Abstract
This presentation explores the evolving understanding of how refined sugars and carbohydrates contribute to chronic inflammatory diseases, tracing key milestones from ancient times to modern science, and explaining the biological mechanisms behind this link. In early history, diets were low in sugar, and traditional medicine hinted at connections between food and illness. With the rise of sugar refining in the 17th century and its widespread use during the Industrial Era, health issues like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease became more common. By the 20th century, scientists began to suspect sugar— not just fat—might be fueling these modern epidemics. Visionaries like John Yudkin warned of sugar’s dangers decades before it became widely accepted. Modern research has confirmed that refined sugars trigger chronic, low-grade inflammation. When blood sugar spikes repeatedly, the body releases arachidonic acid from cells, which is converted into inflammatory chemicals such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes. These, along with cytokines like TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β, create a harmful feedback loop that keeps the immune system activated unnecessarily. This internal inflammation damages blood vessels, disrupt insulin signaling, and fuel conditions like atherosclerosis, obesity, and neurodegenerative disease. The interaction between inflammatory fats and immune messengers lies at the heart of many chronic diseases today. Encouragingly, science also shows that reducing refined sugars and eating anti-inflammatory foods—like those rich in omega-3s—can help break this cycle and support long-term health.
Biography
Dr. Kevin KF Ng, a distinguished pharmacologist, began his career in Singapore in 1962. His early research uncovered emetine’s neuronal blocking effects, earning him an MD in 1967. Working with Nobel Laureate Sir John R. Vane, he discovered angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) in the lungs and an ACE inhibitor in snake venom, paving the way for drugs like captopril. He received his PhD from the University of London in 1968. After moving to the U.S. in 1981, he conducted over 150 clinical trials. Since 2008, he has focused on “Food as Medicine,” exploring phytochemicals' roles in pain relief and disease prevention.
Abstract
Somatic dysfunctions, such as pain, ROM restrictions, trigger points in the muscles, fascial restrictions, postural changes, etc., are triggered by trauma or chronic overload. However, a less known cause is the phenomenon of reflex zones formation. In such cases, clinical symptoms in the soft tissue are formed secondarily to silent triggers located in completely different parts of the body.
The frequent lack of stability in the clinical results of somatic pain and dysfunction therapies revived interest in 'the groundbreaking work by Prof. Korr, (1947) and Dr. Glezer, and Dr. Dalicho (1955) on reflex zone formation, which is the topic of this presentation.
Reflex zones in the soft tissues resulted from two main factors: 1. Even mild irritation of the spinal and peripheral nerves in proximal segments presents as clinical symptoms at the end of innervation. As a result, the function of the peripheral receptors in these areas is altered, and sensory input into the brain forms pathological motor output. At this stage, the patient's brain cannot identify the real trigger, concentrating solely on the areas with dysfunctions of peripheral receptors. It misleads practitioners who see symptoms as a local pathology rather than reflex zones phenomenon. It requires a different treatment strategy. 2. According to Neuromatrix Theory of Pain, chronic somatic dysfunctions activate the brain's neuromatrix, which reprints the same pattern of pain, enhancing the intensity of local clinical symptoms.
The practitioners' ability to examine and detect the presence of reflex zones is critical to the stability of the treatment results.
Biography
Dr. Turchaninov graduated from the Odessa Medical School in Ukraine in 1982 and residency at the Kyiv Institute of Rehabilitation. In 1989, he obtained a PhD degree in medicine. Until 1992, he worked as supervisor of the rehabilitation for the Ministry of Public Health and senior researcher at the Kyiv Institute of Rehabilitation. Since 1992, he has been practicing and teaching manual therapy in Phoenix, Arizona. Dr. Turchaninov is the author of more than 100 articles in professional journals and three textbooks: Medical Massage, Vol. I; II, and Therapeutic Massage: A Scientific Approach. He is the editor-in-chief of the Journal of Massage Science.
Abstract
Wellbeing is not simply the absence of disease, rather having physical and mental energy to do everything in your life, with a foundation of resilience and positivity to address life’s curve balls, embracing each day. Traditionally we look at disease conditions in silos – the cardiovascular system, respiratory system, colon etc. This may or may not be correct. Looking at each presenting condition holistically, not only from a systemic point of view, but on all levels – physical, mental, emotional and spiritual provides a deeper understanding and integrated map for both practitioner and client. Through experience of treating clients my firm belief, is that unless you treat the underlying emotional and spiritual elements there will only be temporary relief physically and mentally from the presenting issue. Not all clients are willing to go into the aspects of why a particular condition or dis ease is manifesting, nor is it necessary. This is where plants and plant remedies can support the healing process in a non-intrusive manner. Plants are much more than what meets the eye - leaf, flower, berry, root etc. Plants resonate on energetic frequencies that support gradual change and the ability of the client to heal on a deep level without them re-living negative experiences. Plants address patterns of behaviour that do not serve and which over time manifest into dis ease. My presentation will be addressing the different aspects of holistic healing and the application of herbal remedies, Phytobiophysics and orchid essences.
Biography
Rachel Shackleton, founder of Green Key Personal Development & Green Key Health is a business trainer and corporate health specialist as well as practicing kinesiologist, medical herbalist and naturopath. She has over 30 years training experience in medium and large international organisations, providing solutions in leadership, customer excellence, and workplace wellbeing. A practicing medical herbalist, naturopath and kinesiologist, Rachel believes wellness and vitality will only be achieved when addressing the physical, emotional and spiritual history through treating the client holistically. Also addresses workplace wellbeing through the same light. Featured in Thrive Global, Up Journey, Authority magazine and The Entrepreneur!s Journey as well as interviewed on UK Health Radio and the" My Future Business Show”. September 2020 Rachel was a guest speaker at the 2nd International Health Congress in Geneva on NonCommunicable diseases.
Abstract
Acupuncture, both for humans and animals, has grown and become more modern over the last three decades. There are different forms of acupuncture, such as Japanese, Chinese, Korean, scientific or medical acupuncture, laser acupuncture and other forms. However, one therapeutic modality that has been gaining ground in scientific acupuncture research is an ancient technique called Four Needle Acupuncture or SAAM acupuncture, a Korean master who developed a treatment technique based on the fundamental concepts of Traditional Chinese Medicine such as Yin and Yang and Five Movements (Wu Xing), and the relationship that exists between the Yin Meridians (action of one Organ or Zang on another Organ or Zang) and between the Yang Meridians (action of one Viscera or Fu with another Viscera or Fu). We will show with examples how to use this very effective technique in the treatment of various health disorders, a technique that has several scientific studies proving its effectiveness in PUBMED/MEDLINE. And SAAM Acupuncture can be used on animals and humans with the same effectiveness.
Biography
✓Graduated in Veterinary Medicine from FMVZ-UNESP-Botucatu/SP (1989): (CRMV-SP: 6002); ✓Residency in Medical and Surgical Clinics of Equines and Ruminants from FMVZ-USP (years 1990 to 92); ✓Master's degree in Veterinary Medical Clinic from FMVZ-USP (1997) - Advisor: Professor Enrico Lippi Ortolani; ✓PhD in Clinical Medicine - Evaluation of the Effects of Acupuncture on the Sleep Pattern of Stabled Adult Equines - from FMVZ-USP (Thesis Defense held in December 2024); ✓Postgraduate (Specialization) in Veterinary Acupuncture from IBHAHO (2004-2005); ✓Technical-Scientific Director and Professor of the Veterinary Acupuncture Society (SAVE) since 2005: www.acupunturaveterinaria.com.br/; ✓Coordinator and Professor of the “Lato Sensu” Postgraduate Course (Specialization) in Veterinary Acupuncture at Faculdade Qualittas since 2007: www.qualittas.com.br; ✓Specialist Certificate from IVAS/USA (International Veterinary Acupuncture Society) - since 2014; ✓Specialist Certificate from ABRAVET/CFMV-CRMV-SP: 0134 (specialist in Veterinary Acupuncture - Brazil) since 2016 (title renewed in 2022); ✓Teacher Training in Bioenergetic Acupuncture from the University of Santiago de Compostela/Spain and Beijing University, with Dr. Carlos Nogueira Pérez, 2011-2012: www.cieph.com.br and www.cemetc.es; ✓MBA Course (1,500 hours) in Bioenergetic Acupuncture from the University of Santiago de Compostela/Spain, with Dr. Carlos Nogueira Pérez, 2013-2014: www.cieph.com.br and www.cemetc.es; ✓Certification in Balance Acupuncture (Acupuncture of Balance / I Ching) from Chi University Latin America and Chi University in January 2022 with Master Antonio Alfaro - Costa Rica; ✓Professor of Veterinary Semiology; General Pathology and Medical Clinics of Equines and Ruminants; Hospital Practices; Toxicology and Toxic Plants; Veterinary Ethics of the Faculdades Metropolitanas Unidas – FMU, from February 2001 to December 2017; ✓Author of the Chapter “Examination of the Cardiocirculatory System of Equines and Ruminants", of the Book “Veterinary Semiology. The Art of Diagnosis", by F. Leydson F. Feitosa, published by ROCA/Grupo GEM in its current 5th edition (2024); ✓Author of the Chapter: “Equine Acupuncture” of the book Animal Rehabilitation, IBRA, 2019; ✓E-mail: daniel.acupunturista@gmail.com Curriculum Vitae (Lattes Platform): http://lattes.cnpq.br/2063414710689203
Abstract
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition affecting both children and adults, with widespread implications across behavioural, emotional, and cognitive domains. As pharmacotherapy and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) remain foundational treatments, there is growing interest in the role Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)—particularly acupuncture—can play within a multidisciplinary care model.
This abstract presents an integrative ADHD management plan incorporating acupuncture, CBT, and pharmaceutical intervention. In TCM, ADHD is understood as a disruption of internal harmony involving the Heart, Liver, Spleen, and Kidney organ systems and their associated mental-emotional aspects: Shen, Hun, Yi, and Zhi. Acupuncture treatments are tailored to individual patterns to calm the Shen, soothe Liver Qi, resolve Phlegm, and nourish Kidney Essence, aiming to reduce hyperactivity, improve focus, and support emotional regulation.
Emerging research supports acupuncture’s ability to influence key neurotransmitters and cerebral blood flow, offering physiological support that aligns with the neurological underpinnings of ADHD. When integrated with CBT and medication, acupuncture contributes to a multi-layered treatment approach addressing both symptom management and long-term wellbeing.
Drawing from both clinical insight and lived experience with neurodivergence, this model is client-centered, trauma-informed, and adaptable. It also explores the need for improved interprofessional communication between TCM practitioners and biomedical providers, offering strategies to foster collaborative care.
This framework highlights acupuncture’s potential to enhance quality of life and support cognitive and emotional function in individuals with ADHD, particularly when applied as part of a coordinated, holistic treatment plan.
Biography
Dr. Taralee Reynolds is a Doctor of Chinese Medicine, Clinical Hypnotherapist, Strategic Psychotherapist, and EFT Practitioner based in Australia. With both clinical and lived experience of neurodivergence—being ADHD herself and the parent of a child with ASD/ADHD—Taralee brings deep empathy and insight to her work. Her integrative, traumainformed approach blends acupuncture with evidence-based psychological strategies to support emotional regulation, cognitive clarity, and holistic wellbeing. Taralee specialises in the treatment of ADHD, perimenopause, fertility, and psychoemotional trauma and is passionate about bridging Eastern and Western paradigms in healthcare. She is particularly interested in the intersection of Chinese Medicine and neuroscience, offering personalised treatments that address the root causes of imbalance. Taralee advocates for collaborative, patient-centered care, and sees her role as both practitioner and translator—helping clients and other health professionals communicate across diverse models of health and healing.
Abstract
Chronic diseases continue to pose a significant burden on global health, often requiring long-term management strategies that go beyond conventional pharmaceutical interventions. In this session, we explore recent advancements in the use of herbal medicine as a complementary and integrative approach to chronic disease management. Drawing on both clinical experience and emerging research, this talk will highlight key botanicals with proven efficacy in conditions such as metabolic syndrome, inflammatory disorders, reproductive health challenges, and stress-related imbalances.
We will examine evidence-based formulations, discuss mechanisms of action, and address practical considerations including herb-drug interactions, safety, and individualised protocols. Emphasis will be placed on the synergy between traditional knowledge and modern clinical practice, illustrating how herbal therapies can support resilience, restore physiological balance, and improve long-term health outcomes.
This session is designed for practitioners seeking to deepen their understanding of herbal medicine’s role in chronic care, with a focus on real-world application and clinical relevance.
Biography
Dominica Collis is a master herbalist, naturopath, iridologist, and nutrition therapist, as well as a lecturer at the College of Naturopathic Medicine in London. Since 2012, she has specialised in holistic health and nutrition, inspired by her own journey overcoming eczema, IBS, and chronic fatigue syndrome. Dominica integrates diverse natural medicine approaches to create personalised, whole-body therapeutic protocols. Her key areas of expertise include gut health, hormonal balance, and the impact of toxins on the body. Through her clinic, Wellness Alchemy, she offers consultations, workshops, and training to empower others on their health journey. Dominica balances her professional life with hobbies like crafting plant-based recipes, exploring the mysteries of astrology, and hiking. She shares her life with her husband and their cherished animal family: three dogs, two cats, and four ferrets.
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