See what these patients had to say!
Life Saving
Dr. Al pretty much saved my life. I was bloated and uncomfortable for years. My primary, an endocrinologist, and a gastroenterologist and multiple tests could not figure out was was wrong with me. Dr. Al diagnosed and treated what turned out to be burnt out adrenal glands that were affecting my digestion. After one week of his treatment, the bloating was gone. Not sure what would have happened to me if I hadn’t met the good doctor. I love the man for what he does and his passion for doing it.
Chris Manley
A Rare Skin Disorder
Hi my name is Susana and I just wanted to share my story with all of you. Back in January of 2017 I was diagnosed with Lichen Sclerosus. For four long years I had the worst symptoms a woman could have. For those of you who don't know Lichen Sclerosus is an autoimmune disease causing severe itching symptoms. Usually attacks at night in bed and the majority of the time I would scratch so badly I would make myself bleed, causing me discomfort and pain. For those four long years Doctors kept telling me it was a fungus infection and they would treat me with fungal medication, which it would alleviate the symptoms for a few days but they would return. I spent so much money on over the counter medication, and I was so tired of dealing with it. I finally went to a specialist, OBGYN. This was back in January, and I had to wait 6 months for this appointment to come, horrible. They diagnosed me with Lichen Sclerosus and told me it had NO CURE. They offered to give me Lidocaine gel (yes the ones the dentist use as an anesthesia) to numb the symptoms and cortisone creams to stop the disease from deforming my labia. I was so frustrated I left without nothing and crying. I slept on it and the following morning I called Dr. Al Costanza. He gave me HOPE. He said there is a CURE. Well, needless to say, I followed his protocol very strictly, not only I lost 17 pounds in about 3 months but I believe my disease is gone. I haven't had any symptoms for months now and I am no longer in pain. I feel much better and of course, lighter.
Thank you Dr. Al for changing my life and allowing me to be happy again!! Stay strong people and believe!
How to Survive a Year of Breast Cancer Treatments written by my patient Dr. Ellen Blomerth is a MUST READ for any woman recently diagnosed with breast cancer, as well as those who are at higher risk due to a family history.
Dr. Blomerth did a phenomenal job covering most aspects of breast cancer treatment, both conventional and natural therapies ...soup to nuts. I found it to be very comprehensive and informative. It is a practical guide for the lay person and easy to understand. I particularly like her format. On the left side of the page is her personal experience and the opposite side a list of valuable tips. It is worth purchasing the book for the resources and references alone. Where Dr. Blomerth is both a physician and the patient, she offers insight where others have failed. Like any life threatening chronic disease, one needs to ask the right questions to get the right answers. Dr. Blomerth helps you with that too. Lastly, I found this book to be a fast read. There is not too many "how to books" that you can't put down once you start reading. This book could assist in saving a person's life while improving the quality of life during cancer treatment. Alfred A. Costanza, Ph.D., CTN., C.P.T., CN
Dr. Blomerth did a phenomenal job covering most aspects of breast cancer treatment, both conventional and natural therapies ...soup to nuts. I found it to be very comprehensive and informative. It is a practical guide for the lay person and easy to understand. I particularly like her format. On the left side of the page is her personal experience and the opposite side a list of valuable tips. It is worth purchasing the book for the resources and references alone. Where Dr. Blomerth is both a physician and the patient, she offers insight where others have failed. Like any life threatening chronic disease, one needs to ask the right questions to get the right answers. Dr. Blomerth helps you with that too. Lastly, I found this book to be a fast read. There is not too many "how to books" that you can't put down once you start reading. This book could assist in saving a person's life while improving the quality of life during cancer treatment. Alfred A. Costanza, Ph.D., CTN., C.P.T., CN
A young woman who came to us with digestive issues and hormonal imbalance
Hi Dr Thanks so much. I always enjoy our chats also, and I appreciate having another perspective on things. It's easy to get caught up in your own thoughts and miss the bigger picture sometimes. You cannot imagine the impact you have on your clients. You are a wealth of information and I am so grateful for all you've done for me. The world needs more Dr Al's!
Helping an out of state truck drive improve his chronic health issues
Hello Dr Al
Just a note yo say hello and thank you for all you did for me. I feel you helped me understand more on how to take better care of myself, physically and more so, spiritually. Above all I always looked forward to my time with you. I enjoy our conversation thoroughly. You are a very kind and gifted man with a vision. I appreciate you.
I hope you are well,
God bless you, C.V.
Helping a Physician Survive Breast Cancer
When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I asked my nutrient company reps who they would suggest to help me with nutrition for this complex situation. They referred me to Dr. Costanza. Dr. Costanza has gone over and above all my expectations. He has helped me through a year of serious health issues. With his help I was able to stay healthy and even gain muscle strength through 2 breast surgeries. With his help I was able to continue to work my 10 to 12 hour days running my practice and seeing my patients even through months of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. I weathered the entire year of treatments with energy that surprised all my doctors. A good part of my "secret" was following the nutritional regimen laid out for my by Dr. Costanza. I gladly refer my complex patients to him when I feel they need serious nutritional help from someone who knows his stuff. Thank you Dr. Costanza for your good care and support.
Ellen Blomerth, DC, Certified Neuropathy Pain Specialist.
Here is what this 65 y/o female patient had to say
Good Morning!!
I have not connected with you in a few weeks, and thought I would drop you a note to say hi.... I am deeply indebted to you for the samples you sent... I am feeling so much better... when I started both formulas I was extremely fatigued, and depressed, consuming too much sugar, and not being able to stop... Not only do I feel 100% better, but when I took the steps to start the formulas, I also changed my diet radically... it gave me a great start. I have lost six pounds, and I am unbelievably energetic... I want to thank you my friend... As far as the mojo.... woohoo!!! I do not have a relationship, and that's the shame of it!!! LOL!!! You are awesome!!! I hop out of bed in the morning, and I am feeling so healthy!!! No wonder patients are breaking down your door to have your expertise... I hope all is well in your world!!! Have a wonderful day!!! Susan, NY
WHATEVER YOU NEED THE UNIVERSE WILL BRING!
The body does not lie and it takes patience, determination, persistence, guidance, self reflection, and trusting professionals who can truly help in order to get to the root cause. No hookworm will grow in my body again and the "monkey mind" is calmed by parasympathetic activation!
I was introduced to Dr. Al by my sister in May 2009. They t at the Business Networking International (BNI) group where business men and women meet on a weekly basis for networking purposes. Got to love networking! My "lil sister" suggested that I schedule a consult with Dr. Al to see if he'd be able to help with my chief complaint of amenorrhea and GI issues. So I did just that. I scheduled a thirty-minute free consultation with Dr. Al to see if he would be a good match for me with regards to nutritional support. Thirty minutes turned into an hour in a half and I left his office in amazement. I said to myself, now this man knows his science and has a wealth of knowledge with regards to the five levels of healing in the human body. I couldn't wait to get started. There were many things I wanted to work on with Dr. Al, however my mind (monkey mind he calls it) controlled me and therefore I was not ready to invest money to get myself the help I needed. If I only listened to my heart and trusted the universe I wouldn't have experienced the "horrific" pain that I went through from 2009 to 2010, but I probably wouldn't be on the same journey as I am on today. I truly believe that pain and challenges bring people on amazing journeys that can bring one into enlightenment and discover their true life purpose.
In May 2009 I had intentions to receive treatment by Dr. Al for amenorrhea and GI complications after the removal of my gallbladder. On July, 25
2008 I had a gallbladder attack and collapsed to the floor where my co-workers and boss had to call 911. I remember laying my head on my boss's lap while she
was using tuning forks on my extremities to decrease the pain that i was experiencing. I thought I was having a heart attack. After 8 hours in the ER with the diagnosis of thousand of gall stones in my gall bladder and 2 stones 3 mm in diameter blocking a 4 mm duct, the journey had just begun.
My gall bladder needed to come out. The pain I started to encounter after my gall bladder surgery got worse and worse each month. I saw my PCP 7
times in one month, GI specialists where I underwent colonoscopies, ultrasounds, CT scans, MRI's and low and behold I was given the diagnosis of severe IBS with GERD. Sound familiar? Oh yes every American is diagnosed with this disease. I wasn't buying it, nope not me! I'm a very healthy young female who works
out and eats well, how could I have GI issues?
On May 6, 2010 I finally booked an appointment with Dr. Al where I had my first BIA for a nutritional plan to be implemented. I thought it was going to be a quick fix, but as I mentioned before patience was the key factor in my situation. Supplement after supplement, appointment after appointment, phone call after phone call, tear after tear to Dr. Al he suggested I get a DNA stool analysis test from Metametrix. While on the recommended supplements, I had a immense amount of energy, but pain still ran my life. This is why a DNA stool analysis was recommended to see if there were any other factors contributing to my pain. Four weeks later the DNA stool report came back to his office. A parasite revealed itself. This wasn't any parasite it was a "hookworm" that I must have contracted either in 2001 or 2010 when my family and I took a cruise to the Caribbean. If it wasn't for Dr. Al treating me for "leaky gut" (as at that time we did not know I had a parasite) I wouldn't have been able to get myself out of bed. I was on supplements to help with adrenal fatigue, inflammation in the gut, and overall stress. Even though I lived with intense stomach pain (burning, stabbing, bloating, and cramping in my stomach) day in and day out, the supplements and my diet regime kept me full of energy. I was hopeful that Dr. Al would direct me to the right source along with keeping my body healthy while it with through trauma.
Dr. Al is not only an educated man in the sciences, he is a man of integrity, compassion, patience and he leads by example. He found his life passion and he has opened a door of opportunity for me to find mine. I just need to walk through it. Surrendering is the key to receive what life has for us. Dr. Al suggested I be involved in modalities and practices that would balance my life out. He suggested some form of energy medicine. I asked the universe to present it to me and in a week’s time I was approached by a professional who practices energy medicine. I received more healing with this energy practitioner and an opportunity to study yoga presented itself. My journey has just begun! One piece of a puzzle attaches to another and another...... Even though I continue to have GI issues, pain no longer runs me. Dr. Al has been such a great mentor and I look forward to many more years under his care for health and well being. One thing he has instilled in me is that life balance and having a calm mind is the key to the fountain of youth. I leave you this quote, "We must be willing to let go of the life we have planned so as to have the life that is waiting for us."
Thank you Dr. Al from the bottom of my heart.
Namaste!
Mandy Lubas, Beverly, MA
The body does not lie and it takes patience, determination, persistence, guidance, self reflection, and trusting professionals who can truly help in order to get to the root cause. No hookworm will grow in my body again and the "monkey mind" is calmed by parasympathetic activation!
I was introduced to Dr. Al by my sister in May 2009. They t at the Business Networking International (BNI) group where business men and women meet on a weekly basis for networking purposes. Got to love networking! My "lil sister" suggested that I schedule a consult with Dr. Al to see if he'd be able to help with my chief complaint of amenorrhea and GI issues. So I did just that. I scheduled a thirty-minute free consultation with Dr. Al to see if he would be a good match for me with regards to nutritional support. Thirty minutes turned into an hour in a half and I left his office in amazement. I said to myself, now this man knows his science and has a wealth of knowledge with regards to the five levels of healing in the human body. I couldn't wait to get started. There were many things I wanted to work on with Dr. Al, however my mind (monkey mind he calls it) controlled me and therefore I was not ready to invest money to get myself the help I needed. If I only listened to my heart and trusted the universe I wouldn't have experienced the "horrific" pain that I went through from 2009 to 2010, but I probably wouldn't be on the same journey as I am on today. I truly believe that pain and challenges bring people on amazing journeys that can bring one into enlightenment and discover their true life purpose.
In May 2009 I had intentions to receive treatment by Dr. Al for amenorrhea and GI complications after the removal of my gallbladder. On July, 25
2008 I had a gallbladder attack and collapsed to the floor where my co-workers and boss had to call 911. I remember laying my head on my boss's lap while she
was using tuning forks on my extremities to decrease the pain that i was experiencing. I thought I was having a heart attack. After 8 hours in the ER with the diagnosis of thousand of gall stones in my gall bladder and 2 stones 3 mm in diameter blocking a 4 mm duct, the journey had just begun.
My gall bladder needed to come out. The pain I started to encounter after my gall bladder surgery got worse and worse each month. I saw my PCP 7
times in one month, GI specialists where I underwent colonoscopies, ultrasounds, CT scans, MRI's and low and behold I was given the diagnosis of severe IBS with GERD. Sound familiar? Oh yes every American is diagnosed with this disease. I wasn't buying it, nope not me! I'm a very healthy young female who works
out and eats well, how could I have GI issues?
On May 6, 2010 I finally booked an appointment with Dr. Al where I had my first BIA for a nutritional plan to be implemented. I thought it was going to be a quick fix, but as I mentioned before patience was the key factor in my situation. Supplement after supplement, appointment after appointment, phone call after phone call, tear after tear to Dr. Al he suggested I get a DNA stool analysis test from Metametrix. While on the recommended supplements, I had a immense amount of energy, but pain still ran my life. This is why a DNA stool analysis was recommended to see if there were any other factors contributing to my pain. Four weeks later the DNA stool report came back to his office. A parasite revealed itself. This wasn't any parasite it was a "hookworm" that I must have contracted either in 2001 or 2010 when my family and I took a cruise to the Caribbean. If it wasn't for Dr. Al treating me for "leaky gut" (as at that time we did not know I had a parasite) I wouldn't have been able to get myself out of bed. I was on supplements to help with adrenal fatigue, inflammation in the gut, and overall stress. Even though I lived with intense stomach pain (burning, stabbing, bloating, and cramping in my stomach) day in and day out, the supplements and my diet regime kept me full of energy. I was hopeful that Dr. Al would direct me to the right source along with keeping my body healthy while it with through trauma.
Dr. Al is not only an educated man in the sciences, he is a man of integrity, compassion, patience and he leads by example. He found his life passion and he has opened a door of opportunity for me to find mine. I just need to walk through it. Surrendering is the key to receive what life has for us. Dr. Al suggested I be involved in modalities and practices that would balance my life out. He suggested some form of energy medicine. I asked the universe to present it to me and in a week’s time I was approached by a professional who practices energy medicine. I received more healing with this energy practitioner and an opportunity to study yoga presented itself. My journey has just begun! One piece of a puzzle attaches to another and another...... Even though I continue to have GI issues, pain no longer runs me. Dr. Al has been such a great mentor and I look forward to many more years under his care for health and well being. One thing he has instilled in me is that life balance and having a calm mind is the key to the fountain of youth. I leave you this quote, "We must be willing to let go of the life we have planned so as to have the life that is waiting for us."
Thank you Dr. Al from the bottom of my heart.
Namaste!
Mandy Lubas, Beverly, MA
An 85 year old woman who for six months had chronic diarrhea and vomiting
I would like to give a testimonial for Dr. Al Costanza. My aunt Mary, who is 85 years young, lives in Florida and has been sick for six months. She has lost 35 lbs. and could not drink or eat without vomiting or having diarrhea. Mary has seen many doctors and had many tests. The last being with a gastroenterologist. The only thing they said it was was IBS and needless to say they couldn’t help her. She came to Massachusetts sadly for a funeral that I attended as well. I was quite surprised to see how badly she looked. Mary was extremely weak and definitely dehydrated, I suggested she see Dr. Al Costanza. She did, and after six months of no answers or help, Dr. Al had prescribed a DNA stool analysis lab test. Less than two weeks later she had her answer. Now on her way to good health, less stress about what was going on. She believed she had cancer. Dr. Al sent her one of his custom formulas and she is now able to eat and go to the bathroom normally. Her gastroenterologist was sent the report by Dr. Al. When my aunt saw him, he asked her why she saw someone in Massachusetts. She told him her niece suggested it and thank God! She told him it took Dr. Al less than 2 weeks to find the answer that in six months he found nothing to remedy her ailments. She now touts Dr. Al for helping her heal.
She calls him all the time now –he’s got a new friend for sure.
Thank you Dr. Al for your dedication and caring the way you do for all your patients. From a patient whose life you made a difference in as well.
With Appreciation Always,
Deborah Capuano-Winsor
I would like to give a testimonial for Dr. Al Costanza. My aunt Mary, who is 85 years young, lives in Florida and has been sick for six months. She has lost 35 lbs. and could not drink or eat without vomiting or having diarrhea. Mary has seen many doctors and had many tests. The last being with a gastroenterologist. The only thing they said it was was IBS and needless to say they couldn’t help her. She came to Massachusetts sadly for a funeral that I attended as well. I was quite surprised to see how badly she looked. Mary was extremely weak and definitely dehydrated, I suggested she see Dr. Al Costanza. She did, and after six months of no answers or help, Dr. Al had prescribed a DNA stool analysis lab test. Less than two weeks later she had her answer. Now on her way to good health, less stress about what was going on. She believed she had cancer. Dr. Al sent her one of his custom formulas and she is now able to eat and go to the bathroom normally. Her gastroenterologist was sent the report by Dr. Al. When my aunt saw him, he asked her why she saw someone in Massachusetts. She told him her niece suggested it and thank God! She told him it took Dr. Al less than 2 weeks to find the answer that in six months he found nothing to remedy her ailments. She now touts Dr. Al for helping her heal.
She calls him all the time now –he’s got a new friend for sure.
Thank you Dr. Al for your dedication and caring the way you do for all your patients. From a patient whose life you made a difference in as well.
With Appreciation Always,
Deborah Capuano-Winsor
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Patient who no longer suffers from eczema, chronic hives, lymphedema and obesity!
In January 2009 I realized that something was wrong with my health. I was very tired and broke out in hives daily. I began by seeing an internist and was given a hydrocortisone shot. He referred me to see an allergist. As the weeks went on things continued to get worse. I was put on many different medications by many different allergists and dermatologists. At this point I am completely covered in hives. My body is swollen especially my hands, feet and face and I am experiencing joint pain. There where entire days that I could not bend my knees or make a fist. Simple activities such as walking up a flight of stairs became very difficult. The many different doctors that were involved in treating me had performed every type of blood work imaginable. I was being tested almost weekly and had two biopsies of the hives. Every time I was told that my blood work was perfect and that there was nothing wrong. The best explanation that they had for me was that I had chronic hives and that they would go away just as quickly as they came. At this point I am on very high doses of many fferent medications including prednisone. Nothing appears to be working my condition is getting worse. By mid July I was fifty pounds heavier than I ever was and simply felt and looked awful. I was up all night scratching, itching, swelling, with incredible joint pain and chest pains do to anxiety. There were many sleepless nights. I then began seeing an endocrinologist who found that I had a vitamin deficiency and began to treat me. Thankfully my parents referred me to see Dr Al Costanza. I first met with him in early September 2009. He ran his bio chemical analysis and said that I had many things wrong and that my body was not properly working. Dr Al completely changed my diet and I began a series of natural vitamins and supplements. Within one month I was completely off of all prescription medications and needed only relied on one Benadryl to help get through the night. I was very happy because only one month prior I was taking about thirty prescription pills per day. By the beginning of October I had already lost twenty pounds and was beginning to feel better. As time went on I continued with the vitamins, supplements and diet that Dr Al prescribed. The swelling and hives were occurring less often. By the beginning of November I did not rely the Benadryl to help get through the night. I was finally drug free. By Christmas I was essentially hive free and had no swelling at all. The pain was gone and I was getting back to my normal daily life. Now it is January 2010, one year since this all began. I have lost about fifty pounds and feel like a new person. I cannot express how grateful I am to Dr Al for getting me healthy again. I will continue on with Dr Al’s program and strongly recommend it.
Sincerely,
Karen P.
In January 2009 I realized that something was wrong with my health. I was very tired and broke out in hives daily. I began by seeing an internist and was given a hydrocortisone shot. He referred me to see an allergist. As the weeks went on things continued to get worse. I was put on many different medications by many different allergists and dermatologists. At this point I am completely covered in hives. My body is swollen especially my hands, feet and face and I am experiencing joint pain. There where entire days that I could not bend my knees or make a fist. Simple activities such as walking up a flight of stairs became very difficult. The many different doctors that were involved in treating me had performed every type of blood work imaginable. I was being tested almost weekly and had two biopsies of the hives. Every time I was told that my blood work was perfect and that there was nothing wrong. The best explanation that they had for me was that I had chronic hives and that they would go away just as quickly as they came. At this point I am on very high doses of many fferent medications including prednisone. Nothing appears to be working my condition is getting worse. By mid July I was fifty pounds heavier than I ever was and simply felt and looked awful. I was up all night scratching, itching, swelling, with incredible joint pain and chest pains do to anxiety. There were many sleepless nights. I then began seeing an endocrinologist who found that I had a vitamin deficiency and began to treat me. Thankfully my parents referred me to see Dr Al Costanza. I first met with him in early September 2009. He ran his bio chemical analysis and said that I had many things wrong and that my body was not properly working. Dr Al completely changed my diet and I began a series of natural vitamins and supplements. Within one month I was completely off of all prescription medications and needed only relied on one Benadryl to help get through the night. I was very happy because only one month prior I was taking about thirty prescription pills per day. By the beginning of October I had already lost twenty pounds and was beginning to feel better. As time went on I continued with the vitamins, supplements and diet that Dr Al prescribed. The swelling and hives were occurring less often. By the beginning of November I did not rely the Benadryl to help get through the night. I was finally drug free. By Christmas I was essentially hive free and had no swelling at all. The pain was gone and I was getting back to my normal daily life. Now it is January 2010, one year since this all began. I have lost about fifty pounds and feel like a new person. I cannot express how grateful I am to Dr Al for getting me healthy again. I will continue on with Dr Al’s program and strongly recommend it.
Sincerely,
Karen P.
Reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome
I am a 73 year old woman who was diagnosed with RSDS in February 2010. I was losing the capability of using my hands for many every day functions. I was in constant and extreme pain, unable to sleep and getting depressed. My doctor prescribed physical therapy, twice a week for 12 weeks. After 6 weeks I saw no
improvement. My hands remained swollen and painful. Just when it seemed like there was no where else to turn, I was introduced to Dr. Costanza. My first
visit with him was in July 2010. After a thorough consultation, I left his office hopeful of some relief. He put me on a healthy diet which included
supplements, as well as exercise guidelines. Within 4 weeks, I begin to see remarkable results. Now after 4 months, the pain has greatly decreased and on a
scale of 0-100%, I have made an 85% improvement. I have learned a great deal from Dr. Costanza and thank him for getting my life back.
J.K. Lynnfield, MA
Retired Nurse Practitioner
This testimonial for Dr Al Costanza could also be called my chant, my mantra
In 1997 I became very sick. Going through many tests and seeing a neurologist they finally diagnosed me with transverse myelitis. It is a sister to MS, but with no remission regarding the numbness. I could not feel my body from the waist down and walking was difficult and driving was halted for a while.
At my lowest point of hope --- my own neurologist said to me “ this is as good as it gets ”!!! I was shocked that he would say that and angry – never say
such things to someone on steroids! To give no hope or encouragement is a terrible thing. So one night reading a local news paper there was an article about Dr Al Costanza who was a natural healer. I called to see him. That was the beginning of my healing and a beautiful friendship.When I met with him I was toting a medium Dunkin Donuts coffee. We spoke about my condition and he later said to me, do you realize caffeine is not a good thing for someone with auto immune disease? I then and still do not have caffeine – accept for occasional chocolate. More than that, he became a wonderful mentor to me as well as my healer. Within time, all the right supplements and correct foods my legs started to feel again. I could drive as my feet started to wake up.
Everything happens in Divine timing. I had to be patient for all of this to happen. There is no such thing as a quick fix.
I saw my neurologist and he was amazed as to how I was doing. He asked me what I was doing to make such an amazing change and I told him about Dr Costanza. Being that it was all natural he raised his eyebrows. But said “keep doing what you’re doing”
So one more thing to tout. I did not want to go back to the job I had because there was so much stress – (attorneys and doctors) so Dr Costanza suggested many avenues of my hopeful new career. He sponsored me and took me to the Polarity Realization Institute where I changed my career and continued my healing with a healing environment. I have been in my own healing practice for 11 yrs now and refer my clients to Dr Costanza who as well are more than pleased with his fine work and compassion. I thank God that I met Dr Costanza, for he has made all the difference in my life, healing, guidance and now a friend first and co-worker.
Always with gratitude,
Deborah Capuano
Deborah Capuano,LCMT
Deborah Capuano's Holistic Massage and Therapies
63 Albion Street
Wakefield, MA 01880
781-246-9477
www.dcholistictherapies.com
The woman who no longer suffers from a debilitating dis-ease!
For more than 25 years, I’ve suffered with what was diagnosed as eczema. A noncontagious, skin inflammation marked by itchy and scaly patches; a skin rash of unknown origin. Cortisone creams were the choice of treatment to no avail. Two to three times a year my hands would get so bad I’d wind up in the emergency room for my fix of prednisone which would give m some relief for five to ten days I was on it. I was told there was no cure, to leave my profession and to go on disability. Believe me when I tell you I was truly disabled. I was unable to use a key, cut my food, button, fasten, or write a check. I had to forgo invitations, miss work and conduct what was left of my life with wearing white cotton gloves. The itch was like a fire you couldn’t put out. My hand were swollen to approximately three times their usual size. I was in constant pain that would reduce me to tears. They
were hard to look at if anyone could catch a glimpse. I tried everything. More cream, vitamins, acupuncture, Reiki, and healers. If I could get up and shower,
blow dry my hair and get dressed I was thankful to have a “functioning” day and those days were few. One day a friend of mine, seeing the pain I was in actually picked up the phone and made me an appointment with Dr. Al Costanza who saw me immediately. Reluctantly, I went. After having seen more than thirty doctors and having tried what I believed was everything. I listened carefully to the information provided by Dr. Al and being so desperate, I elected to believe he could help me because I wanted so much to get my life back. I had already dismissed the idea of being able to golf, bowl or the like. I merely wanted to be able to do simple every day tasks with some sort of ease like start my car. After the initial consult, personal profile, paper work and tests were done Dr. Al
“determined” what he believed was wrong with my body, the food supplements I needed to add and the substances I needed to eliminate. I admit initially I was somewhat overwhelmed with the new found information and approach to “resolve” my condition. Cautiously optimistic, I left with my information and food supplement program. I went home and started my new routine three times a day. Everything else I ate and drank was the norm for me. I took the supplements as recommended and was merely mindful of my dairy, sugar and gluten containing grains intake. Every day I saw more and more healing and improvement. And by day five (yes day 5), my hands returned to normal. It has only been six weeks total that I’ve been on my supplements and every day I still wake up expecting my hands to return back to their disabling condition. Dr. Al gave me my life back! There isn’t anything I can’t do with my hands. The only regret I have is not taking photos of how they looked before. I’ve searched for photos but I’m wearing gloves in every picture I found. I’ve given Dr. Al permission to give my phone number to anyone who would like to call me. I believe he can truly help anyone who utilizes the services he provides.
Paula P.
Weight Loss - an unexpected email
I'm ecstatic about my weight loss. I feel like a I have a lot more energy already, and don't feel the usual mid-day slump that I had before. Thought we'd be starving, but it's really not that bad...I think it's definitely worth it!
So, thanks for your help, talk to you later,
Julie
“Eat to live .....and love, don’t live to eat....and die!” In the authors own words
I am an 82 year old woman who had always felt I must have had a stomach made of iron, because I always ate anything and everything and a lot of them. However, came the day I met a situation where I internalized a stress condition that built up, and I decided to reach out to a health practitioner for relief. He added to my vitamin regimen and gave me a tranquilizer where both had failed. However, he did not inquire about my eating habits. As a result the combination of those two elements raised my heart rate to 179, which put me in the hospital. I was sent home with 4 more medications that made me very sick and for 2 weeks I could not eat, walk or sleep. Consequently, I refused to continue to take them. I was put on blood pressure medication for 2 years when I decided to search for a holistic doctor. I found Dr. Costanza of Wakefield and began sessions with him. Right away, Dr. Costanza fine combed my diet and eating habits. He made modifications to the foods I was eating and adjusting my vitamin intake as well. In a time frame of only one year my blood pressure medication was cut in half to finally none. Today my blood pressure, cholesterol, triglycerides, blood sugar and all numbers are at their desired optimal requirements and I am off the blood pressure medication. I gave this testimony as an example of a person who is proof that we are what we eat. And I ask that if you are in hearing range of these words, to heed my waring to “eat to live and love not live to eat and die because die you will..........and there will not always be a warning.
Anne M.
My Story by Janet O.
Flash back to just three and a half years ago. I was forty-six. My hips had been bothering me, often feeling achy, especially at night, sometimes making it hard
to sleep. My Primary Care Physician (PCP) ordered a bone density test, which I thought was totally unnecessary, figuring it was just muscle aches from dancing
or tight tendons that I needed to stretch. Wrong. While the test results for the spine (-0.9) were still in the “normal” range, the results for the hip (-2.6)
had put me squarely in the osteopenia range, in fact, bordering on osteoporosis. I have to say, I was shocked. My PCP read me the riot act. I was only forty-six. I had the bones of a sixty-year-old. What would they be like when I was sixty? I could break a hip. I needed to get on medication immediately. I listened as she instilled fear in me, but inside, everything resisted. “I don’t want to be on drugs,” I kept thinking, but she continued to press, causing me to doubt. I left the office with a handful of prescriptions and a few pamphlets on the usual medications: Fosamax, Actonel, and even the newly touted Boniva. But I did not go
straight to the pharmacy. I did not fill the prescriptions. I went straight home and called my nutritionist, Dr. Al Costanza. I’d already been his patient for
several years for other problems, like digestive disturbances, which standard medicine hadn’t been able to help me with. His approach had given me much better results without all the medications. We set up an appointment. When I told him of the test results, he said “oh,” and then unlike my PCP, launched into an account of the underlying causes of osteoporosis. Dr. Al explained that while there are some commonly known risk factors for osteoporosis (smoking, genetics, lack of calcium, etc.), it is actually a systemic disease that is associated with inflammation in the body. That is, osteoporosis is not just about the bones or getting enough calcium. It’s a sign that the body as a whole is inflamed, which means that the acid/alkaline balance is probably out of whack. If the body is too acidic, the body will steal calcium (alkaline forming) from the bones to restore the balance because it is vital to the health and functioning of all the cells in the body. The bones are not static—there is a continual process of breakdown and buildup—but if the body is too acidic, the bones will break down faster than they can build up, leading to bone loss. Dr. Al informed me of other important and less well-known factors, such as stress, which causes increased cortisol (a stress hormone) production, which also leads to inflammation and osteoporosis, and other diseases. And he emphasized the importance of exercise and strength training, which is also essential to bone formation. Contrary to my PCP, he informed me of the side effects of drugs like Fosamax, such as nausea, abdominal cramping, severe constipation, pain of the muscles, joints and bones, G.I. ulceration and that they work by slowing the breakdown of bone, but they don’t help much with rebuilding bone. (That is, they work contrary to the natural process, leaving one with more “old” bone.) Furthermore, the drugs do not address the underlying causes of bone loss, which will continue, meaning that the drugs are fighting against the tide. After some tests, a lengthy questionnaire, and an in-depth look at my diet and lifestyle, Dr. Al had a number of recommendations:
1. A high-quality, easily digested form of calcium, and a high dose of vitamin D, essential for the absorption of the calcium.
2. Weight-bearing exercises and strength training at the gym.
3. Dietary changes, especially more alkaline-forming foods, vegetables, and spices.
4. Natural anti-inflammatories, e.g., garlic, omega-3 fatty acids, and high-quality fish oil.
5. Specially-designed powdered food supplements, also containing nutrients needed to fight inflammation.
6. Meditation and relaxation.
7. Informative books on the subject of osteoporosis.
In short, he strived to educate me about the disease and recommended a comprehensive program designed to combat the underlying causes of osteoporosis
and help build bone mass naturally. After about a year and three months, I repeated the bone density test with the results, spine -0.8 and hip -2.5. Ok, not spectacular, but a tad improved and at least not worse. My PCP was not impressed. She stressed that my bone density was still low and I was only forty-eight. Again I got dire warnings: I could break a hip, etc., etc. Again she was emphatic—I needed to start medication immediately. But she told me she had good news. She knew I didn’t like drugs, but since I’d waited so long, there was a new, natural cure that I might be interested in. She told me it was a natural hormone that only has to be taken for two years. With a big smile, she offered me a pamphlet to take home to read. Well, every other page contained a prominent warning in a box that some of the rats in the study had developed bone cancer! Are you kidding me? She hadn’t even said a word about the cancer risk. I’d rather risk a hip replacement, thank you very much. But once again, she had instilled fear in me and I admit I was wavering. Maybe I did need to take Fosamax or one of those “safe” drugs. Once again, I called Dr. Al. He was much more enthused about the test results. He said that I had reversed the process at a time in my life—the years prior to and just after menopause—when women tend to undergo the most rapid bone loss. And—bones grow slowly, and I’d done that in just over a year. But I didn’t need him to tell me that I couldn’t rest on my laurels, that if anything, I needed to step up my efforts. So I tried to increase the amount of resistance in the exercises in my gym workouts and do more high impact exercises like jumping jacks at home. I continued with the supplements, and continued to onitor my acid/alkaline balance (very easy using the test strips provided by Dr. Al) and adjust my diet accordingly. I also included energy work like Reiki and qi gong, which helped reduce stress and increase my energy levels. Another two years passed, and it was time to have another bone density test. I was nervous. To be honest, I probably hadn’t followed all of Dr. Al’s guidelines to the max and the results of his test weren’t as strong as he’d like to see. Also, my acid/alkaline balance was still not as good as it should be. I certainly could have done more. What if I had lost more bone since I am at “that time of life”? I called my PCP to get the results. She chatted away as she looked up my records in the computer. “I know you don’t like drugs,” she said. “I’d just be happy if there hasn’t been any change.” Finally, after a suspenseful silence (during which I was feeling like a contestant on a reality show waiting to see if I was going to be eliminated), she found the scores and read them off: spine, -0.8; hip -2.0. “Wow,” I thought, but her response was lukewarm. She said something like, “You’ve improved a bit.” Then she added, “You must be doing something. Are you drinking more milk?” I know she sees a lot of patients, but she obviously didn’t remember the regimen of Dr. Al’s that I had told her about somewhere between her rants about medications. (And no, milk has not been part of the regimen; to my understanding—which I won’t go into here and which I’m sure Dr. Al could elaborate on—consuming a lot of milk and milk products is not the best way to obtain calcium.)
Despite my PCP’s less-than-enthusiastic reaction, I’m thrilled with the results. Ok, I still have a ways to go, and the results for the hip still put me in the
osteopenia range—and I’m only fifty—but I now feel confident that I can continue to improve my bone health Dr. Al’s way, without medications. What’s more, the achiness in the hips is all but gone (improved almost immediately after starting the vitamin D, as Dr. Al predicted). And my knees—which had bothered me for years, so much so that I had to give up all but the most gentle forms of dancing because of the pain, and which had bothered me more often than not even when just walking—have improved tremendously. Now I’m generally pain-free. I’ve even had occasion to do some dancing recently—some of it quite vigorous—and I completely forgot that I had a knee problem. I obviously don’t have the knees of a twenty-year-old and I still have limitations, like I’m not about to go
jogging, but I couldn’t have done those dances when I was forty. And I’m sure my overall state of health is the better for Dr. Al’s program. Well, that’s my
personal story, or part of it anyway. What is your story? Are you suffering from a physical condition or disease that the doctors want to treat with drugs? Are
they telling you there is no alternative? Are the drugs causing side effects (and did your doctor warn you about them?), and then are you needing another
drug to combat the symptoms created by the first drug? Are you feeling less than good? Are you one of those people who is experiencing difficulty with basic
actions like walking and breathing because of poor physical condition? If you answered yes to any of these questions, are you willing to keep an open mind?
Are you interested in exploring alternatives? Let me be clear—I’m not suggesting anyone not go to their PCP or stop their medications without supervision.
Obviously traditional Western medicine can provide important tests, screenings, diagnoses and treatment. But I do want to suggest that when your doctor tells
you that drugs are the only cure, you question that and see if there are alternatives. Dr. Al can assist you with that. He can give you answers to many
conditions you’ve probably been told that you just have to live with it. He can guide you to live and eat the way humans are designed to, and it can make a
world of difference in how you feel—at any age. Is it easy? No. Is it cheap? No. Is it a quick fix or magic pill? No. Is it worth it? Absolutely. A program like Dr. Al’s leads to increased vitality and improved health. Although this is not a miracle that will prevent or cure any disease, it will help you to be as healthy as you can. The choice is yours. Do you have the determination? Do you want to feel good? (I mean really good.) Are you willing to do the work? Are you willing to change some eating habits and give up some of your favorite foods if necessary? Are you willing to try new approaches and give up some false belief systems about health and aging? If yes, then this approach is for you and, believe me, you will wish you had tried it sooner.
Janet O.
Here what this misdiagnosed patient had to say:
I started working with Dr. Al in September, 2006. Even though it's only been a few months, I've had dramatic changes in how I feel physically, mentally and emotionally. ALL FOR THE BETTER! I'm a 37 year old female with chronic health issues; mostly starting 8 years ago with an extreme flare-up of
Ulcerative Colitis which ultimately led to the removal of my large intestine and other organs. After the birth of my one and only child, I endured several major
surgeries, numerous health issues, countless amounts of pharmaceutical drugs, invasive tests, anxiety, depression, and more. I learned over the years that
conventional doctors, at best, are only able to offer three things… drugs, invasive tests, and surgery. All of which I've done, with no good results, only
more problems. The past few years I started doing my own research and educating myself about nutrition, diet, lifestyle, etc. I made major lifestyle changes and
was able to really help myself. Things improved, but not nearly enough. I still didn't feel good. I still had chronic digestive issues, low energy, fatigue,
vitamin deficiencies, anxiety, insomnia, arthritis, PMS and painful periods. Even with all the books I bought and research I did, I was missing many key
answers to problems I was still having. In June, my GI doctors decided that I had been misdiagnosed and that instead of Ulcerative Colitis, it was actually
Crohns disease that I had. That was it for me. I knew I needed help someplace much different. I needed to find a naturopathic doctor. Through a very casual
conversation with my hair dresser, I was referred to Dr. Al. She raved about him. I just knew in my gut that he was going to be the answer to my prayers. And
he is. He's that and more. In just a few weeks, Dr. Al filled in all the blanks. He answered questions that NO ONE has been able to answer. He's given me a diet that is clean and healthy and enjoyable. He's given me supplements that actually work. He's given me real tools and exercises for anxiety. Dr. Al is a WEALTH of information, all of which he is happy to share. Within just weeks of starting on his plan, my digestive distress was gone! This was miraculous. I started having full, deep, restful, UNINTERUPTED sleep. My energy level lifted. Just this past month I had NO PMS (my husband is ecstatic). Recent blood labs showed huge improvement with my levels back to normal! Dr. Al is phenomenal. He's a doctor, teacher, motivator, therapist, and friend all rolled into one. His passion for
his work is so apparent, his excitement and enthusiasm totally contagious. He is highly intelligent, super caring, and extremely inspirational. He is a true life
changer. This is just the beginning and I still have a long way to go. I have complete faith that with Dr. Al on my side, I will once again be a strong, healthy, happy woman. I truly believe that had I had the benefit of Dr. Al at the onset of my disease 8 years ago, I would have easily avoided all of the drugs, surgeries, pain, and heartache.
Thanks Dr. Al!
A. B.
A female patient with fribromyalgia symptoms and more!
I went to Dr. Al Costanza with several minor health issues. I chose a naturopath over my PCP because I knew Dr. Al would address and treat the cause while my PCP would only treat the symptoms with prescription drugs, which in my eyes just adds fuel to the fire. Being 42 years old, I was concerned with my hormone levels as I was experiencing painful irregular periods, mood swings, irritability, sugar cravings, and constant breast tenderness. I also had terrible fibromyalgia pain in my neck, shoulders, joints and overall muscle stiffness. Working as a dental hygienist made each day exhaustingly painful. My quality of sleep was inadequate. I had low energy and afternoon fatigue. I knew my G.I. system was not functioning properly due to the gas, bloating, heartburn, and constipation.
After filling out an extensive questionnaire and getting the results of my body composition test, Dr. Al began to educate me on what was happening in my body. He explained what I needed to do to bring myself "into balance". He addressed both my emotional and physical health. With a primary focus on nutrition, he
made recommendations for supplements, herbs (some of his own mixtures) and dietary changes. He also suggested readings to increase my knowledge, cookbooks with healthy recipes and an infrared sauna to assist with my cleansing program. You do not get this kind of treatment at your physicians' office!
To make a long and wonderful story short, I accepted Dr. Al's recommendations and within a few months, ALL of my symptoms disappeared. My health has improved on a physical and tangible level and on a cellular level. I have tons of energy, I have shed a few pounds, I am pain free for the first time in years and I am happy, happy, happy! I've never felt better! And all without "undesirable and dangerous side effects". Thank God for Dr. Al and the other men and women who have the desire and common sense to seek the truth. They educate and inspire so we can help ourselves with what mother nature gave us. I was impressed by Dr. Al's vast knowledge and charmed by his kind and caring disposition. I will continue to use him as my primary health advocate. I not only regained my health, but I gained a new friend and mentor for life. Take that to your HMO!
Sincerely and in good health,
Patricia S., RDH
Done with chronic sinusitis, obesity and medication
In January 2005 I had back to back sinus infections and was taking everything available both over the counter and prescription's. I also needed to lose weight. I was very fortunate that a friend of mine recommended that I meet with Dr. Al. Needless to say that was one of the best referrals I have ever received. Dr. Al has taught me how to heal from the inside out. I have not had a sinus infection since January 2005, I no longer take any kind of over the counter or prescription medication and I have lost over 30 pounds.
Mary A.
A patient who recognizes the value of complimentary medicine
Dr. Al has been my personal functional medicine specialist and I can testify to his great training and health acumen. He's the real thing, both personally and professionally. I am a 55 year old woman in good health. My goals are to maintain optimal health and enduring healthy life through 125. Dr. Al has given me an analysis of my healthy profile and recommends supplements to keep me in shape. I feel as if I found a real gem in Dr. Al and I feel confident he will help me attain my life and health goals. He's a virtual 'wealth' of information on health. And, he's very generous in answering questions and recommending solutions to our personal health questions. He has convenient access to the supplements necessary to augment our sorry diets, so you can get what you need now. Blessings of health and life. We all deserve it.
Marsha J.O.
A Brief Update
I'm just calling for a brief update. I'm feeling so much better in a short period of time. And I wanted to thank you for this improvement being able to guide me through the supplements. It is quite amazing out of all the things I have done in the last 2 plus years this has such an immediate impact without taking a type of drug.
Laura C.
"walk down the holistic path"
I am a 45 year old female who was diagnosed with psoriasis at the age of 17 and came to Dr. Al Costanza looking for relief. I also had other issues I was looking for answers to in hopes to resolving them as well. When I went to my first visit which was a consultation with Dr. Al, my husband came with me and thought after just a short time this man knew me and was definitely the one to help me. I started seeing Dr. Al weekly for all my ailments and in a matter of six weeks I felt so much better. Keep in mind that when I started this program it was during the holiday season and food was definitely a factor in slowing down the process of feeling better faster. Once I adjusted to the regine of diet change and taking the supplements almost all my symptoms went away! The results were amazing and liberating! I felt I had my life back - I was me again. I came to Dr. Al feeling confident that I would be better because I went to a holistic doctor when I was 19 years old and it made a great difference in my life back then. But when your young and life happens to you, you tend to derail from your health issues and of course your body goes in a different, unhealthy path. Now at 45, with several different health issues, I knew I had to walk down the holistic path again. I am very happy I did and especially with Dr. Al. This time the change is for life and with and with Dr. Al's help and guidance it's not so hard.
From a patient who had severe eczema
Everyday I saw more and more healing and improvement and by day 5 (yes day 5) my hands returned to normal. It has only been 6 weeks total that I've been on my supplements and everyday I still wake up expecting my hands to revert back to their disabling condition. Dr. al gave me my life back. There isn't anything I can't do with my hands. The only regret I have is not taking pictures of how they looked before. I've searched for photos but I have gloves on in every picture I found.
P. Pirrello