Darkfield Microscopy
(Live Blood Cell Nutritional Observation)
By Diane L. Victor, N.D.
Darkfield Microscopy is a way to observe what is physically happening with your blood to determine whether conditions exist which may be adversely affecting your health. The advantage of this analysis over standard blood tests, which detect chemical changes in the blood, is the ability of Darkfield Microscopy to show the blood in its live form, thus detecting nutritional disorders sooner -- many times when the problem is in its infancy. By monitoring the blood’s condition, Diane can assist in “balancing” the blood and whole body by giving dietary and lifestyle recommendations which can enhance your overall health. Diane may also recommend a standard blood panel, urine and stool tests, or read your pulses. In some cases, Diane may recommend an MD or other alternative practitioner to ensure optimum results for wellness. This allows for a nutritional and life-style program that is directed to your current needs. Diane also listens to what you have to say regarding your symptoms -- both present and past -- and your genetic history.
When you begin a nutritional program, the changes in your blood are visible before your eyes. Some changes can occur within minutes, while most occur over time. Because the blood is one of the main pathways for toxic elimination, you can see the process of your body’s detoxification. The health and level of activity of the immune system and red blood cells are easily seen in this process. While at times, fungi, yeast, parasites and bacteria are visible, the effect that these organisms have on the body is readily apparent in the blood. Though not a replacement for medicine, Darkfield Microscopy is valuable in the nutritional educational process and a useful tool for creating nutritional balance.
How it Works
Using a powerful microscope and computer monitor, Diane will show you conditions in your blood that can negatively affect your overall health. A drop of blood is taken with a sterile, disposable lancet from your finger and put onto the slide. Diane will begin the education process and provide you with recommendations for diet and lifestyle changes to help bring your body back into balance. As stated before, with certain conditions you can begin to see the changes in your blood right before your eyes or within a very short span of time. This is true preventative nutrition at its best.
Examples of What You Might See
Normal blood.
In healthy blood the red blood cell is round, evenly shaped, with a strong cell wall that illuminates. The cells are open and free flowing within the plasma. This is important as the red blood cell plays a large part in the delivery of oxygen and nutrients throughout your body. The plasma is clear of toxic debris and gives the appearance of a black or clear background with a few fat globules floating within it. This watery plasma, also contains organic acids, glucose, hormones and salts. Plasma serves as a medium for circulating the suspended blood components throughout the body’s network of arteries, veins and capillaries. It delivers nutrients to the tissues and organs, transporting minerals, hormones, vitamins and antibodies; and removing waste products.
Thrombocyte Aggregation.
Thrombocytes are platelets which normally flow easily through a healthy blood vessel, however they can adhere to the walls and rough surfaces of a damaged vessel. The resulting buildup of platelets can cause small clots and a narrowing of the blood vessel, leading to impaired circulation.
Protein Linkage
Protein linkage provides a clue that the body is having a difficult time absorbing protein. The protein can either come from ingested food or from the body’s own system (catabolism). This condition indicates a protease deficiency, but can also be caused from not eating enough protein. A sugar imbalance can also be indicated by this condition.
Crystals
Crystals may appear red or yellow due to bowel and/or liver toxicity, constipation, leaky gut, and/or the presence of heavy metals. The inability of the body to absorb calcium or the leaching of calcium from the bones may also be seen in this state.
Rouleau and Erythrocyte Aggregation
Also known as blood sludge, this is the process of red blood cells sticking together. It is the result of physical or mental stress, the presence of abnormal proteins, or a diet high in saturated fat. This sludge results in poor circulation of the blood which decreases oxygen and nutrients available for the body to use. This can lead to fatigue and weakness of the body. Ingesting large amounts of protein or having difficulty digesting proteins may create this stressful state.
Fungal Forms
These forms may indicate intestinal fungus overgrowth. Some fungal infections are common in people using antibiotics or drugs, diabetics, or those with a diet heavy in carbohydrates and sugars. Fungal forms may also be evidence of pH imbalances in blood.
Plaque
Also considered a crystal, plaque can contain unused or unstable substances in the blood that have adhered to each other (such as unhealthy calcium, toxins and fat material). This buildup can cause hardening of the blood vessels and the slowing down of blood flow to various parts of the body.
Neutrophil Macrocytosis
Neutrophil Macrocytosisis is large stagnant white blood cells with large holes. It is an indication of the Neutrophil having absorbed too much toxic waste. Toxic waste could be an infection, stagnant lymph, and/or collections of cellular debris.
Poikilocytosis (Free Radical Damage)
Poikilocytosis are deformed red blood cells. The cell membranes contain unsaturated fat and other unhealthy fats creating oddly-shaped cells. The deformed cells may also be seen due to the fermentation of toxins in the liver, heavy metals and other toxic chemicals. These conditions can lead to oxidation, which is the ultimate culprit in Free Radical Damage.
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