Health Tip of the Week

Food Allergy & Intolerance

2012-01-31T20:47:00.001-06:00

When people have severe food allergies, they generally know. Foods like eggs, peanuts or shellfish can cause a life-threatening reaction and require some to have an EpiPen available at all times. These severe allergies are caused by an immune response in which IgE antibodies dominate.

There is another type of food allergy or intolerance, however, and few people even know that their bodies are having a reaction. That’s because this type of response is by a different antibody, called IgG, and these intolerances are generally more subtle and include symptoms like sinusitis, achy muscles, arthritis, bloating, cramping, diarrhea, headaches, depression, eczema and other skin conditions, etc.

Many who suffer the effects of IgG food intolerances have struggled to resolve their symptoms with other treatments. This testing offers new insight as to what might be causing their ailments. Below are two examples of IgG test results from patients we’ve tested.

The first is from a child who struggled with a skin condition called keratosis pilaris (dry bumpy skin, primarily over the outer arms and back) as well as chronic post-nasal drip and cough/throat clearing. When he stopped eating the offending foods, his skin improved dramatically and he stopped coughing as there was no longer a post-nasal drip. (Click to enlarge).

The second is from an adult who had a history of extensive antibiotic use. She suffered from some intestinal bloating, intermittent post-nasal drip & cough, and mild skin bumps. Based on the findings, she was able to change her diet and has seen excellent improvement in her symptoms. (Click to enlarge).

Please ask us if you are interested in IgG food intolerance testing.

Cell Phones May Weaken Bones

2012-01-24T22:14:00.001-06:00

Recent research adds something new to a growing list of studies that raise concerns about the health effects of cell phones. According to research in the Journal of Craniofacial Surgery, routinely wearing your cell phone on your hip reduces the bone density of that hip. This is important as hip fractures, which commonly occur secondary to decreased bone density, are already quite common.

The researchers believe the bone density loss is caused by the electromagnetic radiation produced by the cell phone. While manufactures will argue that the strength of the field is very weak, James Oschman, PhD in his book Energy Medicine points out that,

“Biological systems respond paradoxically to electrical fields: In living systems, extremely weak electrical fields have potent effects, while strong fields may render little or no response.”

Other research on cell phones suggests that they may increase rates of cancer and non-cancerous tumors and may decrease sleep quality, cognitive function and male fertility. Though not all research agrees, it is probably wise to limit the amount of direct exposure of cell phones to your body.

Beta Carotene & Bone Spurs

2012-01-17T21:03:00.000-06:00

Bone spurs (osteophytes) are a common x-ray finding on older adults. But some younger adults also develop them, and many older adults never do. So why do some people develop bone spurs while others don’t?

Bone spurs commonly occur at joints that have been under stress and developed some disc degeneration. The causes for this include prior injury, occupational hazards like vibration, smoking, genetics, mal-alignment/subluxation and free-radical damage from a Western diet. The consequences of bone spurs include increased stiffness and stenosis, which is a narrowing of the spinal canal and exiting nerve tunnels leading to pain, numbness and/or weakness.

Though it is unlikely to completely reverse advanced bone spurs naturally, we have seen numerous cases of early bone spurring improve under chiropractic care. The body creates a spur to stabilize a stressed joint; by changing the pressures on the spine, chiropractic adjustments can alter the stress patterns and remove the need for the spur. This has fantastic long term implications as that person ages.

Recent research (Spine, December 2011) also found that those persons who have a low level of beta carotene are nearly 7 times more likely to develop bone spurs in their lower back. Sweet potatoes, carrots, spinach, squash, cantaloupe, romaine lettuce and broccoli are all excellent sources of beta carotene. Some cholesterol-lowering medications may lower blood levels of all carotenoids (including beta carotene), and certain margarine products (Benecol, Take Control) may decrease the absorption of carotenoids.

In general, maintaining a balanced spine and eating a vegetable-rich diet can help reduce the likelihood that bone spurs are a burdensome part of your golden years.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21673632

Neck Pain? See a Chiropractor

2012-01-10T21:01:00.000-06:00

Headlines similar to this recently appeared on both the New York Times health page and WebMD. Though neither of these publications has traditionally been “pro-chiropractic,” they each took note of new research coming out of Minnesota which compared medication to chiropractic for neck pain.

The research, published in The Annals of Internal Medicine, showed that the subjects’ neck pain was considerably more likely to improve under chiropractic care. It also showed that those who used chiropractic were much more likely to have little or no pain a year later. In addition to having more pain, those who were treated with pain medications (like aspirin, ibuprofen or narcotics) were also likely to be still using the drugs a year later.

Given the inherent side effects of pain medications, the safety of chiropractic and clear differences in effectiveness, chiropractic should be a first choice for those with neck pain. By including good posture and ergonomics, the right pillow & sleep habits and regular physical activity, you will go a long way toward maintaining a healthy cervical spine.

http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/01/03/for-neck-pain-chiropractic-and-exercise-are-better-than-drugs/

Neuroplasticity: Changing Your Brain

2012-01-03T22:13:00.001-06:00

Until quite recently, it was generally accepted that after early childhood, the structure of your brain was fixed. However, substantial new research has proven that our experiences can change both the physical structure and the functional organization of the brain. Today we know that we can grow new neurons (neurogenesis) and new connections between them (synaptogenesis) even in adulthood. We aren’t simply victims of our circumstances!

Given this knowledge, there are considerable implications in how we live our lives. Daily habits matter, as demonstrated by studies which show, for instance, that meditation can rewire the brain. There are also real world implications for those who’ve suffered brain damage or who have learning difficulties. The health of the body also has a direct effect on the brain, and injuries to the spinal joints have a great impact on the structure and function of the brain.

Acute pain can lead to plastic changes in the brain, some of which can persist after the pain is gone. Chronic pain can cause a decrease in grey matter, especially in areas of the brain that block pain, ultimately leading to a hypersensitive state. These changes can also lead to impaired memory & language skills, decreased cognitive function, altered decision making and a slower activation of spinal muscles, increasing the likelihood of future injury.

Fortunately, properly given spinal adjustments have been found to enhance sensory processing and integration in the brain. This was shown to contribute to pain relief, restored functional ability and may normalize brain changes. In 2010, it was also shown that following an adjustment there was improved discrimination and filtering of sensory information.

There appears to be much that we can do to preserve and enhance the function of our brains. From eating well and staying active, to challenging your brain and utilizing chiropractic care, much of your future health is within your control.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17137836
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20350670

Is Chiropractic Care Expensive?

2011-12-27T21:36:00.000-06:00

No, at least not compared to other forms of healthcare when it comes to lower back pain. This is among the findings of a December 2011 report by Dr. Eric Hurwitz, Professor of Epidemiology at the John A. Burns School of Medicine of the University of Hawaii. Dr. Hurwitz analyzed data from over 3 million claims of complicated and uncomplicated lower back pain treated by physical therapists (PT), medical doctors (MD) and chiropractors (DC).

Lower back pain is considered complicated when it involves known disc problems, stenosis, nerve root compression, sciatica, numbness and so on. Uncomplicated refers to a simple back ache. When Dr. Hurwitz ran the numbers, he found that,

“MD care for uncomplicated low back pain in 2009 was on average $849.35 (or 62.3%) more expensive than DC care.”

He also found that,

“MD care for complicated low back pain in 2009 was on average $3163.30 (or 181.2%) more expensive than DC care.”

Dr. Hurwitz also notes, “physical therapy charges are responsible for much of the difference in charges between MD and DC care for uncomplicated low back pain.”

Unfortunately, all health care today is expensive. However, when it comes to back pain, the evidence from this report and a number of others suggests that chiropractic care clearly saves money.

A Better Diet Builds A Better Brain

2011-12-20T21:35:00.000-06:00

We’ve known for a long time that eating a healthy, balanced diet benefits our health in many ways. According to a new study published in Neurology, a proper diet can stop brain shrinkage and boost mental performance. On the other hand, eating a poor diet with high levels of trans fat and fewer vitamins and minerals has the opposite effect.

In the study, people with more vitamin B, C, D and E in their blood performed better in tests of memory and thinking skills. Those with higher levels of omega-3 fats also performed better, while the worst scores belonged to those with the highest levels of trans fats. Trans fats are commonly found in fried and processed food.

A proper diet should contain ample vegetables and fruit with regular fish, nuts and other lean protein. Make an effort to avoid processed and packaged foods. You might also consider having your levels tested for omega-3 fats, trans fats, minerals, heavy metals and other important bio-markers. These tests are all available through our office.

Chiropractic Care of Bulged and Herniated Discs

2011-12-13T17:53:00.000-06:00

Though you’re not likely to see it on TV or read it in the news paper, orthopedic surgeons have been touting spinal adjusting for the correction of herniated and bulged discs since at least the mid 1950s. They’ve done so because their studies have shown excellent results, and because spine surgeries have a high failure rate.

So how can adjustments help damaged discs? Researchers have generally theorized that during the adjustment, the disc space is opened up and the prolapsed disc material is drawn back in. Furthermore, by improving the position and movement of the vertebrae above and below the disc, there is less pressure on the disc and healing can more readily occur.

Chiropractic care is a very safe and effective way to manage disc problems. Combined with proper rest, ice and ergonomics, many disc injuries will heal under chiropractic care.

Probiotics Strengthen the Immune System

2011-12-06T17:52:00.000-06:00

Probiotics are the name given to dietary supplements that provide beneficial bacteria. They are taken to replenish the normal bacteria that are supposed to reside in the intestines and assist digestion. They also function as part of the overall immune system.

A new study published in the British Journal of Nutrition shows that daily ingestion of lactobacillus casei may help protect against the flu. Researchers gave this probiotic to half of the study participants, and then gave all the participants a flu shot 4 weeks later. The group that got the probiotics showed a 46% increase in the number of antibodies produced, whereas the placebo group only had a 2% increase. In other words, the added probiotics greatly enhanced the potential benefit of the vaccine, whereas without the probiotics, there was essentially no benefit to the flu shot in this study.

Unfortunately, this study did not look at what benefit the probiotics would provide without a flu shot. But a 2009 study in Pediatrics showed that children who took probiotics had about half the cold and flu symptoms of those who didn’t.

Various probiotics are available in good quality yogurt, kefir, sour cream and other fermented products. They can also be purchased as a supplement. Our favorite brand is Primal Defense, which is available at our office.

Too Much Tylenol Can Be Deadly

2011-11-29T17:51:00.001-06:00

In a given year, 28 billion doses of acetaminophen (Tylenol) are purchased in the United States. This is likely because it is inexpensive and generally thought to be safe. But, did you know that Tylenol is the leading cause of acute liver failure and results in 26,000 hospitalizations and nearly 500 deaths annually in the United States alone?

Last month, the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology published a study which showed that, “Taking slightly too much of the pain reliever acetaminophen (best known by the brand name Tylenol) over time can lead to an overdose that can cause liver failure and death.” The researchers noted that those injured were taking the drug for things like muscular pains, headache, toothache and abdominal pains.

Acetaminophen use has also been found to increase the risk of asthma, eczema and rhinoconjunctivitis (red eyes, drippy nose, etc.) in children.

I believe that for most problems, safer alternatives exist to taking Tylenol. Chiropractic adjustments can be incredibly powerful, as are the anti-inflammatory effects of fish oil and other natural compounds like ginger, turmeric and resveratrol. An improved diet and daily physical activity can further enhance the benefits.

Breathe Easier with Chiropractic

2011-11-22T17:49:00.001-06:00

If you’ve ever found yourself short of breath – even for a moment – you know what an awful feeling that can be. Some people live much of their lives struggling to get enough air. Difficulties can stem from simple tightness in the chest to all out asthma, chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Perhaps most concerning is that reduced lung volume is associated with an increased risk of stroke.

Evidence is growing that one safe, drug-free way to improve breathing might be through chiropractic care. Several studies have now been reported in the scientific literature which show improved lung capacities after chiropractic care. The most recent was reported in 2007 in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiologic Therapeutics. The authors of this paper suggested that chiropractic care makes breathing easier and reduces the respiratory distress after exercise.

If you know someone who struggles with breathing, suggest that they give chiropractic a try.

Vitamin D and All-Cause Mortality

2011-11-15T09:35:00.000-06:00

Researchers at the University of Kansas recently published their findings from analyzing data on more than 10,000 patients. They found that over 70% were deficient in vitamin D and were consequently at a significantly greater risk of cardiovascular disease. They also found that being vitamin D deficient nearly doubles a person’s risk of dying, whereas correcting the deficiency through supplementation lowers the risk of death by 60%!

Interestingly, the researchers also noted that being vitamin D deficient doubles the risk of diabetes. Previous studies have linked insufficient vitamin D status with the likelihood of getting colds, flu and cancer among other things.

Vitamin D is now being vigorously studied by the scientific community, and many groups have suggested that there is great benefit in supplementing with vitamin D. Are you taking yours?

Save Your Brain by Eating Fish

2011-11-08T09:35:00.000-06:00

A study presented at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America showed that eating baked or broiled fish preserves gray matter in the brain. According to the study, doing so reduces the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease as well as mild cognitive impairment by as much as five fold.

The study showed that those who consumed baked or broiled fish at least once per week had higher levels of working memory. Working memory allows people to focus on tasks and commit information to short-term memory.

Not surprisingly, eating fried fish showed no benefit for brain health. This study didn’t look at fish oil supplements, but I would expect that many of the same benefits would be found with quality fish oil.

Resveratrol Prevents Disc Degeneration and Pain

2011-11-01T09:34:00.000-05:00

Degenerating discs in the spine are a common occurrence among adults and the elderly. Published research suggests that they are caused by misalignments in the spine and from free radical damage, so preventing them comes from getting your adjustments and eating antioxidants. However, reversing more advanced disc degeneration has proven difficult.

A study published in Spine in October 2011 provides some promising evidence that the red wine compound resveratrol has the capability to inhibit the degeneration of discs. The researchers also indicated that resveratrol increases proteoglycan synthesis, which could potentially help discs to regenerate.

Though this research is preliminary, resveratrol may be a worthwhile option for those with disc-mediated pain and degeneration.

Antacids Increase Pneumonia Risk

2011-10-25T07:17:00.001-05:00

If you’ve paid attention to recent health headlines, you may have noticed that acid blocking medicines – including proton pump inhibitors like omeprazole – have their share of side-effects. Some of the more immediate side-effects include constipation, headaches and dizziness, but others, such as kidney stones, show up later in life. Another example is the increased risk of osteoporosis and subsequent fracture that accompanies antacid use. A report published in December 2010 also suggested a nearly four-fold increase in heart arrhythmias.

Another concern with lowering stomach acid is the increased risk of infection that seems to follow. Recent studies have shown a 2 to 3 fold increase of infections like Clostridium difficile (C. diff) and pneumonia. Given the inherent danger of these conditions, these medications shouldn’t be used casually, but should instead be a last resort.

Fortunately, there are alternatives to medications in many cases. Chiropractic care has had several promising reports in the care of ulcers and dyspepsia (heart burn, acid regurgitation, increased abdominal bloating, nausea, etc.) Various dietary herbs and supplements can also be used to improve digestion. Keep in mind, however, that any changes to prescription medications need to be done carefully and with the help of your medical doctor.

Adjustments Help Fussy Babies & Challenged Children

2011-10-18T22:04:00.000-05:00

Unfortunately, it isn’t often that someone within the medical community outwardly endorses spinal adjustments, especially as they relate to children’s health. However, based on 25 years of experience in which time he adjusted over 35,000 babies, Heiner Biedermann, MD was able to publish his findings in a medical journal in 2006.

In the article, Dr. Biedermann noted that the upper necks of infants are particularly susceptible due to the relative size of their heads, the weakness of their postural muscles, the trauma of the birth process (especially prolonged or mechanically assisted deliveries), and the insufficient development of the joints to restrict movement. He further states that problems in this part of the neck can present in various forms from torticollis (inability to tip or turn head to one side) to cranial asymmetry to colic. Later on, these children may be clumsy or even have developmental challenges leading to diagnoses such as ADD.

Dr. Biederman reported that these children can be safely and successfully helped through proper spinal adjustments. We regularly see infants and children in our office and like Dr. Biederman, find that many of their health concerns will respond very quickly to our care.

Drug Deaths Outnumber Traffic Fatalities

2011-10-11T22:03:00.000-05:00

Little disagreement exists that too many people are taking too many medications. Our culture seems obsessed with the lure of a quick fix, and spends altogether too little effort on improving and maintaining personal health. Of course, these choices come at a cost.

According to the September 17, 2011 edition of the LA Times, as of 2009 the number of deaths from prescription drugs now outnumbers those from motor vehicle accidents. Interestingly, among the most offensive medications were those used for pain, such as OxyContin and Vicodin.

Numerous examples exist showing that real alternatives exist to pharmaceuticals. Weight loss helps many conditions including high blood pressure. Weight bearing exercise is an excellent way to maintain bone density. Pistachios lower cholesterol; pomegranate juice opens clogged carotid arteries. Chiropractic care has shown to be beneficial for a variety of health concerns beyond just aches and pains.

We believe that every effort should be made to restore and maintain health without resorting to pharmaceuticals. Of course there will be conditions that require medication, but a great number of others might be more safely treated by natural alternatives.

Pain Pills Linked to Heart Attacks

2011-10-04T09:47:00.000-05:00

Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) are one of the most commonly used treatments for many different aches and pains. These include over-the-counter medicines such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), naproxen (Aleve) and the prescription Cox-2 inhibitors like Celebrex. Though these medications are relatively inexpensive and widely used, they are not without risk.

A large study published this May in the American Heart Association’s journal Circulation showed that not only do many of these medications increase the risk of heart attacks, but they also can do so in a relatively short amount of time. The study was done in people who had previously had a heart attack, but those who subsequently used NSAIDs had as much as a 226% higher risk of death than those who didn’t. Perhaps more concerning was the fact that these increased risks occurred immediately for some medications (i.e diclofenac AKA Voltaren) and in as little as one week with ibuprofen.

We have long maintained that before resorting to pain pills, all other options should be exhausted. Chiropractic care has been shown to be far superior to medications for various aches & pains in several studies, and icing properly can further enhance the relief. Eating an anti-inflammatory diet that avoids the excitotoxins MSG and Aspartame and utilizes spices such as ginger and herbs like boswellia are also highly important. Lastly, the prominent neurosurgeon, Dr. Joseph Maroon, published a study in 2006 which showed that omega-3 fatty acids were superior to NSAIDs for pain control 88% of the time, with none of the side effects.

Immune Boost from Spinal Adjustments

2011-09-27T21:09:00.000-05:00

There is a growing body of evidence which suggests that spinal adjustments have a direct effect on the immune system. This March, another study was published highlighting this connection. When two groups of people were compared, those who received spinal adjustments more than doubled their level of secretory IgA (sIgA) within an hour! High levels of the antibody sIgA have been shown to decrease the incidence of upper respiratory tract infections – things like the common cold, sinusitis, ear infections and laryngitis.

With the cold and flu season right around the corner, now is the time to start thinking about boosting your immune system. Remember to dress right for the conditions, get your rest so you don’t wear yourself out, go easy on the sugar and keep your spine in line!

Read more at this link.

Cut Stroke Risk in Half

2011-09-20T21:07:00.001-05:00

In yet another instance of how important our diet is to health outcomes, a newly published study found that consumption of white fleshed fruits and vegetables cuts your risk of stroke in half! Published in the American Heart Association’s journal Stroke, the study’s authors noted that foods such as pears and apples had a substantial impact on the incidence of and damage done by strokes.

Strokes affect nearly one million people and kill 150,000 people annually. This research shows us that simply eating an apple a day can go a long way towards cutting this number in half. Interestingly, although brightly colored vegetables are wonderful for things such as cancer prevention, they appear to have little affect with regard to stroke. This is yet another example of the wisdom of regularly eating a variety of fruits and vegetables.

Read more at this link.

Omega 3:6 Ratio

2011-09-13T21:06:00.001-05:00

Science tells us that our ancestors had a ratio of about 1:1 of the omega 3 and 6 fatty acids in their bodies. Today, Americans typically range from about 10:1 to 25:1 in their blood levels of omega-3 and -6 fats. This is hugely important when you consider that this ratio is important in hypertension, cancer, arthritis, mental health, allergies and other autoimmune diseases as well as atherosclerosis, inflammation and aging. We also know that omega-3s trigger cancer cell death, whereas omega-6s allow cancer cells to continue to proliferate.

Though most people haven’t had their omega 3:6 ratio tested, it can be done simply with a finger prick method. Contact our office if you’d like to order this test. For all others, it is important to not only raise your omega-3 levels (which is best done with fish oil), but also to reduce your intake of omega-6 oils. These are commonly found in processed foods such as chips and crackers, from the oils (i.e. sunflower, safflower, soy, corn and linseed) in their ingredients.

Antibiotics Linked to Crohn’s & Ulcerative Colitis

2011-09-06T21:05:00.000-05:00

Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis each cause chronic inflammation of the intestines and exhibit symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea and weight loss. If you know anyone with either of these conditions, you know that they can be both miserable and difficult to treat. Currently about 1.5 million people have one of these conditions.

Newly published research has shed some light on at least one of the triggers for these maladies. According to the findings, taking 3 or more courses of antibiotics over a 2 year period puts you at a 50% greater risk of developing Crohn’s disease within two to five years!

For years experts have been cautioning doctors and patients alike to lighten up on antibiotic prescriptions, and this is just one more reminder why this is so important. Remember that antibiotics are not effective against viral infections, and many bacterial illnesses will be well handled by your own immune system. If you find yourself getting sick often, there are many ways to boost your immune system. Optimal vitamin D levels, stress reduction, regular physical activity, routinely getting enough sleep, limited sugar intake and chiropractic adjustments are a number of important factors.

Read more at this link.

Stress, Stress, Stress

2011-08-30T21:00:00.000-05:00

Published research shows us that stress is an underlying factor in 80-90% of doctor visits. This is largely because of the widespread effects that cortisol, one of the main stress hormones, has on your body. In fact, high cortisol levels contribute to the following alterations in the body:

1. Digestive Tract: Thinning of the gut lining, disruption of healthy bacteria, symptoms such as stomach burning, ulcers, IBS, yeast/parasite overgrowth.

2. Brain: Decreased ability to handle stress, brain fog and dementia.

3. Immune System: Suppression of normal immune function including decreased white blood cell production, thymus gland shrinkage and lowered sIgA levels.

4. Hypothyroidism: Diagnosable or subclinical. Cortisol can cause either suppression of TSH or decreased T3 hormone.

5. Sleep Disruption: Trouble falling or staying asleep or waking in the morning feeling tired.

6. Dysglycemia/Insulin Resistance: Common cause of fatigue after eating, and may eventually lead to Type 2 Diabetes.

7. Decreased Progesterone Levels: Causes functional estrogen dominance in the body (i.e. estradiol levels can still be in the normal range), which predisposes to several different types of cancer. In addition, cycling women are more likely to have symptoms such as PMS, cramping, heavy bleeding or clotting. Menopausal women are more likely to experience weight gain, hot flashes or night sweats.

Clearly, prolonged stress can wreak havoc on our health. Work to groom habits that help you reduce and manage your stress. Don’t take on too much work, set aside time to relax, get to bed on time, eat well, adopt an attitude of gratitude and stay physically active. Regular chiropractic care, massage and yoga are also great ways to help you stay well in a stressful world. You may also feel free to contact our office for more information about saliva testing we offer for cortisol levels.

Check Your Headrest

2011-08-23T22:09:00.001-05:00

Each year, about 3 million motorists suffer a whiplash-type injury, and about 50% of them will have some long-term neck pain! While we can’t avoid all accidents, we can take some precautions. It turns out that the single most important determinant of whiplash type injuries is the head restraint.

Only about 20% of people have their seatback and headrest set properly for them. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety provides the following charts on their website, which show the ideal position for the head restraint.

The chart on the left shows the backset, which is the distance between the head restraint and the back of the head in normal sitting. When this distance is two inches or less, you are the most protected. Generally this distance increases when the seatback is reclined too far.

The chart on the right shows where the top of the headrest sits relative to the back of the head. Most people will leave their headrest too low, rendering it ineffective in a motor vehicle accident, especially if you are rear-ended.

Given the frequency of car accidents and the long term consequences they often create, you are well advised to take simple precautions to reduce your injury should you have the misfortune of being involved in one.

Click here to visit the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety’s website.

Surviving Long Car Rides

2011-08-16T20:58:00.001-05:00

Though we pride ourselves on helping patients with a variety of health conditions, lower back pain is still the number one reason that brings people through our door. One of the common triggers of lower back pain is longer car rides. Since we all need to get places from time to time, let’s look at how to get there in one piece.

From the viewpoint of your spine, there are several problems with most car seats. First, the lack of depth from the seat to the floor puts our feet more out in front of us than underneath us. This reduces the normal forward curvature of the lower back. The problem is made worse by the fact that the lower cushion of the seat is often slightly higher in the front and lower under your buttock – the exact opposite of proper ergonomics. Then, most often for comfort or lack of head space, the seatback is usually reclined back, causing us to slump our upper back and neck forward.

Of course sitting in one position (no matter how ideal) for hours on end isn’t particularly spine friendly, but car travel adds a few more challenges to the mix. The vibration from road travel is known to be detrimental to the discs of the spine, and we tend to have one foot forward (for the gas pedal) while the other is often drawn up putting an asymmetrical load on our pelvis.

Since we still need to get to our destinations, here are a few tips to ease the pain. First, minivans and pickups tend to have much better seats than cars, so if you have the choice, they’ll serve you better. Next, if your seat allows it, pitch the seat cushion forward so that the rear is at least as high as the front. Then adjust your seatback to a mostly upright position and utilize the lumbar support to the fullest extent that is comfortable. If you don’t have adjustable seats or lumbar supports, separate cushions are available for each. Lastly, make sure to leave in enough time to stop frequently, get out and stretch your legs.

Don’t forget to buckle up and pullover if you get drowsy!

Actions Speak Louder Than Words

2011-08-09T20:57:00.000-05:00

What does your medical doctor think about chiropractic and other non-medical services? Is he or she in favor of them, opposed to them or simply neutral? You might be surprised to see the results of a recently published study, which found that overall 76% of health care workers utilize complimentary and alternative therapies (such as chiropractic) for their own healthcare, and that among doctors and nurses specifically, the number was even higher.

These findings do not come as a surprise to me, as we not only have medical doctors, nurses, their spouses and children as patients, they also refer their patients to us for a variety of conditions. To be fair, there is still a minority of doctors who outwardly oppose chiropractic, but I think the larger misconception often exists among patients who assume that their medical provider doesn’t approve of these forms of healing. In any event, the cooperation that occurs among providers of all types has improved greatly in recent years, and many of the former divisions simply no longer exist.

The Thyroid Gland

2011-08-02T13:43:00.000-05:00

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland that sits on the front of the throat just above the collar bones. Its major job is to regulate metabolism, which is why many people wonder if they have thyroid problems when they put on weight or feel fatigued. When their doctor performs a blood test, they find out whether it is or isn’t operating within the “normal” range.

For many people the test does come back “normal,” but they still appear to have an under performing thyroid gland. These early symptoms include constipation, depression, fatigue, heavy menstrual periods, dry skin and brittle nails. Those who fit this profile may have subclinical hypothyroidism. Two common causes of subclinical hypothyroidism include altered cortisol levels (due to a chronic stress response) and estrogen dominance (in relation to progesterone levels).

If you are concerned about your thyroid health, you should ensure that you are getting enough iodine (the building block of thyroid hormone) and selenium (which converts inactive thyroid hormone into the active form). You should also be careful not to consume too much soy-based foods. Lastly, certain environmental toxins such as phthalates (which serve to make plastics soft), chlorine, fluorine and bromine (flame retardant & dough conditioner) are known to interfere with thyroid function.

If you’d like to know more about thyroid health, as well as checking cortisol and estrogen levels, feel free to ask.

Are You Taking Fish Oil Yet?

2011-07-26T21:43:00.000-05:00

Unless you’ve avoided all forms of media for the last few years, you’ve undoubtedly heard something about the benefit of fish oil or omega-3 fats. The questions are, have you listened, and are you getting enough omega-3 fats in your diet? Here’s why they are important.

Researchers at Harvard University have calculated that omega-3 fatty acid deficiency kills 72,000 – 96,000 Americans annually. That makes it the sixth biggest killer of Americans! It may seem hard to believe, but something as simple as taking a little daily fish oil could save almost a hundred thousand people each year in this country alone.

Omega-3 fats have been shown to have some pretty major health benefits. They’ve been shown to aid brain function, boost memory and combat depression. They enhance vision and prevent hearing loss, reduce breast cancer risk, improve heart function and even lower the risk of developing gum disease.

If you haven’t been taking fish oil, a great first step is to supplement your diet with about 1 gram omega-3s per day. They can be found as liquid or capsules, but make sure the brand is reputable. Stop by our office if you’d like to learn more.

Dine in Peace

2011-07-19T21:42:00.002-05:00

Do you eat your lunch while sitting at the computer, or have supper in front of the TV? If so, a new study suggests that you may want to reconsider your habits. According to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, being distracted while eating leaves you feeling less full and causes you to consume more calories the rest of the day.

Digestion is a process, and given the pace and stress of modern life, many people don’t complete the process very well. Help yourself by taking a moment to clear your mind prior to your meal. Then, take time to thoroughly chew your food and enjoy what you’re eating without outside distractions. Simple habits like this can prevent many larger health problems down the road.

Clogged Arteries and Back Pain

2011-07-12T21:17:00.000-05:00

Did you know that the very same cholesterol that can plug your arteries and lead to heart disease can also be a cause of back pain? It’s true. The discs of the spine rely on a very limited blood supply to bring nutrients in and take waste products away. Because the arteries that carry this blood are so small, they can be greatly affected by plaque buildup. If these arteries do become clogged and blood flow is restricted, accelerated disc degeneration is inevitable.

Keeping arteries healthy comes largely from not smoking, staying physically active, and eating a healthy diet that controls blood sugar. One of the best and safest ways to actually reverse arterial plaquing is by consuming a small amount (about 2 oz.) of 100% pure pomegranate juice daily. Another promising option is daily consumption of cocoa with very low sugar content (think dark chocolate, not Snickers).

From the nerves at the tips of your toes to your retinal cells in your eyes, arteries carry blood every inch of your body. Maintaining clean arteries will help your whole body stay healthy.

Chew Your Food

2011-07-05T22:02:00.000-05:00

If you’re like most folks, you were reminded from a young age to, “chew your food!” There’s a good chance that the reason your parents were telling you this is because their parents got after them when they were wolfing down a meal. But, is it really that important to thoroughly chew your food?

It turns out that that if you don’t do a good job of chewing your food, you’ll have a hard time digesting it properly. In fact, if the food that reaches your intestines is too large, rather than being absorbed, it tends to putrefy, leaving you with gas, bloating and eventually constipation or diarrhea.

Chewing is also important to start the breakdown of carbohydrates by mixing the food with salivary amylase. This enzyme travels with the food and breaks down about half of the starch from the meal in your stomach. When we miss this step, almost the entire burden falls on the pancreas, placing it under a large amount of stress. Prolonged stress on the pancreas can lead to pancreatitis, a very painful condition that is often accompanied by nausea and vomiting.

The take home message is this: something as simple as slowing down and thoroughly chewing your food can prevent a lot of misery later. And if you have children of your own, make sure to remind then to chew their food!

Trouble Sleeping?

2011-06-28T08:16:00.002-05:00

While there can be any number of causes for insomnia, one of the most intriguing is the interplay between the bright lights of modern living and the body’s internal clock. Think about it. For most of human existence, when the sun went down, it was dark. Certainly fires, candles and lanterns extended the day to a certain extent, but to a greater degree, when it got dark, folks went to sleep. Contrast that with our modern world, where you can have relative daylight 24 hours a day.

Wondering what all the modern lights do to our bodies, scientists have recently studied how exposure to lights at bed time affects the body’s production of melatonin – the sleep hormone. It turns out that the newest light – that emitted by compact fluorescent bulbs and from flat computer screens and TVs – is even more detrimental to our normal hormonal rhythms than old fashioned incandescent bulbs and older style TVs and computers. But, even the older technology can directly affect the body’s internal clock.

Probably the simplest advice for most people is to learn to turn the lights down in the evening and get to bed on time. Keep in mind that forming a new habit takes time, but stick with in and it’ll happen overnight!

Click on the title to read the full news story.

Diet Cures Diabetes

2011-06-21T08:15:00.001-05:00

When it comes to the biggest players in both personal and public health, it’s hard to top diabetes. Recent reports suggest that 25 million Americans have diabetes and another 79 million adults have pre-diabetes. All diabetics are at an increased risk of cardiovascular and kidney disease, neuropathy and retinopathy as well as other eye diseases. Unfortunately diabetes also shortens lifespan by about 8 years.

But, there is some good news. Two-thirds of newly diagnosed Type 2 diabetics were able to become diabetes free after following a strict diet for eight weeks. The study was small and the diet was very restrictive – just 600 calories per day – but an eight week diet to rid yourself of diabetes sounds very encouraging.

In any event, most forms of diabetes are very responsive to diet. If you or someone you know suffers from diabetes, make sure to educate yourself well on how to manage (and possibly cure) your diabetes.

Click on the title to read the full news story.

Ditch the Diet Soda

2011-06-14T08:07:00.000-05:00

Folks have long chosen diet soda to avoid the extra calories (and sugar) in regular pop, but new research confirms that it simply doesn’t work. At a recent meeting of the American Diabetes Association, two new studies were reviewed that show how drinking diet soda directly leads to more calorie consumption, which leads to larger waist sizes and the consequences of carrying additional weight: heart disease, cancer, diabetes, etc.

The problem with artificial sweeteners appears to be that, in essence, they trick the body. When you consume an artificial sweetener, your tongue tastes the sweetness and signals the brain to begin the digestive process. When there are no calories accompanying the sweetness, you ultimately become hungry. In the end, you will seek out calories to satiate your hunger. The result is that consuming the artificial sweetener will cause you to eat more calories than you otherwise would have.

Information like this will leave some folks wondering what they should drink. My advice is if you like pop, think of it as a rare treat. Water and unsweetened tea are much better choices on a daily basis.

Click on the title to read the full news story.

Bone Health

2011-06-07T22:42:00.001-05:00

Maintaining strong, healthy bones is one of the most important things you can do to ensure good health as you age. Suffering a fracture later in life is not only painful, but can have major implications on living independently and even lifespan.

The problem arises from a simplified understanding of bone health. Too many people “know” that calcium is good for bones, so they make a couple of mistakes. First they neglect other important facts like the detrimental effects of stomach acid reducers and cola, as well as the importance of weight bearing exercise, eating a variety of vegetables, consuming all of the other minerals in addition to calcium, and having optimal vitamin D levels.

Secondly, many people will actually over consume calcium. A recent study published in the British Medical Journal showed that women who got too much calcium were at increased risk of heart attacks (25-30 %) and strokes (15-20%)! This is a striking example of how just because a little is good, more isn’t necessarily better.

If you’d like to develop a plan to maintain strong, healthy bones for a lifetime, contact our office or another provider knowledgeable in this area.

Cholesterol Numbers

2011-05-31T22:41:00.000-05:00

If you’ve had your cholesterol checked, you know that several things are reported in the results. These include total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, triglycerides and sometimes VLDL. Typically only total cholesterol, HDL and triglycerides are actually measured, and the others are calculated from there.

So what do all these numbers mean? Total cholesterol alone is fairly meaningless without looking at what the other numbers show. LDL is often called “bad cholesterol,” but in reality, only some of the LDL is problematic. HDL is usually considered “good cholesterol” because it removes cholesterol from cells and plaque build-ups. Triglycerides are packaged in the liver, mostly inside VLDL, and are also built in the intestines from foods we’ve digested.

Of course, diet plays a large role in determining your lipid profile. Consumption of fat will generally raise LDL levels, but current science tells us that isn’t the whole story. Now we know that LDL can be further subdivided into “small-dense LDL” and “large buoyant LDL.” It is the former which contributes to plaque build-up in the arteries; the latter is relatively benign. Whether small-dense or large-buoyant LDL predominates is significantly impacted by the amount of carbohydrates in the diet. A high carbohydrate diet will lead to not only more of the dangerous small dense LDL, but also lower (good) HDL and elevated triglycerides.

This is important because so many people have been convinced to adopt a low-fat diet. The problem is that when food manufactures remove fat, they often replace it with sugar or another carbohydrate so that the food still tastes good. If we adopt a diet of this nature, which many Americans have, we may lower total cholesterol and even total LDL, but at the expense of raising the dangerous small-dense LDL and triglycerides and actually lowering HDL.

Consider that foods like pistachios and other nuts are quite high in fat, yet when added to the diet actually improve your cholesterol. Another example is the diet typical of the Mediterranean region which is relatively high in fats, yet those who consume it have lower rates of cardiovascular disease.

I believe cholesterol levels can reside in a healthy, normal range for most people without the use of medications if they’re provided with good information and have the desire to make some lifestyle modifications. Contact our office if you’d like to learn more.

Blood Pressure & Water Retention

2011-05-24T21:55:00.003-05:00

If your body retains too much water, you’ll likely develop high blood pressure. This is why diuretics or “water pills” are often a first line drug to control hypertension. But why doesn’t the body just get rid of the excess fluid by itself? There are a couple of factors at play.

Normally functioning kidneys will properly regulate the amount of sodium held in the body, and when sodium levels are correct, the amount of water retained will also be proper. If the kidney function is altered, however, too much sodium may be retained leading to water retention. Medications, especially pain relievers are a primary culprit in kidney damage. Excess blood sugar will lead to too much insulin, which will also cause the kidney to stop sodium excretion.

Several published studies have also shown how chiropractic care can play a role in reducing blood pressure. Whether it has to do with improved control of the kidney by the nervous system, changes in the endocrine system or some other mechanism is not yet fully known. Regardless, utilizing chiropractic care, controlling blood sugar and eliminating the use of pain relievers are three steps you can take to help keep your health, including your blood pressure, optimal.

Inflammation, Pain & Chiropractic Adjustments

2011-05-18T18:58:00.000-05:00

Prolonged inflammation within the body is one of the primary reasons many people have pain. This is why anti-inflammatory medicines are used, but they carry with them a number of side-effects. Certain nutritional products (including fish oil) have an anti-inflammatory effect, and the proper use of ice also helps control inflammation. Each of these methods primarily reduces a chemical called PGE2.

Chiropractic adjustments are another way to reduce inflammation, but they work in a somewhat different way. Many back problems such as disc injuries, ligament tears and sciatica result in the production of the inflammatory chemicals TNF-a and IL-1b. Following an adjustment, there is an immediate, measurable decrease in the level of these chemicals.

Because of the direct effect on these inflammation generators, chiropractic adjustments offer a unique way to address pain. When combined with an anti-inflammatory diet they can go a long way toward normalizing body functions and eliminating pain without the use of medicine.

Understanding Sugar

2011-05-10T21:38:00.000-05:00

Beginning in the 1950s and especially since 1980, fat in the diet was public enemy number one. But a number of scientists and doctors argued all along that too much sugar was far worse than too much fat. Recently the tides have begun turning to where major public health associations are now endorsing the argument to limit sugar intake. The most recent example is from the American Heart Association, who has developed guidelines recommending that men and women limit their daily added sugar intake to no more than 9 tsp and 5 tsp, respectively. (A 12oz can of Coke has 9.5 tsp of added sugar/ corn syrup!)

There’s a little more to understand about sugar. Both sugar and starch raise our blood sugar levels, but starch is made up of only glucose. In contrast, sugar and high fructose corn syrup are each made up of about half glucose and half fructose. While glucose is useable by nearly every cell in our bodies, fructose can only be metabolized by the liver. It’s this distinction that causes overconsumption of fructose to lead to a number of health problems including elevated triglycerides, high blood pressure, obesity and insulin resistance.

The largest source of fructose in the diet is from sweetened beverages. If you regularly drink sweetened beverages like pop, flavored juices & milks or even a lot of plain fruit juice, make it a priority to begin replacing these with water or unsweetened tea. The amount of fructose your body has to metabolize is a major factor in your long term health and wellness!

Vitamin D and Breast Cancer

2011-05-03T22:01:00.001-05:00

If it seems like there is a never ending stream of information on vitamin D lately, it’s because so much data is coming out, and it’s consistently showing several things. First, nearly everyone who doesn’t supplement vitamin D is deficient in this important substance. Researchers tell us that 80 - 90% of Americans have suboptimal levels; in northern climates like Minnesota, it’s probably almost all of us.

We are also learning that having low vitamin D levels affects our health. From our hormones to our immunity, it seems nearly every system is affected. The latest research found that women who were low in vitamin D were about 3 times as likely to develop the most aggressive (and hardest to treat) form of breast cancer.

You can boost your vitamin D level by getting safe sun exposure every day. But, since the angle of the sun’s rays won’t trigger vitamin D production for about 6 months of the year, you probably should also get some supplemental D3. Having your level tested by your medical doctor or at our office is also a wise choice.

Listen to Your Body

2011-04-26T22:33:00.000-05:00

In today’s fast-paced world, we often place too much emphasis on financial gains, business “success” and accumulation of personal wants. Unfortunately we typically do these things at the cost of our own health. Years of overworking ourselves can lead to a point where we’re left with no good options to address our failing health.

A number of the symptoms that get brushed off as minor inconveniences may be our bodies’ way of telling us to make a change. Recurring headaches might be the result of too much time on the computer or not enough physical activity. Frequent heartburn could mean you’re eating too fast or that the lining of the stomach is damaged from prolonged stress or the use of pain relievers. Fatigue might be better served by an earlier bed time or smaller work load than with more coffee.

Though the pharmaceutical commercials would have you believe that there’s a pill for every ill, your long-term health will be much better served by listening to your body and making wise choices when symptoms arise. Though backing off from work may seem costly now, preserving your health will save you much more in the future.

The first wealth is health. -RALPH WALDO EMERSON, "Power," The Conduct of Life

Changing our DNA

2011-04-19T22:17:00.001-05:00

Epigenetics is the study of the control of our genes. There has been an explosion of research in this field in recent years. Our DNA contains a basic set of blueprints for proteins in our bodies, but epigenetic marks sit atop the genes and control whether they turn on or not. Think of it like a kitchen full of appliances, maybe a toaster, coffee pot and a crock pot. The appliances (genes) will only make us toast, coffee and roast if we turn them on. Similarly, we could have a gene that linked to cancer, but if we make lifestyle choices that never turn that gene on, cancer never arises.

A number of studies have taken this a step further. They show us that lifestyle choices we make before becoming parents can affect the function of the genes of our children. A recent study published in Diabetes found that a mother’s diet during pregnancy determines 25% of whether her children carry excessive body fat years later. If fact, her diet is a stronger predictor than the child’s birth weight or the mother’s body fat percentage.

Yale University has reported that 75% of our health is determined by our lifestyle. Now, we’re seeing that our choices can also affect future generations. All the more reason to foster healthy habits!

Subluxation

2011-04-12T22:50:00.000-05:00

Subluxation is the fancy way of describing a misaligned joint. Vertebral subluxation refers to a misalignment with in the spine, and vertebral subluxation complex describes the whole-body consequences of the misalignment.

When two vertebrae become misaligned, they typically become at least somewhat stuck. This changes the wear pattern and if left uncorrected, accelerates the degenerative process. It also affects the signals carried by the nerves entering the spinal cord. When sub-optimal information is presented to the central nervous system, the ability of the body to control and coordinate itself is reduced. There is also a direct reflex at the spinal cord that changes signals to the autonomic nervous system (which controls organ, blood vessels, etc.) when a subluxation is present.

The purpose of a chiropractic adjustment is to correct a subluxation, thereby improving position, movement and nerve function. A healthy spine and nervous system is fundamental to your well being. Make sure to keep chiropractic a part of your wellness routine.

One Reason You May Get Tired

2011-04-05T22:26:00.002-05:00

There are a number of reasons we suffer from fatigue such as poor sleep, sub-optimal nutrition, being out of shape and having too much stress. Another reason that is less obvious is the amount of energy our bodies expend with normal activity.

Several studies have been conducted looking at how much energy was used and the amount of fatigue that results when people walk. The test groups included young to middle aged women, police officers and experienced golfers. These studies concluded that by simply having the tested population wear proper foot orthotics (shoe inserts) less energy was required, recovery times improved, fatigue decreased and performance was enhanced.

By properly supporting the foot and preventing arch collapse, the walking process seems to be made more efficient. Because of this and other health benefits, I have personally worn custom-built shoe inserts for a number of years. If you are interested in learning more about the orthotics that we recommend, send me an email or give us a call at your earliest convenience.

Tight Muscles

2011-03-29T21:50:00.002-05:00

It’s not uncommon for someone who is suffering from a backache to blame it on tight muscles, but have you ever stopped to wonder why our muscles get tight? Muscles frequently become tighter after injuries or heavy lifting, but haven’t you found that sometimes you can fall or “overdo it” and not wind up with tight muscles? Or that you can have very tight muscles with seemingly little injury?

The truth is that muscles, like all other tissues in the body are under the direct control of nerves. So, if a nerve is irritated, tight muscles can often be the result. Additionally, if your body senses that your back may be prone to getting injured, it will tighten muscles as a protective mechanism.

A study published in June 2010 confirmed that an abundance of nerves exist in the discs between the vertebrae of the spine. The principal role of these nerves is to continuously monitor the position and movement of the bones of the spine. They also play a key role in controlling the muscle tone around the spinal column. So, if these nerves detect incorrect movement or positioning the spine, muscles will be tightened. A good chiropractic adjustment, which corrects the position and motion in the spine, will allow the muscles to return to a normal tone. It’s just one more reason to keep chiropractic care a part of your life!

Berries & Blood Pressure

2011-03-22T20:48:00.001-05:00

In the past, I’ve outlined several easy ways to lower blood pressure – pomegranate juice, dark chocolate and chiropractic adjustments to name a few. The results of several large studies now find that eating at least one serving a day of blueberries and/or strawberries reduces your risk of high blood pressure by nearly 10 percent.

Berries have a number of other benefits too, such as slowing down aging, preventing some cancers and reducing the likelihood of suffering from dementia.

Here are a few ideas on how to consume more berries: eat them plain or on a salad, blend them in a smoothie, use them in a parfait with plain yogurt, or even dip them in dark chocolate. What could be simpler than that?

ChefMD

2011-03-15T21:48:00.001-05:00

If you haven’t seen Dr. John La Puma on PBS, I think you ought to check out his website. He’s both an internal medicine doctor and a classically trained chef. He uses that background to write books, host TV shows and develop recipes that are available on his website.

I think that you will find his information to be sound, his recipes to be fantastic and the additional information that he posts to be quite valuable. With each passing year we learn more about the impact of nutrition on our health, and this is a free and easy way to improve your family’s diet.

Enjoy!

What's for Breakfast?

2011-03-08T21:55:00.001-06:00

As busy as we all are, it’s easy to rush off in the morning without breakfast. We’ve all heard that we shouldn’t do it, but does it really matter? You bet!

We know that if you skip breakfast, you’re more likely to have a lack of energy and reduced mental alertness. Chances are you’ll also end up eating more later in the day as your body tries to meet its caloric requirements. Thanks to recent study, we now also know that skipping breakfast increases the likelihood of having a larger waist circumference, higher fasting insulin, and higher LDL & total cholesterol. Not good.

To improve your breakfast habits, include a source of protein. For example, try hard boiling some eggs at the beginning of the week. Or, stock up on yogurt or even have a smoothie with protein powder. They’ll keep you full longer and won’t take a lot of time to prepare.

More Vitamin D

2011-03-01T08:46:00.000-06:00

Do you know your vitamin D level? More and more research is suggesting you should.

This past September, I wrote about a study that showed how supplementing with vitamin D could wipe out nearly all cases of colds and flu! This week, new research was published on vitamin D. The researchers found that adults need to take 4,000-8,000 IU per day to maintain normal levels of vitamin D in the blood. If they do so, they will cut in half their risk of several diseases including breast cancer, colon cancer, multiple sclerosis and type 1 diabetes.

Taking way too much vitamin D is unsafe, but according to the Institute of Medicine, 10,000 IU per day is considered the lower limit of risk, so these levels are well within the safe range. Vitamin D3 (the form you should take) is deficient in most Americans, it’s cheap to buy, and it has a number of substantial benefits. I think you really ought to think about supplementing vitamin D if you don’t currently do so. Additionally, I would advise that you consider a blood test to find out your current blood level. Based on that, your supplementation can be more personalized. Each person responds differently to D3 intake, so it is wise to monitor it periodically.

You can read more about the study mentioned above by visiting this link.

Your Healthcare Dollar

2011-02-22T08:22:00.000-06:00

Whether it’s skyrocketing premiums, outrageous co-pays or unreachable deductibles, the burden of healthcare costs are steadily increasing on the average person. Given that this situation isn’t likely to improve any time soon, it is important that you make the most of your health care dollar. Here are a couple of things you can do that might help you save a buck.

Those suffering from back pain can save a reported 40% on the cost of caring for their condition if they choose to see a chiropractor instead of a medical doctor according to a review of Blue Cross’s insured database. The results were published in the November 2010 Journal of Manipulative and Physiologic Therapeutics.

Nearly ninety percent of those suffering with neck/jaw-related symptoms referred to a chiropractor by an ENT department improved under chiropractic care. The journal Clinical Chiropractic also reported a clear reduction in sick leave among these patients compared to those under conventional medical treatment. Chiropractic care is certainly less expensive than ENT visits, and, of course, many folks don’t get paid if they’re not at work.

These two recent studies serve to highlight a couple of the ways chiropractic care can save you money. Other strategies such as getting regular physical activity, taking a daily multivitamin and supplementing with vitamin D can prevent costly future problems. By staying well informed and practicing good daily health habits, you’ll be in a position to reap the benefits for years to come.

Some Foods to Help Your Heart

2011-02-15T19:47:00.004-06:00

I’ve talked and written a fair amount about the benefits of pomegranate juice to help control blood pressure and arterial plaque. Recently, I’ve also reported information about pistachios and the benefit they have on cholesterol levels. This week I’ll add a few more food choices that can really help your heart.

First, simply reducing the servings of red meat you eat in a day from two to one half can reduce your chances of heart disease by 30%. A couple of ways to do this include making vegetable beef soup instead of a roast or having stir-fry instead of steak. Another option is to try replacing one serving of red meat with nuts which leads to a 30% lower risk, fish (a 24% lower risk) or poultry (a 19% drop).

Some other helpful foods include watermelon, which contains a compound called L-citrulline that has been shown to lower blood pressure. The type of fiber found in barley (beta-glucan) lowers LDL cholesterol. Those who consume modest amounts of coffee (6-12 ounces per day) have a lower prevalence of diabetes and cardiovascular disease, a lower BMI and less trouble with high cholesterol and healthier arteries than those who rarely consume coffee. Keep in mind, though, that most people need to actually cut back on coffee and that tea is probably even better for you than coffee.

Heart disease and many of the other maladies we face can be effectively treated with dietary changes and lifestyle modification, especially when started early. If you’re interested in learning more, tune into AM 1460 KDMA on Thursday February 17th at 9:15 AM when I’ll be talking about more foods that can help your heart.

A Better Way to Treat Heartburn?

2011-02-08T08:56:00.005-06:00

Functional dyspepsia (AKA an upset stomach or indigestion) affects about 15% of the general population. The symptoms include pain in the upper abdomen, bloating, belching and heartburn. It has commonly been treated with antacids like Tums or Rolaids, and with proton pump inhibitors such as Prilosec, Nexium, Protonix, and AcipHex. Great caution needs to be used with long-term use of these medications, however as they have been found to increase rates of pneumonia and C. diff infections, as well as certain heart arrhythmias. The FDA is also revising the labels of many of these to include the warning of increased fracture risk.

A recent pilot study published in the European Journal of Gastroenterology & Hepatology found that 71% of those studied reported an improvement in the average severity of their chronic functional dyspepsia following chiropractic care. The authors of this study concluded that the results “seem to indicate that chiropractic management can have a highly significant positive impact on gastro-esophageal reflux disorder symptoms, with the majority of patients reporting decreased frequency and severity of symptoms and many being able to reduce or eliminate their requirement for medication.”

Yet another trial looked at patients suffering from confirmed ulcers who underwent either chiropractic management or traditional medical care. Those treated with chiropractic had significant pain relief after an average of 4 days and were completely free of symptoms on average 10 days earlier than those who took medication. Experience in our office as well as the results of these trials leads me to believe that a course of chiropractic care should be considered for anyone with upper digestive symptoms like heartburn, reflux and uncomplicated ulcers.

More information about chiropractic research is available on our website.
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact me.

Pain Pills and Hearing Loss... Huh?

2011-02-01T19:36:00.000-06:00

Last year, the American Journal of Medicine reported that the use of prescription and over-the-counter pain medications are leading to hearing loss. They specifically found that the use of acetaminophen (Tylenol), aspirin or NSAIDS (ibuprofen, Aleve) two or more times per week caused the most harm.

It seems that as each year goes by, we learn of more concerns with regular pain pill usage. We know, for instance, that bleeding ulcers, acute liver failure, kidney damage and high blood pressure can all be side effects of these medicines. So, what other strategies exist to help control pain?

We know that motion blocks pain signals, so when we get up from our chairs and engage in regular physical activity, we tend to hurt less. Sometimes, though, we have individual joints that become stuck and exercise seems to irritate them. Correcting these dysfunctional joints is one way chiropractic adjustments help.

Many foods contain MSG (monosodium glutamate) and/or Aspartame, both of which increase pain, so avoiding those foods helps reduce pain. Most Americans are also way out of balance in the ratio of their omega-3 to omega-6 fats, so they produce too many inflammatory chemicals. In fact, these are what pain medications block, but by reducing omega-6 fats in the diet and increasing omega-3s (usually by taking fish oil) we can do the same thing in a much safer way.

Let us know if you’d like more information about better alternatives for pain relief, including how to test the levels of omega-3 and omega-6 fats in your body.

The Findings of Weston Price

2011-01-25T10:13:00.001-06:00

Weston Price was a prominent dentist who, after founding and serving as the Chairman of the Research Section of the American Dental Association, traveled the world for nearly a decade to study the diets of various groups of people. He then compared the physical and dental health of those who ate a “primitive” diet to those who’d adopted a “Western” diet. His findings were documented in part by over 15,000 photographs he took, some of which can be seen in his book, Nutrition and Physical Degeneration.

Among his findings were that those who ate food in its natural state (as compared to processed food) had almost no trouble with cavities. He also showed that those who survived on a primitive diet had wider facial structures than their relatives who had modernized their meals. The wider facial structure didn’t crowd the teeth and left room for the wisdom teeth. Lastly, he noted that those who consumed traditional foods didn’t suffer with the many health ailments that we fight today.

Though Dr. Price’s findings have been largely ignored by the population at large, numerous researchers are validating his work today. Dr. Loren Cordain at Colorado State University identifies similar traits in The Paleo Diet, Dan Buettner confirmed it in Blue Zones, and PhD Mary Enig tells more in Eat Fat, Lose Fat. Making the effort to read any of these books would be time well spent, but you can start to reap the benefits by simply choosing foods that are closest to how they occur in nature.

How Sitting Affects Your Waist Size

2011-01-18T09:43:00.002-06:00

We know that much of the work performed in America today is done by the seated worker, and we know that too much sitting is not good for your health. Research has even shown us that sitting too much can erase many of the benefits of exercise that is performed at other times during the day. Now newly published research gives us a little information about how those who must sit can do so in a safer way.

According to the authors of a paper published in the European Heart Journal, among people who sit a lot, those who get up frequently have a lower incidence of heart disease, diabetes and blocked arteries, and they have higher levels of HDL (“good”) cholesterol. Most impressively, the 25% of those studied who got up the most often had a waist circumference almost 2 inches smaller than those who got up the least, even if they spent the same total amount of time sitting!

For those who must spend a fair amount of time sitting, something as simple as getting up frequently can apparently reduce many of the ill effects. Ball chairs and standing work stations can also be beneficial. Once again we see that little habits can make a big difference in how we live.

Fluoride

2011-01-11T20:22:00.004-06:00

In case you missed the headlines over the weekend, fluoride has been in the news as the US Department of Health and Human Services is calling for lower levels of the chemical in municipal water. This is partly because of the finding that about 40% of kids show signs of fluorosis, a condition where teeth appear splotchy from too much fluoride. The EPA also released a study showing that too much fluoride can cause brittle bones and fractures. Still other research suggests that fluoride may also affect thyroid function.

Children up to about age 8 are the most susceptible to fluorosis, but formula-fed infants may be especially at risk as the amount of fluoride in city water can be 200 times greater than the concentration in breast milk. Because of their sensitivity, it is also recommended that children under the age of 2 do not have fluoride in their toothpaste.

If the proposal becomes law, many cities, including Montevideo would have to lower their levels from the current 1.2 ppm to the recommended 0.7 ppm. In the mean time, you can lower your exposure to fluoride by drinking and cooking with water that has had the fluoride reduced or removed, such as reverse osmosis water or most spring or well water. You may also wish to ask you dentist whether your children show signs of fluorosis, and how to care for your kids’ teeth without added fluoride.

For more information about fluoride, visit the Fluoride Action Network.

Weight Management

2011-01-04T09:00:00.000-06:00

For many people, the New Year is a chance to hit the reset button and try to shed a few pounds. Unfortunately, the long term success of most of these resolutions is less than desired. Our monthly newsletter introduced some ideas relevant to losing weight; today I'll expand on one of them.

A common strategy to lose weight is to switch regular products for low-fat alternatives. While the amount of fat we consume is important, attempting to limit too much of it often backfires. This is because fat satisfies our hunger, so when we eat "low-fat" or "fat-free," we generally will consume more before we feel full. In the end, we consume just as many, if not more calories. And fat does another important thing - it slows digestion. This keeps our metabolism working longer and avoids the drop in blood sugar that occurs when we eat only carbohydrates. So, while double bacon cheeseburgers won't make weight loss any easier, neither will cutting out all the fat.

To learn a whole lot more about the "good" fats to consume as well as many other weight management strategies, take a look at our website for upcoming educational opportunities.

Vitamins

2010-12-28T10:00:00.000-06:00

When it comes to taking daily vitamins, there have long been two theories. One says you should take them; the other says you’re just making expensive urine. Eight years ago, the prestigious Journal of the American Medical Association weighed in and concluded that due to dietary inadequacies, all adults should take vitamin supplements. Last summer, another study showed us why.

Within our bodies, cells are constantly dividing. Each cell is capable of dividing about 50 times before its DNA can no longer copy itself. This is because the ends of each chromosome (called telomeres) get shorter after each replication. When they become too short, the DNA stops replicating, and the cell dies.

This recent study found that when you take a daily vitamin, the telomeres remain longer, preserving nearly 10 years of age-related loss. Shorter telomeres are linked to higher mortality and a higher risk of age-related chronic disease, so it appears that there is great benefit to daily vitamin use.

The study also found that the quality of the vitamins matters, showing that the better vitamins had almost three times more benefit than the one-a-day type. The vitamins I take and recommend are called Whole Food by Nutriplex. Please feel free to ask us if you have any questions about dietary supplements, and remember that vitamins are only a supplement to a healthy diet.

Shoveling Snow

2010-12-21T09:00:00.001-06:00

There’s plenty of it to do, but how do you get the job done without hurting your back? It may be tempting to just grab the shovel and start scooping, but first take a couple of steps to make sure you don’t overdo it.
1. Make sure that you allow yourself enough time so you aren’t rushed.
2. Dress appropriately. When you’re cold, you’re tense. Tense muscles are easily injured.
3. Warm up. If you’ve just sat through a 3 hour football game, try walking up and down the driveway a few times before the real work begins.
4. Make sure your shovel has a long enough handle so you don’t have to stoop.
5. Push the snow to the pile rather than scooping it. Lifting while bending and twisting is the most dangerous movement for your spinal discs. When you must lift, use your legs.
6. Take your time, and rest if you get tired.
7. Stay on your feet for a while after you’re done. You’ll have less soreness if you don’t sit down right after working.

It Hurts When I'm at Work

2010-12-14T12:12:00.000-06:00

One of the common things we hear from patients at our office is that they suffer from aches and pains, headaches, numbness, tingling or some other symptom when they have been sitting for a while. I think that the images below (from spineuniverse.com) shed some light on why this may be.

As you can see from the two images on the right, when you maintain a proper seated posture, you greatly relieve the pressure on your back and neck. To do so, you must have several things. First is the will power to keep correcting yourself while you create a new habit. Secondly, it helps to have a properly designed work station (ask for a seated worker handout next time you're in our office). Lastly, your chair or seat must be made to fit you. A large number of commercial cushions are available for this purpose if needed.
It is always better to prevent a problem than it is to fix it. Don't hesitate to ask if you'd like help improving your seated posture.

Cells Phones and Childhood Behavior

2010-12-07T12:04:00.000-06:00

Nearly all of us have one, and some people are on theirs constantly. We know they emit something called radiofrequency radiation, but are they safe to use? A number of headlines over the past few years say they are, but many studies show otherwise. Most recently WebMD reported a large study that revealed a link between childhood behavioral problems (hyperactivity, inattention, etc.) and cell phone exposure before and after birth.

Children and especially fetuses are much more sensitive to the effects of radiation than adults. So, what may not cause noticeable symptoms in adulthood can have a dramatic impact on kids. Yet, other studies show that adults are also affected, such as those that show increased acoustic neuromas and salivary gland tumors in heavy users, as well as decreased sperm counts in men who carry their phones in their pockets.
While you probably won't abandon your cell phone altogether, it may be wise to modify your use. Don't carry your phone on your body, get a proper headset if you use yours regularly and don't use them next to kids or babies. You can learn a whole lot more at http://www.devradavis.com/

Antibiotics

2010-11-30T13:54:00.001-06:00

With the cold and flu season well upon us, many people may be tempted to seek a prescription for antibiotics. In fact research shows that those who ask their doctor for antibiotics are more likely to be prescribed them. But, remember that antibiotics aren’t effective against viruses (which are present in colds, flu and about half of all cases of pneumonia) and they carry significant side effects.

A recently published research article in the journal Microbiology concluded that even a short course of antibiotics can leave the normal intestinal bacteria harboring antibiotic resistance genes for up to two years! Sometimes treating one problem causes another.

Not all courses of antibiotics can be avoided, nor should they. But, we need to drastically reduce the usage sooner than later. The best way to avoid antibiotics is to adopt a lifestyle that supports your immune system. Insist on getting adequate sleep, dress appropriately for the conditions, consume a nourishing diet of real food, etc.

To learn more ways to avoid antibiotics, join Dr. Jennie on Dec 13th or 14th for a short class on using common items from the home to boost your immune system. Contact our office for more information.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-23T13:56:00.002-06:00

The Thanksgiving holiday is chance to get away from your work and hopefully spend some time with your loved ones. It’s good food, relaxation and being grateful for life’s many blessings.

This week, I encourage you to follow this link, and watch a four minute video of Dan Buettner on Good Morning America. Dan is renowned for his book Blue Zones, which identifies areas throughout the world that have the longest lived people. Now he has found the world’s happiest people and shares some ideas on how we can live happier lives.

Stress & the Adrenal Glands

2010-11-09T14:10:00.002-06:00

The adrenal glands are the organs in our bodies that secrete stress hormones. They are subject to great demands in our modern, high-paced world, causing many of us to develop irregular patterns of stress hormone release. Consequences of this include low energy, poor bone health, weak immune systems, low quality sleep, under performing thyroid glands, etc.

Though these glands are highly important to how we feel and function, they are often overlooked medically. But, the output of our adrenal glands can easily be measured, and if found to be out of the normal range, can usually be stimulated to regain their normal function. If you’d like to learn more, we invite you to join Dr. Jennie next week at Cornerstone Chiropractic for an informative class on adrenal health.

Kids & Tylenol

2010-11-02T16:07:00.000-05:00

Wise decisions in health care do not include trading one problem, like a headache or fever, for another problem like asthma or eczema. But, that is just what a recent study found has been occurring for children taking acetaminophen (Tylenol). Take a look at what has been associated with medium use (once or more per year) and high use (one or more per month):

Acetaminophen Use and Risk of Asthma,Rhinoconjunctivitis and Eczema Symptoms
Increased risk for asthma symptoms: 43% (medium use) / 151% (high use)
Increased risk for rhinoconjunctivitis symptoms: 33% (medium use) / 118% (high use)
Increased risk for eczema symptoms: 32% (medium use) / 87% (high use)

The findings remind me of a line I heard spoken by a medical expert on a television news channel recently. He said, “Remember, in every medicine there’s a little poison.” Consequences like these are why many people choose chiropractic care and nutritional alternatives as a first choice to address many health concerns. We encourage you to make an appointment or contact us if you have questions or concerns about your health.

The Neck Curve

2010-10-26T13:19:00.002-05:00

If you’ve been under chiropractic care, you’ve probably seen an x-ray of your neck and had some explanation about whether or not your neck possesses the proper curvature. Unfortunately, a large number of adults today have either a straight neck or reversed neck curve. Do you know why the neck curve is important, and what happens if you lose it?

Reversed neck curves are associated with chronic muscle contraction, accelerated arthritis and dysfunction and possibly even demyelination of the spinal cord. Because this posture puts the weight of the head too far forward, it can also cause herniated discs and bone spurs in the neck.

Fortunately there are a few things that can be done to correct a reversed neck curve. It begins with regular chiropractic care to ensure the proper alignment of all of the bones in the spine. Using good ergonomics at work, as well as at home are also important. Lastly, the posture we maintain and the pillow we use also affect the structure of the spine. If you have questions about your neck or how to improve the curvature, please contact our office.

Stress & Immunity

2010-10-19T14:27:00.001-05:00

The past few weeks, we’ve reviewed ways to keep your immune system strong: maintaining an adequate vitamin D level, supplementing with probiotics, utilizing chiropractic care and just generally living a healthy lifestyle. This week we’ll wrap up the discussion by addressing the effect that stress has on the immune system.

Prolonged stress, whether from financial worries, inadequate sleep, exposure to extreme temperatures without being adequately dressed, etc, will generally raise the levels of the hormone cortisol. High cortisol levels impair the immune system, as well as raise cholesterol and blood sugar and reduce thyroid output and memory.

Some of the things that trigger the stress response are beyond our control, others are not. What you can do is implement stress management techniques into your lifestyle. Here’s a list of things that are proven to be helpful:

1. Regular exercise/yoga

2. Deep breathing exercises

3. Prayer, meditation, journaling

4. Massage

5. Chiropractic adjustments

For more information about stress and cortisol follow this link.

Chiropractic & Immunity

2010-10-12T14:33:00.003-05:00

Thomas Edison famously stated, “The doctor of the future will give no medicine, but will interest his patients in the care of the human frame, in diet and in the cause and prevention of disease.” The past few weeks, we’ve been looking at some of the ways to prevent illness this winter. Today, we’ll see how chiropractic care can play a role.

Chiropractic first gained licensure in many Midwestern states after the success chiropractors had in helping people recover from the 1918 flu. Since that time, numerous studies have shown how chiropractic care can have a direct impact on the immune system. Here’s a taste of what’s been found.

Blood samples drawn before and after a single chiropractic adjustment show that there is an immediate and prolonged increase in circulating immune factors following the adjustment.
Orthopedic surgeons in Japan recently showed dramatic improvements in asthma and allergies among patients receiving spinal adjustments.
Chiropractic care has been shown to lower the stress hormone cortisol, high levels of which are known to suppress the immune system.

The World Chiropractic Alliance lists over 100 references demonstrating the link between chiropractic care and the immune system. Follow this link to learn more, and make sure to keep chiropractic a part of your family’s healthcare.

Probiotics

2010-10-05T14:48:00.001-05:00

The last few weeks I’ve been presenting ways to keep your immune system strong as we head into the cold and flu season. This week, we’ll focus on probiotics.

Probiotics are the friendly bacteria that reside in our intestines where 70% of our immune system is located. They help us digest our food, but also play a large role in the function of the immune system. Unfortunately many things in our modern world tend to upset the balance of bacteria in our intestines, and we don’t routinely replace them in our diet the way our ancestors did.

Abundant recent research, however, has shown us that there are many advantages to supplementing our diets with probiotics. A number of studies have found that daily supplementation reduces the incidence of colds and flu by as much as 41%. Other studies have shown benefit for conditions such as diarrhea, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, food allergies, cancer prevention and even as a way to fight obesity.

Probiotics are easily supplemented in the diet in pill or powder form, but must be appropriate for the age of the person taking them. Beneficial bacteria are also contained in certain foods, such as some yogurt, sour kraut and certain beverages like kefir and kombucha. The best results come from daily intake, so if you don’t consume these regularly, consider supplementing your diet. Probiotics are available at our office.

Vitamin D

2010-09-28T14:58:00.002-05:00

The next few Health Tips will be focused on things that you can do to boost your immune system and reduce the chances of getting sick this winter. One of the easiest things you can add to a healthy lifestyle is some supplemental vitamin D. Most people (~85%) are deficient in vitamin D because we don’t get enough sun exposure, we live in a climate where we can’t make it about 6 months out of the year, certain medications lower our vitamin D levels and many digestive disorders prevent us from absorbing what we normally get in our food.

On the bright side, vitamin D is inexpensive – at our office about $10 will get you a four month supply of 2000 IU per day of vitamin D3, the recommended form. 2000 IU is a safe level for most people to supplement without having their levels tested. However, since there is such widespread deficiency, it has been recommended that levels be checked at annual physicals. If you haven’t had your levels tested, you may inquire with your medical provider, or contact our office for information on a convenient and cost-effective blood spot test that you can do at home and send in for analysis.

One major benefit of supplementing vitamin D is drastically reducing the number of colds and flu. In fact one study showed that adding 2000 IU per day nearly wiped out all episodes of colds/flu in the tested population. In addition, we know that the consequences of vitamin D deficiency include depression, breathing difficulties, high blood pressure, MS, cancer, muscle aches, arthritis, osteoporosis and a number of other conditions.

For more info, check out this link.

In Sickness and In Health

2010-09-21T15:03:00.002-05:00

Ask most people why we get sick, and the word “germs” is likely to be a big part of the answer. In fact, as a society, we’ve become obsessed with germs, attempting to sterilize ourselves and everything around us. But numerous recent studies have shown that too much disinfecting is not only fruitless, it can actually harm us.

So then, why do we get sick, and more importantly, what can we do to prevent illness? We are all exposed to germs every second of every day. Billions of them in fact, and we even carry around billions of them in our intestines. We aren’t constantly sick because our immune systems keep them in check most of the time. But if we give them an opportunity (like when we don’t get enough sleep), these germs get ahead of us and we must mount an immune response – what we think of as “getting sick.”

In the coming weeks, we’ll be addressing various strategies you can use to drastically reduce your chances of getting sick this winter. In the mean time, you can start revving up your immune system by getting enough sleep each night, avoiding sugar, managing stress and staying physically active.

Muscle Tension

2010-09-14T15:06:00.002-05:00

Much of the discomfort we experience on a day-to-day basis is the result of tight muscles. Tight muscles are caused by irritated nerves from misaligned bones, decreased circulation from prolonged poor posture or injury, and psychological factors such as anger, fear and anxiety. In fact, most muscle relaxing medications are psychic tranquilizers rather than true muscle fiber relaxants (which is why patients commonly feel sedated when they take these medications).

In addition to increasing pain and blocking circulation, tight muscles can compress the discs of the spine predisposing us to bulges, herniations and early arthritis. Tightened muscles can be addressed with chiropractic adjustments, as they are intended to restore normal nerve supply to the muscle. Massage therapy and carefully performed stretches may also be beneficial.

Muscle tension can also frequently be prevented. Using good ergonomics and posture, maintaining proper spinal alignment, engaging in regular moderate physical activity, avoiding stimulants (caffeine, nicotine), staying well hydrated & well rested and eating a balanced diet are paramount in supporting a healthy musculoskeletal system. However, if we don’t also take steps to balance our emotional state, muscle tension may continue to reappear. The regular use of tactics like deep breathing, meditation or prayer, and sharing what’s troubling you with a close friend can help avert much anguish now and in the future.

Alternative Therapies

2010-09-07T13:17:00.002-05:00

As you likely know, many people use remedies that are not part of the traditional medical treatment prescribed by their health care provider. One survey found that 42% of Americans used at least one kind of alternative therapy including herbal remedies, massage therapy, acupuncture, vitamins and supplements. It is estimated that patients pay $27 billion annually for alternative therapies.

What are alternative therapies and are they safe? Does “natural” mean safer? How can alternative therapies complement traditional medicine? Join Dr. Jennie when she presents a program on this interesting topic: Tuesday, September 14th at 1:00pm at the Montevideo Community Center. Refreshments will be provided. Call Diane Ostlie at 269-9375 for more information.

Choose Your Food Wisely!

2010-08-31T15:09:00.001-05:00

Did you know that in the U.S., 90% of food budget dollars are spent on processed, packaged foods? In large part it is because of this that the U.S. is now considered the sickest nation when it comes to chronic, degenerative and preventable diseases. Check out these alarming statistics from recently published studies:

MSG, found in 60-90% of processed food, is notorious for causing headaches, brain fog, fatigue and seizures.
Children eating 12 or more hot dogs per month have 9 times the risk of developing leukemia!
92 side effects are linked to aspartame (an artificial sweetener) including anxiety, weight gain, depression, etc.
Each weekly serving of French fries that a woman ate as a preschooler raises her risk of breast cancer by 27%!

The idea here isn’t that we should never eat convenience foods, but that we need to be concerned about making them a regular part of our diet. Seeing these statistics, it is no wonder that when people eat unprocessed foods they feel better. Make an effort this week to replace some of processed foods in your diet with more natural alternatives.

Check out www.whfoods.org for a nearly endless supply of ideas on how to easily prepare many whole foods.

How Will You Age?

2010-08-24T11:49:00.000-05:00

Take a moment and look at the pictures of the ladies above.

Which lady do you think is older?
Which one has more energy?
Which has more pain?
Which is more fun to be around?
Which one enjoys better health?

In fact each lady is 83 years old at the time of the photo. Though I haven’t provided any information beyond the photos, simply understanding the effects of gravity we know that the woman on the right must work harder to stay upright. This drains her energy throughout the day. It also puts a lot of stress on the joints in her hips, back and knees. Are you more pleasant to be around when you’re tired and hurting? I know I’m not! Well done studies also show us that forward head carriage is directly associated with a shorter lifespan and ill health.

The good news is that posture is partly a habit; we can work on improving and maintaining it whenever we’re aware of it. Chiropractic adjustments are intended to correct misalignments that create bad posture. Custom-built shoe inserts help level our foundations, and proper chairs, mattresses and pillows also play a part. Working together, we can do a lot to affect how you might look when you’re 83.

It's All Connected

2010-08-17T15:18:00.002-05:00

Though health care is often specialized (podiatrists for feet, cardiologists for hearts, dentists for teeth and so on), it benefits us to remember that our bodies are highly interconnected. Several recent studies bring this point to light.

Researchers at the National Institutes of Health recently found that women’s cholesterol levels vary on average 19% at different times during their menstrual cycle. Another study showed that those who brushed their teeth once per day were at a 40% lower risk of cardiovascular disease than those who brushed less frequently. Yet another found that those with abnormal head and neck alignment had a greater likelihood of chronic pelvic pain, altered breathing and carpal tunnel syndrome.

Remember that your level of health today and in the future has a lot to do with how you live your life. Make efforts to groom good habits, and reap the benefits down the road. We’re here to help in any way we can.

Detoxification

2010-08-10T14:08:00.005-05:00

These days, our world is full of exaggerated claims of the benefits of one health promoting product or another. The truth is that nothing is as beneficial as eating wholesome food, drinking plenty of pure water, staying active, getting enough rest and so on. But there are also some factors that are harder to control, such as the amount of toxic chemicals that we are exposed to today. Municipal water contains chlorine and pharmaceuticals, Teflon from non-stick cookware is in nearly all of our bodies, chemicals from plastics accumulate in the body and mimic our hormones. The list could go on.

As a result, we see people struggle to control their weight, suffer from foggy thinking, toss and turn in bed, and search for answers to a growing list of problems. Just this week, studies were released about girls starting puberty at age 8 (which is likely due to environmental estrogens).

One way that we can fight back is to ensure that our detoxifying organs are functioning at their best. We recommend the Standard Process Purification Program. Those who have already completed the program have lost on average 12-15 pounds, and have reported improved digestion, clearer thinking and better sleep. If you're interested in learning more, contact Dr. Sam or Dr. Jennie.

Hydration

2010-08-03T14:25:00.002-05:00

This time of year, if you’re spending any time outdoors either working or playing, you’re losing more water than you may realize. Even indoors, it is probably warmer than at other times of the year, so staying hydrated is especially important.

Did you know that being just 1% dehydrated leads to a 10% decrease in energy production? Water helps to regulate body temperature, cushion joints, keep blood thin, bring nutrients to cells and remove waste from the body. It isn’t surprising then that chronic low level dehydration can lead to high blood pressure, kidney stones, constipation, decreased mental function, etc.

A basic rule of thumb on hydration is that you should drink ½ of your body weight in ounces of water. So if you’re 180 pounds, 90 oz of water is right for you. Of course this will vary if you’re sweating, have loose stools, etc. so make sure that you urinate several times per day, and that the urine is pale in color. Lastly, for those who don’t like drinking water, try different kinds (filtered vs. spring water, etc.) or try flavoring it with a little lemon or lime or even make iced tea, but remember that many beverages (coffee, alcohol and sugary drinks) can actually dehydrate you.

Allergies

2010-07-27T14:13:00.001-05:00

Once again, a number of people are suffering with seasonal allergies. If you are one of them, did you know there a number of ways in which you can help balance your body’s immune system instead of just masking the symptoms?

Herbal supplements such as bromelain, rutin, quercetin and nettle root can be helpful in providing short term relief (they’re all available in a product called Allergy Relief). Avoiding dairy can also help because many people produce extra mucus when they consume dairy products.

To improve the long- term function of your immune system, consider that chiropractic care delivered to the areas of the spine that influence the adrenal glands and intestines can be very helpful for many allergy sufferers. For those who have watery eyes or runny noses, carefully administered adjustments can also reduce these glandular secretions.

Though it won’t typically make an immediate difference, adding a probiotic supplement to your diet provides long term benefits by strengthening the digestive tract and surrounding immune system, and can improve allergy symptoms over time. In addition, supplementing with cod liver oil/fish oil helps to balance the immune system and reduce inflammation (at least 1000 mg/day total omega-3’s).

Massage

2010-07-20T14:32:00.004-05:00

Did you know that our health is benefited simply from being touched by others? Most people realize that babies need to be held, but even as adults we benefit from human touch. The Touch Institute in Miami, in conjunction with researchers from Harvard and elsewhere, has shown benefits to those with conditions such as anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, MS, and many more. Learn more at their website.

We have 2 massage therapists that work out of our office. They offer a variety of massage styles & time lengths, and at least one of them is in the office most weekdays. Contact our office if you would like more information about setting up an appointment.

Alternatives to Pain Meds

2010-07-13T14:20:00.004-05:00

Last week’s health tip focused on some of the drawbacks with anti-inflammatory medications. These included some dangerous side-effects, the fact that they disrupt the healing process and the idea that completely overriding the pain mechanism can lead to further injury. This week, let’s look at some alternatives.

Whenever we experience pain and/or inflammation, we ought to try to understand the cause. The best treatment aims to address the cause, not simply mask the symptom. A corrective chiropractic adjustment is an excellent example. In many cases, the proper application of ice can also control the amount of inflammation and reduce pain.

When additional alternatives to anti-inflammatory medications are desired, we can look to nature for some safe but powerful options. Neurosurgeon Joseph Maroon of the University of Pittsburg Medical Center has published a paper listing a number of these well-studied compounds. A summary of some of these follows, and the entire article can be found at this website.

Compound Daily Dosage

Omega-3 1.5 - 5g EPA + DHA

(from fish oil)

White Willow Bark 240 mg

Turmeric 400 – 600 mg 3x daily

(curcumin)

Green Tea 3 – 4 cups

Capsaicin cream used topically

(chili pepper)

Sleep Posture

2010-06-29T14:34:00.002-05:00

One of the most overlooked contributors to neck and back pain is poor positioning during sleep. Whether it is because of a worn out mattress, improper pillow or simply bad sleeping habits, suboptimal sleep posture is the biggest contributor to waking up stiff and sore.

So how do you know if you are well supported and getting good sleep? Assessing how you feel the first thing in the morning is a good start. Are you well rested? Do you ache or feel stiff? While an injured joint will commonly stiffen overnight, many patients have blamed their morning aches on “arthritis” only to find that they feel much better after replacing their mattress. The same can often be said for their pillow.

A good mattress is generally less than 8-10 years old and doesn’t show signs of sag when you look across it with the sheets off. The correct pillow is thick enough to fill the distance between the head and shoulder for a side sleeper, yet not so thick as to reduce the neck curvature of a back sleeper. Appropriately sized cervical pillows are a good choice for most people (be sure to ask us if you’re unsure of what’s right).

Lastly, the position we sleep in is largely a habit; that means we can change it. Strive to sleep on your back or side, but try to avoid stomach sleeping. Those who toss around frequently throughout the night often have an uncomfortable mattress or haven’t cleared their mind before bed. Jotting down your to-dos and giving thanks before falling asleep will frequently aid in a more restful slumber.

Bone Loss

2010-06-15T14:45:00.001-05:00

One of the most devastating issues we might face as we get older is bone loss and the consequences of osteoporosis. In fact, 1 in 4 women and 1 in 8 men over the age of 50 develop osteoporosis. Combine that with the fact that 25% of those who sustain an osteoporotic hip fracture die within the first year from related complications. It is so prevalent that more women die each year from the consequences of hip fractures than from ovarian and breast cancer combined.

A common medical therapy for osteoporosis has been bisphosphonate drugs like Fosamax. However, a number of recent studies have shown that they can actually increase the rate of fracture in the long term as well as cause nasty side effects like osteonecrosis (bone death).

Perhaps a better strategy for most people is to prevent and reverse bone loss with weight bearing exercise and nutritional supplementation. It is important to stay physically active to keep your muscles and bones strong; chiropractic helps maintain function and enables pain-free movement patterns. Supplementing adequate calcium and vitamin D has been shown to reverse bone loss, and should be considered by all adults. For those with more advanced bone loss, additional nutrients exist that have been shown to reverse bone loss. Feel free to ask if you’d like more information.

Statin Side-Effects

2010-05-25T14:49:00.002-05:00

Cholesterol lowering statin medications are in the news again, thanks to a recent study which showed that they are causing cataracts, muscle weakness, liver problems and kidney failure. Although these medications do effectively lower cholesterol, many doctors question whether they should be so broadly prescribed because of their side-effects.

We have seen a number of patients who have noted pain, especially in the lower back and legs after being on these medications. Most often, these same folks feel much better if their medical doctor takes them off of their prescription. If you or someone you know uses these medications, it may be worth considering natural alternatives such as red yeast rice as well as dietary and lifestyle modifications. Ask us for more information.

A Little Fresh Air

2010-05-18T14:54:00.002-05:00

On a day like today, it is fairly easy to do something simple for your health. All you have to do is step outside for a few minutes…that’s it. You don’t even have to break a sweat!

According to recent research, we know that there are fewer pollutants and toxins in the air outside than there are in most homes or buildings. We also know that as little as 15 minutes of sun a day can elevate the vitamin D level in your blood to the normal range. (Remember that most Americans are deficient in this important vitamin.) And if you do decide to break a sweat, doing your exercise outdoors greatly boosts the benefit, even if done for only 5 minutes.