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Story of health

Tired all the time? Is it chronic fatigue syndrome? Insomnia, stress, susceptibility to back pain, stubborn fat, recurring infections like thrushskin conditions – these are all commonly seen by Susannah here. It’s not coincidence. We’re getting sicker and fatter – as a nation but also, our health concerns keep coming back. Why?
Currently, we go to the GP. Everything’s “within normal range” we’re told. But they’ll keep an eye on it. Then it’s already happening. We’re on metformin. Statins. We’re on drugs for life.

Modern medicine

Modern medicine

A transformation in healthcare is underway. We’re transitioning from the science and art of treating disease to the science of health and lifestyle healthcare. Standard GP tests don’t offer any insight into our health. They only test for markers that indicate a specific disease or absence thereof.

Story of health

Reference ranges are based on a severely unhealthy population. These ranges only indicate the levels at which we HAVE the disease or the illness. Rather, at Susannah Makram Clinics we’re looking at what’s OUR basic requirement for optimum health.

You see, we might know when we’ve high cholesterol at the moment we need statins or lipid lowering drugs. But what if there was more to this story? What if we have metabolic syndrome. Does it matter? At Susannah Makram Clinics we believe it does. Why? We’re talking about a whole other treatment in that case.

Lifestyle medicine

Lifestyle medicine

Our modern lifestyle may highlight the very need for this transformation, this change. we’re assessing the state of health of our body to see

i) The interactions between systems of our body
ii) How the patterns of these these interaction influence our health

We analyse our functional test results in this way. So we can give you our special formula:
EAT DRINK TAKE MAKE In The Four Phases.

Functional Blood Chemistry Analysis (FBCA)

Blood Chemistry and CBC Analysis – Clinical Laboratory Testing from a Functional Perspective, is currently used as a teaching tool in medical schools and institutes of higher learning in the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, and is the go-to blood chemistry reference manual on the desks and in the clinics of thousands of physicians and healthcare practitioners worldwide.

Pattern analysis of blood chemistry can effectively identify physiological imbalances and nutritional deficiencies by viewing and understanding the complex relationships that exist among blood chemistry factors.

Why blood and who takes it? Blood testing is a medically accepted, proven and a reliable assessment procedure providing a wealth of information on the health and status of our patients. At Susannah Makram Clinics we arrange it so you can have your blood sample drawn at the location you choose. But there is one requirement. The centre must have a centrifuge. This is a device used to spin the blood sample.

Story to health

Story of health

Blood Reference Guide – Clinical Conditions

Blood Chemistry and CBC Analysis – Clinical Laboratory Testing from a Functional Perspective helps thousands of practitioners worldwide. Clinical knowledge cannot be replaced but use of FBCA can help you in your day-to-day practice. Do you want to know more about Functional Blood Chemistry Analysis? Contact us.

Answers before drugs

Imagine having answers about eczema or psoriasis. Knowing the triggers or why you have it in the first place. Knowing why stubborn belly fat remains – even after slogging it out in the gym. What about finding small changes we can make to boost our performance, nip excess belly fat in the bud – before it severely affects our health. A way to successfully sleep at night, healthy weight loss, fat burning, get your energy back. A way to look younger, have clear skin, perform, live, grow.

Better health with drugs

At Susannah Makram Clinics we work with the medical community. What can we  achieve after we’re on the slippery slope of necessary pharmaceutical intervention? Well, it’s hard to say exactly. But if we can help manage symptoms to improve function, mobility, energy levels, we find how we do this at your consultation. We can make every day count and better still, pains and aches that persist, can be manageable. We’re here to help manage chronic disease, not cure it. We’re here to improve health, quality of life i.e. function. 

DNA Methylation Epigenetics

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DNA Methylation Epigenetics

Are our genes making us fat? Do we inherit chronic skin conditions & hair loss? DNA Methylation Epigenetics Our DNA contains instructions for building all parts of our body. So, although genetic polymorphisms predispose us to developing a certain health condition, epigenetics or how our environment impacts our genes plays a larger role in the development of a chronic condition such as eczema. 1) 2)

  • The DNA in our bodies is wrapped around proteins called histones.
  • Both the DNA and histones are covered with chemical tags. This second layer or structure is called the Epigenome.
  • The epigenome shapes the physical structure of the genome. It tightly wraps inactive genes making them unreadable. It relaxes active genes making them easily accessible.
  • Different sets of genes are active in differential types.
  • The DNA code remains fixed for life but the epigenome is flexible.
  • Epigenetic tags react to signals from the outside world such as diet and stress. The epigenome dynamically responds to the environment. Stress, diet, behavior, toxins, and other factors regulate gene expression.
  • The epigenome adjusts specific genes in our genomic landscape that responds to our rapidly changing environment.
DNA methylation epigenetics

DNA methylation epigenetics

Our body is a system, an ecosystem where everything is connected. When that system is out of balance, diseases arises.

Nutrigenomics teaches us how to prevent, treat and reverse almost every chronic illness. Chronic disease include diabetes, high blood pressure, depression, allergies, asthma, IBS, reflux, migraines, acne, low sex drive, fatigue and more.

Disease goes away as a side effect of getting healthy. When we treat the cause or causes with proper understanding of these processes that led to the disease, then we’re going to change. We won’t accept that simply living with certain conditions is acceptable.

Immune Modulation and Chronic Inflammation

Chronic inflammatory disorders such as eczema, acne and psoriasis – skin conditions – are characterised by a hyper responsive immune system.  10 key epigenetic factors must be addressed to regulate and better coordinate our immune response.

1.  Blood Sugar instability  Blood sugar imbalances cause immune dysfunction and malcoordination.  Stable blood sugar is critical for a healthy immune response.

2.  Low Vitamin D Levels Individuals with low vitamin D3 levels (below 40 ng/ml) are at significant risk for developing chronic inflammation and allergy-like conditions 3)

3.   Gut Dysbiosis  Unhealthy microbial imbalance in the gut microbiome leads to leaky gut syndrome and chronic inflammation 4) so we’ve got to address gut issues in order to get well.

4.   Mitochondrial Dysfunction  The mitochondria are the energy producing organelles in each cell of the body.  They are extremely key in the bodies ability to handle oxidative stress.  Dysfunction in the mitochondria leads to increased free radical and oxidative stress which creates immune alterations. Low Glutathione Levels. Glutathione is the major antioxidant within every cell of the body.  It’s critical for white blood cell (WBC) function as the WBCs encounter tremendous amounts of free radical and oxidative stress every second of the day. Low glutathione leads to chronic inflammation and often to auto-immunity 5).

6.  Methylation. Methylation is a key process that protects DNA, turns on and off genetic traits and helps to detoxify environmental chemicals.  Many of us individuals have certain genetic polymorphisms that limit their ability to appropriately methylate. Methylation plays a very important role in T cell function and poor methylation status is associated with the development of autoimmunity. Psoriasis is a T cell mediated inflammatory skin disease. 6)  Poor Omega 6:3 ratio  – the average person has significantly more omega 6 fats than omega 3 fats.  The increased omega 6 stimulate the release of pro-inflammatory mediating prostaglandin molecules.  This is a key factor in the development of chronic inflammation and skin related disorders 7).

Epigenetics

Epigenetics

7.  Environmental Toxins:  Exposure to high levels of infectious microbes, environmental chemicals, pesticides, herbicides, beauty, hygiene and other personal care products, heavy metals and biotoxins e.g. mold. These wear down our body’s glutathione levels, alter the gut microflora and increase inflammatory activity in the body (7, 8, 9).

8.  High Stress High mental and emotional stress increases stress hormone production. This changes our posture and the way we breathe, which in turn induces inflammatory activity within the body. Poor posture, breathing and musculoskeletal aches and pain that result can simulate chronic mental and emotional stressors 10)

9.  Lack of Sleep Poor quality sleep promotes immune dysfunction and increased inflammation throughout the body. Good sleeping habits and optimal melatonin secretion reduce inflammation and promote improved tissue healing 11).

10.  EMF Exposure  Electromagnetic frequency exposure has been shown to alter the function of the immune system. Also, its been shown to increase one’s susceptability to developing an auto-immune condition 12)

Glutathione deficiency symptoms

Antioxidant

Glutathione – is this the secret to eternal youth? Well it is the secret #1 antioxidantGlutathione is immune system maestro – glutathione – GLUTATHIONE (pronounced “gloota-thigh-own”). It’s the anti ageing secret we haven’t heard of.

Yet. SKIN –  A 1982 study looked at 61 healthy subjects and 506 patients with various skin disorders. Lowered glutathione levels were observed in patients with psoriasis, eczema / atopic dermatitis, vasculitis, mycosis fungoides and dermatitis herpetiformis. Still asking what’s so important about antioxidants any way?

Glutathione (GSH) is one of the most critical molecules of the entire body. As the most important intracellular antioxidant, GSH regulates all other antioxidants while helping to prevent damage from reactive oxygen species, such as free radicals and peroxides. Read on to find out why…

Glutathione is a very simple molecule. It’s produced naturally all the time in your body. It’s a combination of three simple building blocks of protein or amino acids — cysteine, glycine and glutamine.

Glutathione

Glutathione

Glutathione

The secret of its power lies in the sulfur (SH) chemical groups it contains. Sulfur is a sticky, smelly molecule that acts like fly paper. So all the bad things in the body stick onto it. That includes free radicals and toxins like mercury and other heavy metals. Normally glutathione is recycled in the body — except when the toxic load becomes too great.

Glutathione – Cont’d

The body naturally produces glutathione. Glutathione is the most potent antioxidant, which also regulates all other antioxidants. But environmental and dietary toxins, emotional stressors and various health conditions can deplete glutathione levels. This will impair our immunity. It can also leave our body vulnerable to inflammation or illness. It may reduce natural cellular repair processes altogether.


We can test the genes involved in glutathione metabolism when it’s indicated in delivering the right treatment at Susannah Makram Clinics.  These are the genes involved in producing enzymes that allow the body to create and recycle glutathione in the body. These genes have many names, such as GSTM1, GSTP1 and more.


These genes impaired in some people for a variety of important reasons. It doesn’t help that we evolved before 80,000 toxic industrial chemicals existed in our modern day environment. As Knightsbridge and Harley Street nutrition expert I can’t tell you how much of this I see. It doesn’t help either that we evolved before electromagnetic radiation was everywhere. Before we polluted our skies, lakes, rivers, oceans and teeth with mercury and lead. Almost of half of the population now has a limited capacity to get rid of toxins. These people are missing GSTM1 function.

Gluatathione deficiency symptoms

Glutathione deficiency symptoms

Glutathione deficiency symptoms

Stress and Illness

We become susceptible to unrestrained cell disintegration from oxidative stress, free radicals, infections and cancer. Our liver gets overloaded and damaged, making it unable to do its job of detoxification.

Mental and Physical dysfunction

Research has shown that raised glutathione levels decrease muscle damage. If that wasn’t amazing in itself, raised glutathione levels also reduce recovery time, increase strength and endurance. Raised levels of glutathione also shift metabolism from production of fat to muscle development.

TO SUMMARISE –> Glutathione is critical for immune function and controlling inflammation. It’s the master detoxifier and the body’s main antioxidant. Glutathione protects our cells and making our energy metabolism run well.

ACG Glutathione Extra Strength from Results RNA also contains alpha lipoic acid, milk thistle and more. This is all designed to help naturally support GSH absorption and action.

Key Thyroid Symptoms

Thyroid Symptoms

THYROID PROBLEMS – overactive thyroid symptoms or underactive thyroid can be overlooked or mismanaged.
WHY IS THIS?

TSH IS A HORMONE secreted from the anterior pituitary gland to control THYROID FUNCTION.
Symptoms of thyroid problems are manageable when working with the medical community – at Susannah Makram Clinics .
Optimal THYROID FUNCTION or functional health impacts lifestyle quality.

Hormone Panel

Hormone Panel

The thyroid gland is a vitally important hormonal gland. It plays a major role in:- our metabolism, growth and maturation of our bodies.
WHY DO WE NEED TO KNOW  exactly what’s going on? Because the hormones released affect our body’s overall ability to function. The gland reacts to our environment. Hormones secreted affect how we use the MACRONUTRIENT and MICRONUTRIENTS impacting how we feel, our weight, our energy levels etc.

Thyroid Functional Health

WHY not WHAT.
We might be on a seemingly great diet. We’re taking the right supplements and doing everything to take ownership and feel better. However, we’re still not really making any progress. How frustrating if all it took was making small change.

Hypothyroidism – Disorder

Fatigue is a common symptom of an underactive thyroid but it is also a symptom of many other associated conditions. These include adrenal fatigue, food sensitivities and various nutrient deficiencies.
Underactivity in adults often develops gradually. This is why people might not notice symptoms for a while. Possible symptoms can include the following.

General loss of energy and power; Difficulties concentrating or mental slowness
Slowed metabolism; Tiredness; Being overweight
Constipation
Sensitivity to cold; Slow pulse
Waxy skin thickening and swelling (myxedema)
Dry skin
Deep, hoarse voice
Brittle, dry hair
Loss of sexual desire or potency problems; Sometimes even depression

Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis

A condition called Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is a chronic inflammation of the thyroid. It can also lead to underactivity.
Often people with Hashimoto’s will be started on thyroid hormones but continue to feel tired.

Overactivity of the gland is also called hyperthyroidism. It produces too many hormones. This speeds up energy metabolism. The following symptoms can occur.

Hot flashes; Sweating; Trembling
Weight loss
Diarrhoea
Hair loss
Nervousness, Hyperactivity; Emotional instability and irritability or fatigue
Insomnia and restlessness
Potency problems
Racing heart

Top Thyroid tests

Top Thyroid tests

Top 6 Thyroid Tests

Here is a comprehensive list to take to your doctor.

  1. TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone)
  2. Thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPO Antibodies) 
  3. Thyroglobulin Antibodies (TG Antibodies)
  4. Thyroid Ultrasound 
  5. Free T3 
  6. Free T41 or Free T4

You can ask for tests for Hashimoto’s and hypothyroidism. Request a copy of your thyroid labs. Then you can see them and ensure they are interpreted correctly.

TSH is a pituitary hormone. TSH responds to low/high amounts of circulating thyroid hormone. This is in advanced cases of Hashimoto’s and primary hypothyroidism. In the case of Graves’ disease the TSH will be low. People with Hashimoto’s and central hypothyroidism may have a normal reading on this test.

Thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPO Antibodies) and Thyroglobulin Antibodies (TG Antibodies)
Most people with Hashimoto’s will have an elevation of one or both of these antibodies. These antibodies are often elevated for decades before a change in TSH is seen. People with Graves’ disease and thyroid cancer may also have an elevation in thyroid antibodies including TPO & TG, as well as TSH receptor antibodies.

Thyroid Ultrasound-
A small percentage of people may have Hashimoto’s. However, they may not have thyroid antibodies detectible in the blood. Doing a thyroid ultrasound will help your physician determine a diagnosis.

Free T3 & Free T4
These tests measure the levels of active thyroid hormone circulating in the body. When TSH is informal range but free T3 and T4 levels are low, this may lead your doctor might suspect central hypothyroidism (a rare type of hypothyroidism).


Safe, clinical, practical and effective.


Call  020 7060 3181