It was great to see and review a cross-sectional survey of students enrolled at one of the naturopathic colleges in order to test an important hypothesis. Work by Dr. Tippens and colleagues at NCNM has demonstrated that soy allergy may be more likely amongst people who consumed soy formula as a child compared to those who did not. It is interesting to find that the same effect was not demonstrated for dairy allergy; however, further work needs to explore this question (as well as that for soy).

Related to polarization in the immune system, Gillingham and Lescheid provide a wonderful discussion on the Th1/Th2 division and how imbalances can be corrected by targeted probiotic therapy. This kind of in-depth review allows for real understanding of the pathological and biochemical origin of diseases like Crohn’s and the propensity towards atopy, thus enabling more informed therapeutic choices that may truly address root cause.

Dillingham and Rao provide a thorough discussion of the evidence, application, and pharmacokinetics of lycopene. From epidemiology to mechanism of action, the paper provides a strong rationale for using this vegetable-based antioxidant in clinical practice.

A comprehensive review is provided by Drs. Kassis, Santosa, and Jones on the topic of dietary fiber for a variety of health complaints. Dietary interventions that emphasize this staple approach should never be far from mind and a full review of this topic is appreciated. A final review by Drs. Rudkowska and Jones looks closely at the use of fats for weight control, a clear and pressing clinical concern. It is encouraging to see the collaboration of a student with a licensed ND as in the write-up of the case report by Sara Love and Dr. Weizer. The report gives an account of how naturopathic care may well have resolved a patient’s chemotherapy-induced neuropathy. In addition to being an interesting and educational case, this report provides evidence of a successful mentorship. Drs. Kao and Levytam have provided an interesting discussion of a ‘Eubiotic’ diet and its application elucidated in a case report. Of note, this case report and its poster presentation won first prize for a case report competition held by The Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors in Halifax.

The final article in the issue fits within a more classically educational role in that it specifically offers a rough guideline for writing a case report. The intent that Dr. Leung and I have with this article is not to be prescriptive on how to write a case report, but rather to provide assistance where it might help most. In the spirit of good education, the idea is to have a tool to enable rather than a set of rules to follow.

I would like to take a moment to extend my deep gratitude to the authors of this issue. They have waited a long time to see their work published and we appreciate their patience and loyalty to the idea and existence of this journal to not have sought publication elsewhere. The material published here is excellent and demonstrates a variety that well matches the scope of our medicine and the challenges we continue to face as a profession.