When seasons change, you may notice some pain in your joints. Fortunately, there is chiropractic care that can help. When people hear chiropractic care they usually think of spine problems and back pain. This is true, but chiropractic medicine treats many conditions other than spine pain.
Chiropractic can be used for joints all over the body, including ankles, knees, shoulders, hips, and wrists. It is a natural, whole-body approach to health care and wellness as a very effective way to manage chronic joint pain such as arthritis, or joint pain due to injury.
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What Causes Joint Pain and Immobility?
There are several reasons that a joint may become painful and immobile. Injury or trauma to the joint, such as a fall, being hit while playing sports, or being involved in a car accident, can cause injury. Microtrauma occurs due to a repetitive use injury such as working on an assembly line or using a computer all day, can also cause damage resulting in pain.
Sometimes an inflammatory diet can cause problems and stress can also certainly be a factor. Stress affects the entire body, including its chemicals and hormones that can lead to joint damage or weakness, making you more prone to injury.
Finally, age may be a factor. As we get older, our bodies don�t hold up like they once did. This can mean joint pain and decreased range of motion. The colder months can instigate pain in the major joints, including the knees, back, hips, and shoulders.
Why does Cold Weather Exacerbate Joint Pain?
The short answer to this is that researchers aren�t really sure. One of the most popular theories is that low-pressure systems typically accompany the cooler temps. The lower pressure can cause the tissues in already sensitive joints to expand, creating a perfect environment for inflammation including aches, tenderness, decreased range of motion, and swelling.
Other factors that may also affect joint pain in cooler weather are low-level dehydration, a sedentary lifestyle, and depression or �the blues.� Low-level dehydration is more common than you may think; most people do not have adequate water intake.
Sodas don�t count as hydration and this can be a real problem. Generally, people don�t hydrate as much when the weather is cool � or not as much as they did during the warm summer months.
When the weather cools down people become less active, especially if there is snow and ice on the ground. Lack of exercise can lead to serious joint troubles.
Depression can also impact your entire body, including your joints. Many people suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD. Doctors believe that it occurs because of the shorter days and generally darker skies during the winter months. Depression and anxiety have strong ties to chronic pain as a whole, including joint pain.
How Chiropractic Helps Relieve Joint Pain
Chiropractic provides an all-natural, holistic approach to health care and pain management. It does not use medications or invasive medical procedures.
The chiropractor usually begins by aligning the spine, which is called an �adjustment.� This brings the body back into alignment so that it can function more efficiently and with less pain. The patient may also be given recommendations on lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, exercise, and supplements.
When the body is aligned, the entire system is balanced. This allows the body to work at a more optimal rate. As a result, the range of motion improves and the pain is decreased or even completely eliminated.
Involvement in a car crash is an unfortunate situation that can result in various automobile accident injuries. People suffering from whiplash, neck pain, and back pain due to an auto accident can struggle to continue their regular activities. Dr. Alexander Jimenez is a personal injury chiropractor who focuses on treating automobile accident injuries, among other health issues.
Patients describe how their quality of life was affected after a car crash and discuss how chiropractic care with Dr. Jimenez helped them recover their overall health and wellness. The patients highly recommend Dr. Alex Jimenez as the non-surgical choice for personal injuries and auto accident injuries, among other health issues, such as whiplash, neck pain, and back pain.
As El Paso’s Chiropractic Rehabilitation Clinic & Integrated Medicine Center, we are passionately focused on treating patients after frustrating injuries and chronic pain syndromes. We focus on improving your ability through flexibility, mobility and agility programs tailored for all age groups and disabilities.
We want you to live a life filled with more energy, positive attitude, better sleep, less pain, proper body weight and educated on how to maintain this way of life.
I assure you, I will only accept the best for you
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According to research studies, understanding possible nutraceutical interactions for methylation support with the utilization of long-term supraphysiological supplementation of niacin, selenium, and phosphatidylethanolamine can ultimately help promote overall health and wellness. Doctors and functional medicine practitioners must be aware of the nutraceutical interactions for methylation through supplementation.
Nutraceutical supplements utilized in integrative functional medicine as well as in nutrition practice can have tremendously powerful effects on physiology. Nutraceutical supplements are one of the primary tools which healthcare professionals utilize to help their patients achieve optimal well-being. However, as mentioned above, healthcare professionals must be aware of possible nutraceutical interactions, especially those which may negatively affect methylation. These are listed in Table 9 below.
Nutrients are metabolized in the human body through methylation, such as niacin, selenium, and phosphatidylethanolamine. Therefore, high dose supplemental regimens of these nutrients can ultimately decrease available methyl donors and cause a methylation deficit. Niacin can also prevent the production of pyridoxal kinase, which is generally known to trigger vitamin B6. High doses of this nutrient may affect overall vitamin B6 status.
Medication Interactions
According to research studies, doctors and functional medicine practitioners must also understand possible medication interactions for methylation support. Moreover, healthcare professionals must be aware that medication interactions can ultimately affect methylation status. Several medications have been demonstrated to affect methylation status in a variety of ways. Several medications may even prevent proper nutrient absorption, while several others may restrict enzyme function, and several others still may decrease SAMe. An understanding of these medication interactions is essential to promote optimal methylation support.
Doctors and functional medicine practitioners can recommend a variety of supplements and/or medications to promote methylation support, however, these can also cause a variety of side-effects on every individual. Healthcare professionals must be aware of these nutraceutical and medication interactions and their use must be carefully considered for each patient. Nutrition and lifestyle habits are safe and effective treatment options which can help promote methylation support without the chance of developing side effects.
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
Smoothies and Juices for Methylation Support
While many healthcare professionals can recommend nutritional guidelines and lifestyle modifications to improve methylation support, there are several options you can try yourself at home. As described above, methylation support supplementation should be determined by a healthcare professional. Smoothies and juices are a fast and easy way to include all the necessary nutrients you need for methylation support without any side-effects. The smoothies and juices below are part of the Methylation Diet Food Plan.
Sea Green Smoothie Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1/2 cup cantaloupe, cubed � 1/2 banana � 1 handful of kale or spinach � 1 handful of Swiss chard � 1/4 avocado � 2 teaspoons spirulina powder � 1 cup water � 3 or more ice cubes Blend all ingredients in a high-speed blender until completely smooth and enjoy!
Berry Bliss Smoothie Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1/2 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen, preferably wild) � 1 medium carrot, roughly chopped � 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seed � 1 tablespoons almonds � Water (to desired consistency) � Ice cubes (optional, may omit if using frozen blueberries) Blend all ingredients in a high-speed blender until smooth and creamy. Best served immediately!
Sweet and Spicy Juice Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1 cup honeydew melons � 3 cups spinach, rinsed � 3 cups Swiss chard, rinsed � 1 bunch cilantro (leaves and stems), rinsed � 1-inch knob of ginger, rinsed, peeled and chopped � 2-3 knobs whole turmeric root (optional), rinsed, peeled and chopped Juice all ingredients in a high-quality juicer. Best served immediately!
Ginger Greens Juice Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1 cup pineapple cubes � 1 apple, sliced � 1-inch knob of ginger, rinsed, peeled and chopped � 3 cups kale, rinsed and roughly chopped or ripped � 5 cups Swiss chard, rinsed and roughly chopped or ripped Juice all ingredients in a high-quality juicer. Best served immediately!
Zesty Beet Juice Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1 grapefruit, peeled and sliced � 1 apple, washed and sliced � 1 whole beet, and leaves if you have them, washed and sliced � 1-inch knob of ginger, rinsed, peeled and chopped Juice all ingredients in a high-quality juicer. Best served immediately!
Protein Power Smoothie Serving: 1 Cook time: 5 minutes � 1 scoop protein powder � 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed � 1/2 banana � 1 kiwi, peeled � 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon � Pinch of cardamom � Non-dairy milk or water, enough to achieve desired consistency Blend all ingredients in a high-powered blender until completely smooth. Best served immediately!
ProLon� Fasting Mimicking Diet
Balanced methylation support can be achieved through proper nutrition. The ProLon� fasting mimicking diet offers a 5-day meal program which has been individually packed and labeled to serve the foods you need for the FMD in precise quantities and combinations. The meal program is made up of ready-to-eat or easy-to-prepare, plant-based foods, including bars, soups, snacks, supplements, a drink concentrate, and teas. The products are scientifically formulated and great tasting. Before starting the ProLon� fasting mimicking diet, 5-day meal program, please make sure to talk to a healthcare professional to find out if the FMD is right for you. The ProLon� fasting mimicking diet can help promote methylation support, among a variety of other healthy benefits.
Many healthcare professionals can recommend a variety of nutraceutical and medication interactions to help improve DNA methylation. Proper nutrition and lifestyle habits can ultimately help improve DNA methylation. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal and nervous health issues as well as functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. To further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topic Discussion: Acute Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most prevalent causes of disability and missed days at work worldwide. Back pain attributes to the second most common reason for doctor office visits, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections. Approximately 80 percent of the population will experience back pain at least once throughout their life. Your spine is a complex structure made up of bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles, among other soft tissues. Injuries and/or aggravated conditions, such as herniated discs, can eventually lead to symptoms of back pain. Sports injuries or automobile accident injuries are often the most frequent cause of back pain, however, sometimes the simplest of movements can have painful results. Fortunately, alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, can help ease back pain through the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, ultimately improving pain relief.
Formulas for Methylation Support
XYMOGEN�s Exclusive Professional Formulas are available through select licensed health care professionals. The internet sale and discounting of XYMOGEN formulas are strictly prohibited.
Proudly, Dr. Alexander Jimenez makes XYMOGEN formulas available only to patients under our care.
Please call our office in order for us to assign a doctor consultation for immediate access.
If you are a patient of Injury Medical & Chiropractic Clinic, you may inquire about XYMOGEN by calling 915-850-0900.
For your convenience and review of the XYMOGEN products please review the following link.*XYMOGEN-Catalog-Download
* All the above XYMOGEN policies remain strictly in force.
In the same ways that it helps human patients, it also helps animals. It offers a less invasive, medication-free way to manage pain and correct many health issues, including arthritis and joint injuries. A number of pet owners claim chiropractic is not only great for their pets but that their pets are excited to go to appointments and see their chiropractors.
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Which animals benefit from veterinary chiropractic care?
Any species of animal can benefit from chiropractic. The most common animals to receive this specialized type of care are dogs, cats, and horses. However, any vertebrate species, including birds, can reap the benefits.
Chiropractic for animals has long been a standard form of treatment with many show horses, race horses, and barrel racers. It is considered a viable, beneficial treatment to help the animals combat the stress their bodies are put under due to their jobs. It is also very good for injuries, speeding healing while managing pain.
It is often used on dogs and cats to help with injuries, arthritis, and aging. Sometimes an animal can hurt but they are unable to communicate that to their owners. If you notice behavioral changes or grumpiness, you may want to check your pet out. He or she may be hurt and can�t tell you � and chiropractic could be the answer.
Most often treated conditions
Veterinary chiropractic helps pets with many conditions that are biomechanical or neurological in origin � much like it helps humans. Some of these conditions include spondylosis, hip dysplasia, and other types of degenerative joint diseases, intervertebral disk disease, neck pain, back pain, and cervical instability. It can also address problems of the autonomic nervous system like musculoskeletal weakness, fecal and urinary incontinence, chronic neck and back pain, and other pain that don�t respond to conventional treatments.
Serious injuries like ligament tears or fractures may require surgical intervention, but chiropractic can help post-surgery. It can help relieve the pain as well as correct secondary problems that could occur due to the animal overcompensating in response to the injury. In performance animals, regular chiropractic care can help prevent injury by maintaining flexibility and a good range of motion.
How does it work?
Chiropractic is designed to help keep the joints and spine in their natural, healthy alignment. The nerves that surround the joints and run along the spine communicate with the central nervous system. This connects to all of the organs in the body, including the brain.
When the spine is out of alignment, even just a little, it can cause disruptions in how the messages are relayed through the central nervous system and to the organs and brain. A misaligned spine can affect the entire body, causing pain in muscles and joints, affecting organ function, and impact the animal�s overall health and wellbeing. When the spine is not aligned, the body will not function as it should.
Give the best possible chiropractic experience.
When you meet with the veterinary chiropractor, make sure that you have all of your pet�s information available, including vaccinations, health care history, any conditions they have, their diet (including supplements), medications they are taking, and their daily activities. If the doctor is treating an injury, explain how the injury occurred if you know.
When the adjustment is over, make sure that you understand any therapy or exercises to do at home, post adjustment. If there is something you don�t understand, ask. The doctor may also provide recommendations regarding lifestyle changes including saddle fit, collar fit, exercise, conditioning, or shoeing. Make sure you follow these as well. Your pet can�t make those decisions for his or her own health, that is up to you. Don�t let them down.
Dr. Alex Jimenez Discusses Exercise and Methylation
A personalized, moderate exercise plan can promote methylation support. According to research studies, exercise can affect metabolic methylation-related activity and biomarkers. According to a 2014 systematic review, exercise is associated with lower homocysteine levels. In animal models, exercise has been demonstrated to prevent folate deficiency-induced hyperhomocysteinemia through increased BHMT expression in the kidney.
However, several research studies have also demonstrated that exercise can cause a temporary increase in plasma homocysteine, especially in untrained people, which is believed to be due to the increased proteins during exercise to make amino acids available for gluconeogenesis in the liver. This effect can also be triggered by low folate and vitamin B12 status, which is why nutrient repletion is essential for overall health and wellness.
Regular and moderate exercise is an effective treatment for factors which can decrease methyl donors or affect methylation activity, such as psychological stress, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Aerobic exercise and resistance training have also been associated with increased cellular glucose uptake and reduced blood glucose, which can also reduce oxidative stress caused by higher AGE-promoting glucose levels, among other factors.
How Exercise Improves DNA Methylation
The increased production of reactive oxygen species and free radicals during exercise as well as the increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines has been demonstrated in a variety of research studies. However, the effects of these changes can depend on a person’s nutrition and lifestyle habits. High-intensity or anaerobic exercise may have pro-oxidative effects, especially in untrained individuals. Endurance exercise, by way of instance, may produce circulating levels of IL-6, up to 120 times that of baseline, as well as increases in other predominantly pro-inflammatory cytokines.
A 2013 systematic review demonstrated the effect of exercise on oxidative stress in the brain. The outcome measures determined that regular, moderate, aerobic exercise increase the brain�s antioxidant capacity, however, high-intensity, anaerobic exercise decreased the antioxidant response. The results can be explained by a hormesis model of exercise (Figure 6), which discusses that low or high levels of exercise can produce negative effects. The gradual build-up of exercise, through regular practice or training, can change the hormesis curve to the right, meaning that exercise tolerance and benefits are highly personalized for each person.
Recent research studies have discussed that antioxidants provided by a diet rich in natural plant phytochemicals, such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes and beans, sprouts and seeds, are also an effective way to meet the antioxidant needs of the general population and athletes who participate in exercise, physical activities, and/or sports. As a matter of fact, dietary intervention is a much safer and effective treatment than antioxidant supplementation because research studies utilizing supplementation demonstrated insufficient and mixed results. Several researchers even believe that antioxidant supplementation can affect the beneficial hormetic effects of exercise, ultimately affecting well-being.
Exercise can ultimately affect DNA methylation, according to a recent review of literature. By way of instance, in a retrospective research study of 647 women, regular exercise throughout their lifetimes helped preserve the age-related depletion of global methylation status, where exercise and physical activity like sports and daily movement, such as climbing stairs, housework, and yardwork, which was greater than or equal to the average in childhood, adolescence, and adulthood, did have a small yet considerable increase in global DNA methylation compared with participants who did not meet that level of exercise or physical activity in all three life stages.
Women who engaged in exercise or physical activity at or above the average in only one or two of those life stages also demonstrated increased DNA methylation, however, statistical importance was lost. The average level of exercise was determined at 9.8 hours per week in childhood, 5.9 hours per week in teenage years, and 12.5 hours per week in adulthood. Further research studies may be used to gather further outcome measures.
In a separate case-control research study of 500 females, long-term, tai-chi participants of at least one hour per week for 3 years or more, demonstrated a slowing of age-related DNA methylation losses, from 5 to 70 percent, compared with controls. During their research study, the researchers determined a considerable difference in methylation between the two groups at a number of specific sites which only occurred after 50 to 55 years of age, leading them to believe that tai-chi may be of particular benefit in this age-group. Further research studies are still required.
Although the effects of exercise on DNA methylation are not well understood, research studies have demonstrated that this may actually be true due to the inflammation-lowering effects of exercise and physical activity through changes in sex hormone levels that can affect DNA methylation. Mind-body exercises, such as tai-chi, may also be beneficial due to their effects on stress hormone levels and stress responsiveness.
Nutrition and lifestyle habits, such as exercise and physical activity, can help improve DNA methylation. Regardless of your age, research studies have demonstrated that participating in exercise, sports, or any other physical activity can enhance your overall health and wellness. Recent research studies have also determined that proper nutrition and lifestyle habits can improve methylation, a fundamental process of the human body involved in a variety of functions.
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
Smoothies and Juices for Methylation Support
While many healthcare professionals can recommend nutritional guidelines and lifestyle modifications to improve methylation support, there are several options you can try yourself at home. As described above, methylation support supplementation should be determined by a healthcare professional. Smoothies and juices are a fast and easy way to include all the necessary nutrients you need for methylation support without any side-effects. The smoothies and juices below are part of the Methylation Diet Food Plan.
Sea Green Smoothie Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1/2 cup cantaloupe, cubed � 1/2 banana � 1 handful of kale or spinach � 1 handful of Swiss chard � 1/4 avocado � 2 teaspoons spirulina powder � 1 cup water � 3 or more ice cubes Blend all ingredients in a high-speed blender until completely smooth and enjoy!
Berry Bliss Smoothie Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1/2 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen, preferably wild) � 1 medium carrot, roughly chopped � 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seed � 1 tablespoons almonds � Water (to desired consistency) � Ice cubes (optional, may omit if using frozen blueberries) Blend all ingredients in a high-speed blender until smooth and creamy. Best served immediately!
Sweet and Spicy Juice Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1 cup honeydew melons � 3 cups spinach, rinsed � 3 cups Swiss chard, rinsed � 1 bunch cilantro (leaves and stems), rinsed � 1-inch knob of ginger, rinsed, peeled and chopped � 2-3 knobs whole turmeric root (optional), rinsed, peeled and chopped Juice all ingredients in a high-quality juicer. Best served immediately!
Ginger Greens Juice Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1 cup pineapple cubes � 1 apple, sliced � 1-inch knob of ginger, rinsed, peeled and chopped � 3 cups kale, rinsed and roughly chopped or ripped � 5 cups Swiss chard, rinsed and roughly chopped or ripped Juice all ingredients in a high-quality juicer. Best served immediately!
Zesty Beet Juice Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1 grapefruit, peeled and sliced � 1 apple, washed and sliced � 1 whole beet, and leaves if you have them, washed and sliced � 1-inch knob of ginger, rinsed, peeled and chopped Juice all ingredients in a high-quality juicer. Best served immediately!
Protein Power Smoothie Serving: 1 Cook time: 5 minutes � 1 scoop protein powder � 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed � 1/2 banana � 1 kiwi, peeled � 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon � Pinch of cardamom � Non-dairy milk or water, enough to achieve desired consistency Blend all ingredients in a high-powered blender until completely smooth. Best served immediately!
ProLon� Fasting Mimicking Diet
Balanced methylation support can be achieved through proper nutrition. The ProLon� fasting mimicking diet offers a 5-day meal program which has been individually packed and labeled to serve the foods you need for the FMD in precise quantities and combinations. The meal program is made up of ready-to-eat or easy-to-prepare, plant-based foods, including bars, soups, snacks, supplements, a drink concentrate, and teas. The products are scientifically formulated and great tasting. Before starting the ProLon� fasting mimicking diet, 5-day meal program, please make sure to talk to a healthcare professional to find out if the FMD is right for you. The ProLon� fasting mimicking diet can help promote methylation support, among a variety of other healthy benefits.
Many healthcare professionals can recommend a variety of treatment options to help improve DNA methylation. Proper nutrition and lifestyle habits, such as exercise and physical activity, can ultimately help improve DNA methylation. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal and nervous health issues as well as functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. To further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topic Discussion: Acute Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most prevalent causes of disability and missed days at work worldwide. Back pain attributes to the second most common reason for doctor office visits, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections. Approximately 80 percent of the population will experience back pain at least once throughout their life. Your spine is a complex structure made up of bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles, among other soft tissues. Injuries and/or aggravated conditions, such as herniated discs, can eventually lead to symptoms of back pain. Sports injuries or automobile accident injuries are often the most frequent cause of back pain, however, sometimes the simplest of movements can have painful results. Fortunately, alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, can help ease back pain through the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, ultimately improving pain relief.
Formulas for Methylation Support
XYMOGEN�s Exclusive Professional Formulas are available through select licensed health care professionals. The internet sale and discounting of XYMOGEN formulas are strictly prohibited.
Proudly, Dr. Alexander Jimenez makes XYMOGEN formulas available only to patients under our care.
Please call our office in order for us to assign a doctor consultation for immediate access.
If you are a patient of Injury Medical & Chiropractic Clinic, you may inquire about XYMOGEN by calling 915-850-0900.
For your convenience and review of the XYMOGEN products please review the following link.*XYMOGEN-Catalog-Download
* All the above XYMOGEN policies remain strictly in force.
Water is good for you. This is the message that we hear over and over, as we pursue optimal health, strive to lose weight, or overcome chronic conditions. Water is a vital part of life.
The problem is, every �expert� has an opinion of what is the best way to get this life substance. There are different messages about what is the best water source � what�s healthy, what isn�t. To cut through all the hype and get to the truth the answer isn�t as cut and dry as you might think.
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Hydration Importance
Water is essential for our very survival. It keeps the functions of our organs properly, is a vital component of digestion, and it even helps us have a healthy spine. It helps to regulate body temperature and lubricates the joints. You may not realize it, but�most of your body is composed of water:
Lungs � 83%
Kidneys and muscles � 79%
Heart and brain � 73%
Skin � 64%
Bones � 31%
The average adult female requires around 2.2 liters of water per day, while the average adult male requires around 3 liters. Most of this comes from drinking fluids, but some come from food that is consumed. Dehydration is a serious condition and can cause serious damage to the body. Severe and prolonged (about 3 days) dehydration can be deadly.
Bottled Water Facts
There has been a lot of debate about bottled water in the past few years. At the center of the controversy are two main issues: much of the bottled water is said to be nothing more than tap water, and in the US alone, more than 60 million water bottles find their way to landfills every single day. Those are some pretty serious issues.
The truth is, studies show that almost half (around 40%) of bottled water is just tap water. So, what�s the big deal about tap water? It is largely known to contain chemicals that are not only toxic to humans, but many are also linked to certain cancers. Chlorine, arsenic, and fluoride are some of the more common chemicals found in tap water. Things aren�t looking good for tap water, but if so much bottled water is tap, then what can you do?
The Bottles
Before we explore the safer water options, it is worth taking a look at the plastic bottles that are used. The materials used to make water bottles are widely known to contain deadly, cancer-causing carcinogens like Bisphenol A (BPA), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and phthalates. Each of these poses significant risks to your health.
Even if you choose a bottle that is BPA free (like PET bottles) you could be exposing yourself to other hazardous substances. For instance, PET bottles are made of a soft plastic that is extremely difficult, if not impossible, to clean. This can leave some unsavory residue like food, saliva, and even fecal matter to contaminate your water. The more the bottles are reused, the greater the risk of these and other contaminants making their way into your water.
Healthier Alternative To Bottled Water
Actually, tap water is the safer, healthier alternative to bottled water � but not straight out of the tap. All tap water should be run through a high-quality water filtration system before you use it. Without filtration, you run the risk of consuming contaminants like harmful chemicals, bacteria, and even heavy metals. So, what should you do?
Ditch the plastic bottles and choose glass or stainless steel instead. Next, filter your tap water using a high-quality carbon filter. Store your water in a ceramic or glass container. Do not heat or cook food or water in anything made of plastic or Styrofoam. In fact, avoid drinking or eating from plastic altogether. If you must though, do not cut into the plastic while you are eating or drinking and do not expose the food or water to a microwave, high heat, or the sun.
Drink your water, but make sure you are doing it in the healthiest way possible � on tap and filtered!
According to research studies, stress management can promote methylation support. High levels psychological and physiological stress can increase the production of the catecholamines epinephrine and norepinephrine, both of which depend on methylation for their biosynthesis, metabolism, and excretion. DNA methylation activity utilizes SAMe and it can lower the availability of this methyl donor for other processes. Stress management is, therefore, a fundamental treatment option to promote methylation support.
Stress can also affect DNA methylation status through different mechanisms rather than through the utilization of methyl donors. Although a variety of research studies have been conducted regarding the effects of stress on methylation, our understanding of the complex association between stress management and methylation support is still tremendously limited. Methylation of the promoter genes for glucocorticoid, an essential regulator of the HPA axis and stress response, has been demonstrated to be affected differently through various states of stress, including early-life stress, post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, and chronic fatigue syndrome.
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How Stress Affects Methylation
We do understand, however, that stress-mediated epigenetic “priming” through methylation during fundamental developmental stages has been associated with a variety of health issues. By way of instance, and as we’ve previously discussed, low levels of maternal nurturing can affect DNA methylation status in the glucocorticoid receptor promoter and gene expression. This ultimately suggests that traumatic experiences, especially during essential stages of development, may “prime” high levels of stress. Several researchers believe that the connection between stress and methylation may explain the association of health issues, such as asthma.
Furthermore, research studies determined that prenatal maternal stress, as evaluated after the January 1998 Quebec ice storm, correlates with increased central adiposity and BMI in offspring at age 13 1?2. These changes are regulated through DNA methylation. Traumatic childhood experiences, including maltreatment, and parental death or desertion, outside of the prenatal and perinatal stages of development can also affect methylation of the promoter genes for glucocorticoid, associated with increased cortisol production.
Research studies have also demonstrated that acute and chronic stress can increase circulating inflammatory factors, including IL-1?, CRP, and IL-6, which are commonly regulated through the NLRP3 inflammasome. This may be a considerable way in which stress affects epigenetic changes. The effects of inflammation on DNA methylation status and activity have been discussed in previous articles. Doctors and functional medicine practitioners can recommend stress management techniques for methylation support.
Stress is a natural response to any type of demand or threat, it is the human body’s way of protecting you. However, chronic stress can cause a variety of health issues and recent research studies have demonstrated that stress can even affect an individual’s DNA methylation status. Doctor and functional medicine practitioners can recommend several stress management techniques, whether through nutrition and/or lifestyle modifications, to help promote methylation support. According to the article above, stress can affect methylation in several ways.
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
Smoothies and Juices for Methylation Support
While many healthcare professionals can recommend nutritional guidelines and lifestyle modifications to improve methylation support, there are several options you can try yourself at home. As described above, methylation support supplementation should be determined by a healthcare professional. Smoothies and juices are a fast and easy way to include all the necessary nutrients you need for methylation support without any side-effects. The smoothies and juices below are part of the Methylation Diet Food Plan.
Sea Green Smoothie Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1/2 cup cantaloupe, cubed � 1/2 banana � 1 handful of kale or spinach � 1 handful of Swiss chard � 1/4 avocado � 2 teaspoons spirulina powder � 1 cup water � 3 or more ice cubes Blend all ingredients in a high-speed blender until completely smooth and enjoy!
Berry Bliss Smoothie Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1/2 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen, preferably wild) � 1 medium carrot, roughly chopped � 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seed � 1 tablespoons almonds � Water (to desired consistency) � Ice cubes (optional, may omit if using frozen blueberries) Blend all ingredients in a high-speed blender until smooth and creamy. Best served immediately!
Sweet and Spicy Juice Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1 cup honeydew melons � 3 cups spinach, rinsed � 3 cups Swiss chard, rinsed � 1 bunch cilantro (leaves and stems), rinsed � 1-inch knob of ginger, rinsed, peeled and chopped � 2-3 knobs whole turmeric root (optional), rinsed, peeled and chopped Juice all ingredients in a high-quality juicer. Best served immediately!
Ginger Greens Juice Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1 cup pineapple cubes � 1 apple, sliced � 1-inch knob of ginger, rinsed, peeled and chopped � 3 cups kale, rinsed and roughly chopped or ripped � 5 cups Swiss chard, rinsed and roughly chopped or ripped Juice all ingredients in a high-quality juicer. Best served immediately!
Zesty Beet Juice Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1 grapefruit, peeled and sliced � 1 apple, washed and sliced � 1 whole beet, and leaves if you have them, washed and sliced � 1-inch knob of ginger, rinsed, peeled and chopped Juice all ingredients in a high-quality juicer. Best served immediately!
Protein Power Smoothie Serving: 1 Cook time: 5 minutes � 1 scoop protein powder � 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed � 1/2 banana � 1 kiwi, peeled � 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon � Pinch of cardamom � Non-dairy milk or water, enough to achieve desired consistency Blend all ingredients in a high-powered blender until completely smooth. Best served immediately!
ProLon� Fasting Mimicking Diet
Balanced methylation support can be achieved through proper nutrition. The ProLon� fasting mimicking diet offers a 5-day meal program which has been individually packed and labeled to serve the foods you need for the FMD in precise quantities and combinations. The meal program is made up of ready-to-eat or easy-to-prepare, plant-based foods, including bars, soups, snacks, supplements, a drink concentrate, and teas. The products are scientifically formulated and great tasting. Before starting the ProLon� fasting mimicking diet, 5-day meal program, please make sure to talk to a healthcare professional to find out if the FMD is right for you. The ProLon� fasting mimicking diet can help promote methylation support, among a variety of other healthy benefits.
Many healthcare professionals can recommend a variety of treatment options to help with stress management and help prevent health issues associated with DNA methylation. Proper nutrition and lifestyle habits, can improve methylation. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal and nervous health issues as well as functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. To further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topic Discussion: Acute Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most prevalent causes of disability and missed days at work worldwide. Back pain attributes to the second most common reason for doctor office visits, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections. Approximately 80 percent of the population will experience back pain at least once throughout their life. Your spine is a complex structure made up of bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles, among other soft tissues. Injuries and/or aggravated conditions, such as herniated discs, can eventually lead to symptoms of back pain. Sports injuries or automobile accident injuries are often the most frequent cause of back pain, however, sometimes the simplest of movements can have painful results. Fortunately, alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, can help ease back pain through the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, ultimately improving pain relief.
Formulas for Methylation Support
XYMOGEN�s Exclusive Professional Formulas are available through select licensed health care professionals. The internet sale and discounting of XYMOGEN formulas are strictly prohibited.
Proudly, Dr. Alexander Jimenez makes XYMOGEN formulas available only to patients under our care.
Please call our office in order for us to assign a doctor consultation for immediate access.
If you are a patient of Injury Medical & Chiropractic Clinic, you may inquire about XYMOGEN by calling 915-850-0900.
For your convenience and review of the XYMOGEN products please review the following link.*XYMOGEN-Catalog-Download
* All the above XYMOGEN policies remain strictly in force.
Chiropractic care has enjoyed a tremendous boost in popularity among the population. They use it to help manage their pain, chronic conditions, prevent injury, and improve range of motion, flexibility, and wellness. But at what age should someone begin chiropractic care? What is the best time to start seeing a chiropractor?
The short answer is, as early!
Continue for the long answer.
Contents
Children & chiropractic care
Yes, children can see a chiropractor and receive treatment. Most chiropractors will see children under 18 years of age and many will see children under 2, including infants. It is safe, non-invasive, and is medication free.
Adverse events associated with pediatric chiropractic are extremely rare and there are no reported deaths resulting from the treatment. It is largely considered to be one of the safest forms of treatment available for a wide range of conditions, including pain management.
Most chiropractors are trained in treating children as part of their education. The techniques are gentle but effective. Chiropractic is a safe, effective complement to regular child healthcare.
The bigger question is, should children receive chiropractic care? And the answer to that is, absolutely!
Benefits from chiropractic care
When a child�s spine is aligned correctly, they tend to be healthier. Birth itself can put the body through some degree of trauma as the infant is squeezed through the birth canal, often aided by forceps or suction.
Later, as they learn to crawl and walk, the falls and bumps they receive can also put stress on the body by taking the spine out of alignment and the body out of balance. Chiropractic provides children with relief from those stressors and helps them have stronger bodies to withstand better the physical stressors they will experience in adulthood.
The first ten years of a child�s life are a time of rapid development and growth. However, even seemingly innocuous activities like using a computer or wearing a backpack can cause misalignments of the spine. Add to that sports injury and poor posture, and you have even more reasons to begin chiropractic care for your child as early as possible.
When the spine is not aligned, it can put pressure on various nerves and interrupt the pathways of the nervous system. This can result in organ malfunction or not performing at an optimal level as well as muscle issues. This can lead to a variety of symptoms such as asthma, bed wetting, colic, stomach ache, hyperactivity, ear infections, common flu or colds, and poor posture.
Gentle, safe chiropractic adjustments can help children find relief from these symptoms. It can also be used as a preventative care strategy so that children can avoid developing them. It plays a positive, effective role in a child�s overall wellness and good health.
Safe for children
What many parents may not know is that chiropractors have been treating children for more than 100 years. It has an excellent reputation and studies show it is extremely safe. Studies that examine malpractice insurance coverage show that chiropractors have a very low risk and exceptional safety record.
As soon as the baby is born, he or she should be evaluated by a chiropractor. Even an �easy� birth with no complications can put stress on the infant�s spine which, in turn, puts stress on the nervous system. When evaluated at birth, the chiropractor can apply gentle, non-force pressure to realign the baby�s spine. Both mother and child will reap the benefits of a healthier, happier baby.
Dr. Alex Jimenez Discusses How Detox Helps Methylation
Reducing our exposure to environmental toxins and promoting biotransformation and elimination are several guidelines recommended by healthcare professionals to improve the human body’s detoxification process. However, proper nutrition and lifestyle habits can also help improve detoxification. In addition, improving methylation can help improve the detoxification process.
Methylation is an essential detoxification pathway. Our increased exposure to environmental toxins, such as heavy metals and chemicals, can ultimately affect DNA methylation and prevent their safe and effective use. Environmental toxins may also affect DNA methylation through other structures and functions, including endocrine disruption, inflammation, and oxidative stress, among others.
According to research studies, the list of environmental toxins below has been demonstrated to affect DNA methylation, including:
Pesticides
Fertilizer
Automobile fumes
Bisphenol A
Phthalates
Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs)
Jet fuel
Benzene
Mold toxins (aflatoxin, fumonisin)
Arsenic
Mercury
Lead
Cadmium
Nickel
Increased exposure to heavy metals can cause a variety of health issues. Specific DNMT restriction and decreased DNMT gene expression have also been demonstrated to occur with increased lead exposure. Cadmium also seems to cause DNA hypomethylation through DNMT restriction, however, it may actually have the opposite effect of hypermethylation with increased exposure.
How Detoxification Can Help Improve DNA Methylation
In vitro research studies suggests that one process involved in abnormal DNA hypermethylation occurs through the induction of toxin or inflammation-mediated methyl radicals from oxidized methionine which trigger the development of DNA hypermethylation tumor-suppressing genes that promote gene silencing and oncogenesis. The development of oxidized methionine occurs in smokers, often due to inflammation and aging. Furthermore, inorganic arsenic is detoxified in the human body through methylation, which ultimately leads researchers to believe that increased exposure to arsenic may drain the endogenous pool of methylation donors available.
Total exposure to toxins, such as persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and heavy metals, may also have cumulative and long-lasting effects, according to research studies. Manikkam et al. (2012), evaluated the effects of bisphenol A, phthalates, digoxin and jet fuel (as listed above) on DNA methylation. It was also demonstrated that the epigenetic changes continued throughout multiple generations while it appeared to cause early onset puberty four generations later in rodents. Further research studies are being conducted.
Exposure to environmental toxins may also restrict healthy methylation by affecting other folate processes. Fumonisins, a type of mold toxin, by way of instance, has been demonstrated to restrict the proper function of folate binding proteins, such as human folate receptor alpha. By understanding how toxin exposure affects methylation, reducing these where possible is extremely important.
This may include the evaluation and treatment of exposures to mold, lead, and mercury amalgams, by way of instance, decreasing the utilization of plastic food containers, avoiding high-mercury fish, and switching to non-toxic household and personal care products. The Environmental Working Group (www.ewg.org) provides an excellent resource to further understand sources of toxin exposure.
Supporting endogenous biotransformation through Phase I and Phase II detoxification pathways and well-functioning elimination is also essential to improve DNA methylation through detoxification. Short term use of supplement protocols for detoxification is generally utilized in functional medicine, where an excessive toxic burden has been found. Nutrition and lifestyle habits can also help promote detoxification for methylation support. The list below are basic principles to follow for everyday detoxification support:
Proper hydration
Adequate fiber sources
Low-toxin foods including organic, and antibiotic and hormone-free High intake of colorful plant foods, especially deep greens and berries Regular intake of cruciferous vegetables
Adequate protein intake
Maintain micronutrient intake
Detoxification, or “detox”, refers to the removal of toxins from the human body. Many doctors and functional medicine practitioners utilize a series of alternative treatment methods to help people detox from harmful toxic substance exposure. According to research studies, increased exposure to toxins can also affect DNA methylation. Moreover, healthy methylation is fundamental to help promote the human body’s natural detoxification process. Proper nutrition and lifestyle habits which can help improve DNA methylation can ultimately help promote detoxification and improve overall health and wellness.
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
Smoothies and Juices for Methylation Support
While many healthcare professionals can recommend nutritional guidelines and lifestyle modifications to improve methylation support, there are several options you can try yourself at home. As described above, methylation support supplementation should be determined by a healthcare professional. Smoothies and juices are a fast and easy way to include all the necessary nutrients you need for methylation support without any side-effects. The smoothies and juices below are part of the Methylation Diet Food Plan.
Sea Green Smoothie Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1/2 cup cantaloupe, cubed � 1/2 banana � 1 handful of kale or spinach � 1 handful of Swiss chard � 1/4 avocado � 2 teaspoons spirulina powder � 1 cup water � 3 or more ice cubes Blend all ingredients in a high-speed blender until completely smooth and enjoy!
Berry Bliss Smoothie Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1/2 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen, preferably wild) � 1 medium carrot, roughly chopped � 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seed � 1 tablespoons almonds � Water (to desired consistency) � Ice cubes (optional, may omit if using frozen blueberries) Blend all ingredients in a high-speed blender until smooth and creamy. Best served immediately!
Sweet and Spicy Juice Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1 cup honeydew melons � 3 cups spinach, rinsed � 3 cups Swiss chard, rinsed � 1 bunch cilantro (leaves and stems), rinsed � 1-inch knob of ginger, rinsed, peeled and chopped � 2-3 knobs whole turmeric root (optional), rinsed, peeled and chopped Juice all ingredients in a high-quality juicer. Best served immediately!
Ginger Greens Juice Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1 cup pineapple cubes � 1 apple, sliced � 1-inch knob of ginger, rinsed, peeled and chopped � 3 cups kale, rinsed and roughly chopped or ripped � 5 cups Swiss chard, rinsed and roughly chopped or ripped Juice all ingredients in a high-quality juicer. Best served immediately!
Zesty Beet Juice Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1 grapefruit, peeled and sliced � 1 apple, washed and sliced � 1 whole beet, and leaves if you have them, washed and sliced � 1-inch knob of ginger, rinsed, peeled and chopped Juice all ingredients in a high-quality juicer. Best served immediately!
Protein Power Smoothie Serving: 1 Cook time: 5 minutes � 1 scoop protein powder � 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed � 1/2 banana � 1 kiwi, peeled � 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon � Pinch of cardamom � Non-dairy milk or water, enough to achieve desired consistency Blend all ingredients in a high-powered blender until completely smooth. Best served immediately!
ProLon� Fasting Mimicking Diet
Balanced methylation support can be achieved through proper nutrition. The ProLon� fasting mimicking diet offers a 5-day meal program which has been individually packed and labeled to serve the foods you need for the FMD in precise quantities and combinations. The meal program is made up of ready-to-eat or easy-to-prepare, plant-based foods, including bars, soups, snacks, supplements, a drink concentrate, and teas. The products are scientifically formulated and great tasting. Before starting the ProLon� fasting mimicking diet, 5-day meal program, please make sure to talk to a healthcare professional to find out if the FMD is right for you. The ProLon� fasting mimicking diet can help promote methylation support, among a variety of other healthy benefits.
Many healthcare professionals recommend a variety of treatment options to help improve detoxification and help prevent health issues associated with DNA methylation. Proper nutrition and lifestyle habits, can improve methylation. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal and nervous health issues as well as functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. To further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topic Discussion: Acute Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most prevalent causes of disability and missed days at work worldwide. Back pain attributes to the second most common reason for doctor office visits, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections. Approximately 80 percent of the population will experience back pain at least once throughout their life. Your spine is a complex structure made up of bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles, among other soft tissues. Injuries and/or aggravated conditions, such as herniated discs, can eventually lead to symptoms of back pain. Sports injuries or automobile accident injuries are often the most frequent cause of back pain, however, sometimes the simplest of movements can have painful results. Fortunately, alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, can help ease back pain through the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, ultimately improving pain relief.
Formulas for Methylation Support
XYMOGEN�s Exclusive Professional Formulas are available through select licensed health care professionals. The internet sale and discounting of XYMOGEN formulas are strictly prohibited.
Proudly, Dr. Alexander Jimenez makes XYMOGEN formulas available only to patients under our care.
Please call our office in order for us to assign a doctor consultation for immediate access.
If you are a patient of Injury Medical & Chiropractic Clinic, you may inquire about XYMOGEN by calling 915-850-0900.
For your convenience and review of the XYMOGEN products please review the following link.*XYMOGEN-Catalog-Download
* All the above XYMOGEN policies remain strictly in force.
People from all walks of life can have hormonal imbalances and don�t realize it. Medical tests for abnormal thyroid function don�t always pick up on a thyroid that isn’t working correctly.
Adrenals have the same issues. When overworked, the hormonal imbalance that follows can become a nightmare. Fortunately, there are excellent natural remedies for hormonal imbalance.
Contents
Hormones Not Balanced
Glands that are under-producing will have some symptoms that are different from glands that are over-producing. However, some symptoms are shared across the board. If you notice that you experience several of these symptoms, it could point to a hormonal imbalance:
Weight loss or gain (without trying or doing anything different)
Swelling
Confusion, difficulty finding the �right� word, lack of mental clarity
Your chiropractor, naturopath, or specialist can help you determine if you have a hormonal imbalance. Many medical doctors tend to prescribe medications, but in most cases, the problem can be corrected through natural means. These three treatments are very beneficial in treating hormonal imbalances in the body. They can be done separately or combined for added benefits.
Herbs and Essential Oils
There are several herbs and essential oils that are exceptional when it comes to balancing hormones. Ashwagandha tops the list for treating overactive or sluggish thyroid as well as overtaxed adrenals. You can take it as a tablet or capsule, in powder form, or as a liquid. Mixing � to � teaspoons of powder into some milk with honey and taking just before bedtime can help you sleep as well as calm your stress and balance your hormones.
Several essential oils like clary sage, lavender, and sandalwood help reduce stress and promote a sense of wellbeing. Hormonal balance is a natural result. To use essential oils, put 3 to 5 drops in a diffuser and breathe it in.
Nutrition Balances Hormones
Hormonal imbalance is often the result of stress, whether it is emotional stress from difficulties in life or physical stress from poor health habits like not getting enough sleep and not maintaining a healthy diet. Omega 3 and six fatty acids are vital for everything from heart health to vibrant skin to hormonal balance. Extra nutrients you should be getting include vitamin D, B complex, and magnesium. If you aren�t getting enough in the foods that you eat, then consider supplements. Yes, it�s that important.
You can also give your body a significant boost by taking probiotics and enjoying the marvelous healing properties of bone broth. Bone broth is available in powder or liquid � or you can make it yourself. It packs a serious nutritional punch so incorporating it into your diet is a brilliant move.
Chiropractic Balances Hormones
Chiropractic care is an excellent treatment for hormonal imbalance. It goes right to the heart of many of the factors that cause the body to get out of balance and treats the problem at its root.
It helps to relieve stress in the body and reduce or eliminate pain, both of which can contribute to hormonal imbalances. It is one of the best natural treatments for hormonal imbalance because it brings the body itself back into balance.
What�s more, the whole-body approach that chiropractic offers means that you get recommendations on healthy eating, exercise, and positive lifestyle changes. All of these things work together to balance your body and balance your hormones for a healthier, happier you.
IFM's Find A Practitioner tool is the largest referral network in Functional Medicine, created to help patients locate Functional Medicine practitioners anywhere in the world. IFM Certified Practitioners are listed first in the search results, given their extensive education in Functional Medicine
