by Ela Gold | Dec 31, 2025 | HGA |
Anemia occurs when the blood cannot carry enough oxygen due to low red blood cells or hemoglobin. There are two main categories: disturbed blood formation and increased breakdown or loss of red blood cells. Nutrient deficiencies, bone marrow disorders, kidney disease, bleeding, and infections are common causes. Correct classification is essential because treatment depends entirely on the underlying cause.
In This Article:
Anemia is a lack of red blood pigment (hemoglobin) and/or red blood cells. Simply put, the proportion of blood cells in the body is too low, which can reduce oxygen delivery to tissues and organs.
How Anemia Is Classified
Clinically, anemia is broadly divided into two main categories:
- Disturbed blood formation
- Increased breakdown or loss of red blood cells
This classification helps practitioners identify the underlying cause and choose the most effective treatment approach.
Stem Cell Diseases & Bone Marrow Involvement
Red blood cells are produced in the bone marrow from pluripotent stem cells. Diseases affecting these stem cells—or conditions that displace healthy bone marrow—can impair red blood cell production.
Examples include:
- Aplastic anemia (AA)
- Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS)
- Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH)
- Congenital dysplastic anemia
- Bone marrow infiltration from tumors, leukemia, or lymphoma
Although rare, these conditions highlight why identifying the cause of anemia is essential.
Folic Acid & Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Folic acid and vitamin B12 are vital for DNA synthesis and red blood cell maturation.
- Folic acid is found in leafy greens, whole grains, legumes, and eggs
- Vitamin B12 is primarily found in animal-based foods
A deficiency in either nutrient lead to the production of fewer, abnormally large red blood cells (macrocytic anemia).
Iron Deficiency Anemia
Iron is an essential component of hemoglobin. Without adequate iron, red blood cells form but contain too little hemoglobin to transport oxygen efficiently.
Key points:
- Iron deficiency accounts for up to 80% of all anemia cases worldwide
- Increased risk during pregnancy, breastfeeding, growth phases, and intense physical activity
- Common causes include inadequate intake, chronic bleeding, absorption issues, and parasitic infections
Kidney-Related (Renal) Anemia
Healthy kidneys produce erythropoietin (EPO), a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production. Chronic kidney disease can reduce EPO production, leading to anemia.
Renal anemia is associated with:
- Reduced quality of life
- Increased cardiovascular risk
- Higher mortality in kidney patients
Other Causes of Impaired Blood Formation
Additional factors that may disrupt red blood cell production include:
- Genetic conditions
- Chronic inflammatory diseases
- Malignant disorders
- Certain medications
Anemia Caused by Increased Breakdown or Loss of Red Blood Cells
Blood Loss (Acute & Chronic Bleeding)
Anemia can result from:
- Trauma or surgery
- Gastrointestinal bleeding
- Heavy or prolonged menstruation
Chronic, low-grade blood loss often goes unnoticed until anemia develops.
Enlargement of the Spleen (Splenomegaly)
The spleen removes old or damaged red blood cells from circulation. If enlarged, it may remove too many cells too quickly, leading to anemia.
Increased Red Blood Cell Breakdown (Hemolysis)
Hemolytic anemia occurs when red blood cells are destroyed faster than they can be replaced.
Possible causes include:
- Genetic disorders (thalassemia, sickle cell disease)
- Enzyme deficiencies (G6PD deficiency)
- Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA)
- Mechanical damage (artificial heart valves)
- Infections, toxins, or medications
Why Correct Classification Matters
Correctly classifying anemia is critical because:
- Treatments vary widely depending on the cause
- Supplementing iron or vitamins may be ineffective—or harmful—if misapplied
- Underlying conditions such as kidney disease or autoimmune disorders require targeted care
Supportive & Holistic Considerations
Alongside medical diagnosis and treatment, supportive approaches may help overall wellbeing. For some individuals, Holistic Colon Hydrotherapy may assist digestive health and nutrient absorption, supporting the body during recovery from anemia and other health challenges.
by Ela Gold | Nov 30, 2025 | HGA |
Gout is one of the diseases of the rheumatic type. It usually manifests itself when chronically high uric acid levels have formed in the blood, uric acid crystallizes and the crystals become painfully noticeable in the joints.
Gout = high uric acid levels
Gout is an inflammatory-rheumatic disease that shows up in the blood count with high uric acid levels (hyperuricemia) and is accompanied by joint pain. Uric acid is produced during the metabolism of purines (1). These substances are mainly found in meat, sausage and fish. The uric acid eventually forms crystals that lead to pain in the joints – especially in the big toe, knee and fingers.
Alcohol also causes uric acid levels to skyrocket. A plant-based diet with only non-alcoholic beverages is therefore a good solution here.
Throughout history, the condition has always been associated with overeating and alcohol consumption. It is even known as the “king’s disease” and symbolized a high social status in ancient times, as only the upper class could afford to consume wine and meat.
In the meantime, the disease has developed into a global health problem. It rarely occurs alone but usually occurs together with other metabolic diseases (obesity, diabetes, high blood lipid levels, high blood pressure) and increases the risk of premature death.
How the typical pain occurs
Uric acid can form sharp, needle-like crystals that are deposited especially in the joints. These deposits of uric acid crystals create swelling, redness, warmth, pain, and stiffness in the joints.
Although the joints are most commonly affected, crystal deposits can also form under the skin and in the kidneys (kidney stones) or in other parts of the urinary tract.
Uric acid is normally dissolved in the blood and is filtered through the kidneys before being excreted in the urine. People who suffer from gout either produce excessive amounts of uric acid or their kidneys have a problem with excretion. This condition is called hyperuricemia and is diagnosed as such when the uric acid in the blood exceeds a value of 7 mg/dl.
However, not all people with hyperuricemia necessarily develop gout. And in contrast, there are also people who suffer from the disease even though they have normal uric acid levels. In many cases, the cause of the disease is not known (idiopathic).
Risk of heart disease increases
A long-term study that examined data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey found that elevated uric acid levels increase the risk of fatal heart disease.
A distinction is made between primary and secondary gout. The primary variant has unknown causes. The liver produces too many purines or there is a congenital inability to excrete purine. This variant is considered rare. Secondary forms of the disease with a known cause are more widespread.
Medication stops uric acid excretion
Secondary gout often develops due to diet-related acidification of the body, as a result of another disease or due to side effects of some medications.
For example, diuretics are used to treat high blood pressure because they flush water out of the body. The loss of fluid in the blood vessel system lowers blood pressure. These drugs can retain uric acid in the body, which then leads to an increase in uric acid levels in the blood.
Gout is sometimes confused with a form of arthritis called pseudogout, as it also has comparable symptoms such as inflammation and swelling. In the pseudovariant, however, the deposits consist of calcium phosphate crystals and not of uric acid crystals.
Risk factors and causes
Family history
Some people are born with an enzyme defect that causes purines to not be metabolized properly. Approximately 18% of American gout patients show a corresponding familial burden.
Gender and age
The disease is more common in men, especially between the ages of 30 and 50.
Excessive alcohol consumption
Too much alcohol, especially beer, supplies the body with purines and can also hinder the organism in its uric acid excretion.
Some research has also linked heavy consumption of sugary drinks to an increased risk of gout.
Nutrition
Excessive consumption of foods high in purpurin, such as meat, offal and seafood, as well as high consumption of yeast-rich foods such as bread and beer, can lead to an overgrowth of yeast fungi in the intestine, which in turn can increase the formation of uric acid (2).
Low-fat dairy products, on the other hand, are said to reduce the risk of disease, especially in combination with probiotic cultures (yoghurt, kefir).
Fiber deficiency
A healthy intestinal flora could produce short-chain fatty acids from fiber. These can get into the blood and have an anti-inflammatory effect there (in the case of acetate) – e.g. if inflammatory processes occurred due to uric acid crystals in the blood. Another anti-inflammatory short-chain fatty acid is butyrate, which is involved in the regulation of uric acid metabolism and prevents abnormalities here.
A diet of fiber-rich whole grains, vegetables and fruits is therefore very important for diseases such as gout.
Long-term use of certain medications
Many medications interfere with the body’s excretion of uric acid, as these often affect kidney function. These include diuretics, painkillers, immunosuppressants, and Parkinson’s medications. Chemotherapy leads to an increased breakdown of abnormal cells, which causes a large amount of purines to be released in the body. These then cause the uric acid level in the blood to rise.
In anemia, the number of red blood cells and the concentration of the red blood pigment hemoglobin is lower than normal. Uric acid levels can rise here if an excessive number of blood cells disintegrate.
Lead exposure
Studies have found a link between the occurrence of gout and exposure to lead. You don’t even have to be excessively heavily contaminated with lead. Values in the upper range within the blood lead level, which is currently still considered acceptable, are sufficient to increase the risk of rheumatic disease by 3.6 times (3).
The three stages of gout
Gout can be divided into different stages:
Incipiency
In the first stage, the patient shows increased uric acid levels in the blood (hyperuricemia), otherwise there are no other symptoms. This stage is called asymptomatic hyperuricemia and is rarely treated with medication.
Even without treatment, the first stage often disappears on its own within 3 to 11 days. With drug treatment, the pain attack can be interrupted within a few hours.
Even if the swelling and pain disappear at first, gouty arthritis recurs in the vast majority of cases in the same joint or in another. Most of the time, the patient is pain-free for a certain period of time.
Second stage
The second stage is called acute gouty arthritis. The patient suddenly develops a hot, red and swollen joint, which is triggered by the deposition of uric acid crystals. In most cases, the big toe joint or knee is affected.
These attacks are often triggered by certain factors, such as chronic diseases (diabetes, high blood pressure), injuries, surgery, alcohol, foods high in purines, or certain medications.
The attacks usually begin at night in a single joint. The pain can become so bad that even just a blanket can intensify it. Chills and slight fever may also occur.
Third stage
During the third stage, the patient has no symptoms and has normal joint functioning. The next gout attack generally occurs within the next 2 years, followed by further attacks.
If left untreated, the intervals between attacks can become shorter, more painful and last longer. Over time, the attacks can spread to other joints, usually affecting the upper extremities, such as the fingers. These attacks may also be accompanied by a joint infection (septic arthritis).
Chronic course
If the disease remains untreated for several years, it can become chronic. During this last phase, chronic pain and inflammatory reactions occur. The affected joints are permanently damaged due to the large amount of uric acid crystals deposited. This causes nodular thickening, usually near the knuckles or finger joints, which is called gout tophi. These are also deposited in bones and cartilage, such as in the ear.
How to prevent gout
In principle, it is important to keep the uric acid level in the blood within a normal range (below 7 mg/dl) in order to prevent gout. This can be achieved through the following measures, among others:
- Maintaining a normal body weight through a healthy diet and regular exercise.
- Avoid excessive consumption of purine-rich foods. Foods that are particularly rich in purines are, for example: fish and seafood, offal, bacon, meat, legumes and yeast.
- Preferably eat plant-based food (alkaline diet as a cure, followed by a permanent alkaline diet. Such a diet causes the urine pH value to rise. In a 2010 study, it was shown that with an alkaline diet, uric acid excretion increased from 302 mg/day at a pH of 5.9 to 413 mg/day at a pH of 6.5 (4), even though the alkaline diet contained a lower purine load than the acidic diet.
- Limit alcohol consumption or avoid it altogether. Excessive alcohol consumption, especially beer, can hinder the excretion of uric acid. Alcohol should be avoided, especially in the case of an acute gout attack
- Drink plenty of good water (2.5 to 3 litres per day). Water helps to dilute and excrete uric acid in the blood and urine.
- Alkaline baths (foot and/or hand baths, as well as full baths) are occasionally recommended in naturopathy to drain uric acid through the skin. However, the actual excretion of uric acid through the skin is most likely too low. If you sweat during a hard workout, uric acid excretion is even retained.
- The intake of high-quality minerals – if the mineral requirement cannot be covered by the diet – helps with the excretion of uric acid. However, mineral surpluses should be avoided as they increase the risk of uric acid accumulating.
- Leech therapy – in some countries medical leeches are put on the swollen joints to suck out the blood and reduce the pain of the swelling.
by Ela Gold | Oct 31, 2025 | HGA |
Base citrates from minerals such as potassium, magnesium, calcium and zinc help to deacidify the body. Diseases such as diabetes, osteoporosis or high blood pressure can at least be alleviated.
Base citrates and their possible applications
With base citrates you achieve at least two goals at the same time: You effectively deacidify and supply yourself with alkaline minerals. This is possible because base citrates consist of two components: basic minerals (e.g. potassium, magnesium, calcium) and basic salts (citrates).
Citrates include potassium citrate, magnesium citrate, calcium citrate or zinc citrate. They are natural mineral compounds that also occur in this form in food and the human body, which is why they can be absorbed and utilized very well.
Base citrates should always be combined with an appropriate diet. You start with the purely alkaline diet and switch to the alkaline-surplus diet after 2 to 4 weeks, for example.
* Here you can find our popular Easy 7-Day Alkaline Diet Plan
1. Optimising the mineral supply
If you have an increased need for minerals (e.g. in stressful situations, during pregnancy, illness, as an athlete or in recovery phases), alkaline citrates help to meet this higher requirement without any problems.
Base citrates also offer an uncomplicated solution if you think your diet does not provide enough minerals. With these citrates, such a shortcoming can be quickly remedied.
You may also already be suffering from non-specific symptoms (fatigue, difficulty concentrating, headaches, hair loss, etc.), which can always indicate a suboptimal supply of vital substances. Alkaline citrate preparations, which consist of a mixture of the most important minerals and trace elements, can lead to a rapid improvement here.
Below you will find a small overview of the most important properties and effects of the minerals contained in citrate preparations. (If you are already familiar with this, scroll to 2.):
Alkaline Potassium Citrate
Potassium is largely (in contrast to sodium) found inside the body’s cells. The daily requirement of an adult is now stated to be 4000 mg (previously only 2000 mg), so it is becoming increasingly difficult to meet this requirement with diet alone:
Potassium – together with sodium – regulates the water balance in the body. It takes care of nerve function and muscle control.
Potassium lowers high blood pressure, especially if high blood pressure is also caused by too much sodium (salt), as plenty of potassium lowers sodium levels. Potassium reduces the risk of stroke, because high blood pressure can increase the risk of stroke.
Potassium can reduce the risk of kidney stones because it makes urine alkaline, i.e. neutralizes acids that would otherwise drive kidney stone formation. It also prevents excessive excretion of calcium, which could otherwise crystallize into kidney stones.
Potassium is very important for bones for this reason. This is because if potassium prevents the excretion of too much calcium in the urine, the calcium can be incorporated into the bones.
Alkaline Magnesium Citrate
The magnesium requirement is 300 to 400 mg per day. Magnesium is involved in over 300 enzymatic metabolic reactions, which shows that the tasks and functions of this important mineral cannot even be listed in full. So here is just a selection:
Magnesium relaxes the muscles and is therefore used for the therapy and prevention of muscle cramps (e.g. calf cramps). However, it also relaxes the muscles in the heart and blood vessel walls, which is why it is an important mineral for the prevention of many cardiovascular problems.
Magnesium is THE anti-stress mineral, as it inhibits the release of stress hormones and calms the nerves.
Magnesium is an important component of bones and teeth. Yes, the majority of the body’s magnesium is found in the bones and activates the bone-forming cells there.
Magnesium activates vitamin D – the bone vitamin – and is therefore responsible for a good vitamin D effect.
Magnesium increases the insulin sensitivity of the cells and therefore has a diabetes-preventing effect.
Magnesium has anti-inflammatory properties and is therefore necessary for any chronic problem associated with chronic inflammation.
Alkaline Calcium Citrate
Calcium is largely contained in the bones (99 percent). Only 1 percent is distributed among the blood and other tissues. The daily requirement is 1000 to 1200 mg. Details about calcium can be found at the bottom of this page: Calcium and calcium deficiency.
- Calcium is essential for bone and dental health.
- Calcium is involved in regulating blood clotting.
- Calcium, together with magnesium, is responsible for healthy muscle and nerve function.
- Calcium is required for healthy digestion.
Alkaline Zinc Citrate
Zinc is a trace element and therefore – in contrast to the other three minerals mentioned – required in much smaller quantities per day (approx. 10 mg).
- Zinc is responsible for healthy skin and mucous membranes and therefore accelerates healing processes of all kinds.
- Zinc strengthens the immune system and prevents increased susceptibility to infections.
- Zinc strengthens the hair and promotes hair growth.
- Zinc is a component of the body’s own detoxification enzymes and is therefore involved in the elimination of toxins.
- Zinc is important for fertility. It increases sperm quality in men (in the case of a previously present zinc deficiency) and corrects menstrual cycle disorders in women.
From the above-mentioned effects and properties of the minerals, it can be seen that a deficiency of these minerals can lead to serious complaints. Minerals in the form of base citrates can therefore be used therapeutically for many diseases and health problems:
2. Elimination of mineral deficiencies
Mineral deficiencies can manifest themselves in acute complaints, but also in chronic diseases that occur insidiously. These can be frequent muscle cramps or migraine attacks due to magnesium deficiency, a strong susceptibility to infections or dry skin due to zinc deficiency, digestive disorders or even an already dwindling bone density due to calcium deficiency or cardiac arrhythmias due to potassium deficiency.
Many chronic diseases – whether diabetes, osteoporosis, kidney stones, cardiovascular problems, ADHD or dementia – are at least partly due to mineral deficiency. If the corresponding deficiency is corrected, the symptoms often improve noticeably. The administration of minerals and trace elements should therefore be part of every holistic therapy concept – of course always depending on the personal condition and in consultation with the doctor or alternative practitioner. Here are some examples:
If you are prone to kidney stones
If there is a tendency to kidney stones, citrates are also often used in conventional medicine. They increase the pH value of the urine and thus reduce stone formation. Citrus fruits (and other fruits) are also a natural source of citrates, which can be consumed in greater quantities if there is a risk of kidney stone formation.
In diabetes
For diabetes, magnesium is often recommended, which is particularly well tolerated as citrate.
Magnesium enhances the effect of insulin, increases the insulin sensitivity of the cells and is necessary for healthy insulin production in the pancreas.
Not only a magnesium deficiency can increase the risk of diabetes, but also too low a potassium intake (as a review from 2011 showed), so that diabetes should never be thought of just one mineral, but always of an all-round good mineral supply.
For osteoporosis and decreasing bone density
We have already explained how well alkaline citrates affect bone health from a scientific point of view using various studies. In November 2006, for example, a Swiss study showed that supplementation with base citrates (potassium citrates) can help menopausal women increase their bone density.
In this study, potassium citrate reduced calcium excretion via the urine. The researchers wrote at the time: “Bone density can […] be significantly increased via daily base intake in the form of potassium citrate […]”, which was confirmed in 2015 by researchers at the University of Surrey in a meta-analysis on the subject.
For high blood pressure
In the case of high blood pressure, the most important advice in medical nutrition advice is: reduce sodium, increase potassium. While sodium can increase blood pressure – especially in salt-sensitive people – potassium has the opposite effect. Potassium causes an increased elimination of sodium through the urine and thus prevents its blood pressure-raising effect. In addition, potassium dilates blood vessels and also lowers elevated blood pressure in this way.
3. Deacidification in chronic acidity
A very common area of application of base citrates is chronic hyperacidity, which can be observed very often in today’s lifestyle. Not only do you eat the wrong things, but often too much, too quickly or too late in the evening.
At the same time, you are permanently under stress and suffer from a lack of exercise. All these factors lead to the formation of too many acids in the metabolism and the organism no longer has sufficient countermeasures (bases) to neutralize the acids.
This is not about acidity in the stomach (heartburn), as many might think at this point, but rather about a general disturbance of the acid-base balance that affects the entire organism. In the case of hyperacidity, the organism lacks bases, which leads to acid waste products being deposited in the tissue.
Areas that require an alkaline pH value suddenly become acidic (small intestine) and in areas that should be acidic, the pH value rises – for example in the large intestine, stomach or vagina. The hyperacidity extends into the cell, which often no longer manages to drain acids and let bases in. The whole body is in turmoil here – and the door is open to chronic diseases.
If it becomes apparent that hyperacidity is present, base citrates are a simple, fast and well-tolerated remedy for deacidification of the organism:
Base citrates to deacidify and increase vitality
While many inexpensive deacidifiers consist only of hydrogen carbonates, such as sodium bicarbonate (sodium bicarbonate), which can have numerous unfavorable side effects, deacidification with base citrates is uncomplicated, effective and without undesirable side effects.
Hydrogen carbonates, such as baking soda, can be used for a short time, for example if nothing else is available in an emergency – e.g. in the case of acute heartburn. However, baking soda is not suitable for deacidification of the body, which is carried out as a cure, e.g. over four weeks.
Baking soda deacidifies the stomach in particular, thus neutralizing stomach acid. However, since stomach acid fulfils important tasks in the digestive process, digestive problems can now occur in the long term. If, in addition, the existing stomach acid is repeatedly neutralized, the organism must always strive to produce new stomach acid. To be on the safe side, it produces a little more stomach acid each time, which can even intensify some symptoms.
Due to the reaction of baking soda with stomach acid, a lot of salt (sodium chloride) is also produced, which can put a strain on the organism or disturb the mineral balance. Here, too, the body has to counter regulate again and again, so that it gets more work than help with baking soda.
The advantages of base citrates
The advantages of base citrates are obvious. The most important advantage is that they do not deacidify the stomach, but reach directly into the cell and tissue, where they lead to comprehensive intra- and extracellular deacidification. Intracellular stands for the inside of the cell, extracellular for the space outside the cell.
1. Base citrates do not affect stomach acid
Base citrates do not neutralize stomach acid. They therefore do not interfere with the digestive processes in the stomach and do not lead to the corresponding digestive problems, as can be the case with hydrogen carbonates. Base citrates do not stimulate the formation of stomach acid. Rather, they help in the long term to regulate stomach acid formation.
2. Base citrates do not make the naturally acidic intestine alkaline
In contrast to baking soda, base citrates do NOT raise the naturally slightly acidic pH value in actually acidic sections of the intestine. If they – like baking soda – were to shift the intestinal pH value to the alkaline level, this would impair healthy digestion in the intestine and also negatively affect the intestinal flora located there.
3. Base citrates are easily absorbed
Base citrates are absorbed very easily in the intestine, more easily than any other mineral compound and are therefore particularly suitable for quickly remedying a mineral deficiency or for quickly achieving a therapeutic effect.
4. Base citrates go directly into the cell
Base citrates are very easily introduced into the cell metabolism. There they bind acids and are processed in the cell’s own citrate metabolism.
5. Base citrates do not leave slags
Base citrates are broken down without polluting metabolic waste products.
6. Base citrates provide minerals
While the citrate is used directly for deacidification and metabolized accordingly, the alkaline minerals remain in the cell, in the tissue or wherever they are needed.
Acid accumulation of the cells prevents successful deacidification
In some cases, some of the cells may no longer be able to deacidify even with base citrates. This is referred to as acid accumulation. The cells here are in a kind of blockade after hyperacidity, which often lasts for years. The cell metabolism no longer works. The absorption of nutrients, including essential bases, becomes less efficient. And acids and other metabolic waste products can no longer be drained out so well. Alkaline remedies may no longer help satisfactorily here.
The cell must first be freed from its acid build-up. This is achieved with alkaline concentrates.
It is best to take the alkaline concentrates as a program – BEFORE you reach for the alkaline concentrates.
Buy base citrates – pay attention to quality
Now, if you want to buy Base citrates, pay attention to the following criteria:
- The product should contain various citrates: magnesium citrate, potassium citrate, zinc citrate, and calcium citrate.
- Sodium should not be included, as this mineral is usually present in far too high quantities in the usual diet anyway due to the salt content (sodium chloride).
- Calcium and magnesium should be contained in a balanced ratio of 2:1 (calcium : magnesium).
- Zinc is added because this trace element is directly involved in the regulation of the acid-base balance via a special mechanism. Without zinc, the enzyme carbonic anhydrase would not work. Carbonic anhydrase, in turn, is important for maintaining the pH value in the blood. In the kidneys, carbonic anhydrase is also involved in the regulation of the acid-base balance.
- High-quality products also provide silicon, a trace element that takes care of healthy, elastic and at the same time strong connective tissue, healthy bones and beautiful hair and – very importantly – prevents aluminium from being absorbed.
- Vitamin D3 and vitamin K2 can also be contained in an alkaline citrate product. We recommend that you make sure that the vitamins are of plant origin (vitamin D3 from lichen) and that the product is advertised as vegan. Many manufacturers still supply vitamin D3 from animal sources (wool wax from sheep), so that their base citrates are only allowed to carry the vegetarian label.
- Since citrates are naturally contained in citrus fruits, some manufacturers add lemon flavoring to imitate nature, which is understandably anything but natural. Natural lemon powder, on the other hand, makes more sense, so that the alkaline citrate product contains not only the citrates from the fruit, but also the other accompanying substances from the fruit.
- Of course, the product should not only be aroma-free, but also free of sugar, sweeteners, titanium dioxide and other superfluous additives.
If you are already taking a dietary supplement, such as zinc supplements or a vitamin D3/vitamin K2 supplement, then check the dose so that you do not get into an oversupply if you take alkaline citrates in addition. So, adjust the dose of your supplement accordingly.
by Ela Gold | Sep 30, 2025 | HGA |
It’s often said that women should consume plenty of dairy products, especially during menopause, because they’re so good for bones. However, a study found that dairy products have no protective effect on bones, especially during this phase of life.
Dairy products during menopause: Bone density decreases
Dairy products are consistently cited as excellent sources of nutrients. Of all food groups, they are said to have the most positive effect on bone health. Wherever you look, dairy products are considered a guarantee of healthy bones well into old age.
Taylor C. Wallace and colleagues at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia, have now shown that, especially during menopause, dairy consumption does not offer any benefits for bone health. Bone density decreased in the study participants, whether they consumed dairy products or not.
During menopause, women should consume a particularly large amount of dairy products
It’s often said that during menopause, you should definitely consume plenty of dairy products. After all, you need a particularly high amount of calcium to protect your bones from potential osteoporosis (bone brittleness). And since no other food contains as much calcium as dairy products, women going through menopause should consume them regularly.
The Federal Center for Nutrition (BZfE), the competence and communication center for nutrition issued:
“The daily requirement of an adult (1000 mg) can be met, for example, with ½ liter of milk and two slices of Gouda (60 g). […] Calcium is important for strong bones and therefore helps prevent brittle bones (osteoporosis) in old age.”
And in Nutrition in Focus (the BZfE journal for consultants) , the article “Women’s Menopause” states that one should consume three servings of milk and dairy products daily to ensure a good supply of calcium, which is so important for bone health. Three servings means one glass of milk, one cup of yogurt, and one slice of cheese.
However, according to a May 2020 study, these recommendations significantly increase the risk of breast cancer. They could also lead women to feel a false sense of security, believing that a good milk supply comprehensively protects their bones and protects them from osteoporosis and fractures, which is far from the case, as Taylor C. Wallace’s study found.
Dairy products cannot protect against osteoporosis
The study, published in July 2020 in the journal Menopause, used data from the Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation (SWAN) to show that milk consumption during menopause, precisely when bone density loss progresses particularly rapidly, has no particular benefit.
Wallace’s team of scientists investigated the effect of dairy product consumption during menopause on bone density in the femoral neck and lumbar spine. This is because women are particularly susceptible to osteoporosis during menopause.
The result was sobering: Dairy products cannot prevent bone density loss or osteoporosis during this phase of life and therefore cannot protect against bone fractures (1).
Of course, age, height, weight, smoking status, physical activity, daily calorie intake, alcohol consumption, calcium intake, etc. were also taken into account in the study evaluation.
It is not milk that protects against osteoporosis, but the entire lifestyle
Therefore, do not rely on dairy products if you want to protect your bones during menopause. Instead, focus on a diet rich in vital nutrients, carefully selected supplements, and as much exercise as possible – ideally a combination of:
- Strength training (well-trained muscles protect bones and joints),
- Walking, hiking or jogging (strengthens the bones and of course the cardiovascular system) and
- Yoga or Tai Chi for a secure sense of balance, which in itself contributes to fall prevention and thus reduces the risk of bone fractures.
- The right hormones and other bone strengthening supplements
by Ela Gold | Sep 30, 2025 | HGA |
Hormonal imbalances are the cause of many health problems. Symptoms of hormonal imbalances can include sleep problems and anxiety, as well as unexplained weight gain, chronic fatigue, skin problems, or even cancer.
Hormonal disorders: Small discrepancies with major consequences
Even the smallest disturbances in the finely tuned hormonal system can be the cause of a wide variety of complaints and illnesses. However, when symptoms like headaches, allergies, depression, and loss of performance occur, not everyone immediately suspects hormonal problems, even though these can also lead to the aforementioned symptoms.
Irregular menstrual cycles, hair loss, loss of libido, and sudden skin blemishes are also among the consequences of a hormonal imbalance. Even problems like carpal tunnel syndrome are more likely to develop when hormone levels are out of balance.
Hormonal disorders are often the trigger for far more serious illnesses. Who knows that diseases such as Alzheimer’s, asthma, diabetes, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and many types of cancer can also be linked to pathological hormonal fluctuations?
The four enemies of the hormone balance
To avoid all of this, it’s a good idea to know the four most important enemies of the human hormone balance. Because only when you know the enemy can you counter it appropriately.
Hormone Enemy No. 1: Vitamin D deficiency
Vitamin D is the famous sunshine vitamin, but it is actually a neuroregulatory hormone. In this function, it regulates important processes within the nervous system. Its deficiency prevents the other hormones in the body from sending their signals unhindered.
This may explain why people tend to experience mood swings, depression, and irritability when their vitamin D levels are too low. Such mood swings are particularly common during the winter months and in all areas where people have to cope with little sunlight, as vitamin D is primarily produced in the skin through exposure to sunlight. Read more about how you can optimize your vitamin D levels here.
Hormone Enemy No. 2: Stimulants and Stress
During periods of stress and after taking stimulants (caffeine, nicotine, etc.), the adrenal glands, which are responsible for producing stress hormones, must work at peak performance. They release massive amounts of stress hormones.
In the short term, this isn’t a problem for the body. Things get different when stress becomes chronic, when sleep deprivation occurs, and when copious amounts of coffee and cigarettes are consumed daily. The adrenal glands become overloaded. They suffer cellular damage that the body has difficulty repairing.
Due to the damage process, fewer and fewer hormones are produced. These, however, are important for our ability to concentrate. At best, fatigue is the result. But our entire emotional world can also descend into chaos. To optimally support the restoration of adrenal function, you should – in addition to effective stress management – eat a healthy, nutrient-rich and alkaline diet, and avoid stimulants like coffee and cigarettes.
Support the recovery of adrenal function with a vitamin B complex supplement, vitamin C, magnesium, probiotics, and enzymes. Strengthening adrenal function usually also has a strengthening effect on all other glands in the body, thus improving overall hormonal balance.
*Get your 7-Day Alkaline Diet here
Hormone Enemy No. 3: Environmental pollutants, radiation exposure and medications
Pollutants from the environment, but also the ubiquitous radiation exposure from Wi-Fi/mobile communications, radiological examinations, and medications (including the contraceptive pill) can have a massively disruptive effect on the hormonal balance.
The thyroid gland is particularly easily thrown out of balance by such stress.
However, a poorly functioning thyroid gland has a weakening effect on the entire metabolism and irritates the functions of all other hormone glands, which are of course already affected by the disruptive factors mentioned.
The first thing to do here is to look at which medications can be stopped or tapered off in order to relieve the strain on the organism and the hormone glands.
Many chronic illnesses can also be alleviated or even cured with holistic or naturopathic measures, so these should be implemented first before resorting to medication.
In addition, measures are taken to eliminate any harmful substances that may be present, e.g. through intestinal cleansing, a detoxification treatment, a deacidification program or metal elimination (mercury, aluminum).
*Try our Heavy Metal & Toxin Cleanse
Hormone Enemy No. 4: Substances with Hormonal Effects
Our environment, and especially everyday objects as well as food and its packaging, are full of endocrine disruptors that can affect our hormone balance.
Since they usually do this in a disruptive way, they are also called endocrine disruptors (endocrine = relating to the hormone system, disruptors = troublemakers).
They can delay or accelerate hormone breakdown, inhibit or activate hormone production, or even change the effect of the body’s own hormones.
Endocrine disruptors include various groups of substances from very different sources, e.g.:
- Pollutants such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)
- Pesticides
- Heavy metals such as lead, cadmium and mercury
- Plasticizers (phthalates)
- Drugs
- Some UV protection filters in sunscreen cosmetics
- Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical found in plastics. It mimics the sex hormone estrogen in our bodies, which has been linked to cancer, obesity, and heart disease, among other things. To avoid BPA, avoid the following products: Plastics marked “PC” (polycarbonate) or bearing the recycling code “number 7” (the triangle made up of three arrows with a number in the middle).
- Triclosan, an antibacterial substance found in some toothpastes, mouthwashes, deodorants, etc.
- Canned food
- Drinks from plastic bottles (use glass bottles instead)
How do endocrine disruptors enter the body?
Endocrine disruptors can enter the body through the digestive tract, lungs or skin.
Such stresses are serious for all people, but they are far more harmful for children than for adults.
After a long time, legislators have finally recognized this, which is why a number of different plasticizers (phthalates and bisphenol a) have been banned in the production of children’s toys, pacifiers and baby bottles.
However, babies and young children also come into contact with all other sources of poison, especially because they like to explore everything and put it in their mouths.
These can include PVC-containing vinyl wallpapers, carpets, artificial leather furniture, gloves, kitchen and bathroom items, cables and much more.
The fumes from PVC-containing floor coverings enter the air, collect in house dust, and are absorbed through the respiratory tract – by young and old.
We also absorb endocrine disruptors through our skin, namely in the form of cosmetic products such as shampoos or body lotions. These often contain hormone-disrupting preservatives such as methylparaben.
The hormonal effect of endocrine disruptors
The hormonal effects of these substances can be particularly worrying for children.
They appear to alter the sex hormone system in such a way that the development of children in the womb or during certain developmental phases such as puberty may be impaired. Physical and mental development would be harmed in this way.
In boys and men, hormonal imbalances are associated with, among other things, malformations of the genital organs, testicular cancer and a reduced number and quality of sperm.
A change in hormonal status could be the reason for early onset of puberty in girls and the reason for an increased risk of breast cancer in women.
It is generally assumed that hormonally regulated organs such as the breast and prostate are more likely to develop tumors when there is constant contact with endocrine disruptors.
In addition, the hormone-active substances appear to be a possible cause of a tendency toward allergies, diabetes, obesity, disorders of brain development, behavioral problems, and cardiovascular diseases.
Even so the government sets limit values that ensure that only small quantities of the dangerous substances released that are supposed to be not harmful. However, there are two problems that are overlooked here.
First, the above-described higher sensitivity of children, for whom many threshold values are set far too high.
And secondly, the so-called cocktail effect is ignored.
The cocktail effect does not care about limits
The cocktail effect occurs when one comes into contact with several toxins at the same time, which is nothing unusual these days. The combined effect of the toxins can be much more toxic than the effects of the individual substances.
The cocktail effect can occur if you first use shower gel, apply skin cream with sunscreen and then style your hair with hair gel.
In addition, people often use plastic containers, eat fruits and vegetables from conventional farming, and receive a printed receipt contaminated with BPA.
The hormone-influencing substances quickly add up and dangerous amounts enter the body.
In order to protect our health, the daily exposure to hormonal pollutants in our living environment should be drastically reduced.
How can hormonal disorders be avoided?
It is not difficult to avoid or at least reduce the intake of hormone-active substances in order to prevent or improve existing hormone disorders:
- Organically farmed foods are healthier and contain fewer harmful toxins. Their richness in vital nutrients also strengthens the body’s ability to regulate itself, thus making hormonal imbalances less likely.
- Only buy fruits and vegetables that have a natural fragrance and are free of sticky surfaces. Wash food thoroughly before preparing.
- Eat convenience foods as little as possible and change product brands more often (depending on the manufacturer, the same products can contain different amounts of endocrine disruptors in the packaging and therefore lead to different levels of hormone disruption).
- Try a special hormone diet or seed cycling.
- Clean floors and carpets regularly with organic cleaners, dust frequently, and air out repeatedly to reduce the chemicals in household dust.
- New textiles such as bed linen, clothing and towels as well as soft toys and plastic toys should be washed before first use.
- Buy high-quality toys, which in most cases are more free from harmful substances and offer better protection against hormone disorders than cheap products.
- Parents can protect their children by ensuring that toddlers only put things in their mouths that are designed and intended for that purpose.
- Trust your nose! Strong-smelling products often contain off-gassing substances that can be harmful to your health and promote hormonal imbalances.
- Children’s products and food packaging made of polycarbonate plastic should be avoided if possible. Glass food containers and bottles are a good alternative.
- In case of doubt, consumers have the right to inquire directly with the manufacturer whether hazardous chemicals have been used in a product.
Seed cycling: Can oilseeds regulate the hormone system?
Hormone diets, which claim to be able to regulate hormone levels, appear repeatedly in the media. While hormone levels – just like any other area of the body – can of course be positively influenced by a healthy diet and lifestyle, the question is whether – as is common with seed cycling – simply consuming a few specific foods is sufficient to achieve this effect.
Details on seed cycling, including instructions.
by Ela Gold | Sep 30, 2025 | HGA |
In Australia, millions of women experience hair loss, with hormonal imbalances often being a key factor. These imbalances can disrupt hair growth, particularly during menopause, after pregnancy, or in conditions such as PCOS. Despite how common it is, female hair loss is still a sensitive and often unspoken subject, leaving many women feeling isolated. Fortunately, there are many effective options to support healthy hair growth. With the support of medicinal plants, phytohormones, a holistic approach to hair health, and the right nutrition, hormonally-induced hair loss can be managed and positively influenced.
Hormones control the hair roots
Hormones are biochemical messengers produced by specialized cells. They perform a wide variety of functions in the human body and also influence the duration of the hair cycle and the division activity of hair follicles.
Simply put, hair follicles, and thus also the hair roots, are controlled by hormones. While estrogen stimulates hair growth in women, reduced hormone production or an increase in male hormones can trigger hair loss.
Hair loss itself isn’t a disease — it’s a symptom of an underlying imbalance. Therefore, the focus should always be on the causes.
Regarding hormonal hair loss, there has been a threatening increase in rates over the last 20 years.
This phenomenon is receiving considerable attention in medical research. Possible contributing factors include taking the contraceptive pill too early or for too long, or hormone residues in food and drinking water.
Hair loss is also a women’s issue
Every woman goes through different stages of life, all of which are influenced by hormones: menstrual cycle, pregnancies and menopause.
This means that shifts in hormones can directly influence hair health and growth. In women, hair loss occurs more frequently during puberty, after pregnancy, and during menopause. Even suddenly stopping the contraceptive pill after years of use leads to hormonal changes and can trigger hair loss.
Hair loss, however, is still considered a male issue. This ignores the fact that many women are also affected by this problem. Diffuse hair loss is even more common in women than in men.
Girls and young women between 16 and 20 can also suffer from diffuse hair loss. Sometimes, increased hair loss occurs after puberty, triggered by hormonal fluctuations.
Hair loss after pregnancy
During pregnancy, levels of the hormone estrogen rise in the body, which stimulates hair growth. Many women enjoy particularly shiny and healthy hair during this phase of life. This makes it all the more difficult to bear when their hair disappears again after birth.
The key factor is that hormone levels plummet. Starting around the eighth week after delivery, the hormonal changes can lead to increased hair loss—also known as pregnancy-related hair loss. (1)
This phase can last up to six months, after which hair growth usually returns to normal.
Breastfeeding can also be associated with hair loss. The hormone prolactin, which contributes to milk production, shortens the hair growth phase. However, after weaning, hair usually grows back.
Hair loss in women with PCOS
In women, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is often diagnosed as the cause of hair loss.
PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) is one of the most common hormonal disorders in women of childbearing age.
Women affected by hair loss suffer from excessive production of male sex hormones. Symptoms include hair loss, acne, increased body hair, and often infertility. Conventional medicine treats these conditions with medication that can suppress the effects of male hormones or prescribes the pill.
However, the former medication is also prescribed for hypersexuality and for the feminization of male-to-female transsexuals. These uses also indicate the expected side effects:
Reduced sex drive, breast growth or tenderness, and muscle weakness. Other side effects include fatigue, depression, weight problems, and changes in liver tissue.
For PCOS, it is recommended to implement the measures described here: Beating PCOS
Hair loss during menopause
During menopause, the hormonal composition of the female body undergoes fundamental changes. Stopping the contraceptive pill during this phase of life exacerbates this effect.
Since the estrogen involved in women’s hair growth is no longer available in sufficient quantities during menopause, the hair growth phases are shortened.
Hormonal changes can also cause genetic hair loss.
There are numerous hair-strengthening medicinal plants such as nettle, birch leaves, rosemary, ginger or horsetail that can be used to promote hair growth.
Hawthorn, horse chestnut, and evening primrose also contain an estrogen-like substance (beta-sitosterol), which can stop hair loss during menopause.
*Here you will find hawthorn
The medicinal plants can be consumed as a tea or massaged into the scalp as a tincture or decoction. This can promote blood circulation and stimulate hair growth. If the body is supplied with sufficient nutrients through the diet, the hair roots are further strengthened.
Phytohormones against hair loss
Conventional medicine usually only offers hormone therapies for hormonal hair loss. Those affected are often not informed until far too late that these therapies are associated with numerous side effects and long-term effects.
Long-term hormone therapies carry significant risks and lead to increased rates of cancer and heart attacks.
But more and more women are turning to ancient remedies and daring to look beyond their cultural horizons. There are numerous plants that contain active ingredients that positively influence the female hormonal system and thus hair growth – like the aforementioned beta-sitosterol.
These plant hormones are called phytohormones. Phytohormones have a similar regulatory effect on the body as the body’s own hormones.
The most important hormone-releasing plants include yam root, chasteberry, fenugreek, evening primrose, yarrow, lady’s mantle, red clover, passionflower, hops, and black cohosh. They can be prepared as tea or tincture, or used in capsule or extract form.
Phytohormones are also used to treat menstrual problems, premenstrual syndrome, and menopause without placing unnecessary strain on the body.
Androgenic hair loss in women
Several researchers have also reported links between excessive amounts of sebum in the scalp and hair loss. Excessive amounts of sebum, which often accompany hair thinning, are attributed to systemic inflammation in the body and an enlargement of the sebaceous glands.
Scientists believe that this contributes to the formation of large amounts of the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which leads to blockage of the pores and, as a result, to additional inflammatory processes.
In order to eliminate (or at least alleviate) problems in the hair follicles that are caused by inflammatory reactions, many different factors must be taken into account.
1. Inhibit androgenic hormone production
The first step is to inhibit the excessive production of androgenic hormones.
For this purpose, the use of high-quality saw palmetto products is recommended. Saw palmetto ensures that the cell membrane no longer absorbs large amounts of DHT. This serves to balance hormone levels. Other foods and nutrients that inhibit DHT include green tea extracts and so-called systemic enzymes.
2. Take antioxidants
The second step involves replenishing intracellular antioxidant stores with high-quality antioxidants. Increasing the concentration of antioxidants in the cells protects the scalp and the mitochondria (energy producers) in the follicle cells from oxidative stress. If, however, the body’s antioxidant levels are low, levels of kinase C rise. This is a specific protein that accelerates hair follicle loss.
The best ways to increase the amount of antioxidants in the body include krill oil, astaxanthin, lutein, quercetin, resveratrol, grape seed extract (OPC) and zeaxanthin or even aronia berries in the form of juice or powder.
3. Vitamin D and Omega-3 fatty acids
Cytokines act as molecular messengers that control various inflammatory processes. A particularly pro-inflammatory cytokine is TNF-α. If the sebaceous glands and hair follicles release excessive amounts of TNF-a, further inflammation and hair loss occur rapidly. Reasons for rising TNF-a levels include a vitamin D deficiency and an unfavorable ratio of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids in the cells. The first step here is to bring the vitamin D level back up to normal.
Additionally, you should provide yourself with high-quality fats. Avoid omega-6-rich fats/oils (sunflower oil, pumpkin seed oil, and safflower oil), instead choosing neutral oils like olive oil and coconut oil. For omega-3 intake, opt for hemp oil and linseed oil, or even krill oil capsules or vegan DHA algae oil.
Certain substances that can lower TNF-α levels or inhibit TNF-α include curcumin, Gingko Biloba extract, nettle extract, green tea extract, fish oil, borage oil, evening primrose oil, and systemic enzymes.
*Get your Omega-3 here
