The Spine Line

Omega 3 vs. Omega 6

2011-03-03T15:17:00.000-08:00

In modern diets, there are very few good sources of omega-3 fatty acids, mainly the fat of cold water fish such as salmon, sardines, herring, mackerel, black cod, and bluefish. There are two critical omega-3 fatty acids, (eicosapentaenoic acid, called EPA and docosahexaenoic or DHA), that the body needs. EPA and DHA are the building blocks for hormones that control immune function, blood clotting, and cell growth as well as components of cell membranes.

Omega-6 oils increase Pain and Inflammation. The problem is that Omega 6 oils are in almost everything. It is often difficult to eat prepared foods without getting 10 times the recommended daily dose of this very caustic oil. It is found in seeds, nuts, refined vegetable oils, such as soy oil. It is in snack foods, cookies, crackers and fast foods. Most cold cereals, breads, most boxed and packaged foods. It is also in many replacements for butter in the non-dairy spreads

Think of it this way, Omega 6 oils are very stable and keep food from going bad or losing that soft “twinkie” feel. Breads would quickly harden if not for omega 6 oils. Bagels and pastries would also lose the fresh baked feel in a matter of days if not for this stable fatty acid. For this reason food producers love to use this very cheep oil for food production because it maintains the illusion of freshness!

The ratio of omega-6 oils to the omega-3 oils should be (1:1) one to one, amazingly in the average American the ratio is over (40:1) forty to one. That’s 39 % more of the caustic pain causing omega-6 that is recommended.

Hormones derived from the two classes of essential fatty acids have opposite effects. Those from omega-6 fatty acids increase inflammation (an important component of the immune response), blood clotting, and cell proliferation, while those from omega-3 fatty acids decrease the pain and inflammation. Both families of hormones must be in balance to maintain optimum health.

Bottom Line… cut down on omega-6 levels by reducing consumption of processed and fast foods as well as polyunsaturated vegetable oils (corn, sunflower, safflower, soy, and cottonseed, for example). At home, use Macadamia nut oil for high heat cooking. Use extra virgin olive oil for low heat cooking and in salad dressings. Eat more oily fish and take EPA/DHA supplements, use walnuts, flax seeds, and omega-3 fortified eggs.

Dr. Dave Thomson

Ibuprofen, Advil and othet NSAID drugs.

2011-03-03T07:45:00.000-08:00

From www.usatoday.com/news/health/2010-06-11-nsaids-heart_N.htm?csp=obnetwork

Common pain relievers raise heart risk for healthy people.

The American Heart Association and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration already warn people with heart disease to be cautious about taking NSAIDs, which include ibuprofen (brand named Advil, Motrin) and diclofenac....

From www.usatoday.com/news/health/2010-06-11-nsaids-heart_N.htm?csp=obnetwork

By Ed Edelson, HealthDay

Healthy people who take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve minor aches and pains may raise their risk of dying from heart-related problems, a Danish study finds.

The American Heart Association and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration already warn people with heart disease to be cautious about taking NSAIDs, which include ibuprofen (brand named Advil, Motrin) and diclofenac.

The new study is the first to show the same kind of increased risk among people without cardiac problems, says a report in the July issue of Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes, published online June 8.

"Very few studies have been designed to answer the important question: Do NSAIDs also increase the cardiovascular risk among healthy people who use these drugs for minor complaints?" said lead author Dr. Emil L. Fosbol, a cardiologist at Gentofte University Hospital in Hellerup. "This study is the first to confirm that the cardiovascular risk is indeed increased when healthy individuals use some of the drugs."

The risks for different NSAIDs — found in an analysis of national medical records of more than 1 million Danes from 1997 to 2005 — varied widely. Participants, whose average age was 39, who used ibuprofen had a 29% greater risk of fatal or nonfatal stroke, compared to those who took no NSAID.

Use of diclofenac (Voltaren and Cataflam) was associated with a 91% higher risk of death from all cardiovascular diseases, while rofecoxib (Vioxx) use was associated with a 66% increased risk. But the study found no increased risk of cardiovascular problems — indeed, a slightly lower risk of death — associated with naproxen, sold over the counter with brand names including Aleve.

For people taking the largest doses, diclofenac was associated with a doubled risk of heart attack, and rofecoxib (Vioxx) was associated with a threefold increased risk of heart attack. Vioxx was taken off the U.S. market in 2004 because of a study finding high rates of heart attack and stroke.

"These findings are completely consistent with what we have found in patients with cardiovascular disease," Dr. Michael E. Farkouh, a clinical cardiologist at Mount Sinai Cardiovascular Institute in New York City, said of the Danish study. "Drugs that elevate blood pressure and are associated with a thrombotic (artery-blocking) effect can be harmful in patients who are otherwise healthy."

The percentage increases in the study were large, but the absolute overall risk in otherwise healthy people was small, Farkouh said. Nevertheless, "before you take any medication, you should consult with a physician, particularly these medications," he said.

That warning applies especially to people who exercise regularly and are thus more likely to take an NSAID for muscle and joint pain, Farkouh said. Regular use of an NSAID increases the risk not only of cardiovascular problems but also of bleeding, a known side effect of the medications, he said.

Aspartame

2011-02-03T06:06:00.000-08:00

Found on: Something-Fishy.com...
Known in the world as Nutrasweet or Equal, Aspartame is the most popular artificial sweetener used. It is also known to potentially cause cancer and be responsible for a wide variety of behavioral changes in humans. It can cause seizures and even death. (Feb. 1994 Department of Health and Human Services Report.) It is considered one of the most dangerous additives in food today. Of the allergic reactions to food that are reported to the FDA, it accounts for the reason in 75% of the cases.

Aspartame, is made up of three parts. Aspartic Acid (40%) -- considered an "excitotoxin" that "excite or stimulate the neural cells to death"; Phenylalanine (50%) -- which can build up in the brain; and Methanol (10%) -- wood alcohol which is a deadly poison. (reference: Aspartame; L-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine methyl ester.)

Side effects can include everything from minor to severe. The more use of Aspartame and the longer the person consumes it increase the risks. Here are some of the side effects, and diseases that can be caused by, triggered or made worse by the use of Aspartame: Headaches/migraines, dizziness, nausea, weight gain, muscle spasms, depression, fatigue, insomnia, heart palpitations, vision and hearing problems, anxiety attacks, vertigo, memory loss and joint pain, Emotional Disorders, Multiple Sclerosis, Lupus, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Brain Tumors, Brain Cancer, Diabetes, Parkinson's Disease, Alzheimer's Disease, Epilepsy, Birth Defects, Mental Retardation and Diabetes.

Aspartame can often be found in: diet sodas, ice-teas, coffee drinks, breath mints, cereals, sugar-free gums, jello, frozen yogurt, wine coolers, multivitamins and children's vitamins, milks drinks, laxatives and many more products. It can also be in products that are NOT promoted as "sugar-free".

Link: Aspartame Poisoning

Link: Scientific Abuse in Methanol

Link: Aspartame Dangers in Pregnancy

Link: Current Information on Aspartame

From http://www.something-fishy.org/dangers/sugarfat.php

Crash Test 2009 Chevy Malibu vs. 1959 Chevy Bel Air

2011-01-09T12:59:00.000-08:00

Forks Over Knives - Movie Trailer

2010-11-18T07:41:00.000-08:00

The two men in the documentary/clip are Dr. T Colin Campbell and Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn. They both have incredible credentials. Dr. T Colin Campbell is one of the top scientists in the US and ran "The China Study", the largest and longest running epidemiological study in history. Dr. Esselstyn is a cardiac surgeon who ran one of the first/best clinical studies proving that heart disease can be reversed with diet alone. Both men have written books if you want to learn what they have to say.

Life Expectancy by State (healthy places to live)

2010-11-15T16:01:00.000-08:00

Source
American life expectancy, education and earnings by state

Farmageddon

2010-11-10T19:58:00.000-08:00

Farmageddon Trailer from Kristin Canty on Vimeo.

Thanks for your Trust and Confidence.

2010-11-05T08:53:00.000-07:00

How did November got here so quickly? Perhaps I could blame it on the current administration? I think they must have taken September and October off the calendar. It can not possibly be time to think about Thanksgiving? Have you noticed stores have their Christmas decorations out? I know it’s juvenile but I “repudiate” them for putting up Christmas crap before I get an opportunity to thank each one of you for allowing me to be your Chiropractor.

*We will Be Closed On Friday the 12th of November. For patients who need appointments Please make an appointment on Thursday the 11th or Monday the 15th.

Drug's - (video).

2010-11-03T03:24:00.000-07:00

Milking Cancer from Breast Cancer Action on Vimeo.

On Being an Optmist... Video

2010-10-30T07:05:00.000-07:00

Whiplash

2010-10-26T13:41:00.000-07:00

2 Signs That You May Have Whiplash from A Car Wreck

1- Neck, Shoulder and/ or Upper Back Pain
Normally patients do not feel that much pain right after the accident, emotions are high and natural endorphins mask the pain. Usually it takes 3 to 4 days to fully recognize the extent of the deep tissue bruising and tendon sprains. If you notice that your neck is not turning the way that it should or that your upper back and shoulder are not working right then you might have whiplash. You might have gotten whiplash if you have pains in your neck, shoulder, collar bone or upper back.

2- Dizziness or Light Headedness
Other common injuries of an auto accident whiplash may be dizziness and light headedness. These feelings occur because of mild traumatic brain “bruising” Accidents as slow a 5 MPH can cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull causing a fog or memory lapse. The other cause of dizziness and brain fog come from bone’s and ligaments being stretched out of place. Your entire body might be affected by one little bone being misaligned. Nerve tissue becomes irritated and cause parts of your body to react in the wrong way.

I have personally taken care of thousand's of whiplash cases, the combnation of Chiropractic, and Physical therapy are necessary in full recovery.

Is processed fast food really food?

2010-10-25T09:16:00.000-07:00

The Beautiful Truth

2010-10-20T09:08:00.000-07:00

Acupuncture may be bad for you.

2010-09-17T07:26:00.000-07:00

2010-08-21T07:07:00.000-07:00

I take Aspirin for the headaches caused by Reglan
which I take for the nausea caused by the Ritalin
I take for the poor concentration I have from the Provigil
which I take for the fatigue which I get from the Lexapro
I take for the sadness I got from the Zelnorm
which I take for the diarrhea caused by the Paxi
l for the anxiety I got from the Amitiza
that I take because of the constipation I got from Zocor
which I take for my High Cholesterol

because exercise, a good diet and regular chiropractic care are just too much trouble.

Sadly, this represents our north American way of dealing with health issues.....

Thanks to Jonathan Lazar @ lazarspinalcare ~ want one. Mail checks ($20) to 203 S. Zeeb Rd. Suite 106 Ann Arbor, MI 48103. Include your address and we'll mail you one. Be sure to include sizes.

Vitamins D and E May Lower Dementia Risk

2010-08-05T16:19:00.000-07:00

From Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine:
Two new studies from JAMA/Archives publications explore the positive effect of certain vitamins on cognitive decline in the elderly. The first study suggests that low blood levels of vitamin D may increase risk for cognitive decline, and the other demonstrates that a diet rich in vitamin E may reduce the risk for age-related dementia.

Published in Archives of Internal Medicine, the vitamin D study notes that of the 858 adults aged 65 years and older who participated in the 6-year study, those with the lowest blood levels of vitamin D (defined as less than 25 nmol/L of blood) were 60% more likely to show signs of general cognitive decline than their counterparts who had sufficient blood levels of vitamin D. The low–vitamin D group was also 31% more likely to show declines in their abilities to plan, organize, and prioritize. According to the literature accompanying the study, between 40% and 100% of older adults in the United States and Europe may be vitamin D–deficient. This research raises the possibility that vitamin D supplementation may actually defend the brain against dementia, though further clinical trials are needed to confirm these results and to assess safe and effective dosages.

The second study, published in the Archives of Neurology, determined that a vitamin E–rich diet may lower the risk of adults developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. In the study of 5395 people aged 55 years and older, those with the most vitamin E in their diet (18.5 mg/d on average) were 25% less likely to develop dementia than their counterparts who had the least vitamin E in their diets (9 mg/d or less). The research team followed the study participants for 9.6 years, during which time 465 participants developed dementia, including 365 cases of Alzheimer’s disease. Although the study also traced how much vitamin C, beta-carotene, and flavonoids each participant consumed, only high levels of dietary vitamin E seemed to be related to protection against dementia.

Despite the promising results, the researchers involved in these two studies caution that it is still too early to make any blanket recommendations about what individuals should eat or which supplements they should take to reduce their risks for age-related cognitive decline and dementia.

http://www.alternative-therapies.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/Content.Main/id/65/News#1

My joints hurt when the weather changes!

2010-07-23T15:25:00.000-07:00

Although there is not an overwhelming body of evidence as regrettably Mother Nature does not fund clinical trials, there are some pretty solid human studies. There have been studies related to low back pain, osteoarthritis (OA) in multiple joints and rheumatoid arthritis. The consensus of these studies is that barometric pressure is directly associated with increases in osteoarthritis joint pain. Overall there is an inverse relationship; as barometric pressure decreases, pain increases. Some subsets of the population have a greater change in pain than others and this appears to be true of both patients with osteoarthritis and other forms of arthritis. One exception to decreased pressure increasing pain was reported in a 2003 study published in Rheumatology (Oxford). The study discovered that “…among women with hand OA, higher pain was significantly associated with days of rising barometric pressure (P<0.001).” coefficient =" 1.14," p =" .02," temperature =" -0.01," p =" .004;" n="154)">/=5 hPa/h and >/=10 hPa/h and magnitudes of decompression >/=5 hPa and >/=10 hPa augmented pain-related behaviors in SNL and CCI rats, respectively. These results indicate that LP within the range of natural weather patterns augments neuropathic pain in rats, and that SNL rats are more sensitive to LP than CCI rats.

Lowering barometric pressure aggravates mechanical allodynia and hyperalgesia in a rat model of neuropathic pain. [LINK]

Neurosci Lett. 1999 Apr 30;266(1):21-4.

Sato J, Morimae H, Seino Y, Kobayashi T, Suzuki N, Mizumura K.
Department of Neural Regulation, Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Nagoya University, Japan. jun@riem.nagoya-u.ac.jp

To examine the effects of meteorological change on the pain-related behaviors of neuropathic rats, animals with a chronic constriction injury (CCI) to the sciatic nerve were exposed to low barometric pressure (LP), 20 mmHg below the natural atmospheric pressure in a climate-controlled room. CCI caused a decreased hindpaw withdrawal threshold to von Frey hair (VFH) stimulation (mechanical allodynia) and prolonged duration of hindpaw withdrawal in response to pinprick stimulation (mechanical hyperalgesia). When the CCI rats were exposed to LP, both these pain-related behaviors were aggravated, whereas no change was seen in a group of controls. In the CCI rats sympathectomy inhibited this LP-induced augmentation of pain-related behaviors. These results show that LP intensifies the abnormalities in the pain-related behaviors of neuropathic rats, and that sympathetic activity contributes to the LP effect.

How diet soda causes weight gain (Video)

2010-07-22T13:43:00.000-07:00

Glutamate/Aspartame - Pain and Your Brain

2010-07-21T15:11:00.000-07:00

by Daniel J. Murphy, DC, FACO

Vice President of ICA

Dan Murphy graduated magna cum laude from Western States Chiropractic College in 1978, and has more than 26 years of practice experience. He received his Diplomat in Chiropractic Orthopedics in 1986. Since 1982, Dr. Murphy has served as part-time undergraduate faculty at Life Chiropractic College West, where he is

currently teaching classes to seniors in the Management of Spinal Disorders.

Dr. Murphy is on the post-graduate faculty of several chiropractic colleges. His

post-graduate continuing education classes include “Whiplash and Spinal Trauma,”

“Neuroimmunology,” “Pediatrics,” “Phospholipid Neurobiology,” “The Neurophysiology of Therapeutic Lasers,” and “Nutrition.” Dr. Murphy is the coordinator of a year-long certification program (through the International Chiropractic Association) in “Chiropractic Spinal Trauma,” now (2005) in its eighteenth year of being offered. He has taught more than 1,000 post-graduate continuing education seminars, including classes in the United States, Canada, Australia, France, England, Portugal, Ireland, Italy, Greece, New Zealand, and South Korea.

Dr. Murphy is a contributing author to the books Motor Vehicle Collision Injuries, published by Aspen, 1996, Pediatric Chiropractic, published by Williams & Wilkins, 1998, and Motor Vehicle Collision Injuries, 2nd edition, Jones and Bartlett, 2005. Since 1991, Dr. Murphy has written a quarterly column in The American Journal of Clinical Chiropractic, with more than 55 columns appearing to date.

In 1987, 1991 and 1995 Dr. Murphy received the “Post-Graduate Educator of

the Year” award, given by the International Chiropractic Association.

In 1997 he received “The Carl S. Cleveland, Jr., Educator of the Year” award,

given by the International Chiropractic Association of California.

In 2001, Dr. Murphy was honored by the readers of Dynamic Chiropractic as the

top vote receiver for the “Our Virtual Chiropractic Association”. He was also awarded

“Chiropractor of the Year” by the International Chiropractic Association of California, and “Pediatric Chiropractor of the Year” given by Chiropractic Pediatric University.

In 2003, Dr. Murphy was awarded “Chiropractor of the Year” by Chiropractic

Biophysics. This award is most prestigious because Chiropractic Biophysics has more

chiropractic research studies published in the scientific literature than any other

chiropractic group.

Since 2003 Dr. Murphy is the Vice President of the International Chiropractic

Association.

Dr. Murphy reviews articles regarding alternative health issues, which can be

accessed through Dr. Murphy’s website at www.danmurphydc.com.

Glutamate (an amino acid) is the brain’s primary excitatory neurotransmitter. However, excess glutamate kills brain neurons and is therefore called an “excitotoxin.” Too much glutamate literally excites brain neurons to death. Glutamate is commonly added to foods because it makes them “exciting” or taste better.1, 2, 3, 4, 5

Aspartic acid, or aspartate (another amino acid) is the brain’s second prevalent excitatory neurotransmitter. Aspartate poses the same deleterious toxicity to brain neurons as does glutamate, and is therefore also labeled as an excitotoxin. Most of human exposure to aspartate is through the artificial sweetener aspartame. Aspartame is composed of the amino acids phenylalanine and aspartate. In the body, and sometimes in the food products when heated, the bond between phenylalanine and aspartate is broken, releasing the excitatory neurotransmitter and excitotoxin aspartate. Importantly and sadly, according to neurosurgeon Russell Blaylock’s 2002 book Health and Nutrition Secrets that Can Save Your Life,5 phenylalanine and aspartate are not linked through a standard peptide bond, but rather are linked with methyl alcohol (a deadly toxin itself). Consequently, ingestion of aspartame exposes our bodies to both aspartate and to methanol.1, 2, 3, 4, 5

Glutamate and Aspartate (from Aspartame) are commonly discussed together under the label “Excitoxins.”

In 1993, the Journal of Neurosurgery6 publishes an article that notes that the ultimate neuronal damage that follows traumatic brain injury is done by glutamate and aspartate neurotoxicity.

In 1994, the New England Journal of Medicine7 publishes an article that notes that glutamate and aspartate neurotoxicity excess may be related to the cause of all neurodegenerative diseases.

Physician George Schwartz, MD, notes in his 1999 book,2 that many of the over-the-counter and prescription drugs sold in America are used to counteract conditions caused by glutamate, such as migraine, arthritis, dizziness, diarrhea, mood swings, rashes, depression, headaches, ADHD, asthma, gastroesophageal reflux, etc.

Physician William Walsh, MD, a Fellow of the American College of Allergy and a former Fellow at the Mayo Clinic, notes in his 2000 book,4 the most frequent causes of allergy are:

1) Glutamate

2) Acid foods

3) Aspartame

4) Refined Carbohydrates

5) Certain Proteins

Note, glutamate is #1 on Walsh’s list, and Aspartame is #3.

In 2002, an article published in the British Journal of Anaesthesia9 notes that glutamate is related to chronic pain sensitization. Smith,8, 2001 below makes the same claim.

Most of us know glutamate by its salt form monosodium glutamate or MSG.

There are dozens of names for glutamate as it is added to foods. A partial list of names seen on food packaging are listed below, from the website www.truthinlabeling.org:

HIDDEN SOURCES OF PROCESSED FREE GLUTAMIC ACID (MSG)

Autolyzed, hydrolyzed, glutamate, glutamic acid, hydrolyzed, autolyzed

NAMES OF INGREDIENTS THAT CONTAIN ENOUGH MSG TO SERVE AS COMMON MSG-REACTION

TRIGGERS

The MSG-reaction is a reaction to free glutamic acid that occurs in food as a consequence of manufacture. MSG-sensitive people do not react to protein (which contains bound glutamic acid) or any of the minute amounts of free glutamic acid that might be found in unadulterated, unfermented, food.

These ALWAYS contain MSG

Glutamate Glutamic acid

Gelatin Calcium caseinate Textured protein Sodium caseinate Yeast nutrient Yeast extract Yeast food Autolyzed yeast

Monosodium glutamate

Monopotassium glutamate

Hydrolyzed corn gluten

Hydrolyzed protein (any protein

that is hydrolyzed)

These OFTEN contain MSG or

create MSG during processing

Carrageenan, Maltodextrin, Malt extract, Natural pork flavoring, Citric acid, Malt flavoring, Bouillon and Broth, Natural chicken flavoring, Soy protein isolate, Natural beef flavoring, Ultra-pasteurized Soy sauce, Stock Barley malt, Soy sauce extract, Whey protein concentrate, Pectin, Soy protein, Whey protein, Protease, Soy protein concentrate, Whey protein isolate, Protease enzymes, Anything protein fortified, Flavors(s) & Flavoring(s), Anything fermented, Anything enzyme modified, Enzymes anything, Seasonings (the word “seasonings”), Natural flavor & flavoring

The website further notes that “The new game is to label hydrolyzed proteins as pea protein, whey protein, corn protein, etc. If a pea, for example, were whole, it would be identified as a pea. Calling an ingredient pea protein indicates that the pea has been hydrolyzed, at least in part, and that processed free glutamic acid (MSG) is present.”

“MSG reactions have been reported to soaps, shampoos, hair conditioners, and cosmetics, where MSG is hidden in ingredients that include the words ‘hydrolyzed,’ ‘amino acids,’ and ‘protein.’ Low fat and no fat milk products often include milk solids that contain MSG. Drinks, candy, and chewing gum are potential sources of hidden MSG and of aspartame and neotame.”

“Aspartic acid, found in neotame and aspartame (NutraSweet), ordinarily causes MSG type reactions in MSG sensitive people. Aspartame is found in some medications, including children’s medications.”

“According to the manufacturer, Varivax-Merck chicken pox vaccine (Varicella Virus Live), contains L-monosodium glutamate and hydrolyzed gelatin both of which contain processed free glutamic acid (MSG) which cause brain lesions in young laboratory animals, and cause endocrine disturbances like obesity and reproductive disorders later in life. It would appear that most, if not all, live virus vaccines contain MSG.”

Apparently, both glutamate and aspartate enter the brain through holes in the blood brain barrier at the hypothalamus, called the “circumventricular organs.” Ironically, damage to the hypothalamus might cause fluid retention and reduced ability to control appetite, both of which are related to weight gain. This suggests that individuals using these products to control weight may experience weight gain.

In 2001, published in the Annals of Pharmacotherapy, JD Smith and co-authors8 eliminated nearly all the symptoms of a small group of chronic fibromyalgia suffers by eliminating all glutamate and aspartate from their diets for a period of about 4 months. Years of previous medical care and numerous drugs did not help these patients. The authors noted that all patients had recurrence of symptoms whenever MSG is re-ingested. These authors further note:

“Excitotoxins are molecules, such as MSG and aspartate that act as excitatory neurotransmitters, and can lead to neurotoxicity when used in excess.

“MSG, the sodium salt of the amino acid glutamic acid or glutamate, is an additive used to enhance the flavor of certain foods.”

MSG was classified by the FDA as a generally recognized safe substance (GRAS) in 1959, after the 1958 Food Additives Amendment to the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act required approval for new food additives. This classification meant that MSG, like salt and baking powder, were grandfathered in as harmless food substances by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1959.

“Glutamate acts as a neurotransmitter in the brain, and abnormal function of glutamate receptors has been linked to neurologic disorders such as Alzheimer disease and Huntington’s chorea.”

Dietary glutamate is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream. “Glutamate freely enters brain regions that lack blood-brain barriers (circumventricular organs, e.g., the hypothalamus).” “Glutamate can destroy circumventricular organ neurons [in the hypothalamus] by an excitotoxic mechanism in all animal models appropriately tested (cats, chickens, guinea pigs, hamsters, mice, monkeys, rabbits).” One theory is that dietary glutamate activates the receptors of the hypothalamus, stimulating the release of pituitary hormones that disturb hormonal biorhythms. Also, glutamate has a role in chronic pain sensitization:

“MSG is nearly ubiquitous in processed food, appearing under many names, including gelatin, hydrolyzed vegetable protein, textured protein, and yeast extract.”

Aspartame was first marketed in 1981. It is a dipeptide of aspartate and phenylalanine used in foods, beverages, and drugs. Aspartame has been associated with an increased incidence of brain tumors in animals. In humans, aspartame has been linked with head aches, seizures, dizziness, movement disorders, urticaria, angioedema, and anaphylaxis.

It has become widely accepted that glutamate, aspartate, and other environmental substances have neurotoxic (excitotoxic) effects in the human nervous system.

“Aspartate is equipotent to glutamate in destroying hypothalamic neurons and has additive neurotoxic effects when the two are combined.”

A newer article from the journal Cephalalgia10 couples increased levels of glutamate in the cerebral spinal fluid to chronic migraine headaches. The authors note:

“Glutamate is a major excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, widely involved in migraine mechanisms.” Migraine headache sufferers have substantially higher plasma glutamate and aspartate levels than do control patients.

Key points from this article include:

1) Elevated CSF glutamate and aspartate are linked to chronic migraine pathophysiology and to fibromyalgia.

2) An acute increase in glutamate and aspartate levels can trigger a migraine attack.

3) Increase in CSF glutamate levels is also seen in chronic daily headache patients.

Chiropractors today have to constantly deal with patients whose suffering and symptoms are related to ingestion of glutamate (in all of its hidden names) and aspartame. Since the primary mechanism of these products is through excitatory neurotoxicity, they counter and impair the improvement of neurological function achieved through chiropractic spinal adjusting. Knowledge and understanding of these contemporary issues can influence the clinical outcomes of patients that we care for.

REFERENCES

1) Excitotoxins, The Taste That Kills by Russell Blaylock (University of Mississippi neurosurgeon), Health Press, 1997.

2) In Bad Taste, The MSG Symptom Complex, by George Schwartz, Health Press, 1999.

3) The Crazy Makers, How the Food Industry Is Destroying Our Brains and Harming Our Children, by Carol Simontacchi, Tarcher Putnam, 2000.

4) Food Allergies by William Walsh, Wiley, 2000.

5) Health and Nutrition Secrets that Can Save Your Life by Russell Blaylock, Health Press, 2002.

6) Baker AJ, Moulton RJ, MacMillan VH, Shedden PM, Excitatory Amino Acids in Cerebralspinal Fluid Following Traumatic Brain Injury in Humans, Journal of Neurosurgery, Sept. 1993, 79(3):369-72.

7) Lipton SA, Rosenberg PA, Excitatory Amino Acids as a Final Common Pathway for Neurologic Disorders, NEJM, Mar 1994, 330(9):613-22.

8) Smith JD, Terpening CM, Schmidt SOF, Gums JG, The Annals of Pharmacotherapy, June 2001, 35(6):702-6.

9) A. H. Dickenson, Gate Control Theory of pain stands the test of time, British Journal of Anaesthesia, June 2002, 88(6):755-7.
10) MFP Peres, E Zukerman, CA Senne Soares, E O Alonso, BFC Santos & MHW Faulhaber, Cerebrospinal fluid glutamate levels in chronic migraine, Cephalalgia, September 2004, 249(9):735-40.

Pioneer Day Schedule

2010-07-19T16:01:00.000-07:00

Dear Patients:
Our office will be Open Friday from 8:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M then CLOSED until Monday at 8:00 A.M. to honor the July 24th 1847 Pioneer Immigrants to the Utah Territory. !
Dr. Dave Thomson

KSL Days of 47 Events listing

About.com Days of 47 Events

2010-07-19T13:29:00.000-07:00

There Is A Gentle Chiropractic Doctor Accessible To You

By: Kali Man

Getting an exceptionally gentle chiropractor is not tough. Some people may possibly believe which it may be next to impossible and that all chiropractors need to induce pain to accomplish his or her work. This may be not even close to reality. The fact is, most individuals state his or her first visit to a chiropractic doctor as a really beneficial as well as stimulating encounter. Most report a restoration of their vitality and content to yet again accomplish the things which they once enjoyed so much. Consulting with a chiropractor is not supposed to cause pain and is definitely not required to injury something. As you may know one can find reviews now which are publicised on most businesses websites where it is easy to go and find out just what people are expressing. If he or she is actually a very gentle chiropractor then I am sure you can read this in their reviews. In the event they produce less than easy hands then I am sure that clients wouldn't hold back that info because individuals want to make themselves heard.

Looking through the telephone book to get a great chiropractic doctor can be a satisfying experience because nearly all places will certainly list something in their advertising on the subject of this business as well as services provided. In this short summary they might have a saying, some thing like the easiest touch available in Radcliff, Ky. or whichever the town may be named. This can be a big help in locating a tender chiropractic doctor since in the event that there were an overwhelming collection of complaining clients then that company would not feel compelled in telling the world how cautious the doctors are. A number of chiropractors perform massage therapy as well these days, and so prior to any adjustments are performed there will be a short therapeutic massage to unwind the muscle tissues that are around the area.

This will be sure to help make the patient feel much more comfortable along with help make the adjustment proceed a lot more easily for the chiropractor. In most chiropractor's clinic you may also find soothing music and sometimes incense burning to provide a feeling of protection and comfort to the chiropractor's visitors. If that doesn't say “extremely sensitive chiropractic specialist,” I do not know what does.A few chiropractors might say to you that they are excellent at what they do and also sincerely covey to you that they will certainly not harm you. The superior doctors understand just how to speak with their clients as well how to help them to relax before the work is actually implemented.

Frequently the accidents and pain which are experienced by a few patients is because of the patients moving at the wrong time, or perhaps tensing up his or her muscles when the doctor is executing the adjustment. That has injuries written all over it. Even in the event that the chiropractic specialist is actually a very easy chiropractic doctor you could nevertheless cause problems yourself. Generally chiropractic care manipulations are actually troubles free unless of course you the patient don't comply with directions. Nevertheless, sometimes the very best have problems now and then.

Author Resource:->

Article From Ubscure

Grade 1 Isthmic Spondylolisthesis

2010-05-27T16:52:00.000-07:00

Spondylolisthesis is a condition where one of the vertebrae (usually L5) becomes misaligned anteriorly (slips forward) in relation to the vertebra below. This forward is caused by a problem or defect within the pars interarticularis. Occasionally, facet joint and/or posterior neural arch defects may also cause this syndrome as well. The forward slippage does NOT always occur; however, the par defect, which is considered a non-united childhood fracture still may be present. This non-slipped pars defect is called a "Spondylolysis" and is almost always a precursor to the actual forward slippage.

The structures - pars interarticularis, facets, neural arch are responsible for holding the anterior portion of the vertebrae (vertebral body) in perfect alignment. Maintaining this alignment is critical in order to keep the spinal exit-holes, (aka: neuroforamen), which are where the delicate spinal nerves exit the spine, large and open. Any narrowing of the neuroforamen may result in compression of the ultra-sensitive exiting spinal nerve root and dorsal root ganglia that in turn may well result in back pain.

The pars interarticularis, is the weakest and thinnest region of the lumbar vertebra.

5 healthy Golf Tips

2010-05-26T15:00:00.000-07:00

Get in the game without the pain

One key to success on the golf course can’t be found at the pro shop. It’s the physical condition of the golfer. Pain shouldn’t be par for the course. Stay in the game by protecting your back.

When you consider the spinal rotation that goes into a golf swing and the fact that the speed of the club can reach 160 km/hour, it’s easy to understand that golf puts significant stress on your body.

Follow these tips to improve your game and prevent the pain.

1. Warm up and warm down
Take a few minutes to stretch (some good stretches found here) before and after your game. Start with a brisk walk — 10 to 15 minutes should do it. Then do some light stretching.
2. Stay hydrated
Drink plenty of fluids before, during and after your game. Remember that once you are thirsty, you are already starting to dehydrate.
3. Push, don’t carry, your golf bag
Pushing or pulling your bag and taking turns riding in a cart can help you prevent back injury. If you prefer to carry your clubs, use a double-strap bag that evenly distributes the weight. If your bag gets too heavy, put it down and take a break.
4. Choose the right shoes
Wearing a golf shoe with good support and the proper fit can help prevent knee, hip and lower back pain.
5. Take lessons
The right swing technique can do more than improve your game. It can also spare you unnecessary pain. Working with a professional is a great way to learn the basics.

Canada Chiropractic Association

Common Exercise Mistakes

2010-05-17T14:53:00.000-07:00

...And How to Correct Them Before You Injure Yourself

By Chelsea Cooper, MPA, CPT
Did you know that more than 60 percent of people who begin working out for the first time, or pick it up again after taking some time off, hurt themselves in the first month? That's significant for several reasons, not the least of which is if you are hurt, how are you going to keep working out and reach your fitness goals? The most important goal when undertaking any exercise program is not to build muscle, burn fat, increase cardiovascular capacity, or anything else. Those are important, but the number-one priority is to keep from being injured. That's the only way you'll have a real chance of reaching your fitness goals.

The right way versus the wrong way to exercise; now this is a topic that needs to be discussed more often. Just the other day, a friend of mine told me she had injured her chest muscle while doing Pilates. Of course, her training was unsupervised; in her case, she was following along with a DVD. She went to the hospital and was diagnosed with a torn chest muscle. Who would think someone could seriously injure themselves by doing Pilates on a DVD? It happens more frequently than you think. And if you can hurt yourself doing Pilates, you can definitely hurt yourself while working out at the gym lifting weights or using any of the equipment.

It's a Question of Form

Common Exercise Mistakes All of my clients know I am a stickler for form. I don't care how much weight you are lifting or how many times you can perform an exercise; if your form is not correct, you need to reduce the amount of weight you are using and/or slow down. I'm a stickler on form for two important reasons:

#1 Safety. (Injury Prevention). Correct form is key when doing any exercise. In fact, it's the first thing you must master! If not, you will eventually injure yourself. If you aren't sure if you are doing something correctly, please get a competent professional to assist you.

#2 Effectiveness. If you want to get the most out of your workouts, you have to use correct form. There is a right way to exercise and a wrong way to exercise, and this applies to each and every exercise you perform. Exercising is an art form that takes years to master. But let's face it; the average person does not see it that way, and that is why so many injuries occur and/or motivation disappears.

Most people have no clue how to do a proper squat, push-up, lunge, leg press, chest press - you get the idea. Lack of proper form is the number-one cause of injuries. Most people in the gym look around for someone who has a body they want and then try to mimic the same exercises the person is doing. Sometimes the person they are looking to as an example does have the correct form, but that doesn't mean you can mimic it correctly. It may have taken them years to learn how to do it the right way. But most of the time, the person they are looking too as a model saw someone else do the exercise and they are doing it wrong as well. It's a vicious cycle.

Repetitions/Sets

The general rule for repetitions and sets is straightforward: If you are trying to gain muscle or get stronger, you want to do low reps and higher sets. For example, you may be doing a leg press and you are trying to get stronger (hypertrophy), so you put on a heavier weight and do 6-8 reps per set for 4-5 sets. On the other hand, if you are just trying to build endurance and lean out, then you should do higher reps and lower sets; typically 15-20 reps per set for 2-3 sets. Now there are some middle reps and sets as well, like 10-12 reps/5-6 sets, but these are the basic rep/sets. The point is, it's important to understand how different sets, reps and even the types of exercises you perform affect your body. Again, talking to an exercise specialist will help you determine the best way to achieve your fitness goals.

Right Way, Wrong Way: 9 Exercise Mistakes

* Lat pulldown. The wrong way: pulling bar behind neck can cause serious injury to the shoulder. The right way: Pulling bar down in front of you while squeezing your back muscles (the rhomboids and latisimus dorsi).

* Push-ups. The wrong way: You should never have a dip or arch in your back or lock your arms. The right way: Arms should be underneath you and not locked, back parallel to the floor. Engage your "core" the entire time (squeeze your glutes and draw in your belly button).

* Walking lunges. The wrong way: When performing a lunge, extending the front knee past the front foot will cause injury at some point. The right way: When you are in a split stance, go straight down and do not let your front knee go past your foot.

* Leg press. The wrong way: Your knees should not be by your ears; that is not a position your knees are used to being in, especially under heavy weight. The right way: Keep 80 percent of the weight in your heels; press out and go a little past 90 degrees.

* lady doing push-up Abs (crunches). The wrong way: Pulling the head up as you're doing a crunch. The right way: Relax your head and bring your shoulders off the ground, engaging your abs and rotating your hips to the ground.

* Squats. The wrong way: Knees coming forward over your toes. The right way: Perform this exercise as if you were sitting back on a chair and putting 80 percent of your weight on your heels. Then lean slightly forward so you won't fall back.

* Chest press. The wrong way: Lifting the weight using your back (high arch). The right way: Keep your back flat and relax your shoulders while lifting the weight.

* Cardio. This isn't really a specific exercise, but it still is something that lots of people do wrong in the gym: doing an hour or more of cardio. No, I'm not crazy; the only people who should do an hour of cardio are marathon runners. If you aren't planning to be in a marathon anytime soon, then I wouldn't do an hour. In fact, I recommend high-intensity training - for example, a 30-second sprint or quick walk followed by a 60-second jog, then another 30-second sprint, and so on; repeat that cycle about 10-12 times and you will get way more out of your cardio workouts in half the time. It works, trust me. Try it!

* Frequency: Being too zealous and working out 6-7 days a week for an hour or more each time. Your body needs rest and repair after a workout, so pace yourself and make exercise a healthy habit, not an obsessive one. If you don't take this advice, you will start to develop chronic injuries or just get burned out and stop working out, which is not what your exercise program was designed to achieve.

Start Off Right

And let's not forget about the right and wrong way to exercise in general. As I mentioned earlier, exercise is an art form and since most of us have not taken the time to master the proper techniques, we should get some expert advice prior to working out. Most gyms have personal trainers who will give you a free consultation and show you some basic machines and correct postures. Your doctor can also be a good source of information, particularly if they specialize in exercise and rehabilitation protocols. After all, you wouldn't just jump into a pool and expect to start swimming, right? Learn the right way to exercise from day one. When it comes to fitness goals, it isn't about how quickly you achieve them, because more often than not, going too quickly will end up being the slowest, most painful route. Exercise the right way, stay safe, and enjoy the journey.

4 Movements to Avoid When Exercising

1. Using jerking motions, especially when lifting. Speed is fine when done appropriately, but you should always have fluid motion and proper form when performing any and all exercises; otherwise you could strain or even tear something.

2. Using body parts not required for the exercise. Have you ever seen people doing biceps curls and rounding their shoulders or arching their backs? Those are just two of the big no-no's that can lead to injury.

3. Locking out your knees or elbows. Never lock your joints when working out; keep them slightly bent so the weight will not be transferred to the joints.

4. Arching your back. Picture someone on the barbell bench press, lifting a weight that is actually too heavy for them. Chances are that eventually, they will start arching their back. Sooner than later, that back is going to give out and they won't be able to exercise for days, weeks or even longer.

Chelsea Cooper, MPA, CPT, is certified by the National Academy of Sports Medicine as a personal trainer, performance enhancement specialist, and rehab and exercise specialist. To learn more, visit www.trainwithchelsea.com.

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Jessica's " Daily Affirmation"

2010-05-15T14:30:00.000-07:00

I wish we all had this ability to love ourselves.

Self-Care for Back Pain: Exercises to Help the Healing Process

2010-05-14T18:05:00.000-07:00

By Marc Heller, DC
When it comes to back pain, your first thoughts may be to take over-the-counter pain medication and rest whenever possible. Two bad options. First, medication is only going to temporarily relieve the pain, if at all, and may be accompanied by various unpleasant side effects attributable to drugs. Second, rest may actually hurt more than help. While you're seeing your chiropractor, there are a few things you can do at home to help the healing process. Believe it or not, it's based on the simple principle of movement.

Whenever I see a patient with back pain, I always ask, "What do you do when you are in pain? What exercises help your pain?" I am continually surprised that very few patients know what self-care to do when they have an acute episode of pain. That includes motivated patients and patients I have seen before and carefully shown the right exercises. Maybe it is because when you hurt, you stop thinking clearly; or maybe it is fear that the pain will get worse. Both are valid excuses. Most of them just rest, ice the area, and use non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (without realizing that NSAIDs actually block healing). Many of them say, "I hurt too much to exercise."

Why Movement Matters

The problem with this is that when you stop moving, when you are still, everything tightens up, circulation slows down, and pain chemicals accumulate in your muscles and joints. It's like waking up after sleeping in a cold room on a lousy mattress with a draft. If you get moving, you'll typically start to feel better.

So, here's the number-one rule to remember: Don't stop moving when you hurt. I know, you are in pain and afraid to move, and sudden movements may cause your back to "grab" or spasm. I am not telling you to ignore the pain. What I am saying is that you need to find movements that will ease your pain. In many cases, the most important thing to do when you hurt is to keep moving. The body often tightens up and limits your motion. If you find a motion that doesn't hurt you, it will probably help you. When you are hurting, you may not be able to do your usual activities, but you must keep moving. Try walking slowly, especially on flat and even ground. Try walking up a hill (you can walk up a hill without walking down, on a treadmill). Try swimming or simple motions in chest-deep water. Try basic pelvic tilts, staying within a pain-free range.

Here are some basic principles. The movement should be pain free (or at least cause minimal pain while being performed). When you have finished doing the exercise, your pain should be somewhat diminished. You should feel that you can move more freely. Your back should feel straighter and less "kinked."

Backward bending is a great exercise when you're suffering from low back pain. Start on the floor or other stable surface (top picture), then slowly raise your upper body up while keeping your lower body stationary (bottom picture). The final step involves extending your arms up (much like a push-up). Basic Exercises for Low Back Pain

Here are two basic examples of self-care exercises that have stood the test of time. Many of my patients have found variations on these and other types of movements that act as "reset" buttons for their typical pain. You are the one living in your body; you are the most likely one to know what is working for you.

Lower back diagnosis is often very difficult and confusing. For the sake of this article, let's divide low back pain exercises into two categories: exercises that make your back feel better when you bend backward, and exercises that make your back feel better when you bring your leg toward your chest.

Backward Bending (extension of the lumbar spine). An exercise called the McKenzie extension is the first thing you should try if you have sciatica (pain running down your leg). If these exercises work, your pain will diminish and may centralize, which is a good thing. Centralize means your pain goes less far down your leg, and you may feel it closer to the spine. Bending backward may not feel good at first, but you should feel better immediately afterward. If you feel worse afterward or the pain goes farther down your leg, stop, as this is not the exercise for you.

How to Do It: Lie face-down on the floor, arms bent at your sides (sort of like a starting push-up posture). Straighten your arms up slowly, lifting your upper body off the floor as you do so. Your legs and feet should stay on the ground. Hold for 3-5 seconds, then slowly lower your upper body back down. Repeat 10 times, as often as once per hour.

If your pain or restriction is on one side, a variation on McKenzie extension (lying on a raised surface with one leg on the floor, slightly bent) may be more comfortable (keep the elevated leg straight).

Flexion Exercises (bringing the leg toward the chest). People with lower back pain can also feel better with various types of leg flexion, bringing the bent leg toward the chest, or doing contract-relax and then bringing the bent leg toward the chest. These people usually have sacroiliac joint problems. (The SI joints are located on either side of the spine in the lower back.) These are also called Tigny exercises.

How to Do It: Lie on your back with one leg bent and then other flat on the floor. Bring the bent leg up toward the chest. Wrap your arms around the leg and then try to lower it toward the floor for 3-5 seconds, resisting with your arms. Relax, and then pull the bent leg up farther toward the chest. Repeat the entire process three times.

Flexion exercises are another great way to relieve lower back pain. Lie on your back with one leg bent and the other leg flat on the floor. Raise the bent leg toward the chest, wrap your arms around the bent leg, and then try to lower it toward the floor as you resist with your arms. Repeat with the opposite leg. I have included a series of links at the end of this article; the first two go to videos describing the basics of McKenzie extension. The third one goes to an article I wrote describing the basic McKenzie extension exercise, and a couple of other variations. The fourth link goes to Dr. Craig Liebenson's site, LA Sports and Spine, where you can download his article and pictures on McKenzie self-treatment for sciatica. The fifth and sixth links relate to the Tigny flexion exercises, including a one-minute video demonstration.

So, here is the bottom line: When your lower back starts to hurt, find one or more simple movements or exercise that helps. Do the exercise over and over until you are back to normal. If you are not getting better quickly, call your chiropractor.

With that said, please use common sense. Stop immediately is you hurt more during or after doing any exercise. Exercise is not without risks. These or any other exercises may cause pain or injury. As with any exercise program, if at any point during your routine you begin to feel faint, dizzy, or have physical discomfort, you should stop immediately. To reduce your risk of injury, consult with your doctor before doing these exercises for the first time, particularly if your pain is new and/or you would like further explanation of how to perform the exercises correctly.

Links to Exercise Demonstrations and More Information

Video of McKenzie lumbar extension.

Sciatica self-care, by Dr. George Best, six-minute video.

"Pain-Relief Exercise: The Lower Back."

See the McKenzie self-treatment for sciatica; the other exercises are also useful.

"Sacroiliac Joint Correction - A Different Model." A description of the Don Tigny model of the SI, with pictures of his various exercises.

Video of flexion exercises.

Marc Heller, DC, maintains a chiropractic practice in Ashland, Ore. He is a nationally recognized expert in treating tailbone, sacroiliac and lower back pain.

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Exercise and the Prevention of Low Back Pain

2010-05-13T13:26:00.000-07:00

ChiroACCESS Article

Many occupations in modern society require prolonged sitting which has been shown to be a risk factor for low back pain. There are numerous studies that suggest that exercise can play an important role in preventing occupational and non-occupational low back pain. An innovative approach was published this month (April 2010) in The Spine Journal that used an office chair exercise that is performed while seated. The exercise, described in the article by Jerome Fryer, D.C., provides a brief decompression of the lumbar spine by moving forward on the chair seat, placing the hands on the seat of the chair, pressing downward with the arms to take pressure off the lumbar spine, and arching the back and shoulders backward at the same time. This decompression maneuver held for 5 seconds followed by 3 seconds of reloading (sitting normally) and was repeated 4 times. Sequential MRI demonstrated a marked increase in vertical height of the lumbar spine using this decompression strategy. The authors concluded that “Seated upright MRI and stadiometry, as performed in this study, appear to be feasible methods for detecting compressive and decompressive spinal changes associated with normal sitting and, alternately, seated unloading exercises. Larger studies are encouraged to determine normative values of our study measurements and to determine if morphological changes induced by seated unloading predict treatment response and/or reductions in the incidence of sitting-related LBP.”

A January 2010 Cochrane review concluded that “There is moderate quality evidence that post-treatment exercise programs can prevent recurrences of back pain but conflicting evidence was found for treatment exercise”. There have been many studies published this past decade that support the value of exercise in primary, secondary as well as tertiary prevention of low back pain. These studies have been conducted with multiple age groups and multiple settings including sports venues and the workplace.

Exercise for the Primary, Secondary and Tertiary Prevention of Low Back Pain in the Workplace: A Systematic Review

Tell your doctor what you want

2010-05-12T16:22:00.000-07:00

The other day I was explaining to a patient that the path of getting rid of chronic pain is rarely a straight course. Healing is normally a roller-coaster ride, beset with dips and valleys. This actually seems to surprise patients.

When people seek out treatment for chronic pain, they want immediate, direct relief of the pain. They want the quick fix for the knee, the back, or whatever is hurting. The patient wants that one part to be the focus of their treatment, and nothing else is considered. Patient’s often leave out important facts about their health, clues that may help the doctor in actually fixing the problem.

Traditional western medicine is to blame for this, continually breaking medical treatment into smaller and smaller specialties, in fact, in many orthopedic offices a knee doctor will not look at the hip or the spine. When treatment of the symptom does not succeed, the patient is often sent to another “specialist” without any continuity in the care. I have seen patients referred from one specialist to another like children playing a game of hot potato. All the while the patient is given addictive and dangerous pain medications to cover the symptoms and bury the underlining cause even deeper.

In most cases chronic pain is the result of a series of small events that, when looked at as a whole, leads to the real reason patients have pain. Muscle imbalance can lead to ligament and tendon problems, this then leads to joint and movement issues that are often the root cause of chronic pain.

In my office, careful functional assessment is made to determine the cause. The key for patient success is to be very clear with the history and onset of your condition. Be clear about the time line of events, each question that is asked is intended to discover the underlining cause. The symptoms you have could be the result of a seemingly un-related stress or injury.

Functional Medicine Model

The functional medicine model emphasizes the importance of eliciting the patient's full, unique story, and uses fundamental clinical imbalances to illuminate the common mechanisms underlying most complex, chronic illnesses.

In the blue inner circle, (above), you see the range of life experiences, signs, symptoms, diagnoses, and genetic predispositions that the patient brings into the therapeutic encounter. These are then filtered through the eight elements of the functional medicine matrix model shown in the green portion of the circle. In this disciplined methodology, prioritization occurs, which then leads to appropriate comprehensive management of the patient's problem.
Treatment options now include much more than surgery and pharmacology.

The full gamut of appropriate therapeutic modalities can be used, appropriately matched to the underlying mechanisms that are influencing the patient’s condition.
l
www.thespineline.com

Fish Oil vs Krill Oil

2010-05-11T14:55:00.000-07:00

I was told by my vendors that KRILL oil is "3x better than fish oil" …I think a reality check is in order.

I have been teaching classes on Omega fatty acids for over 10 years. The marine source oils are without question beneficial. EFAs have two principal roles.

1- EFAs provide flexibility and stability to the cell membrane. All living organisms must be able to transport nutrients into and out of the cell. This biochemical processes is the key to life. TOXINS must be moved out and foods need to be moved in. If the cell wall is too thick, fat or inflexible then the cell will begin to die.

2- The second big role for PAIN and INFLAMATION EFAs are a precursor for prostaglandins, local tissue hormones that control various functions including blood clotting, repair.

As you see we take fish oil because it is the primary source of nutrients that help the body MANUFACTURE chemical precursors. They are named essential because we can’t live with out them.

Krill oil is now marketed as "1 krill oil capsule=3 fish oil capsules," DEAD wrong. While Krill does have some EPA and DHA, by volume it is very low.

In one 1,000 mg. capsule of krill oil only has a total 300 mg. omega-3 fatty acids! And the important reason to take fish oil which is the EPA and DHA, KRILL has barely 150 mg. EPA and measly 90 mg. of DHA.

Patient who are at risk for heart problems, or who have advanced joint arthritis should be considering taking at least 3 to 5000 mg Daily of EFAs and the amount of EPA in this dose should be about 1600 mg the amount of DHA should be around 1400

In populations of humans where quality of life improved quickly, our human ancestors ate primarily marine source proteins. *Humans did not eat Krill. *It has barely been studied in humans. *drdavesbest.com

Uncomplicate your Diet for Success!

2010-05-10T15:39:00.000-07:00

Caloric Intake:

Many times we over-complicate nutritional advice. The following is a very simple way to figure out how many calories you should eat based on activity levels.

If you follow it, you will be successful. It is that simple. If you need a meal plan please contact me.

basically - 4 to 6 small meals daily. Eat lean meats 3.5 Oz 2-3 times daily, vegetables, nuts and seeds, some fruit, little starch and no sugar. Keep intake to levels that will support exercise but not body fat.

To find out what intake levels will support exercise but not body fat, simply multiply your body-weight by:

o 10-12 if you are not active (have a sedentary job and do not exercise)
o 12-14 if you are somewhat active (have a sedentary job & exercise 3x/wk)
o 14-16 if you highly active (on feet all day, actively lifting 40 + lbs regularly)

This is a good starting place for you to begin the process of achieving optimal health and fitness.

6 things NOT to do while trying to lose weight

2010-05-05T07:08:00.000-07:00

You may be working out regularly and trying to Lose WEIGHT but these 6 things will stop your fat loss program cold.

Number 1

Fast food. So you go to McArby's to get a salad. Better take it home and put some low cal dressing on it, and watch those dried cranberries.

There is enough of them in there to give you the sugar of two candy bars.

While you are at it add some broccoli to the salad as well.

Every attempt that any fast food chain has made to introduce a real low fat food or menu has failed miserably. Don't expect a major chain to make this mistake again soon.

Here is a fast food substitute. Morning star or other veggie burgers. They can go from frozen to hot in less than two minutes in the microwave.

Skip the bun, the fries and make two burgers with low or no fat dressing.

Have some green tea along with it and a piece of fruit.

Much much better.

Number 2

Super sized portions. If you ever go abroad you are likely to be appalled at the portion sizes.

How much do they give you over there? Just enough. You won't walk out of one of these places stuffed but you won't walk out hungry either.

Most of the people reading this were not born in the depression. It is not a sin to push food away. It's your body and your stomach. Listen to them.

Number 3

Scale watching. Since many popular diets have you lose water
weight first I think you should invest in a fat monitor scale. These days they are less than a hundred bucks and it's well spent.

If you go on Atkins or South Beach don't be too surprised if the weight goes down but the fat goes up. Water loss will do just that. Your fat loss will start after about 3 to 4 weeks on these diets.

With a fat scale you can't BS yourself and say, "I am going to the gym so maybe it’s muscle I am gaining."

Most workout programs will take a minimum of 6 weeks of dedicated
practice to actually start putting any measurable muscle on your frame.

The first couple of weeks you will be appearing to gain strength
rapidly as your body "learns" the exercise and recruits available
muscle fiber more efficiently.

Number 4

Eating at bedtime. This is pretty much the worst time you can eat. Not because you will extract more calories as you sleep as some people believe but because you are supposed to be resting. Dumping food in your body right before you go to bed will interfere with all the restorative actions of sleep including all the hormone secretions I talked about earlier.

This will leave you tired, listless and unable to get your metabolism to respond well to exercise.

Hint: take a Sleep Wizard and go to bed hungry. You'll spend quality time in deep sleep, max your body's natural hormone secretion and wake up ready to tear into the world.

Even if you were starving when you went to bed, you won't be hungry
when you wake up.

Number 5

I am not hungry but I need something to eat. Careful careful. Food is the good girls and boys drug. It can take the place of interest, excitement, stimulation, sex, happiness and all kinds of other things. And after you are done eating all you'll have is guilt.

Number 6

Skipping meals and waiting until you are hungry. Dietary pundits say you should eat 5 or 6 small meals for a reason. You eat less and this is what your body was designed for.

If you wait until you are ravenous I guarantee you you will make poor food choices especially if there is any prep time involved. You'll probably head for the nearest McArby's!

And under no circumstances should you go food shopping when you are hungry. You'll grab all the wrong foods, eat them on the way home and, betcha can't eat just one.

So, my friend, having the perfect body is really more about mindfulness than it is about discipline.

Think about and avoid these 6 fat foils and you'll stay on the straight and narrow.

And you know what, after a few weeks it will be habit and you won't even think twice about it.

You'll "Just Do It".

http://www.drdavesbest.com/frontend/articles2_detail.aspx?id=426174846&awt_l=5UsSh&awt_m=1h5.Gu3aO7ddcv

SR71 RC flight 5 minutes of smiles MUST WATCH!

2010-04-30T11:54:00.000-07:00

What should I call this ?

2010-04-29T18:41:00.000-07:00

SLOW COOKER 4 HOURS

Beans, curry and meat. Help me out. Try it and Name it.

10 oz flank steak. (I used Elk but beef will do)
1 med. white onion
2 roasted jalapeno pepper's (I used canned whole roasted)
1 large mild red pepper
1 carrot
8 oz small white beans
32 oz Chicken Stock

Seasonings:
2 TBS Curry Powder
1 tsp Mace
1 tsp red pepper flakes
1/4 tsp Chinese 5 spice
1 TBS roasted Cumin seeds (I roasted them before making this dish)
1 TBS sugar
salt and pepper

Flank steak: I used George Foreman, but fry or broil to med. rare for flavor.

Boil white beans in 4 cups water for 15 minutes. Pull, drain and place in large bowl and pour 2 cups of ICE over the beans to cool them down.

In a crock pot:

Chopped Veg.
seasoning
Slice steak into 1/4 inch pieces.
rinse beans to melt ice and drain pour drained beans into crock pot.

Cook on Medium for 4 hours. Enjoy a Spicy Sweet Curry dish. Great for Utah Spring Snow storm days.

Unbelievable FAT MAN circa 1900 normal in 2010

2010-04-29T16:32:00.000-07:00

This photo was taken from a segment on Bill Maher's talk show this week. It's a vintage photograph circa 1900 from the Barnum and Bailey freak show. This was the show's "fat man" who patrons found unbelievable. He was considered freakish and large beyond believe and average sized folks actually paid for the privilege of looking at him.

Bill's point was that today, he's practically average sized and any stroll down a major street in a major metropolitan area, Any Fast Food Restaurant will lead to dozens of folks this size passing you by.

In Fact from 1960 to 2000 the average weight gain for a male between the age of 20-39 years increased by nearly 20 pounds.

http://usgovinfo.about.com/od/healthcare/a/tallbutfat.htm

Spices that build brain power

2010-04-28T07:08:00.000-07:00

I found this in my AARP magazine:
(YES I AM THAT OLD)

TURMERIC
In India, where people eat curry almost every day, the Alzheimer's disease rate is one-fourth the U.S. rate. Now researchers think they may know why. A University of California, Los Angeles study in mice showed that curcumin the active ingredient in turmeric, which gives curry that distinctive yellow color—broke up brain plaques of amyloid beta, the abnormal protein buildup that is a hallmark of Alzheimer's. Healthy way to dish it up For a brain-boosting chicken salad, toss 2 teaspoons curry powder with 2 cups cubed chicken. Sauté in olive oil until cooked, then cool. Add raisins, diced apples, chopped almonds, chopped celery, and low-fat yogurt, to taste.

GINGER
A recent study found that more than 80 percent of migraine-prone patients with mild headaches who were treated with a combo of ginger and the herb feverfew staved off migraines. After two hours, 48 percent were pain free; for another 34 percent, the pain stayed mild."If a headache doesn't go to full-blown migraine, that's success:' says Roger Cady, M.D., study author and director of the Headache Care Center in Springfield, Missouri. Healthy way to dish it up Stir 3 teaspoons grated ginger into a cup of boiling water; steep for 10 minutes, strain, and drink.

SAFFRON
Got a case of the blues? Before popping an antidepressant, try eating more of this pungent herb. A 2007 University of Tehran study discovered that a twice-daily dose of saffron works as well as Prozac in treating mild to moderate depression. Healthy way to dish it up Add 1/2 teaspoon saffron to the water while cooking 2 cups of rice

GARLIC
Long touted for its heart- healthy benefits, garlic
may also fight brain cancer. A 2007 study in the journal Cancer noted that garlic compounds eliminated brain- cancer cells, leading some experts to predict that garlic based treatments for brain cancer aren't far behind. Healthy way to dish it up Mix 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder on to 2 cloves fresh garlic with tomatoes and basil for a cancer-fighting marinara

CINNAMON
If you want to react faster during your next tennis game, chew cinnamon gum. Doing so, a recent study found, speeds the rate at which your brain processes visual cues. One reason the gum may help: cinna¬mon regulates blood- sugar levels, and this helps you stay focused. Healthy way to dish it up Sprinkle 1 teaspoon cinnamon on oatmeal for a brain- healthy breakfast.
—Daniel G. Amen, M.D.

*Most spices will last 6 to 12 months—if they're stored properly. The longer they sit in the cupboard, the more likely they will lose their health benefits. So always store spices in glass jars, says —and transfer those that come in plastic to glass. ... Phil Lempert
(aka the Supermarket Guru)

AARP Magazine MAY/JUNE 2010

Where is your food from:

2010-04-19T16:39:00.000-07:00

Cool household Tips - Author Unknown, But THANKS

2010-04-19T12:04:00.000-07:00

DID YOU KNOW?

Take bananas apart when you get home from the store.

If you leave them connected at the stem, they ripen faster.

Store your opened chunks of cheese in aluminum foil.

It will stay fresh much longer and not mold!

Peppers with 3 bumps on the bottom are sweeter and better for eating.

Peppers with 4 bumps on the bottom are firmer and better for cooking.

Ground Beef
Add a teaspoon of water when frying ground beef. It will help pull the grease away from the meat while cooking.

Scrambled eggs or omelets

To really make scrambled eggs or omelets rich add a couple of Spoonfuls of sour cream,

cream cheese, or heavy cream; then beat them.

Garlic

Add garlic immediately to a recipe if you want a light taste Of garlic and at the end of the recipe if your want a stronger taste of garlic.

Leftover pizza

Heat leftover pizza in a nonstick skillet on top of the stove; set heat to med-low And heat till warm.

This keeps the crust crispy. No soggy micro pizza.

I saw this on the food channel and it really works.

Easy Deviled Eggs
Put cooked egg yolks in a zip lock bag. Seal; mash till they are all broken up Add remainder of ingredients, reseal, keep mashing it up mixing thoroughly, cut the tip of the baggy; squeeze mixture into egg. Just throw bag away when done - easy clean up.

Reheating refrigerated bread
To warm biscuits, pancakes, or muffins that were refrigerated,

place them in A microwave next to a cup of water.

The increased moisture will keep the food Moist and help it reheat faster.

Newspaper weeds away
Start putting torn newspaper in your plants, work the nutrients in your soil.

Wet newspapers, Put layers around the plants, overlapping as you go; cover with mulch and forget about weeds. Weeds will get through some gardening plastic; they will not get through wet newspapers.

Broken Glass
Use a wet cotton ball or Q-tip to pick up the small shards of glass you can't see easily.

Flexible vacuum
To get something out of a heat register or under the fridge add an empty paper towel roll

or empty gift wrap roll to your vacuum. It can be bent or flattened to get in narrow openings.

Reducing Static Cling
Pin a small safety pin to the seam of your slip and you will not have a clingy skirt or dress.

Same thing works with slacks that cling when wearing panty hose. Place pin in seam of slacks and ... Ta DA! ... Static is gone.

Measuring Cups
Before you pour sticky substances into a measuring cup, fill with hot water.

Dump out the hot water, but don't dry cup. Next, add your ingredient (peanut butter, honey, etc.) and watch how easily it comes right out. ?

Foggy Windshield?
Hate foggy windshields? Buy a chalkboard eraser and keep it in the glove box of your car When the windows fog, rub with the eraser! Works better than a cloth!

Reopening envelope
If you seal an envelope and then realize you forgot to include something inside, Just place your sealed envelope in the freezer for an hour or two. Viola! It unseals easily.

Use your hair conditioner to shave your legs. It's cheaper than shaving cream and leaves your legs really smooth. It's also a great way to use up the conditioner you bought but didn't like when you tried it in your hair.

Goodbye Fruit Flies
To get rid of pesky fruit flies, take a small glass, fill it 1/2 with Apple Cider Vinegar And 2 drops of dish washing liquid; mix well. You will find those flies drawn to the cup and gone forever!

Get Rid of Ants
Put small piles of cornmeal where you see ants. They eat it, take it 'home,' can't digest it so it kills them. It may take a week or so, especially if it rains, but it works and you don't have the worry about pets or small children being harmed!

INFO ABOUT CLOTHES DRYERS
The heating unit went out on my dryer! The gentleman that fixes things around the house for us told us that he wanted to show us something and he went over to the dryer and pulled out the lint filter. It was clean. (I always clean the lint from the filter after every load of clothes.) He took the filter over to the sink and ran hot water over it. The lint filter is made of a mesh material . I'm sure you know what your dryer's lint filter looks like. Well .... the hot water just sat on top of the mesh! It didn't go through it at all! He told us that dryer sheets cause a film over that mesh - that's what burns out the heating unit. You can't SEE the film, but it's there. It's what is in the dryer sheets to make your clothes soft and static free. You know how they can feel waxy when you take them out of the box ... well this stuff builds up on your clothes and on your lint screen. This is also what causes dryer units to potentially burn your house down with it! He said the best way to keep your dryer working for a very long time (and to keep your electric bill lower) is to take that filter out and wash it with hot soapy water and an old toothbrush at least every six months. He said that increases the life of the dryer at least twice as long! How about that!?! Learn something new every day! I certainly didn't know dryer sheets would do that. So, I thought I'd share!
Note: I went to my dryer and tested my screen by running water on it. The water ran through a little bit but mostly collected all the water in the mesh screen. I washed it with warm soapy water and a nylon brush and I had it done in 30 seconds. Then when I rinsed it ... the water ran right thru the screen! There wasn't any puddling at all! That repairman knew what he was talking about!

PLEASE PASS THIS ON TO OTHER PEOPLE IN YOUR ADDRESS BOOK.
NOT ONLY COULD IT SAVE SOMEONE'S HOME, BUT IT COULD SAVE a life !

ACCELERATION

2010-04-13T15:13:00.000-07:00

I know this has nothing to do with HEALTH but it cool!

Impressive Science.

DEFINITION OF ACCELERATION

One top fuel dragster 500 cubic inch Hemi engine makes more horsepower than the first 4 rows of stock cars at the Daytona 500.

It takes just 15/100ths of a second for all 6,000+ horsepower of an NHRA Top Fuel dragster engine to reach the rear wheels.

Under full throttle, a dragster engine consumes 1-1/2 gallons of nitro methane per second; a fully loaded 747 consumes jet fuel at the same rate with 25% less energy being produced.

A stock Dodge Hemi V8 engine cannot produce enough power to drive the dragster's supercharger.

With 3,000 CFM of air being rammed in by the supercharger on overdrive, the fuel mixture is compressed into a near-solid form before ignition.

Cylinders run on the verge of hydraulic lock at full throttle.

At the stoichiometric (stoichiometry: methodology and technology by which quantities of reactants and products in chemical reactions are determined) 1.7:1 air/fuel mixture of nitro methane, the flame front temperature measures 7,050 deg F.

Nitro methane burns yellow... The spectacular white flame seen above the stacks at night is raw burning hydrogen, dissociated from atmospheric water vapor by the searing exhaust gases.

Dual magnetos supply 44 amps to each spark plug. This is the output of an arc welder in each cylinder.

Spark plug electrodes are totally consumed during a pass. After halfway, the engine is dieseling from compression, plus the glow of exhaust valves at 1,400 deg F. The engine can only be shut down by cutting the fuel flow.

If spark momentarily fails early in the run, unburned nitro builds up in the affected cylinders and then explodes with sufficient force to blow cylinder heads off the block in pieces or split the block in half.

In order to exceed 300 mph in 4. 5 seconds, dragsters must accelerate an average of over 4G's. In order to reach 200 mph (well before half-track), the launch acceleration approaches 8G's.

Dragsters reach over 300 miles per hour before you have completed reading this sentence.

Top fuel engines turn approximately 540 revolutions from light to light! Including the burnout, the engine must only survive 900 revolutions under load.

The redline is actually quite high at 9,500 rpm.

Assuming all the equipment is paid off, the crew worked for free, and for once NOTHING BLOWS UP, each run costs an estimate $1,000.00 per second.

The current top fuel dragster elapsed time record is 4.428 seconds for the quarter mile (11/12/06, Tony Schumacher, at Pomona , CA ). The top speed record is 336.15 mph as measured over the last 66' of the run (05/25/05 Tony Schumacher, at Hebron , OH ).

Putting all of this into perspective:

You are driving the average $140,000 Lingenfelter 'twin-turbo' powered Corvette Z06. Over a mile up the road, a top fuel dragster is staged and ready to launch down a quarter mile strip as you pass. You have the advantage of a flying start. You run the 'Vette hard up through the gears and blast across the starting line and pass the dragster at an honest 200 mph. The 'tree' goes green for both of you at that moment.

The dragster launches and starts after you. You keep your foot down hard, but you hear an incredibly brutal whine that sears your eardrums and within 3 seconds, the dragster catches and passes you. He beats you to the finish line, a quarter mile away from where you just passed him.

Think about it, from a standing start, the dragster had spotted you 200 mph and not only caught, but nearly blasted you off the road when he passed you within a mere 1,320 foot long race course.

...... and that my friend, is ACCELERATION!

Reminds me of a a song by Huey Lewis & The News

2010-04-12T15:17:00.000-07:00

Reminds me of a a song by Huey Lewis & The News

Seat Belts... wear them! Watch the vid0 at the end of this post .

2010-04-12T07:57:00.000-07:00

The Human Collision
Imagine running as fast as you can - into a wall. You'd expect to get pretty banged up. Do you think you could stop yourself if the wall suddenly loomed up when you were two feet away from it? This is exactly the situation you face when the front of your car hits something at only 15 miles an hour. The car stops in the first tenth of a second, but you keep on at the same rate you were going in the car until something stops you - the steering wheel, dashboard or windshield - if you're not wearing your safety belt.. Bad enough at 15 miles an hour, but a 30 miles you hit "the wall" four times as hard as you would at 15. Or to put it another way, with the same impact you'd feel as if you fell three stories.
Seat Belt Safety: 5-Way Protection
“Seat belts prevent occupants of the vehicle from serious injury in five ways,” says Angela Osterhuber, director of the Pennsylvania Traffic Injury Prevention Project in Media, Pa. A seat belt:

* Keeps the occupants of the vehicle inside. “It’s clearly a myth that people are better off being thrown clear from the crash,” Osterhuber says. “People thrown from a vehicle are four times more likely to be killed than those who remain inside.”
* Restrains the strongest parts of the body. “Restraints are designed to contact your body at its strongest parts. For an older child and adult, these parts are the hips and shoulders, which is where the seat belt should be strapped,” Osterhuber says.
* Spreads out any force from the collision. “Lap-and-shoulder belts spread the force of the crash over a wide area of the body. By putting less stress on any one area, they can help you avoid serious injury,” Osterhuber says. A shoulder strap also helps keep your head and upper body away from the dashboard, steering wheel, and other hard interior parts of the automobile should you stop suddenly or be hit by another vehicle.
* Helps the body to slow down. “What is it that causes injury? A quick change in speed,” Osterhuber says. “Seat belts help extend the time it takes for you to slow down in a crash.”
* Protects your brain and spinal cord. A seat belt is designed to protect these two critical areas. “Head injuries may be hard to see immediately, but they can be deadly,” Osterhuber says. Likewise, spinal cord injuries can have serious consequences. by Beth W. Orenstein. http://www.everydayhealth.com/healthy-living/wearing-your-seat-belt.aspx

BREAST CANCER: PREVENTION AND NUTRITIONAL INTERVENTIONS

2010-04-10T10:34:00.000-07:00

According to Russell Blaylock in his book, Natural Strategies For Cancer Patients, after age 50, about 40% of men will have cancer cells in their prostate and yet only a small % will develop a full blown prostate cancer. However, after age 70, the incidence goes up to about 70%. After age 50 in women, about 40% will have some cancer cells in their breasts, but again, most will not get breast cancer. Why is that? Blaylock says our immune system allows the cancer cells to lie dormant and not kill them until some trigger allows the cells to come out of dormancy. Diet is one of those triggers and he points out what we all know, that our typical Amcerican diet of Omega 6 to 3 ratio may be up to 30 or 60 to one instead of 3:1.

Sara Wood, ND on Breast Cancer and it’s prevention and nutritional interventions. She stated that 1 in 8 women will develop breast CA in their lifetime with 40,000 US deaths/year (2000 cases of breast cancer in males). With it receiving such notoriety and many women actually in a panic to prevent it and find it on their yearly exams, what can we do to educate our family, friends and patients on avoiding the risk of breast cancer??? While there is a long list of potential breast ca risk, I believe that Dr. Wood gave some really good fundamentals. Here we go:

Vitamin D: The NHANES study found 90% of people with darker pigmented skin were deficient and 75% of the white population were deficient. She stated that 85,000 cases of breast cancer (BC) could be prevented by just supplementing with Vitamin D and/or more time in the sunlight. Vit D binds to receptors that promote cell differentiation (a very good thing) and apoptosis (programmed cell death, another very good thing), and acts as ann aromatase inhibitor and down regulates the expression of estrogen receptors. Wood quoted a San Diego study where supplementing with 3500 iu/day of Vit D reduced BC y 50%. Note that the current average D intake is 230 iu/day!!! Labrix will have a simple finger stick Vitamin D test available in May for a wholesale price of $65. Their number is 877-656-9596. Optimal range is around 70 ng/ml. Nutri-west has an excellent source of Vitamin D3 called Vitamin D-400 and wholesales for $4.80 for 100 tablets. I probably use a lower dose than many physicians, however, I also treat if needed the low gastric HCL and compromised gallbladder function with products like Hypo-D and GB-Plus, which typically increases all fat soluble vitamin absorption (A, E and K) plus vitamin D. I think this is an extremely important part of the epidemic low Vitamin D levels we see.
Iodine: Dr. Woods again mentioned that the breast is the second most concentrated source of iodine stores in the body, second to the thyroid and this may be why thyroid issues are more common in the female as they compete for the small amount of iodine available. Japanese women with one of the lowest occurrence rates of breast cancer, consume 13.8mg/day of iodine (remember there is only 77 mcg of iodine in one gram of iodized salt). It’s estimated that 70% of the world population is deficient, with popular author Brownstein commenting that out of 3000 patients he tested, 95% were deficient. Without going into too much detail, one of the reasons our society is so deficient is the increasing exposure to other halogen family elements that compete for the iodine receptors, such as bromine, chlorine and fluorine. Bromine replaced iodine in bread (dough conditioners), bromine is in most bottled juices to keep the fruit from precipitating out of solution, it’s in Mountain Dew, etc. We know plenty about our exposure to fluorine an chlorine. Always consider iodine supplementation in Fibrocystic Breast Disease now called Fibrocystic Breast Changes (FBC) which should help decrease their pain. Among the many beneficial actions of iodine in breast cancer, it induces apoptosis and disrupts proliferation. A loading dose of iodine in extremely deficient patients may require 4 tabs/day of 12.5 mg for a total of 50 mg/day. A maintainance dose may be as low as one tab per day. Nutri-West has an iodine product I use called Iodine Rescue, which was formulated by Dr. Jay Mead that supplies 12.5mg of iodine/tablet and has a wholesale price of $12 for 90 tablets. Labrix also has a 24 hour urine test to estimate iodine saturation and levels.
Progesterone: Topical progesterone is one of those no-brainers in breast cancer. It protects against BC and treats FBC. Estrogen decreases by 40% during menopause but progesterone decreases by 90% and many women continue to make estrogen from adipose cells and aromatase conversion. Progesterone protects from what Dr. John Lee termed “Estrogen Dominance”. For a great treatise on this subject refer to his book “What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Breast Cancer”.
Omega-3 Oil: I mentioned Dr. Blaylock at the beginning of this newsletter commenting on the immune and inflammatory side-effect of too many omega 6’s and not enough 3’s. This is a standard recommendation in my practice for most of my patients, because most all of us do not get enough omega-3 consumption and way too much omega-6. Dr. Dan Murphy formulated for Nutri-West the Complete Omega-3 Essentials (capsules) and the Complete Hi-Potency Omega-3 Liquid. Both oils also contain ALA and GLA for specific action on EPA metabolism and protected by dark capsule or dark bottle and plenty of Vitamin E. I mentioned stomach and gallbladder function above, and here again, if a concentrated oil like this bothers a patient’s digestion, count on that patient having a sluggish gallbladder.
Phytonutrients such as resveratrol, DIM, I3C and Green Tea Extract: The four nutritional suggestions above I make to many of my female patients for just good immune and hormone health on a preventive basis. However, if the patient is in a high risk group or has had breast cancer I then consider different phytonutrients such as these. I use Total Veggie and Total Protect which gives support in all these areas plus more.
Saliva Test: Almost without exception, my patients with PBC, female hormone imbalance, high risk for breast cancer or who may have had breast cancer are going to run a saliva test and check cortisol DHEA, Testosteone, Estradiol and Progesterone levels (from Labrix). I think that it’s essential to know what their free hormone levels are and then to know if your nutritional/lifestyle interventions are balancing the hormones properly. Excess cortisol is catabolic and plays havoc with the immune system. It’s a cornerstone of what I do in practice. If you don’t have my simplified adrenal assessment questionnaire and protocol, let me know and I will send it to you.

Eat Good Food

2010-04-05T20:45:00.000-07:00

Mark Bittman - what's wrong with what we eat:

Ears Pierced while you Wait !

2010-04-04T09:18:00.000-07:00

"The alternative boggles my mind" ... Emily Levine
I hope you love this lady as much as I did!

A Cure for Chronic Ear Infections

2010-03-29T15:05:00.000-07:00

Dr. Dave Thomson

Ear infections are one of the most common diagnoses of children by pediatricians in the United States. 35% of all pediatrician visits in the U.S. are due to Otitis media and 46% of all three year-olds have experienced three or more episodes of this condition.

Long term complications of ear infections can cause speech problems, hearing loss and more importantly brain damage.

In my experience with pediatric ear infections, I've found a relationship between the spine, nerves and the lymphatic systems. When children suffer with otitis media the problems are normally in the cervical spine (upper part of the neck).

The lymphatic systems job is draining the fluids in middle ear. By combining a unique lymphatic massage technique I discovered while teaching at UCMT and removing the structural imbalance in the spine by adjusting it with a very gentle touch. The child's body is able to naturally and effectively return to homeostasis (balance), the inner ear will enjoy a healing event, curing the ear infections.

Even when children have had multiple rounds of oral antibiotics, eardrops and tubes, this combination of adjustments and lymphatic massage is successful.

Journal of Pediatric, Maternal and Family Health, reports improved hearing and the resolution of ear infections with chiropractic care. The improvement in the chronic nature of the infections was beneficial even after the implantations of tympanostomy tubes as well as multiple rounds of antibiotics.

.
Normally it may take several (3 to 4) treatments to achieve the expected results. The child's response has everything to do with how long they have been suffering and how healthy they are in the first place. In some cases it is a matter of changing some aspects of the environment. Diet and allergies do change the outcomes.

It is also reported that children are more attentive in school. With everything we know about the dangers of antibiotic abuse, chiropractic intervention makes perfect sense in the case of childhood ear infections. In fact, chiropractic is the treatment of choice for dealing with the structural and neurological aspects of ear infections.

March 25, 2009 in the periodical, the Journal of Pediatric, Maternal and Family Health

Copyright © 2010 Thomson Chiropractic and Acupuncture

Every cell in your body needs fats

2010-03-25T20:34:00.000-07:00

By Judith A. DeCava, CNC, LNC

We need to eat fats. Every cell in your body needs fats to function and maintain top condition. Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) can only be carried throughout the body in the presence of fats. But many people have been led to believe that fats should be reduced to a bare minimum. Or they eat too much of the wrong fats. Either way, they end up with a deficiency of fats they need and/or disturbances that goof up how and where fats function. "Total fat means almost nothing nutritionally," says Walter Willett, MD, PhD, "as it is the type of fat that is important for overall health." Yet there are conflicting ideas on which types of fats are "good" and which types are "bad." Usually poly- and monounsaturated fats are deemed good, saturated fats are condemned, omega-3 fats are superstars, and omega-6 fats get mixed reviews. There seems to be a consensus about the bad effects of trans fats after decades of boundless use. What does the evidence show? First, a brief review:

All fats and oils are combination's of monounsaturated, polyunsaturated, and saturated fatty acids. The predominating fatty acid in the mix is what places the oil or fat in a category. Since olive oil is about 78% monounsaturated, it falls in the mono-fat camp. Soybean oil is just over 60% polyunsaturated, so is considered a poly fat. Coconut oil, around 90% saturated, is in the saturated group. Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are types of fats your body needs, can't make, and must be obtained from food. They exist in almost all foods. There are two types of EFAs: the omega-6 group and the omega-3 group. The elemental omega-6 fatty acid is linoleic acid, especially high in nuts and seeds. The elemental omega-3 fatty acid is linolenic acid, particularly found in green vegetables, some grains (like wheat), nuts (like walnuts), eggs, fish, and organ meats (from naturally-raised animals). Unsaturated fats can be either monounsaturated or polyunsaturated. Both' contain EFAs, but polyunsaturated have more. Saturated fats are mostly in animal foods, but are also in tropical oils like coconut and palm oils. The basic saturated fats are stearic (animal fat, chocolate), lauric (coconut oil), palmitic (palm oil, animal products, dairy), and myristic (dairy, coconut oil). Trans fats are mostly found in partially hydrogenated—artificially solidified—oils.

ESSENTIAL FATTY ACIDS (EFAs)
EFAs have two principal roles. One is being a part of cell membranes. About half of the fatty acids in membranes are saturated or monounsaturated, providing stability. The other half are polyunsaturated, mostly EFAs, to provide flexibility and participate in a number of biochemical processes. The second big role is as a precursor for prostaglandins, local tissue hormones that control various functions including blood clotting, inflammation and repair. Huge amounts of EFAs can be harmful if they're not balanced with other types of fats, various vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. Some food factors reduce (but don't eliminate) the amount of EFAs we need. Saturated fats help conserve EFAs and put them in tissues where they belong. Some nutrients, like vitamin B6, help us use EFAs more efficiently. Other B vitamins (like 32); vitamins D, E, and C complex; calcium; magnesium; zinc; selenium; and other nutrients all work With EFAs. They help absorption, regulation, and conversion of fatty acids. Many optimize activity of EFAs. Deficiencies of various nutrients can contribute to low levels of EFAs. Deficits of EFAs can lower absorption and activity of nutrients. Both protein and fat from foods affects our EFA status. Consumption of saturated, monounsaturated, and trans
fats influence the processing and use of EFAs. Various forms of EFAs interact with each other. In other words, many things we eat determine whether we get—and get benefits from—EFAs. Include in the equation our individual, unique biochemistry that may need more or less of certain EFAs or their nutrient partners. EFA deficiencies can contribute to all sorts of disorders including osteoporosis, arthritis, insulin resistance, diabetes, skin problems (like eczema), vision impairments, low energy levels, fatigue, kidney impairment, various cancers, digestive disturbances, PMS, menopausal symptoms, hormonal disturbances, allergies, yeast overgrowth, mood swings, depression, behavioral disorders, dementia, developmental delays, respiratory distresses, asthma, cardiovascular disease, overweight, and more.
Omega-6 linoleic acid (LA) and omega-3 alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) are the "parents" of the omega-6 and omega-3 EFA families. Our bodies can make omega-6 LA into GLA (gamma linolenic acid), DGLA (dihomo gamma linolenic acid), and AA (arachidonic acid). We can make omega-3 ALA into EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). Notice it reads "can make" the other important fats. Unfortunately, there can be glitches. If you're deficient in any partner nutrients or if you have any number of ailments or disorders (diabetes, alcoholism, digestive disturbances, heart disease, among many others), then you may not be able to effectively convert the "parents" into their other needed products.
Additionally, human interference and tampering with foods often makes them less healthy and less able to give us what we need nutritionally. For example, when cattle and sheep are allowed to slowly fatten on grasses (as Nature intended), their meat and milk contain more omega-3 fats. But mass production feedlots that supply most of our meat and milk changes that. The animals are fed corn (upping omega-6s) and other things they weren't meant to eat. This creates major health problems for which antibiotics are used. They're given hormones to make them grow quickly or produce more milk, resulting in side effects and byproducts that end up in the meat or milk. We get things we don't need in the meat or milk and we don't get the things we do need like the proper quantities and quality of fats.
We're told that we're getting too much omega-6s and not enough omega-3s. The current omega-6 to omega-3 ratio in the average US diet is around 16:1 (as high as 50:1 for some people). Experts recommend anything from a 6:1 to 1:1 ratio, with most saying a 4:1 ratio is ideal. But there may not be a one-size-fits-all ratio for every individual. The optimal ratio for you can depend on your health status, what ills you suffer, your nutrient stores, and your unique genetic and biochemical makeup. Besides, if our bodies could only function at a certain fat ratio, "the human race would have died out long ago," says Mary Enig, PhD. Still, an extreme EFA imbalance is not good. Taking huge amounts of fish oil or flax oil for omega- 3s creates an imbalance too which can lower the immune response, among other things. It's not good to consume too much of either of the EFAs, "even though they may be in the 'right' balance." Too many EFAs can cause cell membranes to become "leaky," with all sods of compounds going into and out of cells when they're not supposed to. Add the fact that most omega-6 and omega-3 fats in our modern diet have been rendered rancid by processing. This creates serious snags on the cellular level. Further, EFAs are used to best advantage in the body when the diet contains adequate satUrated fat. A mixture of fats, as in real foods and real food supplements, improves health far better than any one.

OMEGA-3s
From the buzz, you'd think omega-3 fats cure just about everything. Not quite. But they contribute help to many areas, particularly the circulatory system, brain, and immune system. For cardiovascular health they help prevent high blood pressure, heart attacks, stroke, atrial
fibrillation. Elevated triglycerides (common in diabetes, pancreatitis, gallstone formation, cardiovascular disease) often come down. Resting ,heart rate improves similar to what's achieved with beta-blockers. Blood sugar control improves for diabetics. Mental power (memory, cognition) may get a boost. Alzheimer's may be less likely. Omega-3s are essential during the development of a baby's brain, nervous system, and eyes; women have.more omega-3s in their hips than men—a reservoir that can be drawn upon during pregnancy. Behavior problems, aggression, violence, ADHD, ADD; depression (including postpartum), 'schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, mood swings, and other neurological or mental disorders may improve. Inflammation-related conditions can benefit such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, other joint pain, allergies, respiratory diseases like asthma, neck and back pain. Omega-3s help modulate and resolve inflammation, so high levels of C-reactive protein (an indication of inflammation) subside. People who experienced chronic exposure to pollution were given omega-3s. This resulted in increased glutathione blood levels and SOD (superoxide dismutase) activity—both essential for detoxification. Retinopathy and macular degeneration, serious eye disorders, may be prevented. Physical well-being, bile acid production (for fat digestion), weight loss efforts, and anorexia can improve.
Some say we shouldn't rely on getting omega-3s from vegetables, walnuts, flax or chia seeds, other plant sources containing ALA, or pasture-fed animal products which contain primarily ALA (parent omega-3). We're told the body is inefficient at turning it into EPA and DHA, that we convert only 10% to 14%. We're told to eat fish or get fish oils which contain EPA and DHA. Yet our ability to convert ALA into EPA and DHA may be impaired due to over-consumption of omega-6s. The omega-3 and omega-6 families both compete for the same enzymes, for positions in our cell membranes, and so on. Since the enzymes that convert the parent omega-6 and omega-3 fats into their longer-chain fatty-acids are the same for both, the rate of conversion may depend On which fats are competing for the enzymes. For example, our average intake of arachidonic acid (an omega-6) from food is about the same as the EPA and DHA we get from food. Yet our tissues are chock full of arachidonic acid but not EPA and DHA. Why? The large amounts of LA (parent omega-6) we consume are converted into lots of arachidonic acid. One study showed that the amounts of ALA and LA in the diet—not their ratio—determine ALA conversion. Many studies show that conversion of ALA into EPA and DHA can be very effective. People who don't eat fish may become more efficient at making the conversion from ALA. Fish and fish-oil consumption only partially determines EPA and DHA concentrations in the body. How effective your body is at converting the parent omega-3 into DHA and EPA is also based on your unique body chemistry, dietary habits, health status, and age.
Thus, if we reduced our consumption of omega-6s, we wouldn't need as much fish or fish oils. (Besides, if we all ate fish twice a week as recommended, there would soon be no fish left in the ocean.) We get too much omega-6s from vegetable oils that have replaced butter and lard, in processed and packaged foods using vegetable oils as a convenient (for shelf life) and inexpensive fat, from partial hydrogenation which eliminates omega-3s and makes them into trans fats:from foods that would normally give us a good supply of omega-3s¬such as pasture-fed livestock—no longer do so. Since World War II refined vegetable oils have increasingly replaced other fats. Several steps in processing vegetable oils (corn, soy, sunflower, safflower, etc.) cause a loss of any real nutrient value.

Omega-3s and 6s have small differences in chemical structure but large differences in function. Each different cell type wants-a slightly different ratio of omega-3s and omega-6s. Each plays a different role and each is needed. For example, both omega-3s and 6s help prevent cardiovascular disease in different ways. Omega-6s have been down-played as promoting inflammation, blood clotting, and increased blood- pressure. Omega-3s seem to ease or resolve inflammation, reduce blood clotting, decrease blood pressure. Actually, both sides of this coin are important and necessary. For example, omega-6_ messengers are .essential to nudge inflammation and repair processes and omega-3 messengers are essential in making sure inflammation is modulated. The two fat types work together.
Foods like meat, milk and eggs are much lower in omega-3s today than they were in the past. Cattle, pigs, and chickens used to graze on rich sources of omega-3s like grass, -wild plants and seeds instead of grains with sparse omega-3s and lots of omega-6s, which agribusiness now typically uses as livestock feed. Animals raised naturally give us more omega-3s. Free-range organic eggs, for instance, contain, omega-3s close to the 4:1 ratio often suggested. Other foods, like walnuts and flaxseeds, are better sources of ALA than grass-fed beef. Fatty dark-fleshed fish such as sardines, trout, Atlantic herring, Alaskan salmon, and tuna are among the richest seafood sources of EPA and DHA. Black cod (sablefish) has 50% more omega-3s than salmon. The type of fish and how it's prepared are important—fried fish and shellfish don't have the same beneficial effects as non-fried, non - shellfish fish.

Leafy greens (especially purslane); and green algae like Spirulina, are often forgotten sources of ALA. Seaweeds (like kelp), some fish and other seafood contain SDA (stearidonic acid), an intermediate in the conversion of ALA to EPA and DHA.

Most fish oil supplements come from small fish called menhaden. Many fish oils contain contaminants so a multistage refining process is used to remove impurities includin9 heavy
metals like mercury. But refining removes healthful ingredients too. Most cod liver oil
supplements, for example, lose most of their vitamins A and D. Krill oil, from tiny shrimp-like crustaceans rich in EPA and DHA, is being studied; so far its benefits appear similar to fish oils. Flax-seed oil, rich in ALA, is popular, yet it quickly becomes rancid, producing peroxides and aldehydes. It should be refrigerated and not kept long. Freshly ground flaxseeds may be better. Hempseed is a promising though controversial source of ALA. Canola oil is a touted source, but there are issues with it. The food industry "fortifies" items like dairy products, juices, chocolate, candies, and others with separated DHA. These don't take the place of real whole food sources. Synthetic omega-3s put in baby formulas can be detrimental to children's health. A prescription drug, Lovaza, formed of purified fish oil, contains two types of separated omega-3s having only limited benefit. People should get omega-3s from real foods rather than resorting to a. drug. Lovaza was FDA approved as "medical management" to reduce very high triglyceride levels. A month's supply runs about $200, many times more than a high-quality, non-prescription fish-oil supplement. Smells fishy to me.

OMEGA-6s
The American Heart Association says that omega-6 fatty acids should be included in heart- healthy diets, making up at least 5% to 10% of your daily calories. Nuts, seeds, and oils from nuts, seeds, and vegetables are the primary -sources. ,Oils with the highest amounts of LA (parent omega-6) include safflower and sunflower oils. But most omega-6s in the US diet come from soybean oil. A review of six scientific-studies showed that replacing saturated fats with omega-6 fats lowered the risk for coronary heart disease "events" by 24%. Yet some previous research indicated that omega-6s might increase cardiovascular risk by promoting inflammation. The reviewers, though, couldn't find much evidence linking omega-6s to higher inflammation levels. They recommended that saturated fats (found in meats, full-fat dairy products, and tropical oils) be replaced with omega-6s and omega-3s. This sort of thing is frustrating. Yes, omega-6s are important, essential in fact. Studies show that they're needed by the immune system, cardiovascular system, hormones, glands,- skin—actually every cell in
our bodies for their membranes, functioning, signaling, production of materials, and more. Yes, they have received a bad rap, being blamed for causing inflammation, for increasing heart disease risk, for increasing risk of other diseases like cancer, gallstones, insulin resistance, and immune and inflammatory disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, for example. Still, there are good reasons for the bad reports, for the negative reputation. One is that we consume too many omega-6s. But there are other more compelling reasons.

People in the US get most of their omega-6s from oils—soy, corn, canola, cottonseed, sunflower, peanut, and safflower. The oil seed industry was founded in the mid-1920s and grew into a multi-billion dollar industry just as the incidence of cancer, heart disease and other chronic diseases also grew. Margarine made from these oils was touted as better than butter for health. Commercial oils were found to be immunosuppressive and were actually used to suppress the immune system when immune suppressive drugs failed.
To extract enough oil from vegetable seeds, they are heavily processed and heated. They invariably become rancid. "Lipid hydroperoxides" are formed from natural fatty acids when polyunsaturated fats (as in the oils mentioned above) are heated excessively. This occurs whether they're processed for shelf life or heated for cooking and frying. Lipid hydroperoxides are potent toxins that may even be worse than trans fats. These toxins can induce tissue insult and injury, so are capable of causing tissue inflammation. Not only are the raw materials heated when the oils are extracted, but the oils are used for frying in restaurants and put in processed foods that we reheat, upping the content of lipid hyroperoxides. Vegetables oils are put into most processed foods—salad dressing, chips, mayonnaise, spaghetti sauces, cheese spread, burritos, macaroni & cheese, ready-made pizza, microwave dinners, candies, cookies, donuts, and more.

The word "organic" on the label doesn't change the fact that the oils are toxic. A highly -toxic compound, 4-hydroxy-trans-2- noneal (HNE) forms in vegetable oils when they're heated to frying temperature (365°F) and then concentrate in the fried foods themselves. Reports link HNE to diseases such as heart disease, stroke, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, Huntington's, and liver diseases. Women who eat meats fried in oil have higher rates of breast cancer. Consumption of processed vegetable oils is linked to increased rates of allergies, asthma, macular degeneration, and obesity.

Thus, do omega-6s cause problems or do over-processed, damaged, toxic vegetable oils containing rancid omega-6s deserve the blame? Raw nuts and seeds, rich in omega-6s, don't cause problems; they've been shown to be beneficial to the cardiovascular system, immune system, weight control efforts, and so on. No wonder studies on omega-6s have mixed results. Avoid processed oils. And watch out for the more exotic, gourmet oils which can also be over-processed. Oils made from hazelnuts, walnuts, grape seeds, avocados, macadamia nuts, hemp seeds, pumpkin seeds, or sesame seeds can be refined and mangled. Most are pricier because they're harder to produce. They may suffer even more than the more common oils. When you buy oil, make sure the label says "unrefined" (extra-virgin olive oil is unrefined though the label may not show it). And since polyunsaturated fats become rancid rather quickly, once you open a bottle, store it in the refrigerator.

Grape-seed oil is called "healthy" because it's low in saturated fat (10%), high in LA omega-6 (71%), contains some vitamin E, and has a high smoke point (about 420°F, a temperature that will destroy any vestiges of vitamin E and higher than the temperature at which toxins will be produced). Grapeseed oil "tends" to reduce LDL (so-called "bad") cholesterol. It might lower or raise HDL (so-called "good") cholesterol, depending on the study. Numerous ills are supposed to benefit from this oil, including high blood pressure, clotting disorders, and arthritis. But there's no solid evidence. The oil is made as a by-product of wine-making. It's usually refined, so is virtually tasteless and has a neutral smell. Virgin grapeseed oil has a fruiter aroma and taste. The popular canola oil contains some omega-3s, lots of monounsaturated fat (omega-9), and omega-6s. The canola plant was bred from the rapeseed plant to reduce the amount of a toxic substance that may cause liver damage. Also, fairly high amounts of erucic acid (a fatty acid linked to coronary heart disease in rat studies were bred out so canola oil contains only trace amounts. Even though canola isn't poisonous, it's almost always refined-that means heat, solvents, bleaches, and other chemicals that alter the natural fatty acids and form toxic molecules you don't want. Refined canola has almost no taste or smell. Unrefined canola oil doesn't taste very good. Genetic engineering was used to "improve the plants herbicide tolerance," so more herbicides can be used. You can get organic non-GMO canola oil, bit it's still refined. Rapeseed oil was actually used traditionally in many parts of the world. But there's a huge difference between oil extracted in small traditional oil presses compared to oil extracted by industrial processing. Processing removes most omega-3s and alters whatever remains, making them difficult to digest. Vitamin E is lost and the oil may cause a vitamin E deficiency by borrowing from the body's stores. Skip canola. And skip any over-processed, refined vegetable oil, organic or not. Use unrefined organic vegetable oils in moderation, Iv

To increase omega-3 intake, consider Tuna Omega-3 Oil (2 to 4 perles a day), Linum B6 (1 or 2 a day, 6 months only), or Cataplex F perles (1 or 2 a day, 6 months only). If fat digestion is a concern, add 1 Cholacol or 2 Cholacol II with two largest meals. SP Green Food and Cruciferous Complete also contain small but significant amounts of omega-3 ALA.

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'Tufts Univ Hlth & Nutr Lttr, Jan 2006, 23(11):7 & Apr 2006, 24(2):7 & Jan 2007, 24(9);6 & Apr 2009, 27(2):3; Altem & Complemen Ther, Feb 2009, 15(1):1; WS Harris, D Mozaffarian, et al,, Circulation, 26 Jan 2009, Epub ahead of print; E Villamor, IN Koulinska, eta], Am J Clin Nutr, Sept 2007, 86(3):682-9; SR Shaikh, M Edidin, Am J Clin Nutr, Dec 2006, 84(6):1277-89; DE Laaksonen, K Nyyssonen, et al, Arch Intern Med, 24 Jan 2005, 165:193-9; W Oosthuizen, A van Graan, et al, Am J Clin Nutr, Nov 2006, 83(5):1193-8; PM Kris-Etherton, KD Hecker, et al, Nutr Rev, Nov 2004, 62(11):414-26; H Sampath, JM Ntambi, Nutr Rev, Sept 2004, 62(9):333-9; P Benatti, G Peluso, eta], J Am Coll Nutr, Aug 2004, 23(4):281-302; Environ Nutr, June 2008, 31(6):7 & Mar 2009, 32(3):3-4; W Martin, Townsend Lttr D&P, Aug/Sept 2003, 241/242:80-4; Wise Traditions, Winter 2001: 2(4):10-1 & Summer 2002, 3(2):13-20 & Fall 2004, 5(3)1 4 & Winter/Spring 2006, 7(2):4 & Fall 2006, 7(3):37-9; K Conan, HIM, Jul/Aug 2004, 18(6):186-92; SM Lark, Women's Wellness Today, Mar 2009,.16(3):4-5; Consum Mags Dig, June 2003:4; UC Berkeley Wellness Lttr, Jan 2004, 20(4):7 & Aug 2006, 22(11):8; J Whitaker, Hlth & Healing, Apr 2001, 11(4):5.
CD 2010, Judith A. DeCava

The Harvard Medical School reports adds weight to the growing evidence about polyunsaturated fats, found in some fish and vegetable oils

It is recommended that adults get no more than 11% of their energy from saturated fats
The Harvard analysis suggested that for every 5% increase in polyunsaturated fat consumption there was a 10% fall in heart disease.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/8580899.stm
http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20307281_1,00.html
http://www.plosmedicine.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pmed.1000252

Spring Fever

2010-03-22T08:49:00.000-07:00

This weekend was the beginning of the Spring planting season. I know this is not as exciting for some, but for PLM's (People Like Me) This is a very exciting time of year. I think everyone who lives in Utah with the bleak over cast winter months from January to the middle of March will agree, the wonderful spring weather makes it worth the torchered waiting. In Utah we still have at least 2 or 3 more snow storms, albeit the snow won't stay on the ground, It's time to get PLANTING! I am thankful for Jane Jensen (801)-546-0303 who teaches a master gardening class in the City of Fruit heights Utah for this planting schedule.

March - Second Half:
Beets - in garden
Onions - in garden
Carrots - in garden
Chard - in garden

April - First Half:
Peppers - in house
Eggplants - in house
Lettuce - in garden

April - Second Half:
Pole Beans - garden
Potatoes - garden
Lettuce - garden
Basil - in house

May - First Half:
(if night are above 50)
Green Beans - Garden
Corn - garden
harden off peppers - sunny days increase time gradually till risk of burring is over.

May - Second Half:
Cucumbers - garden
Squash - garden
Lima Beans - garden
lettuce - garden
Melons - garden

Some other good resources for Local tips are Ken

White blood cell chasing bacteria. pretty cool.

2010-03-20T07:01:00.000-07:00

It’s amazing how the cells look like conscious organisms chasing one another. Organisms on any level that are effectively predator and prey behave the same, be they single cells, insects, or animals.

http://www.thinkgene.com/white-blood-cell-chasing-bacteria/

American Pie

2010-03-12T21:16:00.000-08:00

Mc Donald’s Join forces with Weight watchers slim down the UK!

2010-03-10T07:49:00.000-08:00

This is a marketing ploy to lure customers into the restaurant. It implies this food is healthy ... when it is high in fat and salt and HFCS. “Chicken Mc Nuggets are Chicken Mc Nuggets whether it's got Weight Watchers on it or not.”

Weight Watchers is crazy to think over-eaters will be resist a second or third helping of French fries.

Food company's including McDonald's place additives into the food to make it more addictive. It is well known that the people who are heavy or obese, are the best targets for this type of idiotic marketing. Food in this form is as addictive as heroin.

Sweetener derived from corn are not only addictive but also causes dangerous growths of fat cells around vital organs and is able to trigger the early stages of diabetes and heart disease. the reason for this is HFCS (fructose) bypasses the digestive system and ends up in the liver where it overloads the livers ability to deal with these unnaturally high levels of sugar. This then causes the liver to build up fat that is similar to the fat that occurs in an alcoholic liver.

Dr. Dave Thomson

www.thespineline.com

http://nutrition.mcdonalds.com/nutritionexchange/nutrition_ingredients.html

http://www.healthdiscovery.net/restaurants/mcdonalds.htm

WORRY

2010-03-06T14:43:00.000-08:00

Is there a magic cut off period when offspring become accountable for their own actions? Is there a wonderful moment when Parents can become detached spectators in The lives of their children and shrug, "It's Their life," and feel nothing?

When I was in my twenties, I stood in a hospital corridor waiting for doctors to put a few stitches in my daughter's head. I asked, "When do You stop worrying?" The nurse said, "When they get out of the accident stage." My Dad just smiled faintly and said nothing.

When I was in my thirties, I sat on a little chair in a classroom and heard how one of my children talked incessantly, disrupted the class, and was headed for a career making license plates. As if to read my mind, a teacher said, "Don't worry, they all go through this stage and then you can sit back, relax and enjoy them." My dad just smiled faintly and said nothing.

When I was in my forties, I spent a lifetime waiting for the phone to ring, the cars to come home, the front door to open. A friend said, "They're trying to find themselves. don't worry, in a few years, you can stop worrying. They'll be Adults." My dad just smiled faintly and said nothing.

By the time I was 50, I was sick & tired of being vulnerable. I was still worrying over my children, but there was a new wrinkle. There was nothing I could do about it. My Dad just smiled faintly and said nothing.

My friends said that when my kids got married I could stop worrying and lead my own life. I wanted to believe that, but I was haunted by my dad's warm smile and his occasional, "You look pale. Are you all right?... Call me the minute you get home. ...Are you depressed about something?"....

Can it be that parents are sentenced to a lifetime of worry? Is concern for one another handed down like a torch to blaze the trail of human frailties and the fears of the unknown? Is concern a curse or is it a virtue that elevates us to the highest form of life?

One of my children became quite irritable recently, saying to me, "Where were you? I've been calling for 3 days, and no one answered I was worried." I smiled a warm smile. ... The torch has been passed. not yet--- (someday perhaps.)

PASS IT ON TO OTHER WONDERFUL PARENTS

(And also to your children. That's the fun part)

Time and Truth

2010-03-03T06:45:00.000-08:00

.... of an experience from your childhood.

something you remember clearly, something you can see, feel maybe even smell, as if you were really
there.

After all, you really were there at the time, weren't you? How else would you remember it?

But here is the bombshell: you weren't there. Not a single atom that is in your body today was there when that event took place.

... Matter flows from place to place and momentarily comes together to be you.

Whatever you are, therefore, you are not the stuff of which you are made. If that doesn't make the hair stand up on the back of your neck, read it again until it does, because it is important.
Steve Grands

Funny but True Facts About Big Pharma

2010-03-02T19:25:00.000-08:00

This a bit R rated, please view with care.

If you think antibiotic resistance doesn't affect you, think again.

2010-02-22T22:05:00.000-08:00

35 million pounds of antibiotics are consumed annually in the United States. Antibiotics have played a profoundly important role in staving off bacterial infections since Alexander Fleming first discovered them in 1927. But the effectiveness of these so-called miracle drugs has waned in recent years as some of the very bacteria they are meant to control have been mutating into new forms that don’t respond to treatment. Many medical experts blame this phenomenon on both the misuse and overuse of antibiotics in recent years in both human medicine and in agriculture. Drugs that once destroyed almost any bacteria now kill only a few, or don’t work at all.

What are antibiotics? Antibiotics are small molecules that kill or stop the growth of bacteria by blocking essential functions within the bacteria cell.

Antibiotic Resistance a Pressing Health Issue, Doctors first noticed antibiotic resistance more than a decade ago when children with middle ear infections stopped responding to them. Penicillin as a treatment for strep has also become increasingly less effective. And a recently discovered strain of staph bacteria does not respond to antibiotic treatments at all, leading medical analysts to worry that certain “super bugs” could emerge that are resistant to even the most potent drugs, rendering some infections incurable. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) calls antibiotic resistance one of its “top concerns” and “one of the world’s most pressing health problems.”

Incorrect Use of Antibiotics Increases Resistance, One large part of the problem, according to the CDC, is the tendency for people to take antibiotics to fight viruses, which they cannot do. Antibiotics fight bacteria, not viruses, and will not fight colds, flu, bronchitis, runny noses, or sore throats.

Taking antibiotics for problems that the immune system should handle is like having your personal trainer do your work outs for you.

Things you do not need antibiotics for:

Most ear infections
Colds
Influenza (flu)
Most coughs
Most sore throats
Bronchitis
Stomach flu (viral gastroenteritis)

Things you May need antibiotics for:

Some ear infections
Severe sinus infections
Strep throat
Urinary tract infections
Many wound and skin infections

References:
http://www.physorg.com/news104764947.html
http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSN168060320071017
http://www.sciencecodex.com/disinfectants_may_promote_growth_of_superbugs

Tour d’You

2010-02-20T18:24:00.000-08:00

Dr. Jeff Spencer, the personal chiropractor to living cycling legend Lance Armstrong, will present on February 26 a lecture and presentation titled “Tour d’You: Sharing the Adaptive Fitness Strategies Used to Win the Tour de France 8 Times.” In addition to thrilling tales of the Tour, Dr. Spencer will share ideas and strategies on how to better adapt and thrive in today’s rapidly changing world. Not just for athletes, but for everybody.

Tour d’You,
Feb 26, 7-9p, free,
Auditorium 26 on the 6th floor of the Huntsman Cancer Institute,2000 Circle of Hope.

To reserve a seat at the lecture, contact:
Dr. Michael Cerami @ 801-486-1818

From the Catalyst Magazine

Seven Time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong has been receiving chiropractic care since January of 1999, helping him to keep his body together for the harsh demands of the Tour de France. After last year's Tour de France, Lance said that he could not have won without his chiropractor's help.

http://www.sitochiropractic.com/archive/lancearmstrong.html

Total Recovery from Restless Leg Syndrome

2010-02-15T08:53:00.000-08:00

By Dr. David B. Thomson, BS,DC

Restless Legs Syndrome is an uncomfortable, uneasy feeling in the legs mostly at night or while resting. Restless Legs Syndrome is believed to effect 10 percent of adults over 50. It was it was first noted in western medical records in 1672 by Thomas Willis. It is considered to be a disorder of the nervous system, characterized by sensations below the knees. The restlessness results in (an almost) uncontrollable twitching and involuntary movement. There are many different descriptions of the sensations, some of them include an achy-crawling feeling; a cramping ache, a sensation of athetosis (involuntary writhing movements) of the leg. Patients also reported pins and needles, and prickly feelings. These feelings are accompanied by an irresistible urge to walk or move the legs. The distressing sensations normally subside after walking or movement.

This was the grim nightly reality for "Jim" and his wife. Two years ago Jim began to suffer with this syndrome, it began with some minor pains. He suffered with this pain and eventually went to a chiropractor who misdiagnosed him with a pinched nerve in his low back. The RLS progressed to the point that he was unable to sleep without waking his wife.

In November 2009 Jim began treatment with me. His sister-in-law who is a patient, convinced Jim's wife that he should make an appointment. The first thing Jim said to me when we met was that he really disliked chiropractors and that he was only in my office to get his wife and her sister to quit bothering him.

Jim told me he had tried "everything" for his RLS, including chiropractic, massage therapy, and several different medical doctors. Currently he was taking tramadol, a synthetic codeine. 6 times the recommend dosages. He had also tried the medications normally prescribed for RLS, which are the same ones used for Parkinson disease. None of the treatments were helping. in fact the long term use of the tramadol was beginning to loose it's effectiveness, as his body was building up a tolerance for the drug.

After my examination and review of this 52 year old male. Jim turned out to be quite a gentleman, his body mass index was within normal. He was a bright hardworking heavy equipment mechanic. He did not / has never smoked, he does not drink. He eats a fairly well, with a penchant for big steaks. I also looked at the x-rays of his low back. His lumbar spine had clear evidence of L5-S1 disc degeneration. The spine at this level was overgrown with bone spurs and arthritis. The intervertebral foramen, the area in the spine that the nerves exit were clearly smaller than normal. Jim reported lots of low back pain and pain into his buttock and upper legs.

After gathering this information I decided a three prong approach would be the best.

The treatment protocol I designed was to build the liver and heart chi deficiency with acupuncture. To address the low back issues I started adjusting Jim's spine, in the beginning with very light low amplitude adjustments. After a few weeks I had him doing some very specific low back stretches and exercises. Jim's diet lacked enough marine source EFA's to produce an anti-inflammatory response so I started him on 5 grams of pure EPA and DHA. The other part was that he needed a good whole food liquid nutritional this was addressed using a supplement called Intramax. The acupuncture was done before each adjustment for 20 minutes, I started with 18 points and added 4 more points after two weeks.

I treated Jim 12 times over the first 4 weeks. He reported improved sleep and decreased need for his drugs so I adjusted his treatment schedule. In December I saw Jim 8 times, in early January 2010 his symptoms were totally gone and Jim was no longer using any medication. Jim has returned to work, standing on hard concrete floors for 12 to 14 hours daily. Perhaps the best news was that Jim's wife came to the office personally to tell me she was able to sleep all night with Jim beside her with out being kicked!

www.TheSpineLine.com

For your Heart on Saint Valentine's Day

2010-01-29T07:59:00.001-08:00

Saint Valentine's Day is the traditional day on which lovers express their love for each other. The day became associated with romantic love in the circle of Geoffrey Chaucer in the High Middle Ages, when the tradition of courtly love flourished.

Ok so the Segue to the heart and blood pressure may be a bit of a stretch, but here you go.

Hypertension tension, or high blood pressure, is dangerous because it can lead to strokes, heart attacks, heart failure, or kidney disease. The goal of Hypertension treatment is to lower high blood pressure and protect important organs, like the brain, heart, and kidneys from damage.

High blood pressure is classified as:

Normal blood pressure: less than 120/80 mmHg

Prehypertension: 120-139/80-89 mmHg

Hypertension: greater than 140/90 mmHg

Stage 1 Hypertension: 140-159/90-99 mmHg

Stage 2 Hypertension: 160 or greater/ 100 or greater mmHg

*For blood pressure over 140/90 mmHg seek immediate qualified medical advice. Treating Stage 1 hypertension involves lifestyle changes noted below AND possibly drug therapy.

Natural ways to keep healthy blood pressure include:

You should consider lifestyle modifications. You should do some type of enjoyable low impact exercise. This should be done for ONE hour, FIVE days a week.

Eating healthier should be an obvious approach. From my clinical experience eating “healthy” is not enough. The foods we have to choose from in our country are tainted. Patients who are considered “at Risk” should supplement with 3 to 5 grams of highly distilled EPA/DHA Essential Fatty Acids (EFA’s). There are hundreds of solid studies showing the health benefits of EFA’s from marine sources are effective in promoting good cardio vascular health. Other health benefits include decreased pain, decreased inflammation of nerves, brain and bowels.

Acupuncture provides an excellent complement to other treatments. Specifically, when a needle is inserted at certain points on the wrist, forearm and legs, by doing this, opioid chemicals are released this will reduce excitatory responses in the cardiovascular system. The result, a decrease in blood pressure and improvement of heart-related conditions.

Adequate amounts of sunlight, several studies on UV rays (sunshine) have been shown to improve the production of Vitamin D, This improves the system of chemicals in the blood and brain that slows the production of renin-angiotensin. This chemical is one more way the body regulates blood pressure, blood volume as well as electrolyte homeostasis. Vitamin D is a monitor of cell ageing, as a cell is ending its useful life, Vitamin D causes cell apoptosis (cell death), if this action is not done cells would grow out of control. This cellular overgrowth is a form of cancer.

L-Arginine is a supplement that in many cases may work best at a higher dosage level. This is because the liver and intestines break down a good part of the amino acid before it is absorbed by the vessels in the rest of the body. The higher dosage levels (sometimes up to 20 grams) will in most cases ensure that the benefits of L-Arginine reach the vessels throughout the entire body. For those who are considering taking L-Arginine as a supplement that they hope will provide some relief to symptoms of heart disease, the potential for side effects is generally not high enough to justify compromising the potential for relief from their discomfort. Although producers of L-Arginine do not make the claim that L-Arginine provides a cure of any kind, there are many pieces of research that strongly support the possibility that L-Arginine prevents the onset or rapid progression of a variety of heart related ailments by keeping the blood vessels and arteries clear from obstruction and allowing the heart to work with less resistance. Heart health is a concern for many Americans as heart disease claims more lives every year than any other disease. Take the time to consider if L-Arginine can help you to live a more fulfilling lifestyle. Talk about any concern that you may have about this supplement with your physician. You may find that you've been missing out on this opportunity to improve the health of your heart.
www.thespineline.com

Weird looking shoes

2010-01-07T12:44:00.000-08:00

Running shoes exerted more stress on knees, ankles and hip joints compared to running barefoot or walking in high-heeled shoes.

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) accounts for more disability in the elderly than any other disease. Running, does have proven health benefits however, it will increase the stresses on the joints of the hip and legs.

Running barefoot also has its drawbacks but a new study shows that it is much better “in the long run” than “new”running shoes with high arches and wedge shaped soles.

The researchers observed increased joint torques at the hip, knee and ankle with running shoes compared with running barefoot. Disproportionately large increases were observed in the hip internal rotation torque and in the knee flexion and knee outward (varus) torques. An average 54% increase in the hip internal rotation torque, a 36% increase in knee flexion torque, and a 38% increase in knee varus torque were measured when running in running shoes compared with barefoot.

Other problems with running are Sacroiliac stressors. This joint is one of the most over looked when it comes to low back pain. Many of my patients report that they have low back and leg pain and call it Sciatica, when actually it is a sprain or strain of the large joint between the tail bone and the Ilium. Problems with this joint occur when the spine and pelvic motion is not even.

When ever you begin a new running or jogging endeavor have your hips spine and shoes checked to avoid long term degenerative changes that will require time and money to correct later in life.

If your looking to run barefoot check out this weird looking pair of running shoes.

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=112995970

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/01/100104122310.htm?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+sciencedaily+%28ScienceDaily%3A+Latest+Science+News%29&utm_content=Google+Reader

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=112995970

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=6112350

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=6070741&ps=rs

http://www.fitnessspotlight.com/2009/09/10/barefoot-running-injuries

Alcohol does not burn off in cooking.

2009-12-22T14:47:00.000-08:00

Alcohol has many ways of sneaking up on you during the holidays. For starters, you might be tired from holiday chaos with one family visit piled on top of another. Alcohol hits you harder when you're tired. Also, alcohol doesn't completely burn off when cooked in those festive dishes you might encounter, counter to what is said colloquially. Alcohol evaporates at around 175° F, so slow cooking and simmering won't burn off anything. Baking for an hour will still leave 25 percent of the booze. Flaming it for that dramatic walk to the table can still leave most of alcohol behind. So consider your rum-accented glaze as fully spiked. When fixing yourself or a friend a drink, it's easy to be too generous. Short, wide glasses typical in formal settings are easier to over-pour compared to tall glasses. Legitimate studies have been conducted on this, such as one published in 2005 in the British Medical Journal finding that even experienced bartenders routinely overestimated a shot of booze by over 20 percent in such a glass. So between fatigue, rum cake and what you thought was just two mixed drinks, you could find yourself further down the road to tipsy than expected.

5 Big Fat Holiday Health Lies

The hard facts on soft drinks.

2009-12-11T09:27:00.000-08:00

Researchers have discovered that drinking more than 5 servings of sugar sweetened cola a week prior to pregnancy appears to significantly elevate the risk of developing diabetes during pregnancy. No significant association was found with other sugar sweetened beverages or diet beverages.
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is one of the most common pregnancy complications. Women with GDM are at increased risk for complications and illness during pregnancy and delivery, as well as post-pregnancy type 2 diabetes. Children of mothers with GDM are at increased risk for obesity, glucose intolerance, and early onset diabetes.

Prospective Study of Pre-Gravid Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Consumption and the Risk of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

Chronic pain and your foods.

2009-12-09T10:16:00.000-08:00

by Dr. David Thomson

Omega-6 oils increase Pain and Inflammation. Omega 6 oils increases the risk of developing dementia, alzheimer's and memory problems. The problem is that Omega 6 oils are in almost everything. Things that contain Omega 6 oils are so common that it is often difficult to eat most prepared foods without getting 10 times the recommended daily dose of this very caustic oil. Foods that contain this type of fatty acid are: Most cold cereals, breads, most boxed and packaged foods. It is also in many replacements for butter in the non-dairy spreads

Think of it this way Omega 6 oils are very stable and keep food from going bad or losing that soft “twinkie” feel. Breads would quickly harden if not for omega 6 oils. Bagels and pastries would also lose the fresh baked feel in a matter of days if not for this long chain fatty acid. For this reason food producers love to use this very cheep oil for food production because it maintains the illusion of freshness!

In today’s era of easy to get information, I am very surprised by how many of my patients still come to me and complain of chronic pain in the shoulders, hips, knees and spines. Many patients simply do not associate the fact that the foods they eat responsible for chronic pain, many times it is as harmful as the initial insult or injury.

When treating patients with long term chronic pain the first thing I do is evaluate the diet for the ratio of omega-6 oils to the omega-3 oils it should be in a (1:1)one to one ratio, amazingly in the patients with chronic pain the ratio is over (40 to 1). That’s 39 % more of the caustic pain causing omega-6 that is recommend.

If you have unresolved pain that does not seem to respond to conventional therapy consult your Chiropractor for safe practical ways to increase the Omega-3’s in your diet.

Obesity in Children: A strain on our growing stature

2009-12-04T11:36:00.000-08:00

By Dr. David Thomson

Childhood obesity is a weighty matter for a growing number of children in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the percentage of American youth who are overweight has more than tripled since the early 1980’s. [1] Among children and teens aged 6–19 years, 16 percent (over 9 million young people) are considered overweight.[2]

While much of the attention on obesity in children has been focused on health related factors such as type 2 diabetes, asthma and hypertension, all of which are very serious problems, there are other risks that require the co-management of chiropractic physicians and pediatricians.

The need for chiropractics with obesity

Among growing youth, bone and cartilage in the process of development are not strong enough to bear excessive weight. Increase stress on the weight-bearing joints (i.e., the growth plate of the hip) can cause pain and limit range of motion. Extreme cases may develop into serious complications, such as idiopathic slipped capital femoral epiphysis (the posterior and inferior slippage of the proximal femoral epiphysis on the femoral neck), which is the most common hip disorder in adolescents.

The diagnosis of slipped capital femoral epiphysis should always be considered when a physician is assessing the causes of hip, thigh, and knee pain in obese children. Unfortunately, it is often overlooked due to the distribution of nerves throughout the hip. Often patients will target associated groin, thigh and knee pain, rather than the underlying hip pain.

Diagnosed promptly with chiropractic clinical examination, laboratory testing, diagnostic imaging and other diagnostic interventions, chiropractic care may be used to support medical treatment by relieving the musculoskeletal aspects associated with the condition. Delayed diagnosis increases risk of avascular necrosis (the temporary or permanent loss of blood supply to the bones), discrepancy in limb length, and thigh atrophy. Over time, internal rotation decreases, and abduction and flexion of the hip increases, along with automatic external rotation of the lower extremity with flexion of the hip.
Longstanding cases may necessitate surgery, such as the technique of percutaneous in situ fixation (the drilling of a cannulated screw into the patient’s hip), which carries the risks of unrecognized screw penetration of the hip, infection, nonunion, and once again, avascular necrosis (or osteonecrosis).

Wearing on our youth

Obesity in childhood increases the risk of premature degenerative (wearing) conditions such as osteoarthritis of the knee.[3] In the hip and the knee, joint forces are approximately 1.5 times body weight when walking on level ground. Other activities place even greater forces on the joints. Getting up out of a chair, or going up and down stairs increases the force to approximately 2 to 3 times body weight. With more vigorous activities, such as running or jumping, the forces on the joints can approach 4 to 5 times body weight.[4] For children who are overweight, this means dramatically increased wear on the joints and the possibility of chronic disease risk factors in adulthood.

Options for success

Doctors of chiropractic are qualified to detect the earliest degenerative changes in the joints. They have received the training and have the tools to see the impact of changes in the spine, the hips, the knees, and other weight-bearing joints. Doctors of chiropractic are trained to relieve pain and improve joint function through natural therapies, such as chiropractic manipulation, trigger-point therapy, or some massage techniques.[5]

Doctors of chiropractic can provide exercise counseling, helping patients and their parents choose exercises that are best for the child. If a painful or a swollen joint prevents exercise, there may be drug-free, pain-relief options (such as applying heat or cold to the affected area) available to the child.

Doctors of chiropractic may also assist patients by making available medical nutritional therapy. They can suggest supplements that play important roles in prevention and treatment, as well as products that may help maintain appropriate weight.

Contact us today if you or your child is suffering from any of the symptoms listed in this newsletter, or if you are experiencing other premature degenerative conditions caused by being overweight. Our patients experience faster recovery and more sustained wellness. We’ll start you on the road to recovery by giving you the education and the tools necessary to make permanent changes in your life!
[1] Overweight is classified as BMI >25.0, obesity as BMI >30.0, and extreme (class III) obesity as BMI >40.0 kg/m2. Data elements were excluded if a respondent's weight was >500 lbs or height was >7.0 ft.

[2] http://www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/dnpa/obesity/

[3] http://pediatrics.about.com/cs/conditions/a/knee_problems.htm

[4] http://www.hughston.com/hha/a_16_2_1.htm

[5] http://www.amerchiro.org/content_css.cfm?CID=1465

Daily Sweets Can Turn Kids into Violent Adults

2009-12-02T16:38:00.000-08:00

LiveScience Staff
posted: 01 October 2000 08:21 am ET

Children who eat sweets daily are More likely to be violent as adults, a new study suggests.
Data from 17,500 participants in the 1970 British Cohort Study found that 10-year-olds who ate chocolates or other confectionaries daily were significantly more likely to have been convicted for violence by age 34.

Specifically, 69 percent who were violent at the age of 34 had eaten sweets nearly every day during childhood, compared to 42 percent who were non-violent.
Scientists aren't sure why.

"Our favored explanation is that giving children sweets and chocolate regularly may stop them [from] learning how to wait to obtain something they want," said lead researcher Simon Moore of Cardiff University. "Not being able to defer gratification may push them towards more impulsive behavior, which is strongly associated with delinquency."

The study is detailed in the October issue of the British Journal of Psychiatry.
"This association between confectionary consumption and violence needs further attention," Moore and colleagues write. "Targeting resources at improving children's diet may improve health and reduce aggression."

http://www.livescience.com/health/091001-sweets-violence.html?utm

Unhealthy Food Ads Pervasive on Kids' Shows

2009-11-30T15:30:00.000-08:00

If you think SpongeBob puts junk in your kids' heads, then you need to pay closer attention to the commercials.

A new study finds that about one-fifth of commercials kids are likely to see on late-afternoon and Saturday morning television are food-related, and of those, 70 percent advertise fast-food restaurants, sugary food, chips, crackers and sugar-added beverages.

Fruits, vegetables, and juices were advertised in only 1.7 percent of the commercials. Only one nutrition-related public service announcement was found for every 63 food ads.
Highly processed foods are known to contribute to poor diets, obesity and a soaring diabetes problem in the United States.

The study, announced Wednesday, examined 5,724 commercials on 12 networks, including all the usual suspects your kinds watch.

When compared to television for a general audience, children's networks in this study exposed young viewers to 76 percent more food commercials per hour than did the other networks, with the Saturday morning 7-10 a.m. time slot being more saturated with food commercials, the researchers explained in a statement.

You can assume your kids see a food commercial every 8 minutes, sandwiched presumably between Bendaroos and, oddly, the Sham Wow guy.

It doesn't get any better as the little tykes grow up. Eighty percent of MTV food commercials were for fast food restaurants, sugar-added beverages, and sweets.

The study, detailed in the November/December issue of the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior, covered both English and Spanish-language networks and programs.

"Study after study has documented the adverse health effects of food advertising targeting children and adolescents," write Robert A. Bell and colleagues at the University of California, Davis. "Greater awareness of the potential influence of industry may immunize young people from food advertising's deleterious effects."

Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior

ADJUSTMENTS IMPROVE COGNITIVE FUNCTION IN KIDS WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DELAY

2009-11-05T14:49:00.000-08:00

Chiropractic adjustments may improve cognitive function in children with developmental delay. These findings are from a stuffy of 157 youngsters, aged 6 to 13 years, with developmental delay syndromes.

According to the report, “the outcome measures were a series of 8 standardized psychometric tests given to the children by a certified speech therapist pre- and posttreatment, which evaluate 20 separate areas of cognitive function, including patient- or parent-reported improvements in school performance, social interaction, and sporting activities.”

“Individual and group data showed that at the end of treatment, the 157 children showed improvements in the 8 psychometric tests and 20 areas of cognitive function compared with their values before treatment. Their ability to concentrate, maintain focus and attention, and control impulsivity and their performance at home and school improved.”

JMPT – October 2009;32:660-9.

Enhance your Immune system.

2009-10-19T15:14:00.000-07:00

Enhance your Immune system.

It seems that every day the news is proclaiming that we have more cases of the flu. It is true we are in the middle of the flu season. It is well know and published that Chiropractic Adjustments improve the immunity.

I would recommend to any person concerned about the flu to add chiropractic to the list of things to do. Remove interference to the nervous system, enhance the immune functions naturally and quickly,and give the body every extra bit of security it needs.

1917 - 1918 influenza epidemic

Chiropractors helping patients battle the flu is not a new occurrence either. During the 1917‑18 influenza epidemic, which brought death and fear to many Americans, it has been estimated that 20 million people died throughout the world, including about 500,000 Americans. It was chiropractic's success in caring for flu victims that led to the profession's licensure in many states.

Researchers reported that in Davenport, Iowa, out of the 93,590 patients treated by medical doctors, there were 6,116 deaths ‑‑ a loss of one patient out of every 15. Chiropractors at the Palmer School of Chiropractic adjusted 1,635 cases, with only one death. Outside Davenport, chiropractors in Iowa cared for 4,735 cases with only six deaths ‑‑ one out of 866. During the same epidemic, in Oklahoma, out of 3,490 flu patients under chiropractic care, there were only seven deaths. Furthermore, chiropractors were called in 233 cases given up as lost after medical treatment, and reportedly saved all but 25. In another report covering 4,193 cases by 213 chiropractors 4,104 showed complete recovery.

I am also promoting the importance of positive health life style practices (rest, drinking ample quantities of water, diet, exercise, proper food choices, use of the CORRECT amounts Multivitamins and minerals, and stress reduction approaches) that can also positively influence the nervous system and immune response.

Please call my office if you want to learn more about a scientific way to take a snapshot of the most critical metabolic markers in your urine to determine the status of your nutritional health and your body’s natural ability to detoxify itself. A scientific window into your personal biochemistry, The PrivaTest determines cellular function by measuring markers in three critical areas:

Urinary Sulfates–A marker for sulfur reserves (needed for your liver's detoxification processes).
Urinary Lipid Peroxides–A marker for oxidative stress (determines your general antioxidant status).
Urinary Nitrates–A marker for the regulation of nitric oxide (a compound involved in many body systems including your immune system, nervous system and circulatory system).

Don't get the Flu this year!

Metabolic Testing

2009-10-11T12:53:00.000-07:00

Metabolic Testing

I have been doing metabolic testing in my office for several years now. The process of metabolic testing and the creation of a personalized supplementation is one of the most accurate ways to improve health and longevity; it was quite expensive until now. I have found a company that allows anyone to enjoy the process of creating personalized Nutraceuticals based on metabolic markers in the urine. This test is done in the privacy of your home. Please watch this short video for more information. use the code " SK " If you like what to see please contact me at my office and I can have a test kit sent to you and you can enjoy better health.
Stop paying for vitamins that your body does not need, and take the guess work out of the supplements that you do.

www.present2you.com use code SK

Sincerely

Dr. David B. Thomson

Girls' consumption of French fries linked to breast cancer in adulthood

2009-10-06T12:57:00.000-07:00

This information from the Natural Health Newsletter by Randall Neustaedter OMD.

A large study found that one additional serving of French fries per week consumed during ages 3-5 years increased the risk of breast cancer by 27%. The study also found reduced risk of breast cancer for children who consumed whole milk (compared to skim and low-fat milk), butter and liver. A problem with fried foods is the presence of a class of carcinogens called acrylamides, formed when starchy carbohydrates like potatoes, corn, oats or wheat are subjected to high temperatures (above 360 degrees) for prolonged periods, as in deep-frying. French fries, potato chips, doughnuts, and even oven-baked French fries contain acrylamide. This chemical is monitored in drinking water because of its ability to cause cancer.

INSOMNIA MAY TRIGGER CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE

2009-10-05T16:14:00.001-07:00

INSOMNIA MAY TRIGGER CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE

A new study published in the journal Sleep has found that people who suffer from insomnia have heightened nighttime blood pressure, which can lead to cardiac problems. The investigation measured the 24-hour blood pressure of 13 insomniacs compared to 13 sound sleepers. Subjects spent 40 hours in the sleep laboratory: two nights for adaptation and one for monitoring followed by the intervening day.

“Over many years, chronic insomnia can have negative effects on the hearts of otherwise healthy individuals,” says lead author Paola A. Lanfranchi. “Whereas blood pressure decreases in regular sleepers and gives their heart a rest, insomnia provokes higher nighttime blood pressure that can cause long-term cardiovascular risks and damage the heart.”

“Blood pressure cycles are mainly linked to the sleep-wake cycle,” adds co-author Jacques Montplaisir. “Since blood pressure is heightened among insomniacs, those with overt cardiac disease are particularly at risk for progression of the disease."

Sleep – June 2009;32:760-66.
www.journalsleep.org

CHIROPRACTIC CARE FOR KIDS SAFE AND EFFECTIVE

2009-10-01T11:39:00.000-07:00

CHIROPRACTIC CARE FOR KIDS SAFE AND EFFECTIVE

Chiropractic care is highly effective for children, with a very low rate of adverse events, according to a new study published in the journal Explore.

The study used a cross-sectional survey to pool data from chiropractors and parents of pediatric chiropractic patients.

The analysis determined that chiropractic is safe and effective for youngsters:

“Treatment-associated complications were not indicated by the chiropractic and parent responders. Chiropractor responders indicated three adverse events per 5,438 office visits from the treatment of 577 children. The parent responders indicated two adverse events from 1,735 office visits involving the care of 239 children. Both sets of responders indicated a high rate of improvement with respect to the children's presenting complaints, in addition to salutary effects unrelated to the children's initial clinical presentations.”

Explore – September 2009;5:290-5.
http://www.explorepub.com/

YOGA BETTER THAN MEDICAL CARE FOR CLBP

2009-09-30T13:44:00.000-07:00

YOGA BETTER THAN MEDICAL CARE FOR CLBP

People with chronic low-back (CLBP) who practice yoga do better at overcoming pain and depression than people who receive standard medical treatment, according to a three-year study published in the journal Spine.

As part of the study, 90 patients with CLBP were randomly assigned to a yoga group or the group that received conventional medical therapy. Yoga participants took 90-minute classes twice a week for 24 weeks, doing postures targeted to relieve chronic low-back pain.

“The yoga group had less pain, less functional disability and less depression compared with the control group,” notes study co-author Kimberly Williams, PhD. “These were statistically significant and clinically important changes that were maintained six months after the intervention.”

“Proponents of yoga have long described its benefits in reducing back pain,” adds Dr. Williams. “But not everybody was convinced. This is a much bigger, much more rigorous evaluation than had been done before.”

The study concludes: “Yoga improves functional disability, pain intensity, and depression in adults with CLBP. There was also a clinically important trend for the yoga group to reduce their pain medication usage compared to the control group.”

Spine – September 2009;34:2066-76.
www.spinejournal.com

Ginger Pickled Veggies

2009-08-26T09:50:00.000-07:00

I just made this ... SO GOOD!

Ginger Pickled Veggies

1/2 C. water
3 teaspoons salt
1/2 c. cider vinegar
2 leaves of round cabbage in 1-inch squares
2 pickling cucumbers, partially peeled and chunked
2 stalks of celery, sliced thinly on the diagonal
1 medium sweet white onion, sliced
2 tablespoons fresh ginger root, peeled and chopped
4 round red radishes, sliced
2 fresh carrots, peeled and thinly sliced
Heat the water to simmer in a stainless steel pan and turn off heat. Add salt and stir until dissolved. Add the vinegar. Wash and slice all the vegetables, mix well, and pack tightly into a glass container. Cover with the brine, pressing down on the vegetables to make sure all are submerged.
Refrigerate for 12-24 hours to mingle and develop flavors. These pickles will last for five or six days.
*To store without refrigeration, process in hot water bath for 25 minutes.
Rebecca Brenner catalyst SLC 2009

Essential Fatty Acids

2009-05-27T16:54:00.000-07:00

Improving one’s diet is one of the best ways to get healthy. But the last thing that many people would think about when they are trying to lose weight or to get healthy is probably going to be fat. In fact it’s one of the things they are probably going to try and eliminate from their diet. Research has shown that the body needs fats to stay alive and that fats help facilitate many of the body’s essential functions. The key to living a healthier life may not be to eliminate fat from the diet or to restrict it as much as possible but rather to make sure that the fats that are taken in are the best kinds - essential fatty acids.
Essential fatty acids are fats that the body absolutely needs to perform properly and to keep you in top health condition. Essential fatty acids, sometimes known as EFA’s, are fatty acids that cannot be made within the body from other parts or by any chemical process that is known in the body. They have to be obtained from the diet and so we have to look to what foods can provide these essential fats. There are basically two different families of EFA’s - Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids. The research that has lead to the discovery of their importance is relatively new and fresh. Fats from both families are essential and the body can convert one form of omega 3 to another omega 3 to use in a different form. Fatty acids were originally though to be a vitamin and named vitamin F but now they have been classified with the fats rather than with vitamins. Both families of fats are very important in the functioning of the body and their interactions with each other are also very important. The fats can be modified in the body to create other fats that can affect inflammation and other functions on the cellular level, mood and behavior and even interacting with medicines like aspirin to down regulate inflammation. They are also very important in the transmission and proper copying of DNA and ensuring that these processes are done properly.
Fatty acids are basically a straight chain of hydrocarbons with a carboxyl group at one end of it. They are different lengths and the 3 and 6 in their names designate the first double carbon-carbon bond happens after the 3rd CH3 molecule. They qualify as unsaturated fats (which some people recently believed were even worse than saturated fats). There are some familiar names that people have probably heard of advertised in vitamin supplements or that are included in some foods. A-Linolenic acid and Linoleic acid are the two most commonly recognizable essential fatty acids for most people. They are of note because they cannot be synthesized by the processes in the human body so they have to be acquired from the body.
Many people are touting the health benefits of essential fatty acids and they are very important to heart and blood health. Unsaturated fats are most known for their ability to improve cholesterol levels in the blood and body cells. High cholesterol has become a very common health problem and many people are concerned about it. Unsaturated fats allow the body to keep more good cholesterol (which is more efficient in moving different nutrients around the body) than bad cholesterol in the blood stream. High (bad) cholesterol levels are associated with heart disease, clogged veins and arteries and many other health problems. Essential fatty acids provide much more good cholesterol than bad and help regulate and balance out the levels in the body

Endocrine Metabolic Medical Center Blog: Swine Flu Update

2009-05-26T15:11:00.000-07:00

Endocrine Metabolic Medical Center Blog: Swine Flu Update

Cardio-Pulse Wave Device and Heart Disease 2009

2009-05-11T10:53:00.000-07:00

I have been educating patients for 20 years about ways to improve their health. My focus has always been "preventive" rather than "reactive:" Life-style changes over drugs and surgery; True "health care," rather than the "disease/crisis care," we are taught to call 'health' care in this country.

The following is revolutionary technology in the prevention arena:

HEART DISEASE
Heart disease is clearly the leading killer in America and rapidly spreading around the world. If you have been to one of my health workshops you know that 1 in 3 Americans die of heart disease. In 47% of cases the first sign of a problem is DEATH. That's right, they felt fine on Sunday then Monday they died of a heart-attack.

Heart disease is a 'lifestyle' disease which means it is both preventable and reversible.
However, until recently there was no way to objectively measure (non-invasivly) the health of a person's cardiovascular system. Furthermore, we didn't understand how easy it was to reverse the affects that lead to the deadly extreme of a sclerotic' cardio-vascular system.

OBJECTIVE MEASUREMENT
New technology that originated at Stanford University is an accurate and portable way to objectively measure the health of an individual's cardiovascular system. The new "Cardio Pulsewave Device," is being used to give individuals a 'benchmark' of where their cardiovascular system rates on a scientifically calculated chart of averages per age.

The test is very simple, painless and takes less than 15 minutes.

What is Pulsewave Analysis?
When your heart beats, it radiates a pulse wave down the lining of your arteries. That pulse wave is met with a certain amount of resistance from the walls of the artery, and this causes a rebound wave. Using this information we can accurately determine the health of the cardio-vascular system. It is as accurate as a femoral artery cardiac catheterisation.

Heart Health
I can tell you this, exercise is always important, chiropractic helps more than you think, but diet and the right supplements can really accelerate the body's ability to heal and restore elasticity to arteries and vessels.

There is a great deal of research pointing to L-arginine, an amino acid, which initiates vessel relaxation. "L-arginine, by more than one pathway, activates endothelial nitric oxide (NO) synthesis which relaxes cardiovascular tissue.

We have made arrangements to have this equipment in our office once a month to check your heart health, Please call for times and costs.
Dr. David B.Thomson
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2009-04-30T08:47:00.000-07:00

Bed Wetting

2009-04-29T08:44:00.000-07:00

Nocturnal enuresis or bed wetting - In the U.S., between 2-3 million children are afflicted. The cause of nocturnal enuresis/bed wetting is considered unknown.

The medical treatment for children is the prescription of desmopressin. Desmopressin is an anti diuretic hormone and is given as an intranasal spray and does appear to be effective. The side-effects of desmopressin are allergic reaction, seizures, increased blood pressure, hyponatremia and water intoxication.

Because of side effects people are looking for safe and natural approaches to many maladies. One such patient came to my office a few months ago. The mother Anna told me that they had tried several things to help her son. Including an alarm, the problem with the alarm is that it works after it gets wet, obviously this is a dilemma.

A chiropractic evaluation of this 8 year old male revealed a very healthy active child. His range of motion in the lumbar and cervical spine were normal. The orthopedic and neurological exam appeared normal. When I felt his spine known as "palpation", the presence of tenderness and edema was located at C1 on the right, T4, on the left and in the lumbar spine I felt tenderness and loss of movement between L5 and S1 (first sacral segment).

I saw Chris at first 3 times a week for 2 weeks and then one time a week for 12 visits. this protocol included acupuncture and chiropractic adjustments. At first Chris had some fears and some tears when we used the needles, however now he just lays there better than some of my older patients!

During his last visit he brought me his "dry days" calender. He had marked off 29 days dry. SUCCESS! way to go Chris (not his real name - as you who read this blog will know by now)

Ear Infections and Children

2009-04-24T10:49:00.000-07:00

I love working with children, one of the more remarkable experiences I have had happened about a year ago. Baby Jane (not her real name) was brought into the office by her mother. The mother told me that they were about to put tubes in the child's ears. After exhausting the many different antibiotic treatments, they had become desperate. The baby was in obvious distress, pulling at her ears and crying. Jane also had a runny nose and swelling in the neck where the lymph nodes were reacting to chronic infection. After doing a full examination I found that the infant had a vertebra in the very top of her neck that was tender and swollen on the right. This finding often causes a problem with the nerve in that area. Nerves control the immune system so by addressing the cause of the problem by taking the pressure off of the nerve the child began to improve. After one month of care, adjusting the child a total of 8 times the infections were gone and the tube surgery was canceled.

Many people mistake a chiropractic adjustment for a child as being rough or causing the neck to pop. This is NOT the way chiropractors adjust children. The child's spine is very easy to adjust and it is simply a matter of a very slight pressure placed upon the Subluxation and the babies
spine just slips into alignment.

ABC NEWS STORY
Research
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INSOMNIA

2009-04-22T15:24:00.000-07:00

INSOMNIA LINKED WITH HORMONE IMBALANCE AND WEIGHT GAIN

Insomnia has long been associated with weight gain and obesity. Now researchers at UCLA have found out why.

In a study slated for publication in the May issue of the journal Psychoneuroendocrinology, Sarosh Motivala and colleagues looked at two hormones (ghrelin and leptin) that are primarily responsible for telling the body when it is hungry and when it is full. The study found that chronic insomnia disrupts one of these two hormones.

Researchers compared 24 healthy sleepers with 14 chronic insomniacs suffering from chronic insomnia and measured the levels of the two hormones at various times throughout the night. They found that while leptin levels averaged out over the night to be roughly the same between the two groups, levels of ghrelin were 30 percent lower in insomnia sufferers.

“The current study shows that insomnia patients have a dysregulation in energy balance that could explain why these patients gain weight over time,” notes Motivala. “This is an exciting finding because it highlights how diverse behaviors like sleep and eating are connected. We are just beginning to explore the possible consequences of these connections, but it is another example of the importance of a good night’s sleep for the body.”

Psychoneuroendocrinology – May 2009;34:540-45.

Lumbar Disc Problems

2009-04-21T13:38:00.000-07:00

Last month Troy came into the office, (he digs water water wells for a living) He told me that after lifting some of his tools his back started to ache, 3 hours latter he noticed that his leg was aching. By morning he complained that his right leg was numb and he had a dull pain all the way to his calf on the same side. When he came into the office on Friday he could not stand up straight and was leaning to the right. After doing an examination it was very clear that X-rays and possibly an MRI would be needed. Because he was in so much pain I recommended that he do some Physical Therapy, We did this in my office. I also Prescribed a product that I have been using for quite a while now, It is a natural anti-inflammatory called Chiropractors Choice.

We Did X-rays and found that his L-5 S-1 Disc space was very thin and appeared to be slightly arthritic. We began some very specific low back treatments designed for disc injuries. 3 weeks latter he is no longer in pain. He reports that the treatment along with the chiropractors choice liquid anti-inflammatory he is pain free.

Bronchitis and Acupuncture

2009-04-20T09:27:00.000-07:00

Many of my patients have been suffering from bronchitis, One patient (we will call her Jane) presented herself to my office in obvious distress. Her husband told me she had been in bed for 7 days, taking antibiotics and sleeping. She was so weak that she was unable to take care of the children or the house. (perhaps the reason for the husbands desperate plea for help). After a complete examination I decided that an acupuncture treatment would be the best approach for this person. The first treatment was on Monday the 13Th of April 2009. She was treated again on Wednesday the 15Th and again on Friday the 17Th, in 5 days her color was no longer pale and she was breathing normally. Her Sp02 had gone from 92 to 97 - an indication that the oxygen was again getting into her blood stream and her lungs were improving.

I am very fortunate to enjoy what I do. In this blog I intend to record success, thoughts and daily experiences from my practice. My motivation for this was listening to Sherwin Nuland on TED Check it out.