBO's (soil-based organisms). (All of these ingredients come packaged together to save you money in HTN's Pak-of-Life Plus More.) After 30 days, you can return to your normal diet. But to maintain your health on a monthly basis, we recommend one bottle of Dr. Jeff's Joint Health™ and a monthly supply of the other support ingredients mentioned above. Prevention of autoimmune diseases is what we all should strive to achieve. Cleanse, Nourish, and Balance Your Body so it can heal itself Naturally! San Diego International Immunological Center (SDC) is a research and treatment facility and does not sell or benefit from the sale of CMO™ or any other product. We do, of course, dispense CMO™ and the supporting nutritionals to subjects enrolled in our studies and to clinic patients who may be part of our diagnosis and treatment programs. CMO™ counterfeiters seem to show up every week. Most are hit and run artists and quickly disappear. CMO™ is made in 6%, 11%, 40%, 50%, 80%, and 100%. It is difficult and confusing to know if youi have found the real 100% authentic CMO™ source or some ineffectivbe imitation. The reliable sourse for 100% authentic CMO™, Lignisul™ MSM, and Glucosamine Blend of Dr. Jeff's Joint Health™, Dr. Jeff's Joint Cream™ and the recommended support nutritionals is: Health Thru Nutrition - HTN. (This website is a retail outlet for HTN nutritionals exclusively. Use the "Our Products" link on the upper left of this page. This website also provides the means for becoming a member and receiving significant discounts and other benefits of membership - check the Discounts link at the upper left of this page.) NOTE: This document is supplied for information and educational purposes only. It is not intended to recommend or prescribe any treatment for any condition or illness. Contact a doctor or medical professional who is trained in natural nutritional supplements before adding any new protocol or when starting any health or exercise program.
© Dr. Len Sands. All rights reserved
 
 
 
 
The products mentioned on this page have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not claimed to treat, cure or prevent any illness or disease.