Dr. Suzanne Scopes, Naturopathic Physician

Are multivitamins dangerous?

scopes — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 05:48:23 +0000

Many of you have probably heard the recent press release on a study that links multivitamins with adverse health effects. There is, of course, a deeper side to the story which is pretty well summarized in this article:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/dr-mark-hyman/vitamin-dangers_b_1018430.html

A couple of key points :
Remember that correlation is not causation. There was an association, not a proven causal relationship. That takes a different study design.
Iron is a problem in anyone who doesn’t need it (anyone who does not menstruate basically).
Vitamins are not all the same. There are issues of quality involving synthetic vs. natural types, active forms of B vitamins, contamination by heavy metals, inaccurate label claims, on and on.
The truth is that there are common nutritional deficiencies in most people’s diets and a huge body of research supporting the clinical use of nutrients to enhance health.

Austin air filters

scopes — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 05:43:18 +0000

I love Austin air filters because they work well to reduce both chemicals and allergens in the air. Indoor air pollution is being recognized more and more as a real problem, especially as our houses our more airtight and our furniture, carpets and paint are offgassing chemicals that are harmful. Add to that, animal dander, dust mites and pollens tracked in and respiratory and other health problems are inevitable. So I want people to know that I offer the Austin Air filters through my practice at a discount to my patients. There are a few different models and sizes but they are reasonably priced and can even be shipped right to your home. The filters are good for 5 years before replacements are needed. Ask me for details if you are interested. I especially recommend them for people dealing with allergies and asthma.

25 years of practice!

scopes — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 05:24:57 +0000

I just realized that I hit the 25 yrs in practice milestone this year. I still love what I do more than ever, getting to help people get healthier and happier,. I feel so blessed to have the opportunity to listen to my patients stories and I learn so much from them every day. I am so lucky to be inspired and challenged in this path with you every day. Thank you to all my awesome patients who make my job so rewarding.

Allergies not letting up

scopes — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 04:03:27 +0000

My patients are still suffering badly from allergies, and grass pollen is still the most prevalent pollen offender. A few tips to reduce your exposure include washing off when you come inside after changing clothes. Wear a hat when outside then take it off along with your shoes when you come inside. Use a nasal irrigation solution in a syringe or neti pot or at least a saline nasal spray. Don’t open windows, especially in your bedroom. Use an air filter in your bedroom, an air conditioner or at least use fans blowing out the window, never in. Natural antihistamines like nettles and quercetin may also help.

Sleep problems

scopes — Thu, 07 Jul 2011 03:35:39 +0000

At least half of my patients tell me that they have difficulty with sleep. We are so “on” all day and evening that it is hard to find the “off” switch at night, Sleep hygeine is about creating an environment that is conducive to good quality s sleep. A dark, very dark room is important to melatonin production. If you can’t get blackout curtains, an eye mask is a good investment. A good quality one that is comfortable, adjustable and completely blocks out light is an invaluable help to many people. I use mine every night, since the sunrise became earlier in the spring.

New blog!

scopes — Wed, 06 Jul 2011 23:31:50 +0000