Dr. Nicole Sundene, NMD
PMS symptoms can be prevented with Naturopathic Medicine and balancing hormones. PMS in real life and on paper looks pretty ugly. I love to show women with "Biphasic Hormone Labs" what their PMS hormones look like so they can understand that a lot of what they go through every month with their imbalanced hormones is pretty severe. Anger, sadness, depression, pain, inflammation, constipation, anxiety, headaches, acne, and bloating are all common PMS symptoms.
The numbers don’t lie and when we rely on hormone lab metrics we can see exactly what a woman’s hormones look like when she is happy and balanced, and when she has PMS.
Which labs show PMS Symptoms?
A few months ago I got a frantic call from a very upset husband that did not know what to do with his wife and wanted to know if it sounded like she had hormone imbalance. He said I was his last hope before he signed them up for marriage counseling. They were actually contemplating divorce.
His wife was angry, crying, fighting with him and then laying on the floor crying hysterically. This went on and on getting worse for years until her husband did some research and decided she might have PMS symptoms from hormone imbalance. He wanted to know if she had hormone imbalance and to see if it sounded like she needed to have her hormones checked.
“Dr. Sundene, can you do anything to get my wife off the floor?” her husband frantically asked.
I told him I would try my best and ordered “Biphasic Labs,” which are first a comprehensive panel of her hormone and vitamin levels when she is at the best/worst part of her cycle, and then a follow-up estradiol, progesterone and total estrogen again at the high/low point of the cycle or Days 5-10 as the best and days 21-28 as the worst. Although that may be unique per each patient.
By testing her hormones when she was happy and then when she was fighting with her husband, it actually helped him to have more compassion for her hormone imbalance, and take her anger less personally. They ended up fighting much less. They started to keep a period tracker app and agreed to spend less time together when she was in her agitated and angry window.
She started herbs to balance her hormones, and began to spend more time at the gym with a personal trainer. She learned to take her anger out on Kickboxing. A gym membership, Kickboxing classes, and hormone testing literally saved their marriage!
They still went to marriage counseling only to realize that they get along just fine most of the month, and that it is this PMS window when they fight and want to get divorced. The marriage counselor helped them develop the above lifestyle plan for her PMS symptoms so there were less constant blow ups.
Her husband was happy to stay home with the baby while she went to the gym to work out her agression. She realized that she is less annoyed if he is at their cabin for the weekend when she is agitated. He was happy to go fishing once a month by himself when she was in her PMS window.
Today now that her hormones are better balanced she is doing much better mentally and she asked that I share her story and labs as an important PSA on PMS so that women can be constantly aware that some of the anger, anxiety, agitation, sadness, and general moodiness can be related to hormone imbalance.
When women are swinging constantly between exhaustion, sadness and anger their hormones may be to blame. If you are a man reading this please share it as well because the frustrated husband in this story is just as much a victim of PMS as women can be and everyone needs to know about PMS!
I have always wanted to give a man 6 tablets of estradiol with NO PROGESTERONE to oppose it just to see them become bloated, hysterical, weepy, moody, angry, constipated and exhausted. So far I have not been able to find any volunteers for my male PMS experiment, but I say this tongue in cheek as it is truly a CHEMICAL RESPONSE that women are experiencing causing these symptoms.
Women that struggle with their mental health and/or marriage should be aware of how their hormones are affecting their mood. We have a Pandemic of depression and anxiety going on right now. Patients that are concerned they have hormone imbalance can begin to track their moods with a free period tracking app. Understanding what is going on with your mood swings is the first step to getting off the hormone roller coaster and on to the hormone merry-go-round. It may be a little more boring on the merry go round but it is a much happier place overall with less drama and crying.
If you notice that your mood issues are occuring in a cycle every month then you need to SCHEDULE a Naturopathic visit with me.
Please share this important PSA on PMS and tell your friends to NOT SUFFER IN SILENCE. We can’t help anyone with their mood if they are not talking about it. It is okay to ask for help and to let your friends and family know that you need help. The 3 most important treatments for PMS are:
If you would like my help testing your hormones, I would be happy to help as that is my specialty, simply pop over to my SCHEDULE page to set up your Naturopathic visit. Everyone reading this that is concerned they have PMS can begin to improve their PMS by eating healthier, taking iron and exercising to improve their mood, hormone balance and prevent PMS symptoms.
Please take good care of yourself and know that you are not alone if you are struggling with your mood right now. I have never seen my mental health patients more stressed out. Instead of telling people, "I am fine," or "I am hanging in there," please share how you truly feel with your friends and family and ask them for support!
Many women are ashamed to admit they are not doing well, and that needs to change. PMS Symptoms are completely normal to some degree for women and easy to manage with Naturopathy!
Dr. Nicole Sundene
(480) 837-0900
Dr. Sundene is a Naturopathic Doctor in Scottsdale, Arizona, and is a Female Hormone Expert in Women's Health and Bioidentical Hormones. She specializes in Holistic Women's Health for Menopause, Thyroid, Hashimotos, PMS, Perimenopause, Autoimmune, Postpartum Depression, Chronic Fatigue, Depression, Anxiety, Food Allergies, Digestion, Dermatology , Acne, Psoriasis, Eczema and Adrenal Hormonal Conditions. In 1999 she began working for a Hormone Doctor prior to starting Naturopathic Medical School. With over 23 years of experience in both Prescription and Natural women's health and hormones, she presents to women the best integrated health solutions for their Chronic Disease.
She has been an Herbalist for over 28 years and enjoys teaching women how to use herbs to balance their hormones, nutrition and optimize their health. Dr. Sundene relies on blood testing for her hormone metrics. The hormone testing is covered per the patient's insurance plan and conducted at certain points in the woman's menstrual cycle. To learn more about Hormone Testing for Women Visit: Bioidentical Hormones. Follow Dr. Sundene on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook for more tips on Women's Health, Female Hormones, and Naturopathy!
Dr. Nicole Sundene
Scottsdale Naturopathic Hormones
Feeling a hormonal rage coming on? The best place for you to go after testing hormones is to the Simply Smashing Rage Release Room in Tempe, Arizona!
As a Mom I had a blast with my kid and immediately saw a tremendous therapeutic benefit for my angry hormonal patients, mental health patients, and those heavily challenged by frustrating life circumstances, lost jobs, grief, and loss of loved ones.
The Rage Room is set up as a safe space to express your anger, so you can process it and leave it behind. You can hit bottles with a baseball bat, crush a TV, computer, or printer with a sledgehammer, or make a “Hate Plate” by writing something on a plate that you hate and then SMASHING it to leave that rage behind.
This is a brilliant Nobel Prize winning therapeutic concept that I think everyone should embrace and even better my daughter said it was super fun. So Dr. Mom is happy that her kid is having fun while we are re-purposing waste, processing emotions, and learning more about how our children feel on the inside.
Asking your angry Teen or Tween to make a “Hate Plate” may be a good way to start a conversation about what they are upset about.
Our country has reached an epidemic level of rage. So today I am prescribing The Rage Room to the angry masses. Let’s talk to our kids at an early age and teach them the correct way to express anger and move on. By taking them to the Rage Room you are modeling for them that it is okay to feel upset, and this is a place that we deal with it, release the rage, and move on. Everything you smash at the Rage Room is now in the past and no longer in the present.
Whether your rage is situational or hormonal from PMS, Menopause, Perimenopause, Estrogen Dominance, Postpartum Depression, etc, I promise you will thank me later for my suggestion to take the rage out on objects and not the people you love!
One thing I regularly hear as a hormone doctor treating patients with PMS is the regret, shame, and depression they feel after screaming at their husbands and kids when they were simply hormonal. This is an easy fix. Just keep a period tracker app, and then tell your partner you have PMS and are headed to the Rage Room! They will probably be super grateful and offer to just pay for it 😉
TOP TEN TIPS FOR ANGER
One of my favorite things to do when angry, is to listen to loud party music from the 80’s and 90’s when I had very little stress. These upbeat songs help me shift my angry energy back to the happy party energy I had during more carefree times!
So crank up your favorite happy party music in your car and head over to The Simply Smashing Rage Release Room to smash things, throw things, and leave that hate behind. Use Code: “Doctor” to get a discount on your first therapeutic session. Please whatever you do, just don’t take your anger out on other people! Spreading kindness towards others even when they do not deserve it also boosts mental health. Save that anger, rage, and bad attitude for The Rage Room!
If you need my help testing and treating hormonal anger, or mental health issues, simply visit my SCHEDULE page or give us a call to treat yourself to a Naturopathic Visit. I would be happy to help!
Dr. Nicole Sundene
(480) 837-0900
P.S. No CVS pharmacists were actually harmed in my Instagram video! This video was just a joke, and I greatly appreciate all of the pharmacies, and pharmacists and healthcare workers that have been working working hard during the medication shortages to provide my patients with their hormones and medications. We are ALL frustrated with these supply and medication shortages.
Thank you to every pharmacy and pharmacist for your service!
Dr. Sundene is a Naturopathic Doctor in Scottsdale, Arizona, and is a Female Hormone Expert in Women's Health and Bioidentical Hormones. She specializes in Holistic Women's Health for Menopause, Thyroid, Hashimotos, PMS, Perimenopause, Autoimmune, Postpartum, Chronic Fatigue, Depression, Anxiety, Food Allergies, Digestion, Dermatology, Acne, Psoriasis, Eczema, and Adrenal Hormonal Conditions. In 1999 she began working for a Hormone Doctor prior to starting Naturopathic Medical School. With over 23 years of experience in both Prescription and Natural women's health and hormones, she presents to women the best-integrated health solutions for their Chronic Disease.
She has been an Herbalist for over 28 years and enjoys teaching women how to use herbs to balance their hormones, nutrition and optimize their health. Dr. Sundene relies on blood testing for her hormone metrics. The hormone testing is covered per the patient's insurance plan (not Medicaid) and conducted at certain points in the woman's menstrual cycle. To learn more about Hormone Testing for Women Visit: Bioidentical Hormones. Follow Dr. Sundene on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook for more tips on Women's Health, Female Hormones, and Naturopathy!
Dr. Nicole Sundene, NMD
Ladies, I refuse to tell you to eat an apple a day as a Female Hormone Specialist without sufficient evidence to support that apples aid weight loss, suppress appetite, boost the immune system, lower cholesterol, protect your brain, boost mood and prevent Osteoporosis! [1-6]
So please look at the summary of my fourteen research studies supporting why apples are an amazing superfood and consider them your healthiest “White Food” choice. The skin of the apple DOES impact its ability to help protect you from aging. I will reveal at the end of the blog which apple is the most powerful superfood full of flavonoids! Can you make a guess?
#1 BOOST IMMUNE SYSTEM
The Vitamin C, Quercetin, Carotenoids, and Flavonoids found in apples help to naturally boost the immune system. [1,2,3]
#2 WEIGHT LOSS
Can you believe that eating THREE apples per day caused women to lose weight and improved their cardiometabolic markers? [14] A research study found that eating apples before meals improves satiety, therefore you feel full longer and eat less! [12]
The real issue women struggle with when trying to lose weight…that I see every single day as a Naturopathic Doctor that specializes in Bioidentical Hormones, Weight Loss, Diabetes, Hypothyroidism, Insulin Resistance, and PCOS .....simply that women are not getting enough “Good Carbs” or complex carbohydrates such as apples in their diet. Some of my female patients oddly have strange food phobias like “Apples are high in calories,” and “I can’t eat carrots because they are too high in sugar, beets are bad. Potatoes are poison.”
We need to pair these good carbs with protein and good fats to keep blood sugar balanced and avoid binge eating. Binge eating happens when we get low blood sugar and end up grabbing the closest thing to eat and are not prepared and organized with the healthiest choice to make. [2,6,7]
The reality is that most of my female patients with hormone imbalance and weight issues actually need to be eating more fruit aka “Complex Carbs” and less junk food as the easiest trick to lose weight. Fruit can be just as much of a treat and satisfying!
Instead of snacking on chips, cookies and junk food try an apple or a smoothie as your bedtime snack. I thrive on eating an apple and nut butter or even apples dipped in warm melted chocolate as my bedtime snack because I know that while I am still getting a lot of carbs I am getting benefits from the apples that my junk food does not have.
By eating 2-4 cups of low glycemic index fruits that are high in flavonoids such as apples, blackberries, blueberries, raspberries, pears, peaches, and plums my patients deserve to celebrate their day with a sweet treat. Those that choose fruit will actually lose weight! Just keep the portion of fruit in mind. While 2-3 apples per day sound like a lot it really is not when we use them to replace your white bread, carbs, and desserts that are devoid of nutrients and leave you feeling constantly hungry!
#3 IMPROVE CARDIOVASCULAR FUNCTION, LOWERS CHOLESTEROL
The pectin in apples helps as a special fiber that works to lower blood pressure for women. [1,2] The fiber and potassium in apples overall enhances cardiovascular function while lowering total cholesterol.
Apples improve vascular function and also reduce the risk for women to form dangerous cholesterol plaques in their arteries that can cause stroke and heart attack. A research study found that 2 apples a day lowers cholesterol and improves vascular function. [10]
Women that ate apples every day had significantly lower cholesterol after 3 months! I see this often in my Women's Health practice when we add in superfoods and then recheck cholesterol numbers! [13]
#4 PROTECTS YOUR BRAIN
Apples boost brain health by protecting and nourishing nerves. With improved nerve function comes better memory and cognition. Apples are shown to reduce oxidative stress in the brain and remove free radicals and toxins responsible for neurodegenerative diseases and can be beneficial at preventing dementia and Alzheimers. [2,5]
Eating TWO apples a day boosts tyrosine and tryptophan production in the gut which are important amino acids needed to form neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine that help us feel happy! [11] Patients with mental health disorders, addiction disorder, chronic pain, impulse disorder and ADHD are often low in dopamine. Patients with low serotonin often have anxiety, depression, insomnia or all of the above!
#5 PAIN RELIEVING ANTI-INFLAMMATORY
Apples help reduce inflammation via anti-oxidants. Less inflammation means less pain and swelling. Chronic pain and Autoimmune patients need to protect their cells from damage by free radicals with superfoods like apples. [1,2,3]
#6 MICROBIOME MAKEOVER
In Functional Medicine to have healthy hormones we must have a healthy gut! If you are not tending to your microbiome then you are at high risk for disease by not having a diverse flora in your digestion at all times. The fiber in apples is demonstrated to improve gut flora for optimal digestion. The pectin fiber in apples is known as a “Prebiotic” that is why you can take your probiotic as “Bonus Points” with your apple as a bedtime snack for optimal gut flora. [8]
#7 BUILDS BONE
Osteoporosis is the silent killer of women, and the good news is that apples are shown to improve bone density by improving mineralization of the bone. For women in their 20-40’s they should be working to build bone or “bank bone.” When women are perimenopausal they are estrogen dominant and this helps bank bone. For menopausal women it is important that they maintain the bone they have and do not lose anymore bone which typically happens with menopause as estrogen and tesosterone levels decline. Men don’t get osteoporosis because testosterone is also bone building. Do your weight bearing exercise, take calcium and other bone minerals for osteoporosis, vitamin D and pop an apple. [2,4]
#8 VITAMINS, MINERALS, PECTIN & FLAVONOIDS
I recommend women consider eating more apples and replacing them with their other “White Foods” as they are a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin B1, Quercetin, Catechin, Flavonoids and Carotenoids.
Patients are always complaining that eating gluten free is expensive….not when you are using apples instead of gluten free bread! Your gluten free processed foods do not have these built in magical plant chemicals and are not aiding you with the other immune boosting, cardio and neuro benefits I also found in the following research studies. While a piece of bread has roughly 100 calories and 20 carbs similar to an apple it does not contain the magical healing compounds found in the whole foods form of an apple! [1]
#9 NATURAL ANTIHISTAMINE
Natural allergy relief can be found with the natural compound quercetin which apples are a rich source of! You can read more about quercetin in my Seasonal Allergies Blog. [1,2,3]
#10 ANTI-CANCER
The anti-cancer, antioxidant benefits of apples have been shown to be beneficial in lung cancer while also improving lung functionality and removing toxins from the lungs [1,2,3]
Does "An Apple a Day Keep the Doctor Away?" Or is it just a myth?
Yes. My research concludes 1-3 apples per day shall keep your Doctor far away and you should eat an apple a day if not even 2-3 apples a day! My experience as a Female Naturopathic Doctor concludes you should simply switch your grains and desserts with 1-2 apples a day to see what happens. Add protein with your apple to balance your blood sugar or use apples as a substitute to white bread at lunch or toast at breakfast.
Does the Color of the Apple Matter?
Red Delicious Apples score the highest at 20.02mg of total flavonoids and 3.86mg of Quercetin, Granny Smith has 10.33mg of total Flavonoids with 3.69mg of Quercetin, and Golden Delicious had 10.3mg of total flavonoids with 3.69mg of Quercetin. So this is fantastic news for me since I detest Granny Smith Apples! Therefore Red Delicious are by far superior!
Can too many apples be dangerous?
Definitely do not eat the seeds. Only buy organic apples otherwise they are coated in nasty glycophosphates. Always work with an experienced Naturopathic Doctor when using new Functional Foods for your diabetes, high blood pressure or other chronic disease as your numbers may quickly change and you likely will need to be tapered down from your medications. If you have a Food Sensitivity or allergy to apples, pears and plums have also been researched to provide many of the same benefits.
If you need my help as an Integrated Women’s Health Doctor simply pop over to my appointment SCHEDULE page and I would be happy to help you fight your chronic disease with functional foods, herbs and Naturopathy!
Sincerely,
Dr. Nicole Sundene, NMD
Dr. Sundene is a Naturopathic Doctor in Scottsdale, Arizona, and is considered a Female Hormone Expert in Women's Health and Bioidentical Hormones. She specializes in Holistic Women's Health for Menopause, Thyroid, Hashimotos, PMS, Perimenopause, Autoimmune, Postpartum, Chronic Fatigue, Depression, Anxiety, Food Allergies, Digestion, Dermatology , Acne, Psoriasis, Eczema and Adrenal Hormonal Conditions. In 1999 she began working for a Hormone Doctor prior to starting Naturopathic Medical School. With over 22 years of experience in both Prescription and Natural women's health and hormones, she presents to women the best-integrated health solutions for their Chronic Disease. She has been an Herbalist for over 27 years and enjoys teaching women how to use herbs to balance their hormones, nutrition and optimize their health. Dr. Sundene relies on blood testing for her hormone metrics. The hormone testing is covered per the patient's insurance plan and conducted at certain points in the woman's menstrual cycle. To learn more about Hormone Testing for Women Visit: Bioidentical Hormones. Follow Dr. Sundene on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook for more tips on Women's Health, Female Hormones and Naturopathy!
References:
High Cholesterol is best managed by a high fiber low saturated fat diet. But what if women are already eating that way? Then what? Is High Cholesterol caused by Hormone Imbalance?
High Cholesterol can be caused in menopause, perimenopause, insulin resistance, diabetes, and thyroid conditions such as Hypothyroidism, Hashimoto's, and incorrect thyroid management.
The #1 Hormone I see causing high cholesterol in my women's health practice is.... The Thyroid!
Many women develop hypothyroidism or thyroid deficiency around menopause and their cholesterol and/or blood pressure suddenly spike despite no change to their diet and exercise routine.
I hear women I have doctored for over a decade complain when they see this sudden shift which is normal to some degree. Thanks to perimenopausal and menopausal hormone imbalance!
The good news is there are many lifestyle changes that will lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke. Many of these foods are delicious easy to incorporate into your diet!
The combination of a low-saturated-fat, total-fat, and low-cholesterol diet, physical activity, and weight control can have many positive effects on overall health.
In addition to lowering the “bad” LDL cholesterol, they can raise the “good” HDL cholesterol.
The body naturally makes cholesterol. Dietary cholesterol is found in foods that contain animal products (butter, milk, cheese, chicken, beef, eggs, etc.). Plant products do NOT contain cholesterol, although too much coconut fat WILL increase your cholesterol. The numbers don't lie. Women can argue with me about this all they want but it just makes cholesterol higher. There are many good things cholesterol does in the body, including:
• Acts as a building block for hormones
• Is an important constituent of bile, which helps digest fat
• Helps maintain the integrity of cell membranes
So not ALL cholesterol is bad. We do need some cholesterol for brain health and dementia prevention.
Why is LDL cholesterol considered “bad cholesterol”?
When too much low-density lipoprotein (LDL) circulates in the blood, it can slowly build up in the walls of the arteries that feed the heart and brain. Together with other substances it can form plaque, a thick, hard deposit that can clog those arteries. This condition is known as atherosclerosis. If a clot forms and blocks a narrowed artery, it can cause a heart attack or stroke. That is why LDL is often called “bad” cholesterol.
Why is HDL cholesterol considered “good cholesterol”?
About one-third to one-fourth of blood cholesterol is carried by high-density lipoprotein (HDL). HDL is known as the “good” cholesterol because a high level of it seems to protect against heart attack. Medical experts think that HDL tends to carry cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver, where it is passed from the body. Some experts believe that HDL removes excess cholesterol from plaque in arteries, thus slowing the build-up.
Total Cholesterol Target Numbers
Less than 200 mg/dL is Desirable
200-239 mg/dL is Borderline high
240 mg/dL and above is High
LDL Cholesterol Level
Less than 100 mg/dL is optimal
100-129 mg/dL is near optimal
130-159 mg/dL borderline high
160-189 mg/dL is high
190 mg/dL and above is very high
HDL (good) cholesterol protects against heart disease, so for HDL, higher numbers are better. A level less that 40 mg/dL is low and it increases risk for heart disease.
*Cholesterol levels are measured in milligrams (mg) of cholesterol per deciliter (dL) of blood.
Fiber is VERY important to any cholesterol lowering plan.
What is fiber?
Fiber is a substance found only in plants, such as fruits, vegetables, and grains. The part of the plant fiber that you eat is called dietary fiber and is an important part of a healthy diet. Dietary fiber is made up of two main types–insoluble and soluble. Both types of fiber are important to our health and aid in weight loss.
What is the difference between insoluble and soluble fiber?
Soluble fiber forms a gel when mixed with liquid, while insoluble fiber does not. Insoluble fiber passes through your digestive tract largely intact. Both types of fiber are important in the diet and provide benefits to the digestive system by helping to maintain regularity. Soluble fiber has some additional benefits to heart health.
What are some good sources of soluble fiber?
Soluble fiber is found in oats, peas, beans, certain fruits, and psyllium (pronounced sil’e-um). Psyllium is a grain that is found in some cereal products, in certain dietary supplements, and in certain bulk fiber supplements.
What are the benefits of soluble fiber?
In additional to the digestive system benefits mentioned above, soluble fiber contributes to delayed emptying of the stomach which contributes to early fullness and decreased appetite. Soluble fiber has been scientifically proven to reduce blood cholesterol levels, which may help reduce your risk of heart disease.
Tips to increase fiber:
• Increase vegetable consumption to at least three, 1-cup servings per day.
• Increase fruit consumption to at least two servings per day (½ cup canned or 1 piece fresh equals a serving).
• Increase whole grain consumption to at least four, ½ cup servings per day. This includes oats, brown rice, bran, quinoa, barley and whole wheat (choose whole grains products).
• Eat legumes daily (try bean dips or spreads such as hummus or black bean dip).
• Snack on air-popped popcorn (sprinkle your popcorn with nutritional yeast and sea salt as a yummy alternative to butter).
• Add oatmeal, oat bran, wheat germ, or rice bran to hot cereal, yogurt, meat loaf, meatballs or hamburgers (remember animal products do not contain fiber).
• Substitute whole grain flour for white flour in baking recipes.
If currently eating a low fiber diet, it is suggested to gradually increase fiber intake and drink plenty of water (at least 8 glasses per day) to avoid discomfort and gas that can occur with a sudden increase in fiber.
Need my help treating high cholesterol with hormone balancing, nutrition, herbal medicine, and supplements? I would be happy to help! Helping women achieve optimal cholesterol, blood sugar and nutrition are my favorite joys of practicing Holistic Women's Health!
Simply visit my SCHEDULE page to treat yourself to a Naturopathic visit!
Dr. Nicole Sundene, NMD
Dr. Sundene is a Naturopathic Doctor in Scottsdale, Arizona, and is considered a Female Hormone Expert in Women's Health and Bioidentical Hormones. She specializes in Holistic Women's Health for Menopause, Thyroid, Hashimotos, PMS, Perimenopause, Autoimmune, Postpartum, Chronic Fatigue, Depression, Anxiety, Food Allergies, Digestion, Dermatology , Acne, Psoriasis, Eczema and Adrenal Hormonal Conditions. In 1999 she began working for a Hormone Doctor prior to starting Naturopathic Medical School. With over 22 years of experience in both Prescription and Natural women's health and hormones she presents to women the best integrated health solutions for their Chronic Disease. She has been an Herbalist for over 27 years and enjoys teaching women how to use herbs to balance their hormones, nutrition and optimize their health. Dr. Sundene relies on blood testing for her hormone metrics. The hormone testing is covered per the patient's insurance plan and conducted at certain points in the woman's menstrual cycle. To learn more about Hormone Testing for Women Visit: Bioidentical Hormones. Follow Dr. Sundene on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook for more tips on Women's Health, Female Hormones and Naturopathy!
By Dr. Nicole Sundene, NMD and Rob Newbound, RN
Bladder Problems and bladder pain, frequent urination, and UTI's or Urinary Tract Infections always flare up badly in the fall in my Women's Health practice. This is why after twenty five years running urinalysis tests on women, I always label October as "Bladder Infection Month."
Why do more bladder problems and infections happen in the fall?
From a Chinese Medicine perspective bladder problems occur when we are moving from a time of high heat to lower temperature and women drink less water than they were drinking during the summer months. Keeping the bladder and kidneys hydrated and flushed out with the correct amount of water can prevent bladder problems from seasonal changes. Most women need around 60-80 oz of water daily plus 8 oz per "vice" or serving of caffeine, alcohol, or 15 minutes of exercise.
Drinking too much water can irritate the kidneys and make bladder problems seem worse. In this scenario I hear women say "The water runs right through me," indicating to me it is more likely the early warning signs of a kidney problem and less of a bladder problem. Especially since I usually see women for bladder problems after they have already been worked up by a Urologist, had a cystoscopy which is a microscopic camera the doctor uses to examine the lining of your bladder and take a biopsy of it to determine if the bladder is inflamed and bleeding. Working closely with a Urologist helps me understand the exact diagnosis, as well as if it will be a condition I am confident I can resolve with Naturopathic Medicine.
All women with recurrent bladder problems should first visit a Urologist to insure nothing serious like bladder cancer is going on, and that this is a "Irritable Bladder," or "Overactive Bladder," or "Interstitial Cystitis," or Recurrent UTI problem for me to manage.
Bladder problems in Women's Health are all about prevention. So today I am sharing my #1 Naturopathic herbal bladder tip to keep your bladder healthy. Keep in mind, if you have interstitial cystitis, a common bladder problem referred to as "Irritable Bladder" the tannins in cranberry and blueberry fruit I am discussing today may actually inflame your bladder! So not every herb is good for every bladder situation. This is why working with a skilled Women's Health Bladder Specialist (such as myself 😉 that understands the proper use of herbal medicine and Natural remedies for the bladder. I also do not recommend combing any medications with bladder herbs without first discussing them with a Naturopathic Doctor as that can be dangerous since many bladder herbs and bladder formulas contain demulcent herbs that can block the absorption of medications. Causing the medication to not work. So we don't want to fix your bladder problem, only to cause your High Blood Pressure pill to stop working!
The other issue with herbs for bladder problems, is that some of them actually interfere with each other! This almost never happens in herbal medicine, but pH is critical for proper bladder health. Many herbs that are helpful for bladder problems work by altering the pH of the urine, causing it to become more acidic, like cranberry, which can negate the effects of other bladder infection herbs! So if you are not improving on my bladder problem basics there is something more complex going on that requires my help, please visit my SCHEDULE page so we can get a tight regime in place. Usually my bladder patients need 1-2 appointments to get a system down for them that works for their bladder.
I digress, back to bladder problems, as we move from a high level of hydration during summer to a lesser amount of hydration in the fall women naturally develop more bladder infections. Especially those wearing pantyhose and tight pants that are not breathable and therefore further irritates the vagina, bladder, and urethra causing bladder infections, yeast infections, bladder problems, and vaginal infections.
Women who suffer from recurrent bladder infections are already diligent about wiping front to back, drinking plenty of water, and peeing after sexual intercourse. Although antibiotics may be necessary once a full blown infection starts, prevention as with just about anything is key. Many herbs for bladder infections are known to be helpful, but I prefer to use foods as medicines whenever possible.
Most women know that cranberry juice is good for bladder infections. E. coli, the bacteria that causes most bladder infections is unable to adhere to the lining of the bladder thanks to cranberry. What most people don’t know is that there is not a therapeutic cranberry juice out there that really tastes that good! If you are drinking a “delicious” glass of cranberry juice every day then you are probably not doing much to prevent a bladder infection.
When shopping for cranberry juice, be sure to read the label and purchase only 100% pure cranberry juice. A juice loaded with grape juice, apple juice or heaven forbid high fructose corn syrup is simply not going to be effective, and may worsen bladder problems. Because blueberry juice is also beneficial to the bladder you can make cranberry juice more palatable by drinking a blend of equal parts. You can also experiment with different herbal teas and make an herbal ice tea with juice.
Although these pure berry juices are a bit more expensive than their artificial counterparts they are worth their weight in gold for bladder problems not just for their preventative properties but also because of their anti-oxidant value. Berries are a great part of an anti-aging program. So when you are drinking your daily juice to prevent bladder infections you are also doing a great service to your cardiovascular system and general health!
“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” ~ Chinese Proverb
Here is more research about cranberries and bladder infections by my friend Rod Newbound that is a Registered Nurse and wanted to collab with me on his favorite UTI and anti-aging fruit:
Although it’s been known for several years that cranberries can prevent urinary tract infections, up until now, the exact mechanism has remained a mystery. But in a newly published study, scientists at Worcester Polytechnic Institute say they’ve discovered the secret.
They found that virulent bacteria, like the kind that create urinary tract infections, have hair-like projections called fimbriae that attach to the wall of the bladder. Their studies showed that even low concentrations of cranberry juice created a thermodynamic energy shield that keeps these nasty creatures from getting a foothold.
No Harm To Friendly Bacteria
Because the good bacteria don’t have these fimbriae, they aren’t affected. This is important, because our bodies have billions of good bacteria that provide protection from such gut wrenching disease organisms like Clostridium difficile.
Unpublished work also shows cranberry juice has potent effects on disease-causing bacteria, but that the effect is temporary. This suggests that in order to have continuous protection; you will need to consume some form of cranberry regularly – perhaps daily.
Cranberries, a Superfood You Should Enjoy Year Round
How to Get Your Cranberries Without Terrorizing Your Body With High Calorie Sugars
Action Plan: Add more cranberries to your weekly diet for bladder problems and prevention. Try them in salads, muffins, pancakes, breads, cheese spreads, on peanut butter sandwiches, etc. You can find unsweetened cranberry juice at some health food stores. Mix it with 1/4 cup blueberry juice and 1-3 packets of stevia to reduce the tartness. Or dilute it with 3/4 cup of water, add 1-2 packets of stevia for every 1/4 cup of cranberry juice.
I also like to make the Celestial Seasonings fruit teas iced and add about 25% cranberry per batch of iced tea. Estimate 1-2 packs of stevia per cup if you like your drink to taste sweet. Adding a splash of agave syrup can help reduce the bitterness of the stevia when drinking cranberry juice for UTI prevention and bladder problems.
Thank you to Rod Newbound a 58 year old Registered Nurse who teaches his patients how to live longer using natural medicine anti-aging tips for collaborating with me on all of this amazing cranberry research!
Need help with bladder problems, bladder pain, frequent UTI, or bladder prevention? I would be happy to help. Simply visit my SCHEDULE page to treat yourself to a Naturopathic visit.
Dr. Nicole Sundene, NMD
Dr. Sundene is a Naturopathic Doctor in Scottsdale, Arizona, and is considered a Female Hormone Expert in Women's Health and Bioidentical Hormones. She specializes in Holistic Women's Health for Menopause, Thyroid, Hashimotos, PMS, Perimenopause, Autoimmune, Postpartum, Chronic Fatigue, Depression, Anxiety, Food Allergies, Digestion, Dermatology , Acne, Psoriasis, Eczema and Adrenal Hormonal Conditions. In 1999 she began working for a Hormone Doctor prior to starting Naturopathic Medical School. With over 22 years of experience in both Prescription and Natural women's health and hormones she presents to women the best integrated health solutions for their Chronic Disease. She has been an Herbalist for over 27 years and enjoys teaching women how to use herbs to balance their hormones, nutrition and optimize their health. Dr. Sundene relies on blood testing for her hormone metrics. The hormone testing is covered per the patient's insurance plan and conducted at certain points in the woman's menstrual cycle. To learn more about Hormone Testing for Women Visit: Bioidentical Hormones. Follow Dr. Sundene on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook for more tips on Women's Health, Female Hormones and Naturopathy!
Dr. Nicole Sundene
Holistic Pain Doctor
My #1 Naturopathic Doctor Pain Recipe is right here free to use. I use this every single day to help myself and my chronic pain patients as a Holistic Pain Doctor that sees a lot of patients with Fibromyalgia, Autoimmunity, and Chronic Pain is this Gingerberry Blaster. Here it is right here for free for you to treat your pain. You definitely should treat yourself to scheduling an appointment with me by popping over to my SCHEDULE page if you are in pain, because the #1 best thing I do for women as a Female Hormone Doctor is to actually diagnose the cause of their pain.
What is the worst side effect of this Gingerberry recipe you ask?
Weight loss! So yes this recipe for pain is occasionally "dangerous" for my patients that are very thin but most of my patients love it because it helps them boost metabolism and lose weight despite their inactivity from constant pain.
Why does this cause weight loss?
Mystery solved! I found 2017 research that confirms Ginger actually helps to speed metabolism! This explains why my patients notice their metabolism increasing with this Gingerberry Blaster I prescribe for their inflammation.
This “Daily Ritual” herbal medicine recipe is a simple, delicious and powerful combination of my two favorite anti-inflammatory herbs, ginger, and berries. The flavonoids in berries are powerful antioxidants that help protect our cells from damage from inflammation.
The best part of using berries to reduce inflammation is that they are DELICIOUS MEDICINE. I have my patients with chronic pain drink my Gingerberry Blaster Recipe 2-3 times daily.
When using Herbal Medicine to treat chronic inflammation we must be committed to the long term big picture. The reason for this is that all the cells in the body need to be turned over to newer less inflamed cells and that can take time. Some of our cells such as skin cells turn over rapidly in a few days while other organs and tissues require months.
I bring this up because I often see my patients struggling and want to give up after a few days when they don’t receive instant results when they are used to popping a percocet or vicodin. I want to emphasize this IMPORTANT herbal medicine point today, that Herbal Medicine will not work at all when the patient cannot regularly stay dedicated to using it. When working to combat inflammation it is important that we are diligent with using herbs regularly.
I am here to help you as a Naturopathic Pain Doctor that struggled in a silent world of hell for 15 years! I understand what it is like to feel like nobody understands your pain. I get what it is like to constantly be in pain with no relief....
I live the pain spectrum every single day of my life as an Autoimmune patient. I know there is a huge difference between a 2/10 and a 5/10 and a 9/10 day. I have lived them all. But we also have to be realistic when we are using Naturopathic Medicine to treat pain!
Click the link below to watch my FREE presentation on how I use Naturopathic Medicine for inflammation with my patients. We will review 3 Naturopathic case studies on
1) Autoimmune 2) Migraines 3) Rheumatoid Arthritis
The #1 Naturopathic Pain Doctor's Gingerberry Blaster Recipe:
1/4 cup fresh grated or dried ginger
4 Cinnamon Sticks (Optional)
1 cup black or blueberries (Frozen berries are fine but please note that any other berries are totally useless for pain management as we are targeting the flavonoids unless they are elderberries but strawberries and raspberries will not work)
4 cups of water
Bring to a boil and then let simmer for 45 minutes
Let cool and remove cinnamon sticks then mash the berries through a strainer to get as much pigment from the berries as you can as that is the #2 Natural Pain Medicine second to the ginger!
Drink 1 cup 2-3 times daily.
Always check with your Naturopathic Doctor before implementing new herbal medicines
Dr. Nicole Sundene, NMD
Dr. Sundene is a Naturopathic Doctor in Scottsdale, Arizona, and is considered a Female Hormone Expert in Women's Health and Bioidentical Hormones. She specializes in Holistic Women's Health for Menopause, Thyroid, Hashimotos, PMS, Perimenopause, Autoimmune, Postpartum, Chronic Fatigue, Depression, Anxiety, Food Allergies, Digestion, Dermatology , Acne, Psoriasis, Eczema and Adrenal Hormonal Conditions. In 1999 she began working for a Hormone Doctor prior to starting Naturopathic Medical School. With over 22 years of experience in both Prescription and Natural women's health and hormones she presents to women the best integrated health solutions for their Chronic Disease. She has been an Herbalist for over 27 years and enjoys teaching women how to use herbs to balance their hormones, nutrition and optimize their health. Dr. Sundene relies on blood testing for her hormone metrics. The hormone testing is covered per the patient's insurance plan and conducted at certain points in the woman's menstrual cycle. To learn more about Hormone Testing for Women Visit: Bioidentical Hormones. Follow Dr. Sundene on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook for more tips on Women's Health, Female Hormones and Naturopathy!
Dr. Nicole Sundene
Scottsdale Naturopathic Doctor
Nutrition is the foundation for healthy hormones and neurotransmitters in mental health and women's health. Healthy women make healthy hormones and healthy neurotransmitters.
Walnuts rich in Omega-3's are good for both brain and hormone balance. Walnuts are the seeds mostly found in genus Juglans that have numerous health benefits. The most commonly used Walnut for medicinal purposes is Persian Walnut, or English Walnut is scientifically known as Juglans regia. While the other species like Juglans nigra and Juglans cinerea are rarely used for its medicinal uses.
Walnuts are rich with certain phytochemicals, including fatty acids (such as alpha-linolenic acid), Ellagitannins, Proanthocyanidins, phenolic compounds (such as syringic acid and naphthoquinone juglone), flavanols, and dihydrochalcones. It also contains alpha tocopherols (vitamin E), phytosterols, non-sodium minerals, and melatonin.
In history, Walnut was used as an aphrodisiac agent by Romans to improve their sexual performance. The tree of Walnut is considered a symbol of wisdom, knowledge, and intelligence. Native Americans considered it a symbol of focus, attention, clarity, and high energy source for new projects.
Health Benefits of Walnut:
Following are some of the proven health benefits of Walnut:
Anti-inflammatory activity:
Walnut shows an anti-inflammatory response by inhibiting the production of proinflammatory mediators such as nitric oxide and inflammatory cytokines. It also prevents the risk of chronic inflammatory diseases of the heart and joints by lowering C-reactive protein (CRP) that is linked to many inflammatory conditions. A medical study reported that walnut support nerves health by decreasing the risk of neuroinflammation.
Antioxidant activity:
Walnut possesses a potential antioxidant activity that relieves oxidative stress and prevents cellular damage. It has been reported that it increases antioxidant activity in the brain that improves dementia, increases cognitive performance, and decrease the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and parkinsonism. It also improves the symptoms of depression, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.
Control level of Cholesterol:
Walnut is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids that regulate the high concentration of cholesterol in the body. It decreases the level of bad low-density lipoproteins and increases good cholesterol level. Thus, prevent atherosclerosis and improve heart functions. It also supports gut health and metabolic processes by nourishing the gut microbiota.
Support vitality and longevity:
Walnut support longevity and delay aging by protecting and nourishing the vital organs such as the heart, brain, and gastrointestinal tract. It also boosts reproductive health by improving the motility, vitality, and morphology of sperms.
Other health benefits:
Walnut may help to control body mass index by controlling hunger and appetite. This effect can also help to maintain blood sugar levels and improve symptoms of diabetes. Some studies have also reported that regular use of walnuts prevents the risk of certain cancers, including colorectal, prostate, and breast cancer.
Precautions/warnings:
It is advised not to take Walnut concomitantly with oral drugs because it can affect their absorption and effectiveness. Walnut does not have any severe interaction with medications.
Walnut does not have side effects at regular doses, but it may cause diarrhea at higher than recommended doses. It is not recommended for individuals with known hypersensitivity to nuts.
Dr. Nicole Sundene, NMD
Dr. Sundene is a Naturopathic Doctor in Scottsdale, Arizona, and is considered a Female Hormone Expert in Women's Health and Bioidentical Hormones. She specializes in Holistic Women's Health for Menopause, Thyroid, Hashimotos, PMS, Perimenopause, Autoimmune, Postpartum, Chronic Fatigue, Depression, Anxiety, Food Allergies, Digestion, Dermatology , Acne, Psoriasis, Eczema and Adrenal Hormonal Conditions. In 1999 she began working for a Hormone Doctor prior to starting Naturopathic Medical School. With over 22 years of experience in both Prescription and Natural women's health and hormones she presents to women the best integrated health solutions for their Chronic Disease. She has been an Herbalist for over 27 years and enjoys teaching women how to use herbs to balance their hormones, nutrition and optimize their health. Dr. Sundene relies on blood testing for her hormone metrics. The hormone testing is covered per the patient's insurance plan and conducted at certain points in the woman's menstrual cycle. To learn more about Hormone Testing for Women Visit: Bioidentical Hormones. Follow Dr. Sundene on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook for more tips on Women's Health, Female Hormones and Naturopathy!
By Dr. Nicole Sundene, NMD
Holistic Dermatology & Autoimmunity
"Is there an herbal medicine for Scleroderma? Will Naturopathic Medicine help my autoimmune disease?"
~Cindy P, Scottsdale, AZ
Scleroderma is an autoimmune disorder that results in progressive fibrosis of the system as collagen connective tissue fibers overgrow and become deposited inappropriately in the blood vessels. Patients often complain of a white skin rash. The white color is caused by excess collagen in the skin.
Symptoms typically begin with Raynauds (lack of blood flow to fingers, pallor, pain and paresthesaias) accompanied by edema of the fingers, and tightening of the skin. Scleroderma can also be associated with a CREST variant which is an acronym for Calcinosis, Raynauds phenomena, Esophageal dysfunction, Sclerodactyly and Telangectasia. Primarily we are concerned with end organ failure as these collagen fibers become deposited in the kidneys, heart, bowel and lungs.
First I will discuss diet and lifestyle factors important for this disease, followed by a highly researched herbal medicine known to modulate the aberrant connective tissue production.
I have a special interest in autoimmune diseases because:
#1 I suffer from Lupus, an Autoimmune condition
#2 I have many referrals from other patients with Autoimmune disease because nobody else can really help them.
#3 I simply find Autoimmune Disorders very fascinating! Plus it responds well to Naturopathy.
MD’s become frustrated with autoimmune disease due to lack of good conventional treatments aside from prednisone, methotrexate and various chemotherapy drugs. The drugs are often more harmful to my poor autoimmune patients than their actual disease state! For mild to moderate autoimmune disease, Naturopathic Medicine is best in my experience.
Mainly because Naturopathic Medicine follow a therapeutic order that initially starts with addressing diet and lifestyle, fondly referred to as “The foundations for health." The more complicated the disease, the more basic the treatment plan. This means the more symptoms my patient has, the more likely there is an issue with their foundations of health, their nutrition, sleep, stress, or emotional state must be addressed.
Now chronic disease really fascinates me and the first thing I like to do is put on my “medical investigator” hat and try to figure out what is really going on. As a Hormone Doctor I often find underlying hormone imbalance impacting the immune system. Low progesterone or low estrogen especially can increase inflammation in the body which is why women experience more inflammatory conditions as they near menopause. Hormononal conditions like perimenopause, menopause and hypothyroidism can mechanically cause the skin to be dryer and therefore more susceptible to autoimmune attacks.
Testosterone stimulates oil production in the skin and when women begin to lose their testosterone around age 35 they notice premature aging of their skin and become more at risk for many dermatology conditions and skin rashes.
In my experience many things such as scleroderma that are labeled “etiology unknown” as in “the medical community cannot agree on what causes this, or there is no definitive evidence available as to what causes this…etc” still have a cause in that particular patient. If you have a chronic disease it is important that you sit down with a Naturopathic Doctor and allow them to diligently comb through your health history. Poor diet, toxic exposures to heavy metals, pesticides, and possibly even vaccinations received when ill are often concomitant.
Aspartame use is always of interest to me when working with someone with autoimmune disease. I am unsure if aspartame is the new “lead pipes” or “asbestos” and we just don’t have definitive evidence to get it off the shelves and out of peoples diets yet, or if particular individuals lack the necessary enzymes to metabolize it appropriately, or if they are allergic to the aspartame, but I find it peculiar that many women are addicted to diet soda and suffer from lupus, Sjogren's, scleroderma, rheumatoid arthritis, and even fibromyalgia have all been heavy aspartame users. If you are sick you should just plain and simple NOT use aspartame. I believe that it is better to err on the side of caution with this particular situation.
There is no nutritional need for this chemical in your diet and you can learn how to use stevia as an alternative sweetener. The aspartame has simply got to go. And when it does most patients interestingly enough, get better. In the last 100 years there are many incidences of man-made chemicals that were once declared as safe, eventually being deemed as having deleterious effects and being taken off the market. Initially the FDA didn’t even approve table sugar for household use. Too bad they did, right? Diabetes and obesity now run rampant in our society thanks to refined foods like sucrose and white flour.
Now that the aspartame is out of the diet lets get the rest of the chemicals out too. Splenda is not so splendid and that must also go. The only sugar free sweetener I consider safe to use is Stevia.
A whole foods, natural diet free of processed food is the best place to start if you have an autoimmune condition. The effects may take two weeks or two months, but I have never seen a patient with chronic disease not benefit from cleaning up their diet. Everyone benefits from a clean diet. My PGE-2 Diet has been developed from trial and error with my own patients using foods researched to reduce inflammation.
In addition to whole foods eating, I recommend autoimmune and Dermatology patients follow my "PGE-2 Diet" to learn how to easily temper inflammation through diet. Most of the treatments autoimmune patients are given are done to reduce inflammation in the skin which we can do naturally with diet changes.
A proper eight hours of sleep, stress management, and gentle exercise are the foundations to health for all autoimmune patients. Having any of these factors out of balance will impact the immune system adversely.
Last, but most importantly with any chronic disease, it is important to understand the emotional state of the patient. Recent research in the field of psychoneuroimmunology reveals how interrelated our thoughts are to how our immune system functions. One expert lecturer on the topic of auto-immunity brought up the interesting question “why is someone’s body attacking itself?”
Anger, and other unresolved emotions if present are well worth investigating with a therapist. Although a great deal of research exists to support the theory in autoimmunity that the immune system has gone haywire from attacking a virus it could not clear. Please make sure you are healthy emotionally and making good choices for your body and emotional state. I have seen many women over the years in very unhappy marriages adversely impact their autoimmune disease. Guess what happens when they get a divorce? They get better and need less medications.
With Scleroderma we want a normal acting immune system not one that is acting dysfunctionally and thus influencing the proliferation of fibroblastic activity which results in the excess deposition of collagen. Therapy is an important part of the treatment plan for anyone struggling with chronic disease because regardless of if the mind is contributing to the disease state, anyone that is sick still needs support.
Sometimes the support from friends and family simply is not enough. Especially for those that have trouble asking for help. A private counseling session to address the fears and concerns around having a chronic disease is integral for supporting the “mind, body, spirit” model in holistic care.
Specifically for scleroderma, the herb Centella asiatica commonly known as Gotu kola (shown above) has been used with some success in scleroderma patients as well as those prone to the development of keloids (excess scar production). A few studies working to develop a better delivery mechanism for the drug extract of this herb look promising. In the meantime tinctures and capsules of this plant are effective. Do not use teas as the active components are not water soluble and therefore do not extract well in water and require alcohol.
Before using any herbs everyone should always check with their Naturopathic Doctor for drug-herb interactions. Also, whenever trying any new therapy be sure to have lab markers drawn pre-treatment, and a few months into treatment to see how your immune system is responding. If improvement is not noted in the skin after three to six months, a change in treatment plan may be necessary, or a more aggressive approach.
Remember that most natural remedies take about one month to work for every year that an individual has had a chronic disease. Gotu Kola has been shown to be safe in laboratory animals with the toxic dose being 40-50mg per/kg of body weight.
You can purchase Gotu Kola in capsules at any reputable health food store. I like Nature's Way brand as a trusted inexpensive option available to patients over the counter. If you use the capsules by Nature’s Way, keep in mind that each capsule is 435mg of Gotu Kola and the standard daily dose is 2-4 mg daily. So a typical starting dose would be about 3 capsules twice daily.
It is important patients understand they will need to maintain a high dose for it to really be effective. We are working towards long term improvement, which will require 3-6 months of effort to reverse the damage caused by autoimmunity. There are not quick fixes and we need to think about working to prevent progression, as well as listening to the negative message our body is sending through our skin to understand what it truly needs.
If you need my help with any Dermatology or Autoimmune conditions simply pop over to my SCHEDULE page to book your Naturopathic visit.
~Dr. Nicole Sundene
(480) 837-0900
Dr. Sundene is a Naturopathic Doctor in Scottsdale, Arizona, and a Female Hormone Expert in Women's Health and Bioidentical Hormones. She specializes in Holistic Women's Health for Menopause, Thyroid, Hashimotos, PMS, Perimenopause, Autoimmune, Postpartum, Chronic Fatigue, Depression, Anxiety, Food Allergies, Digestion, Dermatology, Acne, Psoriasis, Eczema, and Adrenal Hormonal Conditions. In 1999 she began working for a Hormone Doctor prior to starting Naturopathic Medical School. With over 23 years of experience in both Prescription and Natural women's health and hormones, she presents to women the best-integrated health solutions for their Chronic Disease. She has been an Herbalist for over 28 years and enjoys teaching women how to use herbs to balance their hormones, nutrition and optimize their health. Dr. Sundene relies on blood testing for her hormone metrics. The hormone testing is covered per the patient's insurance plan (not Medicaid) and conducted at certain points in the woman's menstrual cycle. To learn more about Hormone Testing for Women Visit: Bioidentical Hormones. Follow Dr. Sundene on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook for more tips on Women's Health, Female Hormones, and Naturopathy!
References:
Dr. Nicole Sundene
Rheumatoid Arthritis is one of the most complicated conditions I treat as a Women’s Health Naturopathic Doctor. As someone with an Autoimmune disease, I understand just how painful and debilitating this condition is for many of my RA patients. So before I answer the most common questions my RA patients have, I want to explain how what I do for autoimmunity is a process and not just a prescription.
Trust me, after eighteen years of living with my autoimmune disease if there was a “Magical Herb from the Rainforest” to make it all just go away, I would be on it and that is what I would be blogging about. Instead, what I do for RA is multifactorial, and is a process that every patient needs to go through because it is not the same for every patient. Some of the things that work for my autoimmune disease do not work for others. This is because we are all similar, yet unique like “Snowflakes.”
I am sure you would not be googling natural solutions to solve the chronic pain, swelling, and disfigurement of Rheumatoid Arthritis unless you were not getting lasting solutions that actually worked as I describe in my story about “Why I Became a Naturopathic Doctor.”
I understand these painful autoimmune frustrations first hand, and exactly what it feels like to deal with callous uncaring doctors that cannot provide me with lasting solutions that actually work.
Many Rheumatoid Arthritis patients have to pay a high amount of money in prescription drugs to maintain their pain. Often health conditions can quickly become expensive such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, ADHD, depression, anxiety, when we do not take the time to listen to the body and understand why the symptoms are present.
I never want anyone to enroll as an autoimmune patient in my practice without first understanding what I will be doing as your “Natural Rheumatologist” that is quite different from taking steroids and immune suppressing drugs that can put Arizona autoimmune patients at higher risk for West Nile Virus and Valley Fever. Recently, I just had a patient with Rheumatoid Arthritis be discharged from the hospital after a bad case of Valley Fever Pneumonia. The ER doctors specifically said “You have to stop taking your immunosuppresants or the next time you end up here with pneumonia, you will die.”
Sadly, I had warned her about this many years ago, yet she did not want to do the nutrition changes that are realistically required to manage RA pain naturally.
Let me take a minute to explain how I help my patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis achieve lasting solutions so that they do not have to rely on prescription drugs, or need the least amount possible.
First off let’s discuss our failed American Medical Model:
TAKE X Rheumatoid Arthritis DRUG FOR X Pain, Swelling, and Disfigurement
What I actually want to do as your “Natural Rheumatologist” To help you learn how to manage the pain naturally with less medication is the following:
#1 Why to you have Rheumatoid Arthritis?
#2 What is the “Root Cause” or underlying causes of your RA? (Hint it is different for every woman)
#3 Are you deficient in any vitamins, minerals, or nutrients needed to reduce inflammation and pain?
#4 How can we better manage weight gain and chronic fatigue common in RA?
#5 How can we improve insomnia and reduce stress so your joints can heal?
#6 Is there an underlying chronic infection triggering your immune system?
#7 Are your female hormones and thyroid in proper balance or is the imbalance actually spiking inflammation and causing more pain? (Common cause I find.)
#8 Teach Rheumatoid Arthritis patients to manage their weight, hormones, pain, and fatigue with my inflammation reducing Naturopathic meal plans and recipes.
#9 Addressing the gut inflammation is often why my patients have RA inflammation and pain in the first place. Testing the microbiome, and ruling out dysbiosis is critical for many of my thyroid patients.
#10 Remove individualized food triggers spiking pain and inflammation.
#11 Screen for other autoimmune disease such a as Hashimoto's thyroiditis I commonly see occurring, often when we see one autoimmune disease, there may be two or three more not yet diagnosed.
Without understanding #1 and #2 on my list, I sadly have seen many RA patients fail to control their pain, swelling, weight gain, insomnia, and chronic fatigue naturally, or with less medication.
Without a proper anti-inflammatory nutritional foundation, perfect hormones, and understanding that darn “Root Cause” (Hint it’s different for everyone) Natural Medicine will often fail.
I want every woman with autoimmune disease in my practice to be a success story, because I live the pain and frustrations myself. I don’t want autoimmune patients that cannot work gradually through the above list to enroll into my practice because I know they will fail, and then I don’t get that “Joy of Fixing You” that I need to be happy as a doctor.
I also know that some days just surviving each pain flare can feel like completing an Ironman Triathlon. Patience runs very thin with women in pain and they desire a quick fix which Naturopathic Medicine sadly is not. Natural medicine takes several months for the average autoimmune patient to improve. And yes, I do recommend staying on full doses of Rheumatology drugs until we begin to notice improvement before we begin to taper them down. There is little sense in allowing your joints to be destroyed while we are working towards a better long term plan.
So please do treat yourself to a Naturopathic visit with me if you want real answers, want the right anti-inflammatory nutrition for your body, want to take herbal medicine, and want me to fix the underlying hormone imbalance that is most often triggering worse swelling and pain in RA. Which is why many women are diagnosed with RA in perimenopause and menopause.
While I love helping women with Rheumatoiod Arthritis, I also have been doing this job for over seventeen years as a Naturopathic Doctor and want every woman in pain to have realistic expectations with the type of medicine I practice. Simply visit my SCHEDULE page to treat yourself to a Naturopathic visit! I would be happy to help.
WHAT IS THE BEST NATURAL HOLISTIC TREATMENT FOR RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS?
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that responds very well to naturopathic treatments. Well researched natural treatments such as diet, herbs, vitamins, and other holistic therapies implemented early on can prevent the need for the overuse of harsh medications such as chemotherapeutic agents, corticosteroids, and drugs with a myriad of side effects such as hydroxychlorquine typically needed to aggressively manage symptoms.
Most of my MD colleagues are happy to refer patients with frustrating autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis off to naturopaths, as a thorough diet and lifestyle cleanup typically works wonders for improving the disease course. Although this article is primarily discussing RA, the general treatment concept should be helpful for most cases of autoimmunity.
Please consult with your doctor or naturopathic physician to develop an individualized plan that is right for you, natural medicines may have interactions with your medications or other health conditions that should always be researched thoroughly before implementing.
WHAT ARE RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS SYMPTOMS?
The symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis results from the autoimmune attack from the body’s own immune system. attacks the joints creating inflammation and the resultant symmetrical poly-arthritis typically affecting the wrists, knees, elbows, shoulders, ankles, and neck.
Swelling, heat, deformity of joints, morning stiffness and pain with passive motions are all hallmark symptoms. Seventy percent of patient’s exhibit radiologic signs of damage within three years of onset, so early aggressive preventative therapies are important to protect joint integrity.
Reversing joint damage is difficult. An “ounce of prevention” is truly “worth a pound of cure” in this case. Systemically patients additionally experience fatigue, depression, general malaise, loss of appetite, enlarged lymph nodes and spleen, and visual impairments.
WHAT ARE THE EARLY SYMPTOMS OF RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS
What is the Cause of Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Since the etiology of RA is currently unknown, and all we know about RA in our current medical model is that “anti-body-complement complexes result in intra-articular inflammation” it is thus important that we eliminate all potential immune system aggravators, and ALWAYS address causes of health imbalance in the patient where applicable.
In layman’s terms, the immune system is reacting to something in the system, and those immune complexes are depositing in the joints, causing inflammation, the resultant inflammation is systematically destroying the joints. Until the cause of RA is further understood, as a biochemist and physician I think it is imperative that all food additives and other chemicals are removed from the diet and lifestyle. Something in the system is likely triggering the inflammatory autoimmune response, and it is better to error on the side of caution. Whole foods eating is the way to go.
All patients with RA will surely improve from a diet and lifestyle clean up, as from a sensible standpoint; a pure whole foods diet will only improve the total health of the patient while we investigate other potential causes of this frustrating and debilitating painful disease.
I have yet to see someone with an autoimmune disease that did not improve dramatically from healthier eating and living. If changing your diet and lifestyle seems overwhelming from reading this article, please consider your long term health, and make small goals to achieve systematically. Stay positive and don’t get caught by a potentially debilitating case of the “I cants”.
CAN NATURAL MEDICINE HELP RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS?
Naturopathic Medicine can help reduce the side effects of medications, reduce symptom severity and frequency, and alleviate the need to take as much prescription medicine.
As with any modality naturopathic medicine also has its own set of limitations. Natural treatments take more time than prescription drugs. Keep in mind the immune system turns over a new supply of white blood cells about every 4 months. Joints are avascular meaning that they lack a blood supply and receive all their nutrients through simple diffusion. The natural treatment of joint problems therefore requires time, discipline, and dedication.
Patient compliance is typically an obstacle to cure when it comes to natural healing techniques for autoimmune disease. Be sure to work with a licensed naturopathic physician for the best holistic management of this complex condition, preferably one with a special interest in autoimmune conditions. Initially, frequent appointments should help you stay more motivated to make these changes.
WHAT IS THE BEST DIET FOR RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS?
LIFESTYLE CONSIDERATIONS FOR RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS
BEST VITAMINS AND MINERALS FOR RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS?
BEST HERBS FOR RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS?
NATURE CURE FOR RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS
When all else fails with chronic disease, naturopathic medicine works wonders when we apply nature cure philosophies such as "Treat the Root Cause," “Remove the obstacles to cure” and “Treat the whole person" from a mind/body/spirit perspective.
Remove the Obstacles to Cure
Obstacles to cure are the things that are getting in the way of bringing your body in to a healthier state of balance. Anything listed above that you struggle to implement is therefore an “obstacle to cure”. Identify your challenges and work on overcoming them systematically. Start with the simplest obstacles to improve self efficacy, or tackle the hardest like quitting smoking to make the most significant impact in your health.
Treat the Whole Person
You are not a symptom. You are not a body. You are not inflammation. You are not pain. You are a complex being that is challenged by a painful case of arthritis. This is not just about your body, it is also about the mind and spirit that have to live in this body. The growing field of “psychoneuroimmunology” investigates how our minds affect our immune system. Nurture the mind and spirit connection to support your body.
Sample Naturopathic Treatment Plan for Rheumatoid Arthritis:
*PLEASE NOTE* Always check with your physician for drug interactions or medical contraindications before implementing any new treatments as this is not individualized care. Included for example only, preferably make an appointment with me for proper help:
Need my help reducing pain, swelling, and inflammation with Rheumatoid Arthritis? This is one of my favorite things to do. I would be happy to help! Simply visit my SCHEDULE page to treat yourself to a Naturopathic Hormone balancing visit!
Dr. Nicole Sundene, NMD
Dr. Sundene is a Naturopathic Doctor in Scottsdale, Arizona, and is considered a Female Hormone Expert in Women's Health and Bioidentical Hormones. She specializes in Holistic Women's Health for Menopause, Thyroid, Hashimotos, PMS, Perimenopause, Autoimmune, Postpartum, Chronic Fatigue, Depression, Anxiety, Food Allergies, Digestion, Dermatology , Acne, Psoriasis, Eczema and Adrenal Hormonal Conditions. In 1999 she began working for a Hormone Doctor prior to starting Naturopathic Medical School. With over 22 years of experience in both Prescription and Natural women's health and hormones she presents to women the best integrated health solutions for their Chronic Disease. She has been an Herbalist for over 27 years and enjoys teaching women how to use herbs to balance their hormones, nutrition and optimize their health. Dr. Sundene relies on blood testing for her hormone metrics. The hormone testing is covered per the patient's insurance plan and conducted at certain points in the woman's menstrual cycle. To learn more about Hormone Testing for Women Visit: Bioidentical Hormones. Follow Dr. Sundene on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook for more tips on Women's Health, Female Hormones and Naturopathy.
Dr. Nicole Sundene, NMD
"Is my house on fire?!?!" I panicked as I opened my front door to smoke. There was a really bad burning smell. I realized that something was burning and on fire in my home!! What was on fire? What was causing this horrible smell? It smelled like the Cadaver lab in medical school mixed with smoke. I could not decide which one. Either something died or something plastic was on fire.
Immediately I ran to check my pets first to make sure they were all okay, they were thankfully fine. Then I began searching for the source of the burning smell. I could not seem to find it. Everywhere I went it smelled really bad but nowhere I could see any flames or burning. I began to panic that my appliances were on fire and went through my house to unplug everything. But it still smelled bad. I opened windows and turned on fans to try to clear the air. It still smelled.
This is when I turned to Dr. Google who suggested something in my wiring or AC was on fire. That is when I really freaked out!
I ran outside in the middle of the night to turn off all my circuit breakers as I worried that maybe something in the wiring had caught on fire or my AC system was on fire.
Still no improvement.
I tried to fall asleep with the revolting smell and eventually did but then woke up in a complete panic at 4 am thinking I had made a mistake by not calling the Fire department. I was seeing more smoke in my bedroom. Something was definitely on fire. Something was clearly burning in my home and I could not find the source of the smell.
I could not believe I was calling 911 to my house but I did not know what else to do and did not want to leave for work with a potential fire. Shaking with stress I dialed 911. While I have called 911 many times in my career for patients, I have thankfully never had to do it for myself. The operator reassured me it was the right thing to do and said the fire department would be on its way soon.
Thankfully the fire department showed up 4 minutes later to investigate the burning smell. They used a machine to determine there was nothing actively burning and confirmed I had done everything correctly turning things off and suggested I follow up with an AC repairman and an electrician.
Happy I was not in any immediate danger, I began to call multiple experts to my home to figure out the cause of the smoke and burning smell. I began to spray orange air freshener everywhere to cover up the smell.
First, I had the AC repairman show up and he immediately confirmed that the AC was completely fine, despite replacing a part that needed to be fixed he did not think that was the cause of the burning smell and said everything was normal. He could not smell the burning smell because I had sprayed so much orange air freshener to cover it up.
I stopped spraying the air freshener to cover up the smell, as I realized that was making it nearly impossible for the experts to help me.
Next, I called an electrician to have him come to my house and check all the circuit breakers, appliances, and outlets. He meticulously went through everything, unscrewed every outlet, every light switch to ensure there was not a wiring issue... and also could not figure it out. He said everything was fine and had no clue what the smell was. But he did at least tell me that he could smell it too….
Have I gone crazy?
No, the electrician can smell it and also cannot figure it out. So you can't be crazy. You are not the only one that can smell it.
Multiple experts and specialists had been to my home and told me everything was FINE and NORMAL. I began to worry that I was going crazy. As a menopause doctor, I know that when women shift into menopause their sense of smell can change. I told myself maybe this is just the beginning signs of menopause and that I probably need something stronger than flaxseeds and some progesterone cream and I mentally committed to getting my hormones checked.
Finally, out of utter desperation, I put my 10-year-old child to the task when she got home from school. I decided I was over-complicating the problem with too many experts stuck in their heads and not seeing the "Forest for the trees," and needed a fresh young unbiased brain….and if she found nothing wrong I would concede to the fact I had either A) Lost my mind or B) Needed an estrogen cream for my new bizarre menopausal hypersensitivity to smells.
She walked into my bedroom and took 2 sniffs and 5 steps before pointing up at the ceiling.
“Mom, it's the ceiling fan!”
Sure enough, the motor of the ceiling fan had burnt up which is why I had seen so much smoke and explained the horrible burning plastic smell.
But the problem with all the experts that I hired to help me is that they weren’t looking at the ceiling….they were looking at the ground and the outlets. They were worried about an electrical fire in the walls. We were all so distracted by the outlets, the AC, and the appliances that we forgot to check for things that could be burning on the ceiling!!
I had also unwittingly made it MORE difficult for them to help me by covering up the smoke smell with air freshener.
I laughed when I realized it was THAT simple and then I realized...this is how a lot of my female patients feel with their hormones. I have heard many similar tails of whoa from my hormone patients. Women with hormone imbalance often see multiple experts and specialists to no avail and become frustrated. Some doctors even tell them it is all in their heads and prescribe anti-depressants.
Women often feel shamed and even ridiculed for complaining of their hormone imbalance symptoms. So I wanted to share this story as a PSA to help bring awareness to women. Women need to know that it is totally normal to some degree to have imbalanced hormones. It is inevitable for women to go through Menopause and Perimenopause.
Women with hormone imbalances such as Perimenopause, Menopause, PMS, Adrenal Fatigue, PCOS, Hashimotos, and Hypothyroidism often also get lost in a very similar mysterious silent world of hell. Many women come to me after seeing multiple specialists to no avail and begin to question if they have gone crazy just like I did trying so hard to find the cause of the burning smell. I was ready to even concede and decided I HAD gone crazy….
But the one thing I have learned from my Holistic Psychiatry and Hormone practice over fifteen years is that truly "crazy" people never bother to question if they have gone crazy. So if you are stopping to think you have gone crazy while suffering from an annoying myriad of symptoms from hormone imbalance then the odds are that you are NOT actually crazy. If you are questioning if you are a hypochondriac, you are likely not a hypochondriac.
In Latin, the root word for Hysterectomy is Hysteria. Hysteria is the ancient word used to describe the uterus! Because hormone imbalance can truly make women feel hysterical! Rest assured there are answers we just need to keep looking and check the right labs.
Many of my hormone patients before they see me often end up at a Psychiatrist or Psychologist also thinking they have gone crazy...many times I have been told this same sort of tale about their symptoms and the journey they have been on between their Internist, Endocrinologist, Cardiologist, Gastroenterologist and Psychologist before they think to hire me to investigate the ROOT CAUSE of their symptoms and we diagnose the hormone imbalance.
Women bring me a list of labs and reports from other doctors trying to figure their problems out yet have failed. Every day they tell me some other doctor has already "checked all their hormones and they are fine," when only 2 lab tests have been conducted to check their hormones and not the typical 4-5 pages of hormone labs that I always order to start with.
This is about as helpful as doing a mammogram on just one breast and assuming the other breast is fine!
But rest assured when it comes to hormones, as a Hormone Doctor I always think outside the box and look at the big picture so we can treat the cause. We must treat the cause with hormone imbalance or we will continue to struggle just as I did searching for the cause of the bad smell. Imbalanced female hormones are just as annoying and frustrating as a noxious smell of burning plastic.
Once we understand the unique hormone profile of each patient we can generally put them on a system with Naturopathic medicine that works my way out of a job….why is that? Because we are treating the cause. And when we can identify and treat the cause then we no longer need to keep spraying air freshener and wasting money on consultants that can’t properly help us.
So I hope you have learned 3 things from my frustrating story:
#1 We need to treat the cause. To treat the cause we must find the cause.
#2 I am the type of doctor that will keep investigating the cause and will not give up on you...until I know what the problem is….just like I didn’t give up on the ceiling fan…. My inquiring mind always wants to know what is wrong with each unique hormone patient that comes my way and I will meticulously keep working for you even if we need to think outside the box.
#3 Masking symptoms does not provide lasting results and makes it harder for your experts to find the cause. Sometimes when we cover up a “smell” or symptom with a prescription drug as I did with the air freshener, it actually makes it more difficult to study the symptom's pattern and determine the ROOT CAUSE.
When we cover up symptoms with prescription drugs we don’t know what is causing the symptoms because we are suppressing symptoms, and that makes it hard to study the pattern of the symptoms.
Please share this story my story with as many women as you can, because at some point they are going to reach hormone imbalance in their 40's or 50's and need to know ahead of time that they have not gone crazy. Hormone imbalance is totally normal, and a normal phase of every woman's life. With proper Hormone Testing we can determine the cause, especially when women develop a bunch of random symptoms at once.
Women deserve to have the best support during these hormonal transitions and should not have all their symptoms poo-pooed and told they have gone crazy and put on an anti-depressant. Some women even commit suicide from severe hormone imbalance from PMS, Postpartum Depression and Menopause, so we can preventively save women's lives by properly educating them on hormone imbalance!
If you need an experienced Naturopathic Doctor to help you with your hormones and help you feel AWESOME again, simply pop over to my SCHEDULE page to treat yourself to a Naturopathic visit! I promise to keep working as your hormone detective until we receive answers.
Dr. Nicole Sundene
(480) 837-0900
Dr. Sundene is a Naturopathic Doctor in Scottsdale, Arizona, and is a Female Hormone Expert in Women's Health and Bioidentical Hormones. She specializes in Holistic Women's Health for Menopause, Thyroid, Hashimotos, PMS, Perimenopause, Autoimmune, Postpartum, Chronic Fatigue, Depression, Anxiety, Food Allergies, Digestion, Dermatology, Acne, Psoriasis, Eczema, and Adrenal Hormonal Conditions. In 1999 she began working for a Hormone Doctor prior to starting Naturopathic Medical School. With over 23 years of experience in both Prescription and Natural women's health and hormones, she presents to women the best-integrated health solutions for their Chronic Disease. She has been an Herbalist for over 28 years and enjoys teaching women how to use herbs to balance their hormones, nutrition and optimize their health. Dr. Sundene relies on blood testing for her hormone metrics. The hormone testing is covered per the patient's insurance plan (not Medicaid) and conducted at certain points in the woman's menstrual cycle. To learn more about Hormone Testing for Women Visit: Bioidentical Hormones. Follow Dr. Sundene on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook for more tips on Women's Health, Female Hormones, and Naturopathy!
