Last month's newsletter was so popular, we're going to do some more of the same...

More Helping and Getting Help in the Family

Once again, we're turning to the HerbaCall and Herbalife family. This month we're continuing to share the results of various research and assistance requests with our readers. The information is just too good to keep to ourselves.

As with last month, this newsletter will provide a compilation of questions and their responses. Some is testimonial, some is informational. All is valuable and worthwhile. You'll probably want to either archive this yourself, or remember to come back and read it at HerbaCall.

This month, we're only including a brief introduction to each question and answer, so that we can include more total infomation.

Here we go!

• Colon Cancer
• Cystic Fibrosis
• Difficulty Urinating
• Ear Infections
• Glandular Fever / Mononucleosis
• Heart Problems
• Liver Damage from Protein?
• Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
• Psoriasis
• Rosacea
• Tingling Sensation in Thighs?
• Weight Loss and Menopause
• Weight Loss, Schizophrenia, Depression
• Acknowledgements

Colon Cancer

Question: I have someone that has the first stages of colon cancer. Is there any specific or special info on this matter that you could help with. I would appreciate very much.

Answer: [Lauren Bennett] We assume this customer is in the US. The usual suggestions would apply to someone with colon cancer - check dietary restrictions - what type of treatment will the person be undergoing - what are their current gastro-intestinal symptoms (diarrhea, bloating, nausea, etc.)

Depending upon the responses to these queries, we might suggest prior to treatment, an Optimum Cellular Nutrition Program + RoseOx, Mega Garlic and Cardio ToconOx.

If not tolerating foods well, would suggest simply Basic Cellular Nutrition + Herbal Aloe Drink.

During treatment, we would suggest limiting product usage to Formula 1, Formula 2 and Herbal Aloe Drink.

If having absorption problems, we would suggest crushing tablets and opening capsules and mixing with shakes. Shakes should be mixed in soy milk or non-fat milk or yogurt for adequate protein intake. Herbal Aloe can also be mixed in shakes, if desired, or consumed alone, or with meals. He can also take his tablets with Herbal Aloe.

Be sure customer discusses usage of nutritional supplements with all his personal physicians who will be involved in all aspects of his care. You might want to refer Distributor to the following website: www.cancernutrition.com for further information.

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Cystic Fibrosis

Question: Do you have any testimonials of any kind?

Answer: [Steven List] Generally specific ailments of this kind, while they benefit from good
nutrition, are not specifically addressed by Herbalife products.

[Dr. Beverley Hoffman] I have to concur with Steven. People witfibrosis could definitely benefit from the good nutrition. I would check up about Herbalifeline (Omega 3 Fish oil) and Fibre tablets though. I see no reason why not to use the Formula 1 - Nutritional protein Drink - plus RoseOx. Could also use the Thermogetics Beverage.

These can improve nutritional status and, therefore, the ability to fight off infections.

I'd suggest you look at this site:

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Difficulty Urinating

Question: What products would give the best results for a patient that is having difficulty urinating?

Answer: [Lauren Bennett] Depending upon the country - these are US product recommendations.

We suggest Optimum Cellular Nutrition (Formula 1, 2, and 3, Herbalifeline, Herbal Aloe Drink, and Schizandra Plus), and Ultimate Prostate Formula. It is a good idea to avoid caffeine-containing beverages, food, and dietary supplements if experiencing urinary difficulties.

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Ear Infections

Question: my daughter is 18 months old and she has been suffering from chronic ear infections. We were thinking of giving her the Schizandra 1/2 tab and RoseOx 1/2 tab. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Answer: [Dr. Beverley Hoffman] As you know, the Herbalife products provide balanced healthy nutrition and are not meant for treating diseases. By giving your daughter some of the shake powder (eg 1 tablespoonful in her milk once a day), plus the RoseOx and Schizandra (If you want), you can boost her immune system, which could help in improving her overall well-being, and possibly help her to overcome her ear infections through an improved immune system. You must check that the ear infections are not related to a food/milk allergy - or just gereral environmental allergies. Would consult an ear, nose and throat specialist. I have 4 kids, and 3 out of the 4 had ear problems, and 2 required ear-tubes surgically inserted - helped a lot.

[Steven List] I would also be careful of boosting the immune system if the ear infections are allergy related. My son (the one who has lost 90 pounds since he started on Herbalife products), had ear infections every month as a baby. Our Pediatrician treated his symptoms, giving antibiotics every time. And every time, after the antibiotics were done, he'd get another "cold" and ear infection. When we finally had him tested for allergies, we discovered that he was allergic to wheat, milk, eggs, and chocolate (among other things).

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Glandular Fever a.k.a. Mononucleosis

Question: Having some problems with a 20 year old female with Glandular fever. Commenced taking Quickstart Program 20 days ago to help with her illness as well as lose about 8 kgs. She is having a lot of trouble trying to keep Formula 1 down, vomits it up. Even if she sprinkles it on food it doesn't seem to want to go down. She started on Berry and we swapped it for Vanilla but neither one is successful. The big problem we're facing now is that she has developed extremely bad constipation. She called yesterday crying. She really wants to persist with the products despite things not going too well! I gave her Florabibre and some Herbal Aloe Concentrate to take. Can you give me some advice as I am really new at this and don't know what else to do.

Answer: [Dr. Beverley Hoffman] "Glandular fever" is mononucleosis, and from the correspondence, they did not indicate whether she was in the early or later stage of her illness. What if she has hepatosplenomegaly? Is it okay to give Formula one, which has vegatable oil in it?

I copied you this from Micromedex:

Use this article for information about diagnosing and managing infectious mononucleosis in adolescents and adults. Infectious mononucleosis (IM) and symptomatic Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection are sometimes considered synonymous, but this is an oversimplification whose truth depends on the criteria used to characterize IM. If IM is defined as a clinical syndrome characterized by fever, malaise, tonsillopharyngitis, cervical (especially posterior) lymphadenitis, and hepatosplenomegaly, EBV is the cause in 80% to 95% of cases [1]. Other causes of IM include cytomegalovirus, Toxoplasma gondii, adenoviruses, hepatitis A virus, and HIV. In contrast, if IM is defined as an acute viral illness associated with peripheral blood laboratory findings of absolute lymphocytosis, >50% lymphocytes, >10% atypical lymphocytes, and positive heterophile antibodies and/or serologic evidence of EBV infection, IM is essentially always caused by EBV [2].

Although most primary EBV infections occur in early childhood, in which case they are largely subclinical, the focus of this discussion is on symptomatic EBV (heterophile-positive) infectious mononucleosis (EBV-IM) that presents in adolescents or adults. Potential complications of EBV infection are discussed, but other EBV-associated (non-IM) states, such as Burkitt's lymphoma, post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease, and immunodeficiency states, are beyond the scope of this presentation.

[Dr. Jamie McManus] I presume the glandular fever is some sort of chronic condition? I am not familiar with that term as an American physician. Is it like Chronic Mononucleosis or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

She clearly has digestive system challenges and the Aloe and Florafiber are good choices of products for her to use. Be sure she is making the shake in something she normally drinks. Alternately she can make the "shake" mixed in yogurt which can be better tolerated by some with sensitive disgestive systems. Her constipation indicates that she needs to increase her water intake by 2-3 glasses per day. Let the Aloe and FF, increased water etc work with her for a while.

If she does have some sort of acute problem, she should just be focusing on nutrition and healing rather than weight loss.

[Dr. Jamie McManus] There is no concern with F1, even if hepatosplenomegaly is present--usually with mononucleosis, only the spleen is enlarged. For someone with significant liver impairment, for whatever reason, caution in the total daily intake of protein is advised---but most can tolerate 40-50 gms per day.

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Heart Problems

Question: I have a customer who has heart problems but wants to lose weight. Because of his financial position I have put him on Shape Up Now programme and Herbalifeline. He's very concerned that these products might interfere with his medications, which are: Cartia, Frusemide, Duride (Isosorbide) and Accupril (Quinapril). These are for Blood Pressure, Cholesterol and Angina. He says he has a swollen heart. I've tried to tell him that these would be ok to take with his medication but because I'm new at being a Distributor I too need reassurance that these products will not interfere with his medication. [from New Zealand]

Answer: [Dr. Beverley Hoffman] I have a few questions:

1. Which products are in "Shape up now" programme?
2. Is the Cartia eteric coated aspirin 100mg or Diltiazem - probably aspirin, since you are 'down under'

Would suggest that he avoid caffeine-containing products (like Green tabs and NRG). The Thermogetics tea is, in fact, an extract of a mixture of green and regular black tea. Therefore, if your customer is allowed to have a cup of normal, caffeinated tea, then the Thermogetics Drink will be fine. Plain flavour may be better for him. However, would limit it to maybe no more than a flat teaspoonful per day. Some doctors do not allow people with congestive heart failure (CHF) to have any caffeinated drinks at all. He should consult the doctor about whether he can use caffeinated drinks or not.

The regular Formula 1 (Nutritional Protein Drink) twice per day, plus Herbalifeline (Omega 3 oil) 3 times a day, plus Formula 2 (or Fibre and Herb) 3 times a day would be fine. However, would start slowly with one shake a day, and build up to 2 after 1-2 weeks. If he is on Cartia - aspirin, then Herbalifeline (omega 3) can have some antiplatelet effects too, so should take it with the doctor's knowledge.

Regarding drinking 2 Litres of water a day. May need to modify that to a bit less. People with congestive heart failure (Swollen heart) often need to restrict fluid intake.

[follow-up] The other formulas that make up the Shape Up Now programme beside Formula 1 and 2 are Formula 3 and 5. I presume that these will be ok but its always best to find out!

Formula 5 - Extreme C - is fine. Would add Herbalifeline and possibly Cardio ToconOx (If he has to choose products because of costs, would suggest these over Formula 3 - Cell Activator- and Extreme C , ). Cardio ToconOx contains Coenzyme Q10, which is very helpful in heart conditions (see attached article). However, if he decides to use all the products, that's fine.

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Liver Damage from Protein?

Question: in the UK there is a great deal of focus in today's newspapers and on television about the dangers of liver damage when following a high protein low carbo diet. I have always found this kind of programme personally very benefitial and so have my customers. However, they are now worried about the potential of liver damage - can you reassure us that with the Gold programme all is well?

Answer: [Dr. Jamie McManus] There are various concerns that some physicians, dieticians and others raise concerning the long-term usage of high protein/low carbohydrate types of diets (and they usually cite the Atkins Diet as an example), including their low content of certain nutrients including fiber and many vitamins. Concerns about the "promotion" of eating high amounts of fats, even saturated fats, in the Atkins Diet, are also commonly discussed. I am not aware of any studies indicating liver damage being caused by eating a high protein/low carbohydrate diet, although people who have existing liver disease should be cautious regarding diets high in protein. As you know, our literature provides these cautions.

Many of the concerns that are raised about "high protein, low carbohydrate diets" are really directed at the Atkins Diet, as it is the most well known. There are highly respected doctors, including Dr. Dean Ornish and others, who are quite outspoken about their concerns, but long-term studies just haven't been done yet, although there are studies underway that may eventually address some of the controversy. We (MAB) feel that the Herbalife version of an HPLC-type diet is a very responsible and effective program that provides the necessary vitamins and minerals through our micronutrient supplements, fiber from our fiber supplements and omega-3 fatty acids from Herbalifeline. Additionally, we provide literature to guide people to choose healthy types of protein that are low in saturated fat and cholesterol and to incorporate plenty of nutrient rich vegetables as well. It is unfortunate that our HPLC plan is perceived to be an "Atkins-type" program, as it really is not, but rather a "carbohydrate-controlled, nutritionally sound program, encouraging healthy types of protein, including soy protein".

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Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

Question: Would like to chat or share testimonies of clients or distributors of Herbalife who have had experience above experience and the products they have been on whilst undergoing treatment?

Answer: [Dr. Beverley Hoffman] I am not sure which country you are in, or which products are available. However, a friend of mine used the natural progesterone cream - Nature's Balance Cream (from USA) - twice daily, and had amazing results. Could also use the usual Formulas 1 (Soy content could be helpful) and 2, and Herbalifeline (Omega 3).

Will forward this to the Medical Advisory Board for further advice.

[Lauren Bennett] Individuals with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome tend to do well by following a high protein, low carbohydrate way of eating due to the tendency towards hyperinsulinemia.

Losing weight and or maintaining a healthy weight tends to lessen the severity of the challenges associated with this syndrome.

Not being sure of the country of origin for this Distributor, you may also potentially suggest Tang Kuei and Xtra-Cal. In the US, an Optimum Cellular Nutrition (Formula 1, Formula 2, Formula 3, Herbalifeline, Herbal Aloe Drink, and Schizandra Plus) + Nature's Balance Cream, Tang Kuei and Xtra-Cal is suggested. HPLC Shake Mix can be substituted for Formula 1, as well adding in the other HPLC products.

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Psoriasis

Question: I have a friend that has a problem with Psoriasis on his body, His face is fine, he only has big blotches on his body, his feet, back, belly, and he asked me if I can help him. My friend is a lean person and has no obesity problems. Since his face is perfect no blotches or pimples I would appreciate your comments about this problem? While I am writing this e mail I spoke to the Distributor Relations Department And they recommended. Formulas 1, 2, and 3, Schizandra Plus, and RoseOx.

Answer: [Steven List] There are a few testimonials on the site that address this particular ailment - here

[Dr. Beverley Hoffman] Taking Herbalifeline (Omega3 - essential fish oil) 2-3 capsules three times a day works amazingly well in psoriasis. Can drop down to 1 three times a day when psoriasis is not active. Agree with other products mentioned, but the most important for psoriasis is Herbalifeline.

Here is some additional reading material on Omega 3 and Psoriasis

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Rosacea

Question: Has anyone any experience of this complaint - broken veins on cheeks and nose - and whether Herbalife products have helped in any way?

Answer: [Dr. Beverley Hoffman] It is worth trying Skin Activator and Cleanser, Toner, Moisturizer. Also, using the Exfoliant once daily in the shower to remove dead skin could be helpful. Would consult a dermatologist as well.

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Tingling Sensation in Thighs?

Question: I have a customer who started on a weight loss programme F1, F2, F3, F4, Cell Activator, Thermojetics Yellow and Protein Powder. He weighs 120kgs and has diabetes. On his second day he noticed a tingling sensation in both thighs. Can you help?

Answer: [Lauren Bennett] This is not related to the products. With significant obesity and diabetes, he is likely to have peripheral neuropathy and poor circulation in general. He should be able to continue his program. We suggest encouraging him to: 1) drink plenty of water - at least eight 8-oz. glasses of water daily, 2) eat small frequent meals - being sure to consume adequate protein and low glycemic carbohydrates, reducing his intake of high glycemic carbohydrates, 3) check his blood sugar regularly (assuming he does now) and work with his doctor regarding insulin requirements and/or changes to his medication regimen.

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Weight Loss and Menopause

Question: I recently encountered a female customer that tried the quickstart programme and lost no weight. We thought she could be lactose intolerant so switched her onto the gold programme. Unfortunately she still didn't lose weight. Everyone else I have on the programme loses weight but not this particular case. I am not 100% sure she took the correct amount of tablets but her meals seemed pretty good. Do you know of specific issues that can interfere with the programme? I think the lady in question is currently going through the change of life but as far as I know is not on HRT. Grateful of any help.

Answer: [Steven List] First, let me suggest that you have this customer keep a food diary for a few days. It may be that although she is using the program, she is also taking in additional calories or fat that is counteracting the beneficial effects of the program.

Second, I'd explore her exercise habits. Maybe she can start increasing, even by just a little bit, the amount of exercise she gets. That could make a huge difference.

[Dr. Beverley Hoffman] I am sending some good exercise suggestions as attachments [see here]. Also, read the following letter - maybe some of the contents could be helpful to her:

I'm 50 - and in menopause for the past 2 years - so know EXACTLY what you are going through. It is worth checking your thyroid hormones again. You may find that you have a high normal TSH (Thyroid stimulating hormone) and low normal T4 (Active thyroid hormone). They are both technically "normal", but it means that your body is struggling to maintain them there. The natural progesterone cream (Nature's Balance Cream - Herbalife) aught to help with that.

Regarding carbohydrate craving - read the first half of The Carbohydrate Addicts Lifestyle Program by Drs Heller and Heller - will explain a lot to you and how to control that. You sound like you have a carbohydrate addiction - which could in fact be indicative of being pre-diabetic - so losing that weight could be essential for health, not just beauty! (You should do a fasting glucose blood test to rule out that you are not diabetic - ask your doctor). Another supplement that is helpful for carbohydrate addiction (insulin resistance) is Chromium Picolinate 200- 400mcg/day (more is toxic). Thermogetics Yellow contains chromium 50mg/tablet. Could tryThermogetics Yellow - helps night time carbohydrate craving - has another ingredient, garcinia cambogia - can take 1 with each meal and before bedtime if necessary. Herbalifeline - Omega 3 fatty acids (good fat) - is great for helping you feel "on top" again.

Walking briskly daily for 30-45 minutes (I walk a minimum of 5 days a week at 6:15am - but with my big dog and often my husband!!) will also get your metabolism going, by building muscle (Fat has zero metabolic rate!). Also, when you exercise, you produce growth hormone, which also increases your metabolism. Eating before exercise produces insulin, which suppresses growth hormone production. So don't eat for an hour before exercise. Same when you sleep, you produce growth hormone, so eating at night suppresses this, by stimulating insulin production. So do NOT eat after supper - drink ONLY! Take a Thermogetics Tea before the walk, and then take your Formula 1 Shake within the first 1/2 hour after your walk.

All I can say is, as a carbohydrate addict myself, it is truly difficult taking hold of oneself and working through those first 5-7 days. But once you have conquered the first week, the rest is a breeze. (Have just gone through a rededication first week myself, so speak first hand!)

Another thought is trying the Gold Program with high protein low-carbohydrate approach - even for a few weeks to break your cycle, and then you can go back to the Green products (Although I think that the Gold products for the most part don't taste as good as the Green products). There is a whole training section on it on Herbalife Central with Dr McManus.

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Weight Loss, Schizophrenia, and Depression

Question: Is Herbalife any good if you are on drugs for both depression and schizophrenia? I have taken herbal slimming tablets before and it brought on a schizophrenic ephosode which lasted one whole, agonising year.

Answer: [Dr. Beverley Hoffman] In your case, would suggest avoiding any over-the counter diet pills, which could contain stimulants like phenyephrine or pseudoephedrine or similar. In fact do not take any medication without first consulting your psychiatrist. Also, talk to your doctor about whether you can use caffeine-containing beverages, like coffee and tea?

Herbalife products are a balanced healthy nutrition and are not meant for treating diseases. However, adding Herbalifeline (omega 3 oil) to your weight-loss products could be helpful for your depression and schizophrenia. You should not stop your medication when you go on Herbalifeline, but can work with your psychiatrist to adjust the medication dosages as he/she recommends.

Regarding weight loss products, suggest sticking to the basics - Formula 1 (Nutritional Proteine Drink) twice a day and Formula 2 (Or Fibre and Herb tablets) 3 times a day.

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We would like to acknowledge the contributions of the following individuals, and thank them publicly for their continuing contribution to the Herbalife community. These little tidbits that they've shared here are just a drop in the bucket compared to their overall contributions.

Lauren Bennett: Manager, Inner Nutrition Product Inquiry, Medical Affairs & Education, Herbalife

Beverley Hoffman: Drug and poison information consultant at a major teaching hospital in Cape Town, South Africa. (more here)

Jamie McManus, M.D., F.A.A.F.P.: Senior Vice President, Medical Affairs & Education, Medical Advisory Board

Steven