|
|
|
Health Conditions and Patient Testimonials
Below are some of the conditions that we see at Coastal Naturopathic
Center. We are grateful to be able to post patient testimonials.
We hope you find these brief explanations helpful. Disclaimer
|
|
Description
Heartburn is caused by acid refluxing upwards from the
stomach into the esophagus. In most cases it is not caused
by having too much acid in the stomach. In normal situations,
a gate called the LES closes to prevent the acid from
refluxing upwards. In people with heartburn, however,
the LES may stay open or relax more easily. Causes of
this are multifactorial, but are mostly due to poor eating
habits, poor digestion and stress. In fact, many people
with reflux actually have depressed stomach acidity. Antacids
pills such as Prilosec, Prevacid, Zantac, etc. block the
secretion of stomach acid and while this might actually
provide some relief, it can make the problem worse for
a large number of people. By blocking the ever-important
stomach acidity, these medications interfere with your
ability to digest and absorb protein, vitamin B-12 and
all minerals including calcium and magnesium. These medications
could also leave someone prone to gastrointestinal infections
by decreasing the protective acid from the stomach. At
Coastal Naturopathic Center, we guide our patients toward
a diet that promotes proper digestion and absorption of
foods, and we do NOT block the normal secretion of stomach
acid. For symptom relief we use specific herbs to support
and soothe the stomach and esophagus without causing harmful
side effects.
Patient Testimonial
I was on Pepcid daily for 2 years to treat severe heartburn
and was unknowingly suffering side effects. I had developed
leg cramps at night (for which I was then given another
medication- Quinine sulfate), and I was then told I had
signs of osteoporosis and would need another medication
that might cause reflux! If that doesn’t cause someone
to seek a new doctor, what will? It has been 2 years since
I first saw Dr. Richard Maurer and I have been off all
antacids, with no digestive complaints. I have changed
my diet and now I “suffer” from more energy,
better sleep and my recent DEXA study has shown a complete
reversal of the bone loss that was present 3 years ago.
I continue to use 2 supplements and one herbal tonic for
general digestion, and truly feel wonderful. Thanks Dr.
Maurer! -E.P. Lewiston, ME
Return
to top
|
| |
|
Description
Acne is caused by one or a combination of three factors:
hormonal imbalance (including stress hormones), essential
fatty acid deficiency and/or a high intake of refined
carbohydrates. Common topical treatments might mask the
problem but will never cure acne; only by treating the
skin from the inside will true healing take place. The
other common conventional treatment of long-term oral
antibiotics is burdened by immense side effects, such
as malabsorption, liver disease, and opportunistic yeast
infection, not to mention antibiotic resistance for future
infections. Long lasting results, however, can be achieved
with a diet that does not include rancid fats and limits
refined carbohydrates. Supplements include ample essential
fatty acids with fat soluble nutrients such as vitamin
A, D and E.
Patient Testimonial
While in high school, my parents were concerned about
my acne and brought me to a dermatologist who prescribed
a topical cleanser and pills of Tetracycline, an antibiotic.
I don’t know why but I just didn’t want to
take an antibiotic every day. In just 6 weeks after I
first saw Dr. Maurer, my face is fine without any topical
treatment at all. They even recommended eating more organic
butter, which I thought was pretty cool because I really
like it. The diet changes have become pretty easy now
and my eczema even went away too. Thanks again. –
M.F. Brunswick, ME (now 17 y.o.)
Return
to top
|
|
|
|
Description
Many kids and adults who have trouble focusing and/or
sitting still often have an imbalance in brain neurotransmitters
like norepinephrine, dopamine and/or serotonin. Stimulant
drugs such as Ritalin and Dexatrim have side effects like
appetite and growth suppression and behavioral changes,
and these drugs certainly do not get at the underlying
cause of ADD/ADHD. Dietary factors such as an excess of
carbohydrates, a lack of protein and a lack of both saturated
and essential fatty acids may be playing a role. Food
additives, such as coloring agents, may also be a culprit.
Imbalances in blood sugar as a result of skipping meals
or having a poorly balanced meal, can also impair one’s
ability to focus and/or cause someone to become irritable
or agitated. At Coastal Naturopathic Center, we successfully
treat ADHD every day by addressing dietary factors and
using various vitamins and amino acids to naturally balance
brain neurotransmitters.
Return
to top
|
|
|
|
Description
We all know that allergies cause sneezing, itchy eyes,
runny nose and hives. But most people who suffer from
allergies have more chronic conditions such as asthma,
eczema, headaches, fatigue, muscle pain, insomnia and
the list can go on. Environmental allergens such as dust
mites, cat dander, etc. need to be effectively identified
and treated to reduce illness caused by the overwhelming
“allergenic load”. Since environmental allergens
are often unavoidable (I have patients NOT get rid of
their cat, and just try to stop the Euphrasia from blooming
in August), food allergies often take the front seat while
treating allergic conditions. In our experience, we have
found that people can tolerate much higher doses of environmental
allergens if they avoid certain foods and use other simple
complementary nutritional, botanical and/or homeopathic
treatments
Patient Testimonial
"I originally came to Coastal Naturopathic Center
in (1995) with extreme allergies. Dr. Maurer identified
probable allergies through the use of a painless test
called EAV and coached me through an elimination/re-introduction
of the identified foods. He also recommended a few supplements
including cod liver oil, quercitin and an herbal formula.
Not only did my nose clear up throughout treatment, I
have not used my asthma medication for the past 3 years
now. He also prescribed a homeopathic remedy that seems
to have helped me so that I can now occasionally eat many
of the foods I was avoiding. I now see Dr. Maurer once
a year and remain completely free from allergies. I feel
like I was given my life back. JT, Portland, ME
Return
to top
|
| |
Description
Early stages of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) can be
successfully treated with various nutritional supplements.
AD is caused by an over-deposit of a substance called
amyloid in the brain. Amyloid deposits “aggravate”
the brain’s immune system and the immune system
retaliates by releasing damaging substances such as cytokines
and oxidants. These substances can cause destruction to
the neurons in the brain that help with memory, personality,
mood, speech and language. Current medications like Tacrine
and Aricept do not prevent the damage to these neurons.
Antioxidant herbs and nutrients, however, can partially
protect the brain and can slow the progression of the
Alzheimer’s disease. Numerous studies have recently
been performed and more are underway and the findings
support the use of nutritional and herbal therapies to
slow the progression of Alzheimer’s especially at
the early and moderate stages of severity.
Return
to top
|
|
|
|
Description
Osteoarthritis is an inflammation in a joint caused by
the breakdown of cartilage. Medications like ibuprofen
can help the pain, but can also accelerate cartilage breakdown
that will require you to need surgery sooner. Cartilage
is a complex substance composed of the protein collagen
and substances called GAG’s. Successful treatment
of osteoarthritis requires a combination of trace minerals,
vitamins, hydrolyzed collagen and GAG precursors to build
strong cartilage. Dietary changes can often have profound
effects at stabilizing and even reversing osteoarthritis.
Rebuilding and repairing the cartilage in the joint relieves
the pain and can prevent the need for surgery in the future.
Patient Testimonial
10 years ago, I was told I would need a knee replacement
in the next 5 years by an orthopedic surgeon. I had been
gaining weight over the past 10 years and thought that
I’d need to get that under control. I saw Dr. Maurer
and after some blood tests he found that I had very high
insulin and was on the brink of diabetes. He helped me
with dietary changes and recommended some supplements
and within 3 months my blood tests had reversed, I had
lost weight and felt terrific. I continued some of these
changes and had acupuncture from Alexandra Maurer. The
acupuncture helped me get my activity up and I have even
been running for the past 3 years. Needless to say, the
knee replacement never happened and I don’t think
it ever will. Going to Coastal Naturopathic Center was
the best health decision I’ve made. Thanks. G.S.
Phippsburg, ME
Return
to top
|
|
|
|
Description
Asthma is an allergic condition in the lungs that can
improve dramatically after naturopathic intervention.
Foods, in addition to environmental allergens, may aggravate
asthma. We can do a simple non-invasive screening test
in the office or we can order specialized blood tests
to determine which foods may be playing a role. After
the removal of these foods from the diet and supportive
treatment with nutritional and herbal medicine, virtually
all asthmatics improve dramatically.
At Coastal Naturopathic Center, we also evaluate for “leaky
membranes” with a test called an intestinal permeability
evaluation. Leaky gut or leaky membrane syndrome is the
weakening of the protective layer of the digestive tract,
lungs, and sinus. If this mucosal layer becomes weak or
leaky, food and environmental allergies will develop regardless
of age. Interestingly, a diet that is low in fat, or too
high in the wrong kind of fats, will actually speed up
the breakdown of the healthy absorptive layer of the lungs
and sinuses.
Return
to top
|
|
|
|
Description
Autoimmune diseases are caused by an imbalance in the
immune system. We have found that dietary changes and
various nutritional supplements can rebalance the immune
system and prevent it from attacking the body. We often
order functional tests to assess hormonal balance, treating
the endocrine system in this way allows for a positive
response to every other treatment, whether it is herbal,
nutritional or acupuncture.
Return
to top
|
|
|
|
Description
Coastal Naturopathic Center offers complementary and alternative
therapies to support the immune system, detoxify the body,
reduce the side effects of conventional treatments and,
when possible, improve the effectiveness of conventional
therapies. Our treatments also include cancer prevention
programs, integrating lifestyle and nutritional modifications
for those with risk factors or past history of cancer.
We specialize in complementary cancer care with a strong
emphasis on scientifically supported natural cancer therapies.
Patients appreciate the help when wading through the many
possible complementary natural therapies to consider during
all stages of their cancer treatment. At our Center, we
believe that the best outcome is through integrating natural
therapies with conventional therapies.
Patient Testimonial
Five years ago I was diagnosed with breast cancer, stage
2. My oncologist warned me of all the side effects I would
face throughout treatment, and thankfully I called Coastal
Naturopathic Center and got in to see Dr. Maurer prior
to my first chemotherapy treatment. Dr. Maurer explained
all the treatments thoroughly; in fact he even explained
the conventional treatment better than my oncologist.
He recommended nutritional supplements and Chinese herbal
treatments, and I maintained my energy throughout the
course of chemotherapy. Dr. Maurer changed his recommendations
during radiation with a “twiggy” herbal tea,
different supplements and again I fared extremely well
throughout treatment. I am in remission 3 years later
and believe that the complementary care I received from
Dr. Maurer was integral in my recovery. I think less people
would suffer from cancer treatment if they all had a naturopathic
physician on their team. Gratefully yours P.B. Denmark,
ME
Return
to top
|
|
|
|
Description
A high level of cholesterol in the blood is not usually caused
by a high fat diet, but also a diet high in processed
carbohydrates. If something is irritating the blood vessels,
the liver will produce more LDL cholesterol to try to
repair the problem. At Coastal Naturopathic Center, we
see cholesterol as a signal of other problems. We realize
that high cholesterol is not a disease in and of itself,
it is one of many risk factors for heart disease, therefore
we order tests such as Homocysteine and Hemoglobin A1C,
among others, to better assess heart disease risk. The
nutritional and botanical therapies we offer can be effectively
applied to address cholesterol problems as well as overall
heart disease risk. The common side effects to natural
therapies such as CoQ10, specific vitamin B supplementation,
and dietary changes might be improved energy, better sleep,
and weight regulation – this means life-long changes
are not too difficult to maintain.
Patient Testimonial
In 2001 I came to the Coastal Naturopathic Center when
my cholesterol was 280. My primary care physician wanted
me to take prescription drugs, which I declined. I subscribe
to different health letters and have seen mixed reports
on the effectiveness of these medications. After only
3 months on 3 nutritional supplements and a change in
diet my cholesterol was 240, but the ratio of good cholesterol
to cholesterol showed a 3-fold decrease in risk. The surprising
thing was Dr. Maurer’s nutritional recommendation
included a substantial amount of fat, even saturated fat
(from organic, raw butter and cream). Now, 3 years later,
I take only one nutritional supplement, cod liver oil
and my cholesterol remains stable while my weight is down,
my blood pressure is better and Dr. Maurer had seen a
drop in CRP and homocysteine since beginning the supplements.
I sure like this treatment more than lifelong drugs! Trevor
S. 74 years old, Bath, ME
Return
to top
|
|
|
|
|
Description
It is important to consider all the possible causes of
chronic fatigue, which can be a symptom of many conditions
including anemia, autoimmune diseases, thyroid imbalances,
infections, cancer, etc. Often a proper assessment has
not been performed, therefore at Coastal Naturopathic
Center we often order comprehensive blood tests to evaluate
for other possible causes. If your chronic fatigue is
associated with sore throats, swollen glands, low-grade
fevers, muscle and joint aches and all of your general
blood tests are normal, you may have chronic fatigue syndrome
(CFIDS). CFIDS is thought to be caused by a long-term
imbalance in the immune system and endocrine system. As
a result of the immune system imbalance, viruses which
you were exposed to as a kid come “out of hiding”
and start producing symptoms. To successfully treat CFIDS,
the immune system must be repaired. There is a specialized
blood test that measures the levels and activity of all
of your immune cells including the T, B and natural killer
cells. This test is useful in selecting the proper immune
modulating herbs and nutrients. After repairing the immune
system and working on diet, digestion, toxicities and
hormonal imbalances, long standing CFIDS can resolve.
Patient Testimonial
I had seen so many doctors for my chronic fatigue that
I was skeptical when I first saw Dr. Maurer, I had a diagnosis
of chronic fatigue and interstitial cystitis for 2 years
prior to visiting Coastal Naturopathic Center. Conventional
medicine was unable to treat my constant fatigue and could
never properly identify the food and environmental allergies
that were causing most of my illness. Since I have been
to Dr. Maurer, I have experienced a gradual improvement
over the past year. I now eat out, travel, and have returned
to work and feel like I have been given a 2nd chance.
Dr. Maurer identified and treated the source of my problem,
and now I lead a much more normal and active life. JM,
Saco, ME
Return
to top
|
|
|
|
(see Cold
and Flu Protocol)
Return
to top
|
|
|
|
Description
Colitis and Crohn’s Disease fall under the category of
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). They are both marked
by inflammation in the intestines, which can cause pain,
diarrhea and bleeding. Colonoscopy and biopsy might differentiate
the 2 conditions through tissue changes and location,
but naturopathic treatment is very similar for both conditions.
They can both be dramatically helped with dietary changes,
probiotics and anti-inflammatory nutrients and herbs.
In IBD, the immune system attacks the lining of the intestines
and causes damage. Some evidence suggests that certain
foods and imbalances in the intestinal bacteria trigger
the immune system. After these foods are removed and the
proper balance of bacteria is replaced, IBD can go into
remission. Common tests we use are a Food Allergy Profile
and the Comprehensive Digestive Food Analysis (CDSA),
to better assess allergic triggers and the functional
disturbance and microbiological imbalance that is causing
the inflammation. Specific nutrients such as L-glutamine,
plant-based enzymes, and high dose W-3 fatty acids can
speed up healing and allow more foods to be tolerated
throughout treatment without relapse. Current conventional
treatments such as steroids, 6MP and Remicade suppress
the immune system, which clearly has adverse effects long
term.
Patient Testimonial
I was told I had Ulcerative Colitis, with underlying diverticulitis
over a year ago, pain was severe and my doctor had put
me on 3 courses of antibiotics and I had finished a course
of steroids. After about 4 months I was not fully better
and the gastroenterologist recommended surgical removal
of a portion of my colon. Finally, that is when I took
the advice of a friend to see Dr. Maurer at Coastal Naturopathic
Center. He ran 2 tests, one was a stool sample I sent
out to a lab in North Carolina, and the other was a food
sensitivity test performed in his office. After 3 months
of dietary changes, avoiding 4 or 5 foods (although I
was told to eat plenty of butter and something called
ghee), I was feeling much better. I was taking 4 different
supplements, but I was skeptical and wanted to see the
results of an upcoming colonoscopy. I find it hard to
believe that I was actually told by my gastroenterologist
that diet would have no effect on my cure. Clearly I proved
that wrong, because it has been 1 year since the first
flare-up and my recent colonoscopy showed no sign of any
problem and the diverticulitis is in complete remission.
Thanks, feeling great. – JB 71 y.o. Yarmouth, ME
Return
to top
|
|
|
|
Description
We have seen
many people with cases of long term constipation regain
normal bowel function relatively quickly after doing dietary
counseling and using nutritional supplements which are
not stimulating laxatives.
Patient Testimonial
"I've been to Dr. Maurer at the Coastal Naturopathic
Center for an ear blockage condition and a gastrointestinal
issue. During each office visit Dr. Maurer allotted ample
time for listening, diagnosing and administering course
of action. His emphasis on healing through nutrition makes
sense to me and has proven wonderfully effective. After
following his dietary recommendations I experienced side-benefits
of less earwax buildup, resolved eczema, and regained
healthy bowel movements." –EF, Lewiston, ME
Return
to top
|
|
|
|
Description
Type 2 diabetes
happens when one becomes resistance to the insulin that
his/her pancreas produces. As a result, the body’s
natural insulin is not enough to keep blood sugar readings
normal. This condition is sometimes referred to as “pancreatic
burnout syndrome”. Family history of Type II diabetes
is a significant risk factor for developing diabetes later
in life. Other risk factors include a history of weight
gain and/or heart disease.
It is not uncommon to hear people say that they used to
have hypoglycemia. Which they were told is the opposite
of diabetes. Hypoglycemia often results from a hyper-production
of insulin that can actually be a predecessor of insulin
resistant diabetes. We recommend that people with a family
history of Type II diabetes have a proper work-up to assess
blood sugar metabolism and not just measure blood glucose.
Conventional blood tests that use only glucose pick-up
diabetes too late for optimal recovery.
At Coastal Naturopathic Center, we utilize specialized
blood tests to assess insulin resistance allowing us to
catch problems with glucose metabolism before diabetes.
The earlier one catches this trend of insulin resistance,
the greater the chances of full recovery of the pancreas.
We use nutritional supplements, specific botanical medicines,
substantial dietary changes and well as exercise programs
to successfully break this resistance and achieve normal
blood glucose readings.
Patient Testimonial
I am a 46-year-old man with recent history of weight gain
and my lipids looked bad a couple years ago at my annual
physical. When I followed my former doctors recommendation
for a low-fat diet, I proceeded to gain more weight and
my blood pressure started to climb. I saw Dr. Maurer when
I was told to get on medication for my cholesterol. After
he looked at all my past blood tests, He had a different
opinion and ordered a test including insulin, glucose
among others, which showed us both that I had borderline
diabetes and very high insulin. My mother had diabetes
and my father died of an early heart attack, so I wanted
to take care of myself as I enter what is hopefully my
second half of life. In just 6-months, my blood tests
all look better with my cholesterol looking great despite
many cholesterol-rich foods that Dr. Maurer recommended.
I have been taking 3 supplements and exercise 4 times
per week. I am on no medication and feel better than ever
and continue to lose weight. And I feel ready for the
other half of my life. Thanks Dr. Maurer,---and my family
loves the new diet!
Return
to top
|
|
|
|
Description
Ear infections are one of the common childhood conditions we
see at Coastal Naturopathic Center. This condition arises
from an overproduction of fluid that does not drain properly
from the middle ear. The primary causes are usually a
combination of a delayed allergic reaction – usually
to a food, and a structural block of the tube that normally
drains the middle ear. While some children might grow
out of the drainage problem as the tube widens and grows
downward with age, the underlying allergy will often remain
problematic causing asthma, eczema or some other allergic
condition. Ear infections are easily treated and prevented
using natural therapies and removing food allergies.
Patient Testimonial
I brought my son (5y.o.) to see Dr Maurer after he had
his 5th ear infection in one winter. The other offices
just kept prescribing antibiotics and I was getting concerned
about the risks of too many antibiotics, and his lack
of growth in the 2 years before. I was given several natural
treatments to use at the first sign of an infection, instead
of resorting to antibiotics. Dr. Maurer also ran a painless
test to identify food reactions and we had to eliminate
several foods. I thought it would be hard but it was like
I finally had my son back. He could hear, breathe and
about 3 months later he had a growth spurt that didn’t
stop. We still do one supplement for him but he is now
13 years old and has not been on antibiotics in 8 years,
“knock on wood”. Thank you all. RH Damariscotta,
ME
Return
to top
|
|
|
|
Description
Eczema is an
inflammatory reaction of the skin. Detergents and other
topical agents as well as environmental allergens can
cause it. Eczema is often exacerbated by specific foods,
either because the food is an allergen or because the
food contains a rancid or hydrogenated fat, which interferes
with normal skin function. Topical steroids merely suppress
the condition, but dietary changes and essential fatty
acids can permanently cure it.
Patient Testimonial
I brought my 12- year old son in to see Dr. Maurer. He
had severe eczema and was also having trouble sitting
still in school. Dr. Maurer offered a blood test that
analyzed fat balance in his blood cells. He then prescribed
2 different fatty acid supplements a few nutrients, and
prescribed a diet that removed all hydrogenated oils,
all cooked vegetable oils except only for olive oil, and
he had us add oils from organic dairy products and fish
and certain raw nuts and seeds. His skin has been great
even through this past winter when it used to get very
bad. And he recently told me that he could concentrate
better in school. Thanks Dr Maurer for explaining everything
so well and making it so easy. Our whole family is better
for it! John and Mom, Falmouth, ME
Return
to top
|
|
|
|
Description
Fibromyalgia
is caused by a lack of recovery phase in the soft tissue
throughout the body. There are several possible causes:
insomnia, overuse, lack of proper nutritional absorption,
and chronic infection among others. All patients have
some type of sleep disturbance that needs to be resolved
first. Many OTC and prescription sleep medications have
a side effect of blocking deep recovery-phase sleep. This
defeats their purpose as a treatment for fibromyalgia
and can actually make the condition worse. Treatment using
a proper balance of all nutrients and additional magnesium
with herbs like valerian and lemon balm are an integral
part of treatment for FMS at Coastal Naturopathic Center.
Physical treatment is one of our core therapies and initially,
regular treatment with the Bowen Technique is effective
at clearing the discomfort and pain of FMS with less frequent
sessions as the condition resolves. Fibromyalgia responds
best to an eclectic approach that includes diet changes,
supplementation, herbal treatment, manipulation treatments,
and therapeutic exercise. And yes, fibromyalgia is curable!
Patient Testimonial
I came to Coastal Naturopathic Center after I was diagnosed
with fibromyalgia. All my doctor could offer was an anti-depressant,
and then I read a book about natural treatment for fibromyalgia
and thought I could give it a try. Initially I felt a
great deal of relief with the Bowen Technique and continue
monthly treatments for now. I experienced no “follow-up”
pain like I had with other attempts at bodywork. The supplements
have helped my sleep and the diet changes have substantially
improved my IBS symptoms. I have been symptom free for
the past 6 months and as long as I don’t “stress
out” too bad I think it will stay that way. JD Biddeford,
ME
Return
to top
|
|
|
|
Description
Some migraine
sufferers have an abnormality of blood-sugar regulation
known as reactive hypoglycemia. Migraines can be triggered
by allergies and may be relieved by identifying and avoiding
the problem foods. Some migraine sufferers have an impaired
capacity to break down tyramine, a substance found in
many foods that is known to trigger migraines. Ingestion
of the artificial sweetener, aspartame, has also been
reported to trigger migraines in some people.
The fact is that headaches of all kinds; tension, migraine,
cluster, and sinus, can have several possible causes.
At Coastal Naturopathic Center, we offer diagnostic testing
for allergies and other common causes of headaches, applying
treatments including nutritional, herbal, soft-tissue
and spinal manipulation, and acupuncture. The most important
part of effective treatment is discovering the underlying
cause. Treatment can include herbal, nutritional, acupuncture,
exercise, but always includes some component of diet.
Patient Testimonial
My neurologist actually referred me to Dr. Maurer when
she suspected a dietary trigger to my headaches. They
were occurring daily and were worse at night. I was also
getting numbness and tingling in my hands and arms. I
was first prescribed an elimination diet and was given
a high dose of 2 nutritional supplements. He also recommended
an herbal extraction of butterbur. It has been almost
a year and I have been enjoying my dietary changes and
continue to get acupuncture at least once a month. I feel
so much better, and have had 2 headaches in the past 6-months
compared to a headache every day like before. Jen, Augusta,
ME
Return
to top
|
|
|
|
Description
Over many years we have seen a combination of both herbal
and nutritional medicines significantly lower the viral
load and normalize liver enzymes in people with hepatitis
C. Patients do very well with this protocol i.e. repeat
liver biopsies remain stable and patients experience no
side effects. Several studies have been reported and are
underway, showing positive results with natural therapies
for hepatitis C.
Patient Testimonial
I heard Dr. Maurer speak at Maine Medical Center about
natural treatment for Hepatitis C. I felt like I understood
more about my disease after 1 hour than I had learned
from support groups and Dr’s visits over the past
2 years. Since visiting Coastal Naturopathic Center, I
have made several changes that the doctor recommended
after he looked over blood tests and even a stool test.
I have seen my liver enzymes come down to the upper normal
range and several related problems have gotten better.
In general, I have felt better and appreciate all the
courtesy, time and care I receive from everyone at Coastal
Naturopathic Center. -CG
(see Bastyr
Protocol for Hep C)
Return
to top
|
|
|
|
Description
We utilize
natural hormone replacement therapy only as a last resort.
There are many effective therapies to choose from that
do not include the use of hormones. We like to treat menopausal
symptoms with herbal medicines and nutrition first and
then proceed to natural HRT if necessary. We only use
natural hormones i.e. hormones that are of the same chemical
makeup as the ones in our body, not horse estrogens (Premarin),
for example. We try to treat patients with the lowest
doses of these hormones as possible and utilize various
herbal and nutritional supplements to protect against
any long-term side effects of HRT such as an increased
cancer risk.
Patient Testimonial
A few years ago, when all the press came out about the
harmful effects of HRT, I contacted Dr. Maurer to try
to understand my options. I have since been on an herbal
regimen and acupuncture. Hot flashes no longer rule my
life and I feel normal again. Thanks ST. Freeport, ME
Return
to top
|
|
|
|
Description
Interstitial
cystitis is a condition in which white blood cells attack
the lining of the bladder creating signs and symptoms
or a urinary tract infection, although basic urine tests
will appear normal. Recent theories about this condition
bring up the term “leaky bladder syndrome”.
This refers to the weakness of the bladder wall as the
primary problem, not just an infectious agent. This condition
can improve dramatically with dietary changes and the
help of herbs and nutrients, which repair the bladder
lining.
Patient Testimonial
I think I saw over 10 different doctors before going to
Coastal Naturopathic Center. The advice that Dr. Maurer
gave me turned out to be quite simple. However, it changed
my life. I am now stronger and healthier than I have been
in years. I am over 50% better and look forward to continuing
my improvement. FD Portsmouth, NH
Return
to top
|
|
|
|
Description
Irritable Bowel
Syndrome is a condition that is associated with malabsorption.
Bloating, gas, pain and cramping in the gastrointestinal
tract are possible symptoms. Allergies, poor dietary habits,
and lack of proper digestive secretions can contribute
to IBS. Treatment includes identifying and removing possible
triggers, and improving digestive function through the
use of enzymes, herbal extracts and the Bowen treatment.
Patient Testimonial
After almost 6 months of treatment and diagnostic tests
at a gastroenterologist’s office, I was told I have
IBS. None of the treatment had been very successful and
my primary care dr. gave me the name of Dr. Maurer to
consult for the problem. He approached it with care and
was interested in all the tests that had been done in
the past several years. I feel like Dr. Maurer listened
to my problems and has come up with a plan that is simple
to follow and effective so far. Thanks, JE Portland ME
Return
to top
|
|
|
|
Description
At Coastal
Naturopathic Center, we help people through menopause
as smoothly as possible by using herbal medicines and
dietary counseling as well as addressing sleep issues.
As an aide toward treatment we may do some hormone testing.
We also thoroughly screen and treat any risk factors that
could increase after menopause such as osteoporosis, heart
disease and Alzheimer’s disease.
Patient Testimonial
I am 51 years old and all of a sudden I had insomnia for
the first time in my life. I was suffering from bad hot
flashes and was concerned about the side effects of hormonal
treatment recommended at my gynecologists. My gynecologist
recommended I see a naturopathic doctor to consult about
natural treatment for menopause. I am very glad I found
out about Dr. Maurer, it seems so simple; I am surprised
I didn’t seek out naturopathic care much earlier
in my life. Feeling good- Dana – Lovell, ME
Return
to top
|
|
|
|
Description
MS usually
responds very well to naturopathic medicine. We often
recommend a diet that contains specific essential fatty
acids while limiting numerous other harmful fats. We prescribe
nutritional supplements to rebalance the immune system
and to repair the myelin sheath. Patients have experienced
fewer attacks and some have seen long-term remission of
some of their symptoms.
Patient Testimonial
I had been diagnosed with MS for about 6 years before
I saw Dr. Richard Maurer. I was on Aricept but was not
tolerating the treatment well and I was using my cane
every day just to get around the house. My primary care
doctor then recommended the Coastal Naturopathic Center.
Dr. Maurer went over all my supplements and diet and recommended
several changes. He even recommended B-12 shots on a regular
basis for a short period of time. I am now taking 4 supplements
and have grown used to the dietary changes, which seem
to help a great deal. I have needed my cane only about
2 days in the past 6 months. I feel so much more stable,
I feel blessed to have found a treatment that is working.
Renee 43yo. Brunswick, ME
Return
to top
|
|
|
|
Description
Osteoporosis
CAN be reversed! But remember that osteoporosis is a metabolic
loss of bone, not merely a Calcium or vitamin D deficiency.
Drugs such as Fosamax may alter one component of bone
resorption, but these drugs don’t get to the cause
of the disease and they can have side effects like stomach
and esophageal erosions. At Coastal Naturopathic Center,
we rarely prescribe calcium supplements at levels greater
than 800 mg per day, and continually see bone density
studies improve over time. Nutritionally, along with Calcium,
Magnesium and vitamin D, we recommend the proper proteins,
essential fats, micronutrients, and trace minerals necessary
for normal bone metabolism, and all supplements must be
the best-absorbed form possible. With a comprehensive
assessment of diet of nutrition, people can benefit from
improved bone density studies and a decrease fracture
risk.
Return to top
|
|
|
|
Description
There are many
possible triggers for PMS. Women who eat more sugary foods
have been reported to have an increased risk of PMS. The
more caffeine women consumed, the more likely they were
to suffer from PMS. The underlying problem is often an
imbalance in several different hormones including estrogen
and progesterone and maybe thyroid and cortisol. In many
women with PMS, estrogen dominance is the culprit. A diet
rich in fiber and one that contains friendly bacteria
like Lactobacillus found in some yogurts, also help in
the removal of harmful estrogens. At Coastal Naturopathic
Center we recommend natural progesterone only as a last
resort and instead, start with the basics like diet, exercise,
vitamins, minerals and herbal medicines to rebalance the
hormones. This approach is very successful in relieving
all of the symptoms of PMS.
Return to top
|
|
|
|
Description
Psoriasis is
an over proliferation of the skin, i.e. the deep layer
of the skin grows at a faster rate causing thickened,
flaky skin. The cause of psoriasis, like other skin conditions,
is more than just skin deep. Psoriasis can respond dramatically
to dietary changes and nutritional supplementation. These
naturopathic treatments may permanently cure psoriasis
and cause no side effects. Conventional treatments, however,
such as ultraviolet light therapy and tar applications
may increase your future risk of skin cancer and methotrexate
and cyclosporin can weaken your immune system and put
you at risk for infections.
Return to top
|
|
|
|
Description
Chronic vaginal
yeast infections are caused by an imbalance in the normal
bacteria of the vagina. Antibiotics, intercourse and/or
a poor diet, can cause these imbalances. At Coastal Naturopathic
Center, we successfully treat many patients with chronic
vaginal yeast infections by re-establishing the normal
bacterial balance in the vagina through the use of vaginal
suppositories, oral nutritional supplements and dietary
changes.
Patient Testimonial
I wish I had seen a naturopath many years ago. I have
had recurrent yeast infections for the past 10 years.
Initially Dr. Maurer recommended several natural therapies
to do instead of prescription Difloucan. To my surprise
they worked great. He said it would take a few months
on the new diet for effects to work and sure enough, I
have had no yeast infection for the past 2 years. Thanks-AK
Boothbay Harbor, ME
Return
to top
|
Disclaimer
The information
on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a
qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice. It is
intended as a
sharing of knowledge and information from the research and experience of Dr. Maurer
and
Coastal Naturopathic Center. We encourage you to make your own health care decisions
based upon your research and in partnership with a qualified health care professional.
|
|
 |
|
.gif){kind=small}
