The most important thing about summer is the food. Hotdogs and burgers on the grill and the seasonal fruits and vegetables that are ripe for the picking.� As much as we love the summer sun, it is still dangerous and can be harmful to our skin. We still put on sun cream, wear hats, and wear sun-protective clothing, but, did you know that certain foods can help heal your skin from sun damage and when possible can be eaten raw.
In the previous article, we talked about the 9 nutrients your skin needs to be protected from the harmful sun�s rays. Here is the top 9 food that will protect you from the sun and perfect for the summer.
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Guava:
When we think of vitamin C, our minds think of any citrus fruit like oranges, lemon, limes, and grapefruit. But did you know that guava contains vitamin C as well? In fact, guava contains about 5 times more of vitamin C as much as any citrus fruit.
Guava contains about 228.3 mg of vitamin C and has antioxidants that attack free radicals and helps boost your immune system. Vitamin C has been known to battle scurvy. Plus guava can help improve your skin. By eating the fruit or using the guava leaves, your skin will be toned and the antioxidants from the fruit can keep your skin glowing, fight wrinkles and reduce signs of premature aging.
Sweet Potato:
Who doesn�t love potatoes? We eat them as fries, baked, saut�ed, mashed and use them as filling for pies. The sweet potato is no exception. There are many variations of sweet potatoes as they come in orange, white, and purple, depending on where you get them from and which region.
The sweet potatoes we are familiar with have an orange hue due to the carotenoids; which gives us that lovely orange color and has antioxidants to protect our skin from sun damage. Not only that but; sweet potatoes are very high in vitamin A, which is very good when they are cooked. Some people say that potatoes are known to be very starchy and can be used to soothe a sunburn by drawing out the heat from the skin.
Strawberries and Blueberries:
Both of these berries are great on their own but together, they are the dynamic duo to help our bodies combat the sun. Blueberries are richly filled with antioxidants as they combat the free radicals in our systems and can reduce the chances of cancer showing up.
Strawberries are really great as they are called �nature�s natural sunblock.� They contained about 108% of vitamin C as well as ellagic acid, which cleans up the free radicals and reduce sun-damaged pigmentation.� The Journal of Agricultural Food Chemistry stated that strawberries have anthocyanins, which gives the fruit its lovely red color to protect our cells.
Green Tea:
Who doesn�t love green tea? Not only it contains L-theanine, but it has many astounding health benefits that are wonderful and protects our body. Green tea can be consumed or used as a topical cream to soothe and hydrate your skin from the harsh sun rays. Green tea is jammed packed with vitamins B2 and E, as well as large amounts of polyphenol including, EGCG (Epigallocatechin Gallate).
These polyphenols help our inflammatory system repair our DNA from anything harsh in our bodies. Plus green tea has been known to lower the risk of various types of cancers.
Oatmeal:
Oatmeal is one of those foods that we all eat for breakfast. However, did you know that oatmeal can be used to soothe sunburns and exfoliate sun-damaged skin? Not only that but when oatmeal is finely grounded it is known as �colloidal oatmeal.�
You may have seen this type of oatmeal in the health/medical section in your local stores and it may be called, �Aveeno.� �Colloidal oatmeal has been approved by the FDA since 2003 and has been used as a topical ointment for anyone with eczema. Anyone with eczema experiences an abundance of itchiness when they are overly exposed by the sun�s rays or due to the heat of the summer knows this all too well.
With colloidal oatmeal, it helps relieve the symptoms of eczema by being applied with water and gently patting the topical on the source of eczema to lower the inflamed skin, thus calming it down.
Cucumber:
Cucumbers are used for anything that we can think of. In the spa, in our salads, or as a wonderful snack. This green vegetable is packed with vitamins C and K as well as, caffeic acid and potassium. Not only that but cucumbers are made up of 96% of water, which is very refreshing and great for the skin. Since our bodies lose water when we sweat and cucumbers actually replenishes our water intake and�helps cool off our bodies when we are sunburned.
Tomatoes:
Just like strawberries, tomatoes contain lycopene, which gives tomatoes that gorgeous red color and has vitamins C. K1, and B9 and potassium. Tomatoes can be eaten raw and are rich with antioxidants that help balance our bodies pH balance. As well as, protecting our skin from the sun.
Watermelon:
Oh, watermelon� not only you are the most consumed fruit for the 4th of July but you are one of the best summer fruits to be consumed. Watermelons contain not only vitamins A, B6 and C; but they also contained lycopene like tomatoes. Which helps our skin from photoaging from the sun but it�s in the top 30 most hydrating foods, next to cucumbers with 92% of water for excellent hydration properties for our skin.
Carrots:
Carrots are not only good for our eyes but did you know that carrots are jammed pack with beta-carotene, which turns to vitamin A when we eat it. Plus the sun exposure gives carrots vitamin C to help us protect our skin. Carrots have a wonderful source of carotenoids to produce photoprotection for our skin health.
Here at the clinic, we strive to inform our patients about the nutrients that food provides to our bodies. As well as, making our patients feel good with whole, nutritious options. Whether it is by adjustments or leading them to different food options for a healthy life, these top 9 foods not only help protect your skin from the sun but they also taste really good. So enjoy the summer months but remember to eat your photoprotective food.
NCBI Resources
A healthy diet is the cornerstone of good health.�You should maintain a diet�that includes lean meats, fresh fruits and vegetables, and whole grains. The key is choosing fresh, seasonal foods that are local to your area. Foods grown in their season have certain vitamins and minerals that the body needs for the time of year in which they are ripe and ready.
Anti-inflammatory activities of colloidal oatmeal (Avena sativa) contribute to the effectiveness of oats in the treatment of itch associated with dry, irritated skin: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25607907
The central nervous system, or CNS, plays a fundamental role in the pathogenesis of infection. The CNS is regulated by the blood-brain barrier or BBB, however, it can still be exposed to a microbial invasion from a contiguous focus, hematogenous dissemination, or intraneural passage of organisms. A variety of environmental or commensal bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, or parasites can enter the CNS and cause a variety of infections and health issues. Central nervous system infections can ultimately cause headache, stiff neck, vomiting, fever, photophobia, and focal neurological symptoms. �
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What are Central Nervous System Infections?
CNS infections are characterized according to their affected region. Infection of the brain, spinal cord, and meninges results in meningitis, encephalitis, brain abscess, and myelitis. Infections can affect single or multiple regions of the brain, such as meningoencephalitis and encephalomyelitis. Moreover, CNS infections are characterized as acute, sub-acute, chronic, or recurrent based on their duration. Meningitis can cause headache, neck stiffness, fever, and photophobia over a period of hours to days. Encephalitis can cause brain parenchymal inflammation which can ultimately cause lethargy to coma. Last but not least, Myelitis can cause inflammation of the spinal cord including headache, fever, and paraparesis or paralysis. �
One of the most fatal CNS infections, acute bacterial meningitis, with three to five cases for every 100,000 people in the United States, has a mortality rate of 6 percent to 26 percent. Approximately 4,000 cases of acute bacterial meningitis occur in the U.S. every year with about 500 deaths. The frequent cause of acute bacterial meningitis includes Streptococcus pneumoniae, group B Streptococcus, Neisseria meningitides, Haemophilus influenzae, and Listeria monocytogenes. �
CNS infections caused by viruses are more common and are mostly mild and self-limited. However, these can manifest as meningitis and/or encephalitis. CNS infections caused by viruses can vary due to region and season. Non-polio enteroviruses are responsible for the majority of meningitis and/or encephalitis cases from late spring to fall. CNS infections due to herpes simplex viruses, or HSV, are associated with sporadic encephalitis and meningitis with severe sequelae if left untreated. �
Diagnosis of CNS Infections
Diagnosis of microbial pathogens is fundamental for treatment. Methods and techniques utilized in clinical microbiology laboratories include direct microscopic examination, and culture techniques as well as antigen and antibody detection assays. However, each method and technique has several essential limitations. By way of instance, direct microscopic examination of CSF restricted sensitivity and specificity. The sensitivity of culture for enteroviruses is between 65 percent to 75 percent with average retrieval time of 3.7 to 8.2 days. Moreover, several serotypes of enteroviruses, especially Coxsackievirus A strains, are well-known to be non-cultivable and frequently grow poorly. Because enteroviruses are missing a common antigen found throughout a variety of serotypes, universal antigen and/or antibody diagnosis is impossible. Diagnosis of CNS HSV infections through methods and techniques utilized to determine culture sensitivity from CSF is tremendously poor. The presence of HSV IgG antibodies in CSF can ultimately be utilized to determine a diagnosis, however, the production is delayed until day 10 or day 12 after infection and it is not considered ideal for early diagnosis.
Diagnostic techniques, especially PCR based amplification, have developed a variety of mainstay tools to help determine the diagnosis of microbial pathogens in CSF. Molecular methods have demonstrated greater diagnosis rates than other diagnostic techniques. One research study demonstrated that 16S rRNA PCR-based assays were able to diagnose the causative organism in 65 percent of banked CSF samples compared to 35 percent when utilizing culture and microscopy. In another research study, diagnosis based on diagnostic techniques like molecular methods were utilized to optimize antibiotic treatment of patients with infectious meningitis when conventional methods and techniques demonstrated a negative outcome measure. Molecular methods and diagnostic techniques utilized on CSF samples are a fundamental standard when compared to the culture standard in the diagnosis of CNS infections caused by viruses which are challenging to diagnose. �
The diagnosis of CNS infections has tremendously changed over the last several years. PCR-based molecular methods have become a fundamental element in the clinical microbiology laboratory, providing tools for an accurate diagnosis. As demonstrated in Table 2, a variety of commercial molecular assays have been cleared by the Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, for the diagnosis of microbial pathogens. The approved assays for pathogen detection in the CNS are shown below. �
However, there are still several challenges in molecular diagnostic techniques and methods. Utilizing a combination of conventional diagnostic techniques and molecular methods, research studies demonstrated that in approximately 62 percent of patients with encephalitis, an etiologic organism could not be identified. Researchers have started to focus on developing advanced techniques and methods. In the following series of articles, we will demonstrate an update on the current conventional and molecular platforms utilized for the diagnosis of CNS infections. We will also demonstrate a preview on the potential clinical application of future technologies, including pan-omic assays. The emphasis of the following series of articles is to demonstrate optimal test selection in the clinical scenario for the diagnosis of CNS infection. �
Conventional Microbiology Methods and Techniques
Microscopic Examination
A positive CSF Gram stain confirms the diagnosis of bacterial meningitis. The sensitivity of the Gram stain for the diagnosis of bacterial meningitis is approximately 60 percent to 80 percent in patients not on antimicrobial treatment and approximately 40 percent to 60 percent in patients on antibacterial treatment. In one research study, Gram stain diagnosed as much as 90 percent Streptococcus pneumoniae and 50 percent Listeria monocytogenes in CSF collected from patients with bacterial meningitis confirmed by PCR 26 techniques and methods. Two organisms which are frequently diagnosed by microscopy include Mycobacterium tuberculosis by acid-fast bacillus, or AFB, staining and Cryptococcus neoformans by India ink or Gram stain. However,� the sensitivities of these techniques and methods are poor and culture is generally utilized instead. �
Culture
Culture of brain tissue can demonstrate a positive diagnosis of CNS infections, however, getting biopsies are tremendously invasive and frequently avoided unless a clinician determines that they are absolutely necessary. CSF sampling is most commonly performed to diagnose CNS infection. CSF viral, bacterial, including mycobacterial, and fungal cultures are fundamental in the diagnosis of infectious meningitis. However, CSF cultures in these cases are extremely low. Another disadvantage of CSF bacterial culture is that it generally requires up to 72 hours to determine a final diagnosis. A recent research study demonstrated that CSF mycobacterial culture had a sensitivity of 22 percent and a specificity of 100 percent in the diagnosis of tuberculosis meningitis. For viruses, utilizing monoclonal antibodies through culture increased the speed and specificity. However, due to time and sensitivity, CSF viral culture is frequently unable to determine a diagnosis. �
Rapid Antigen Detection
Cryptococcal antigen is the most commonly utilized antigen assay for CNS infections. The test utilizes Cryptococcus capsular polysaccharide antigens in CSF through enzyme immunoassay to determine a diagnosis. In a single research study which evaluated patients less than 35 years of age with CNS cryptococcosis, overall sensitivity and specificity of 93 percent to 100 percent and 93 percent to 98 percent were shown. Cryptococcus is a neurotropic fungus. Polysaccharide serum antigen titers with host immune status are frequently utilized to determine the need for a lumbar puncture to evaluate the patient for CNS health issues. The baseline peak titer of polysaccharide antigen in serum or CSF has demonstrated fundamental prognostic significance with an increased titer, or peak titer less than 1:1024, associated with antifungal therapy failure. �
The diagnosis of galactomannan, or GM, antigen and 1,3 ?-D-glucan, or BDG, in CSF, can help in the diagnosis of CNS aspergillosis or other invasive fungal infection such as fusariosis. Increased BDG in serum and CSF is associated with fungal infections. Measuring the levels of BDG is a beneficial biomarker in the evaluation of fungal CNS infection. It was recently demonstrated that patients receiving effective antifungal therapy demonstrated a decrease in CSF BDG concentrations with less than 31pg/ml and for this reason, BDG titers in CSF are a beneficial biomarker when monitoring response to treatment. �
For acute bacterial meningitis, a rapid antigen assay can help diagnose for a pneumococcal capsular antigen. Several research studies have demonstrated the utilization of M. tuberculosis-specific antigens in CSF for the diagnosis of tuberculosis meningitis. M. tuberculosis Early Secreted Antigenic Target 6, or ESAT-6, has been utilized for tuberculosis meningitis. �
Serology
Serological diagnosis of CNS infections is determined by identifying IgM antibodies or by demonstrating an increase in neutralizing antibody titers between acute- and convalescent-phase CSF. Due to a delay in antibody response when symptoms have manifested, a negative antibody test cannot be utilized to rule out infections and retesting may be required. Moreover, in specific populations, such as immunocompromised patients, the tests may not offer optimum sensitivity. In most instances, nucleic acid amplification tests have surpassed antibody-based detection as the test of choice. For several CNS infections, these assays play a fundamental role. CSF IgM is the most commonly utilized test for West Nile virus, or WNV, infections. Antibodies may manifest in as soon as 3 days and may continue for up to 3 months. However, its accuracy is challenged by high cross-reactivity with other flaviviruses and associated vaccines. Antibodies in recombinant WNV E proteins can determine where cross-reacting viruses co-circulate or determine which patients have been immunized. �
Fundamental serological assays for CNS infections are utilized for the diagnosis of neurosyphilis. Neurosyphilis is determined by a positive CSF venereal disease research laboratory, or VDRL, test. Diagnosis of varicella-zoster virus, or VZV, IgG in CSF is the most common technique and/or method for the diagnosis of VZV associated with CNS infection. �
Central nervous system, or CNS, infections can ultimately be life-threatening health issues if they are not diagnosed and treated early. Determining an accurate diagnosis of CNS infections can be challenging. Fortunately, a variety of diagnostic techniques and molecular methods can help determine the source of CNS infections. These diagnostic techniques and molecular methods have tremendously improved over the years and more and more of these evaluations are being utilized in clinical settings to accurately diagnose CNS infections for early treatment. – Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
In part 2 of our “Diagnosis of Central Nervous System Infections” article, we will ultimately discuss the molecular methods and the pan-omic molecular assays which are utilized in the diagnosis of CNS infections as well as discuss how specific testing outcome measures are associated with clinical diseases and health issues. 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: Chronic Pain
Sudden pain is a natural response of the nervous system which helps to demonstrate possible injury. By way of instance, pain signals travel from an injured region through the nerves and spinal cord to the brain. Pain is generally less severe as the injury heals, however, chronic pain is different than the average type of pain. With chronic pain, the human body will continue sending pain signals to the brain, regardless if the injury has healed. Chronic pain can last for several weeks to even several years. Chronic pain can tremendously affect a patient’s mobility and it can reduce flexibility, strength, and endurance.
Neural Zoomer Plus for Neurological Disease
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Dr. Alex Jimenez utilizes a series of tests to help evaluate neurological diseases. The Neural ZoomerTM Plus is an array of neurological autoantibodies which offers specific antibody-to-antigen recognition. The Vibrant Neural ZoomerTM Plus is designed to assess an individual�s reactivity to 48 neurological antigens with connections to a variety of neurologically related diseases. The Vibrant Neural ZoomerTM Plus aims to reduce neurological conditions by empowering patients and physicians with a vital resource for early risk detection and an enhanced focus on personalized primary prevention. �
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.
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For your convenience and review of the XYMOGEN products please review the following link.*XYMOGEN-Catalog-Download �
* All of the above XYMOGEN policies remain strictly in force.
Everyone in the world wants healthy skin. We see it advertised on television with lotions and vitamin supplements. When we exercise and change our eating habits, we see our skin getting firmer with the foods we consume. However, whenever we are stressed, anxious, consuming junk food, or staying out in the sun too long; our skin takes a huge toll on our body. Our skin is the largest organ that covers our entire skeleton structure. When we expose our skin to harsh environments or have skin ailments that we contracted during our birth, our skin is depleted with the certain nutrients that our skin needs.
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Glutathione:
Glutathione is known as the �wonder drug� for skin lightening. For some darker toned individuals, it will lighten up their natural melanin. This stigma has been popularized by media influences so people can have �porcelain skin.� However, glutathione actually made up of three amino acids:
Glutamine
Glycine
Cysteine
Melanin
This powerful antioxidant fights off free radicals in our immune system and is compatible with Vitamin E and C. For a natural way to make sure that your body keeps the glutathione nutrients when you get older with age, here are some vegetables that are enriched with glutathione:
Garlic
Onions
Avocado
Cabbage
Okra
Spinach
Kale
Cauliflower
Omega-3:
Omega-3s is one of the most common supplements that is known for healthy skin. This supplement keeps the body healthy as well as preventing inflammation. Omega-3s are mostly in:
Fish
Legumes
Walnuts
Avocados
Eggs
Spinach
But, there are certain limitations on taking Omega-3 supplements if you have a seafood allergy or an egg allergy. People with these types of food allergens can talk with their physician about taking the omega-3 supplements in a pill form in low dosages or eat omega-3 enriched food.
Other patients with omega-3 deficiency have been known to have psoriasis, thus using a topical lotion infused with omega-3s have been known to calm down the inflammation.
Biotin is the three-for-one supplements that target your nails, hair, and skin. This supplement can be found in vitamin pills at your local stores and is highly recommended by dermatologists. However, some people have biotin and zinc deficiency that can be linked to skin abnormalities, thus, biotin plays an important role in our skin health.
You can either take the vitamin pill or incorporate certain food groups like eggs, nuts, whole grains, some dairy products, and certain vegetables in your diet to get the beneficiary nutrients to keep your skin healthy.
Niacin:
Also known as vitamin B3, has been known to support skin health. This nutrient has many beneficial effects to promote skin wellness. It is one of the most essential nutrients we consume since our bodies can�t produce it on their own. Some of the food groups are in the meat department and vegetarian department:
Mushrooms
Potatoes
Legumes
Whole grains
Meat
Fish
Eggs
Milk
Vitamin A:
Vitamin A is filled with nutrients as it contains beta-carotene, thus it is mostly fruits and vegetables that contain this supplement. This supplement plays an important role as it helps repair any skin deficiencies and eye health. Some of the foods that boost up vitamin A are:
Carrots
Broccoli
Cantaloupe
Squash
Vitamin C:
Vitamin C is one of the most top tiers of improving skin health and has many beneficial factors in our immune system. Some patients develop scurvy when they don�t have enough vitamin C in their system. It is mostly found in citrus fruit, which is one of the best ways to consume the vitamin into your system.
But, there is a catch when you are taking vitamin C. Vitamin C when exposed to light, can oxidize and become unstable. So if you are taking the supplement, it should be stored in a dark place and the PH should be at 3.5.
Zinc:
Zinc is one of the supplements that support healthy skin. This micronutrient can protect our skin from the sun and supports our inflammatory system. Some of the food that actually can help us prevent sun damage and give us a zinc supplement boost include seeds, meat, shellfish, dairy and dark chocolate.
When our skin needs these 9 nutrients, they are thanking us for taking the time to get the necessary supplements to make sure our bodies are still functional and that we live a long healthy life. Granted that the media has televised about many ways to promote skin health, but it actually starts with eating the right foods that our body craves. When we eat processed food and ingest artificial sugars into our bodies, we feel sluggish, our skin takes a toll on the lack of nutrients we are not giving and so many health problems that we will face.
Yes, we can take topical creams and lotions to nourish our skin and combat the dryness that our skin faces. But that can only go for so long unless we change our eating styles. Some people may freak out because they hear the word, �diet� and are limited to what they can eat. However, when it�s a health issue and our physicians tell us that we need to eat healthier, we give it a go. Therefore, eating right is a lifestyle choice and it starts with these 9 nutrients to make sure our largest organ is taken care of as well as the rest of our body system. When we cut back on the bad food and focusing on good food, our bodies feel so much better.
NCBI Resources
Living a healthy lifestyle and eating your basic food groups; whether it be plant-based or omnivorous, as well as, exercising a couple of times out of the year. A bad healthy lifestyle is eating processed food and not exercising, which leads to obesity and cardiac arrest. Depending on the person and the efforts that they are willing to maintain a healthy lifestyle, they can achieve longevity by taking care of their gut first and foremost.
Vibrant America is at the forefront of modern medicine and is a leader in autoimmune diagnostics. Vibrant America has the ability and technology to get high-quality, accurate test results down to the peptide level.
One of the many tests we utilize from Vibrant America at Injury Medical & Chiropractic Clinic is Food Sensitivity. With this test, we are able to analyze 96 of the most common foods that are consumed. This is important because food sensitivities can occur hours or days after the food is consumed. Many individuals who suffer from digestive orders, migraines, weight gain, and inflammation might not realize it is from food sensitivities.
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Why test for Food Sensitivity?
Not only do food sensitivities leave you with uncomfortable side effects days after ingestion, but they are damaging your gut. In a healthy gut, the intestinal lining will provide immunity to food antigens. The food we eat is not supposed to cross the intestinal barrier. However, in an unhealthy gut, the intestinal lining becomes damaged due to inflammation and an under abundance of healthy flora. This allows food particles to pass through into the bloodstream which then causes an IgG antibody response. This is commonly referred to as a “leaky gut”. This can result in further inflammation and can contribute to some diseases.
At Injury Medical, we want all of our patients to feel their best. On top of chiropractic care, we also offer functional medicine. When a patient mentions to us that they are having symptoms correlated to “leaky gut” such as abdominal pain, bloating, gas, skin itchiness, rashes like eczema, nausea, vomiting, joint pain, muscle stiffness, or feeling weak, we recommend running a food sensitivity panel.
How it works:
Once we sit down and have a detailed conversation, we send you to the labs with a “kit”. This “kit” provides the phlebotomist with everything they need in order to draw blood for the tests we order.
From here, the blood gets sent to Vibrant America. The blood is then examined all the way down to the peptide level. This allows a team of clinicians to discover the IgG and IgA antibody numbers in reaction to 96 foods (including dairy, meat, seafood, fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, etc.).
Next, the results are sent back to us at Injury Medical Clinic. Dr. Jimenez and I ( Kenna Vaughn, Senior Health Coach), study these results to determine a proper treatment protocol. In addition to this, we have a team of clinicians that review each case with us, in order to fully understand what each result looks like and how to best approach it with the patient’s specific lifestyle.
Below is an example of how a patients test results would look:
Why this works
As mentioned above, food sensitivities have a delayed response. This testing works because it allows us to see what foods are responsible for the symptoms/reactions without the patient having to do an elimination diet.� With these results, the patient can start to make adjustments to their diet with our help in order to start feeling better and reducing their symptoms. The key to a healthy life is a healthy gut.
No one should have to live with uncomfortable symptoms or pain. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, come into Injury Medical Clinic where we can assess your needs and help you get on track to feeling better! – Kenna Vaughn, Senior Health Coach
Disclaimer: It is important to remember that food sensitivity testing and food allergy testing are not the same. Food allergies involve an IgE antibody and are an immediate reaction and can occur within minutes.
After a long day of work, you tiredly march your way to your bedroom. You take off your work clothes, slip on your comfiest pajamas, your bed is inviting you to just go under the covers and get that full 8 hours of recommended sleep that the media tells you to. However, you realize that you have that project you have to finish in two days to show your boss.
Thus, you are working on that project in those two days; after work, in the wee hours of the night until completion. Surprisingly, when your head hits that pillow and you close your eyes for a few hours; your alarm starts to alert you awake to start your workday and you are exhausted.
The world today is still experiencing a lack of sleep, as people still have busy lives and are just getting about 5 hours or less of sleep. �Japan still holds the record for having 5 hours of no sleep, while the U.S. is in second place of getting about 6 hours or less of sleep. But there is some good news as there are some natural ways to get the full recommended amount of sleep without the use of medication and can help keep you stay asleep throughout the night. Here are the top 4 botanicals that are used by professionals.
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�4 Botanicals
#1 Ashwagandha
Located in southwest India, Ashwagandha has many health benefits that can help people with different ailments and has many different names including the most common name, �winter cherry.� The plant contains alkaloids, phytosterols, saponins, iron, and steroidal lactones. With these chemical constituents, they are known as withanolides.
In small dosages, it can reduce your cortisol levels to where you feel a bit more relaxed. Not only that Ashwagandha root has been used to improve your brain function, boost your memory, and your reaction time gets improved and is completely safe and widely available.
#2 Chamomile
Chamomile has to be one of the most common herbs that helps anyone that has trouble sleeping. When the herb is dried up, you can actually seep the plant into hot water and with a small dash of honey, it can be the most relaxing, hot beverage that you can sip and relax to. The herb contains apigenin, which is an antioxidant that will bind to certain receptors in your brain. So that being said, chamomile�s properties can make you sleepy and reduce your anxious mind to be at ease.
Another reason to drink chamomile is that it can actually relieve anxiety and depression. When our body is anxious, our brain produces more glutamate, which can be harmful to us. So, by sipping or taking the herb as a supplement, it can target what receptors that are making us anxious and calm them down immensely.
#3 Lemon Balm
Lemon Balm is part of the mint family that goes by many different names but the main purpose for this herb is to actually calm your mind. If you have an anxious mind and your beta brain waves are overstimulated it can be very bad for your health. This herb has about 100 active phytochemicals and has high flavonoids that have both antioxidant and neuroprotective effects that are beneficial. Studies have proven that lemon balm can calm the mind, uplifts your mood, and soothes the central nervous system.
One of the compounds that lemon balm has is called rosmarinic acid. This compound acts like a sedative, which helps you relax when you are stressed out but can be taken in small dosages. When your brain is overly active, sometimes a bit of this herb can help you relax and be calm.
When you combine lemon balm and valerian in a tea, the combination has been helpful to relieve restlessness and insomnia. So, if you want to try to get a good night�s rest, try sipping a hot cup of lemon balm tea before you go to bed.
#4 Lavender
This herb is one of the top plants that everyone in the world uses. Lavender is a multipurpose plant that has so many properties that can help us. Using lavender in aromatherapy can actually help to reduce your stress and promote wellness and calmness. Studies have shown that lavender oil can be useful to treat anxiety, depression, restlessness, and insomnia. The actual smell of lavender is pleasant and is known to make you calmer when you sniff it from any stores or farmer�s market that sells the plant.
Today, many people use lavender because of its calming aroma and used it in their crafts. Whether it be for cooking, soap making, essential oil and aromatherapy remedies, and yoga wellness. It is a versatile herb that has many properties to ease our anxious minds.
These four herbs are some out of the many, many herbs that are out there to help us get a better chance to fall asleep. Sleep is very important to us that some people take for granted. A lot of people will use the phrase, �Sleep is for the weak,� but that phrase is dangerous due to the fact that sleep is not for the weak.
When we don�t get enough sleep, our bodies take a nasty toll as we feel sluggish and irritable to those around us. Not only that it is bad, but sleep deprivation can lead to many health problems that can be fixed. Granted that we want to tackle as many commitments and finish projects before deadlines; however, does that gives us the right to sacrifice sleep so we can have a fullfed life of happiness.
If we start by changing our sleep habits with any of these herbs, our bodies can naturally start repairing itself. Once that happens, then your body will thank you for getting the full eight hours of sleep. These herbs are not a cure-all, but they are helpers to ease your brain and help calm down any anxious thoughts you may have. So, if you try out these herbs to relax a bit, maybe even get a full night�s rest, then go for it. Because sleep is not for the weak, sleep is for everyone.
Get A Good Night’s Sleep
Insufficient or poor sleep has been linked to numerous health issues. People who don�t get enough sleep or their sleep quality is poor, have a higher risk of developing dangerous health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Adults should get between seven and nine hours of sleep a night, preferably uninterrupted, within 24 hours on a regular basis. There is more to a good night�s sleep than just quantity though. You should be able to fall asleep within about 20 minutes after you lie down and stay asleep.
NCBI Resources
Proper sleep hygiene and the application of organic herbs and the 4 botanicals aforementioned, can help promote a healthy amount of sleep. The outcome could result in a wide array of benefits, including an improvement in problem-solving and work performance, weight management, and even promote the prevention of chronic health issues, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and mood disorders like depression. You may find numerous products and information regarding how to manage proper sleep. A�research study from 2016�indicated that individuals in the United States alone spent over $41 billion on sleeping treatments, where it is expected to rise up to $52 billion by the year 2020.
We often think of proteins are nutrients found in the food we eat and the main component of muscles, however, proteins are microscopic molecules located inside of cells which actually perform a variety of fundamental roles. The function of a protein depends on its shape, and when protein formation goes awry, the resulting misshapen proteins can cause numerous health issues, such as when proteins neglect their essential roles or when they form a sticky, clumpy clutter inside of cells. Protein formation is an error-prone procedure and mistakes along the way have been associated with neurological diseases. �
There are approximately 20,000 to over 100,000 unique types of proteins found inside a common human cell. Why so many? Proteins are the workhorses of the human cell. By way of instance, several of these proteins are structural, lending stiffness and rigidity to thin neurons or muscle tissues. Other proteins shuttle them to new places and bind to specific molecules and others catalyze responses. A property of proteins is possible through diversity and specificity in their role when they fold. �
Contents
Why Proteins Fold into a Functional Shape
A protein generally begins in the cell as a lengthy chain of about 300 building blocks known as amino acids. There are 22 different types of amino acids and their order decides what protein chain will fold onto itself. After folding, two types of structures will generally form. Several regions of the protein chain coil into slinky-like formations known as “alpha-helices,” while other regions fold into zigzag patterns known as “beta-sheets,” which resemble the folds of a paper fan. �
Both of these structures may interact to form complex structures. In one protein structure, many beta-sheets wrap themselves around to form a hollow tube. The tube is also generally short where the overall structure resembles snakes (alpha-helices) emerging out of a can (beta-sheet tubing ). Moreover, several other protein structures with descriptive names include the “beta-barrel,” that the”beta-propeller,” the”alpha/beta-horseshoe,” as well as the “jelly-roll fold”. �
These intricate structures allow proteins to perform their variety of roles in the cell. The “snakes in a can” protein, when embedded into a cell membrane, creates a tube which enables traffic in and out of cells. Other proteins form contours with pockets known as “active sites” which are perfectly shaped to bind to a certain molecule like a lock and key. By bending into different shapes, proteins can do different functions. To draw an analogy, all vehicles are made from steel, while a bus, dump truck, crane, or Zamboni are shaped to execute their very own tasks however races are won by the slick shape of a racecar. �
Why Protein Folding Sometimes Fails
Protein folding ultimately allows a protein to take a functional shape, however, it’s an intricate procedure which can sometimes fail. According to research studies, protein folding can go wrong due to three major reasons: �
A person may have a mutation which affects an amino acid in the protein chain, making it difficult for a specific protein to locate its favored fold or “native” state. This is how it is for mutations, such as those contributing to cystic fibrosis or sickle cell anemia. These mutations are found in the DNA sequence or “gene” which encodes one special protein. Therefore, these types of inherited mutations affect only that protein and its related function.
On the other hand, protein folding failure can be seen as an ongoing and much more general procedure which affects several proteins. When proteins are made, the structure which reads the instructions from DNA to produce the long chains of amino acids can make errors. Researchers estimate that the ribosome makes mistakes in as many as 1 in every 7 proteins. These mistakes can make the proteins which are resultantly inclined to continue to fold improperly.
Even though an amino acid chain does not have any mutations or mistakes, it may still not reach its own preferred folded shape because proteins don’t fold properly 100 percent of their time. Protein folding becomes much more difficult if the conditions in the cell change due to external factors such as temperature and acidity.
A collapse in protein folding can cause a variety of neurological diseases and researchers hypothesize that many health issues are associated with folding problems. There are two problems which exist in cells which don’t protein fold correctly. �
One type of problem, known as “loss of function,” results when not enough of a particular protein folds correctly, causing a lack of “specialized functions” necessary to perform a particularly important role. By way of instance, imagine a correctly folded protein is shaped to bind a toxin and split it into noxious compounds. Without enough of that protein accessible, the toxin will build-up to damaging levels. In another instance, a protein may be responsible for metabolizing sugar which can then be utilized by the cell for energy. The cell will grow due to lack of energy if not enough of this protein is accessible. The reason the cell becomes ill, in these cases, is because of a lack of one particular folded, functional protein. Cystic fibrosis, Tay-Sachs disease, Marfan syndrome, and some types of cancer are examples of health issues which result when one type of protein is unable to perform its role. Who knew that one type of protein out of thousands may be so significant? �
Proteins folding may also impact the overall health and wellness of the cell regardless of the utilization of the protein. When proteins fail to fold into their functional state, the consequent misfolded proteins could be contorted into shapes which are harmful to the crowded cell environment. Most proteins have sticky, “water-hating” amino acids which they bury deep inside their own core. Misfolded proteins utilize these parts on their exterior, such as a chocolate-covered candy which has been crushed to reveal a gooey center. These misfolded proteins commonly stick together to form clumps known as “aggregates.” Researchers discovered that the accumulation of misfolded proteins plays a fundamental role in several neurological diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and Lou Gehrig’s (ALS) disease, however, researchers are still working to discover exactly how these misfolded molecules affect the well-being of the cells. �
One misfolded protein ultimately stands out from among the rest and it deserves particular attention. The “prion” protein in Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, also known as mad cow disease, is an illustration of a misfolded protein gone rogue. This protein isn’t simply irreversibly misfolded, however, it also transforms other functional proteins into a similar twisted condition. �
How Cells Protect from Misfolded Proteins
Recent research studies have demonstrated that protein misfolding often occurs inside of cells. Fortunately, cells also have many systems in place and are accustomed to coping with this issue by refolding or destroying aberrant protein formations. � Appropriately known as chaperones, these structures accompany proteins throughout the folding procedure, enhancing a protein’s odds of folding properly and even allowing several misfolded proteins the opportunity to refold. Chaperones are proteins themselves. There are many distinct types of chaperones. A few chaperones supply safety to proteins, isolated from other molecules. Production of many chaperones is fostered when a cell encounters high temperatures or other states which can ultimately make protein folding more difficult, therefore, providing these chaperones the alias, “heat shock proteins.” �
The following line of cell defense against misfolded proteins is known as the proteasome. If misfolded proteins linger in the cell, they will be targeted for destruction by this structure, which chews proteins up and spits them out. The proteasome is similar to a center, permitting the cell to reuse amino acids to create proteins. The proteasome itself is not a single protein but many acting collectively. Proteins frequently interact to form larger structures. By way of instance, a human sperm’s tail is a structure made of various types of proteins which work together to produce a rotary engine which propels the sperm. �
Protein Folding and Misfolding Overview
Why is it that some misfolded proteins can evade systems such as chaperones and the proteasome? How can the neurological diseases previously mentioned above be caused by sticky misfolded proteins? Do some proteins misfold more often than others? These questions are at the forefront of research studies seeking to understand the health issues which ultimately result if protein fold goes awry as well as protein biology. The broad world of proteins, using its great assortment of shapes, bestows cells with capacities that allow for life to exist and allow for its diversity (e.g., the differences between eye, skin, lung or heart cells, and also the differences between species). But perhaps this is one of the many reasons why the word “protein” comes from the Greek word “protas,” meaning “of primary significance” and indeed they seem to be. �
Protein folding is a complex, physiochemical process by which a protein “folds” or assumes a functional shape to be able to perform their biological function. Proteins are nutrients we obtain from the food we eat and they are considered to be one of the main components of muscles, however, proteins play a wide variety of fundamental roles in the human body. According to research studies, protein misfolding can cause a variety of health issues, including neurological diseases. – Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
The purpose of the article above is to describe protein folding and how it’s associated with neurological diseases. Neurological diseases are associated with the brain, the spine, and the nerves. 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: Chronic Pain
Sudden pain is a natural response of the nervous system which helps to demonstrate possible injury. By way of instance, pain signals travel from an injured region through the nerves and spinal cord to the brain. Pain is generally less severe as the injury heals, however, chronic pain is different than the average type of pain. With chronic pain, the human body will continue sending pain signals to the brain, regardless if the injury has healed. Chronic pain can last for several weeks to even several years. Chronic pain can tremendously affect a patient’s mobility and it can reduce flexibility, strength, and endurance.
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 of the above XYMOGEN policies remain strictly in force.
Around 3 million individuals suffer from plantar fasciitis
Heel pain
Foot pain
Spurs
Tight tendons
Stiffness
Signs of a long day, wearing the wrong shoes, both or you may have a condition known as plantar fasciitis. We don’t take our health seriously until we go through excruciating pain or some form of debilitation. Feet are the foundation of the body and when they are not at 100% there are going to be problems.
Identifying, diagnosing, and treating plantar fasciitis can be fast and easy with chiropractic orthotics!
What is it?
Plantar Fasciitis is inflammation of the tissues in your foot.
People think it only affects the heel, however, it can affect any or all of the bottom of the foot. Because it�s the tissue between the toes and heel that gets inflamed.
The tissue is called �fascia� hence the name of the condition: plantar fasciitis.
Heel spurs were once thought to be the cause of the discomfort, but now is a symptom of plantar fasciitis.
Many people who have plantar fasciitis wake up with stabbing pain in the bottom of their feet during the first few steps of their day.
Early morning pain and stiffness is a big indication of PF.
Also called �policeman�s heel,� pain and discomfort also arise after long periods of standing, walking, exercise.
The fascia in the foot acts as a shock absorber, which helps support the arch of the foot.
With time, increased tension, small tears begin to happen in the fascia, that leads to the inflammation.
Who gets Plantar Fasciitis?
People that stand on their feet for long hours, such as:
Factory workers
Teachers
Doctors
Nurses
Retail employees
Are at a higher risk of developing plantar fasciitis.
Improper Footwear/Posture
Wearing improper shoes, meaning too tight, too loose is another contributing factor.
Shoes that have arch support and heel protection are considered best and help to avoid pain and discomfort.
Poor posture
Abnormal walking gait
When heel or foot pain is not treated, it can lead to
Back
Knee
Hip problems�
Many adjust their walking to compensate for the pain and discomfort that can lead to more problems.
Being flat-footed raises the likelihood of developing plantar fasciitis regardless of age or lifestyle.
Other Contributing Factors
Weight also contributes to plantar fasciitis because it puts greater stress and tension on the feet as they hold the body. Exercise can help, but be sure that they are exercises specifically designed to help treat plantar fasciitis. Because certain types of exercise like running, aerobics, jumping, and dance-based workouts can lead to heel pain and plantar fasciitis.
Diagnosis
Identifying and diagnosing plantar fasciitis is straightforward and relatively easy. Diagnosing plantar fasciitis does not require an X-Ray or MRI, which is one reason many people avoid seeking treatment. But it’s best to seek the advice of a trusted healthcare professional.
Treatment
There are several ways to treat plantar fasciitis:
Rest is one of the best remedies, especially if it is caused by exercise or excessive stress.
Icing the area can help manage the pain
Stretching and/or light physical therapy
Stretches that focus on the Achilles tendon and lower leg muscles help stabilize and strengthen the ankles and heels.
This helps to:
Stand
Walk
Workout
Move around
Chiropractic and physical therapy can help with:
Stretching the muscles and tendons
Work out and tension
Provide day-to-day stretches
Kinesio taping along the bottom of the foot, heel, and lower leg but should be done first by a professional like your chiropractor to show the proper and most effective method then you can do it yourself.
Chiropractic orthotics, or custom insoles, can help immensely because they are custom made to each individual.
There are a variety of types designed for various types of pain and discomfort.
Custom chiropractic orthotics can work in nearly any type of shoe.
Athletic/Tennis/Skate shoes
Work Shoes/Boots
High heels
Sandals
They are easily and custom made specifically to your body, which factors in your weight, posture, and gait.
If you�re experiencing any of the symptoms like heel pain, throbbing pain when you wake-up, or pain along the arch of your foot, then don’t hesitate and make an appointment with us today!
Our chiropractic/physical therapy team will teach you how to make small adjustments to your lifestyle, show you how to stretch properly, and how to use custom chiropractic orthotics to get you back on your feet with comfort, control and freedom to live your life.
Manage *PLANTAR FASCIITIS PAIN* with Custom Foot Orthotics | El Paso, TX (2019)
Gloria underwent foot pain that stretched throughout her body. Her plantar fasciitis developed because of her regular activities. Gloria explains how her well-being has been influenced by her afflictions. The custom made foot orthotics supplied for her by Dr. Alex Jimenez, a chiropractor in El Paso, TX, tremendously helped relieve her foot pain and plantar fasciitis symptoms. Gloria explains the comfort that the custom-made foot orthotics supplied for her symptoms. Gloria highly recommends Dr. Alex Jimenez as the non-surgical selection for foot pain and plantar fasciitis treatment, among other problems.
What’s Afoot
Particularly true with foot dysfunction is when the mechanics of the foot are off, which can throw off the alignment of the entire body.�Overpronation and oversupination in the foot�can lead to severe and�chronic back pain. Ankle pain refers to any type of pain or discomfort in the ankle. This pain could generally be due to an injury, such as a sprain, or due to another health issue. As stated by the National University of Health Sciences, or NUHS, an ankle sprain is one of the most frequent causes of foot pain, making up 85 percent of all ankle injuries. A sprain occurs when the ligaments tear or are overstretched.
Chiropractors utilize a combination of treatment techniques and methods to ease ankle and foot pain. Chiropractic care is a safe and effective, alternative treatment option which focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of a variety of injuries and conditions associated with the musculoskeletal and nervous system, including foot and ankle pain.
NCBI Resources
Plantar fasciitis/heel pain syndrome�is the most common cause of heel pain, that results from a gradual degeneration of the plantar fascia or sudden trauma.�Individuals describe the pain like sharp stabbing or deep aching in the middle of the heel or along the bottom of the foot that happens when walking or standing. Pain arises in the morning after taking the first few steps or after extended periods of sitting/lying down/non-activity.
Mitochondria are the “energy factory” of the human body. Several thousand mitochondria can be found in nearly every cell. Mitochondria also play several fundamental roles in the body, such as converting chemicals from the foods we eat into energy as well as to process oxygen. Mitochondria produce 90 percent of the energy the human body requires to function accordingly. The purpose of the following article is to describe an overview of mitochondrial disease and well-being. �
Contents
What are Mitochondrial Diseases?
Mitochondrial diseases are characterized as chronic, genetic, and often inherited health issues which ultimately occur when mitochondria fail to produce enough energy for the human body to function properly. Mitochondrial diseases may develop from birth however they can frequently develop at any age. Mitochondrial disease can affect any region of the human body, including the cells of the brain, muscles, heart, liver, kidneys, pancreas, eyes, ears, and nerves, among other structures. �
When the mitochondria don’t function as well as they should because of another health issue, mitochondrial dysfunction occurs. Furthermore, many health issues can cause secondary dysfunction and result in other neurological diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Lou Gehrig’s disease, and muscular dystrophy. People with secondary dysfunction don’t have genetic mitochondrial disease and do not need to be concerned about the ongoing development or worsening of symptoms. �
What are the Symptoms of Mitochondrial Disease?
Symptoms of mitochondrial disease depend on which cells of the human body are affected. Symptoms can develop at any age, involve one or more organs, and may range from mild to severe. Even patients within the same household, having the exact same mitochondrial disease can have gaps in symptoms, severity, and age of onset or beginning of symptoms. �
Symptoms of mitochondrial diseases can include: �
Poor growth
Muscle pain, muscle weakness, exercise intolerance, low muscle tone
Vision and/or hearing problems
Learning disabilities, delays in development, mental retardation
In many people, primary mitochondrial disease is a genetic health issue which can be inherited in several ways. To understand inheritance types, it is helpful to find out more about genes and DNA. Genes are substances which provide us our traits, like brown eyes or blue eyes. Genes contain DNA, which is the “blueprint” which gives each person their distinctive make-up. �
In normal circumstances, a child inherits one gene from the father and one gene from the mother. A child with a mitochondrial disease doesn’t receive the pair of genes from the parents. The gene has mutated or has become defective. Learning how the mitochondrial disease is inherited helps predict the prospect of passing the disease(s) to children. �
Inheritance types of mitochondrial disease are: �
Autosomal recessive inheritance: The child receives one mutated copy of a gene from each parent. There is a 25 percent chance that each child in the family will inherit a mitochondrial disease.
Autosomal dominant inheritance: The child receives one mutated copy of a gene from either parent. There is a 50 percent chance that each child in the family will inherit a mitochondrial disease.
Mitochondrial inheritance: In this unique type of inheritance, the mitochondria contain their own DNA. Only mitochondrial disorders caused by mutations in the mitochondrial DNA are exclusively inherited from mothers. There is a 100 percent chance that each child in the family will inherit a mitochondrial disease.
Random mutations: Occasionally, genes develop a mutation of their own which is not inherited from a parent.
How are Mitochondrial Diseases Diagnosed?
Mitochondrial diseases can be difficult to diagnose by a healthcare professional because mitochondrial diseases can ultimately affect a variety of organs and tissues in the human body and patients can also have a variety of symptoms. There is currently no single lab test or diagnostic test which can confirm the identification of mitochondrial disease. That is why a referral to a medical facility with healthcare professionals who focus on these diseases is essential to making the diagnosis. �
Diagnosis begins with a series of evaluations and tests which may include: �
A review of a patient�s family history
A complete physical evaluation
A neurological evaluation
A metabolic evaluation which includes blood and urine tests, and, if needed, a cerebral spinal fluid test
Other evaluations, determined by the regions of the human body and the patient’s symptoms which may include: �
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or spectroscopy (MRS) for neurological symptoms
Retinal exam or electroretinogram (ERG) for vision symptoms
Electrocardiogram (EKG) or echocardiogram for symptoms of heart disease
Audiogram or auditory-brainstem evoked responses (ABER) for hearing symptoms
Blood test to detect thyroid dysfunction if the patient has thyroid problems
Blood test to perform genetic DNA testing
Testing may include biochemical testing. Biopsies of skin and muscle tissue may also be utilized for diagnosis. �
How are Mitochondrial Diseases Treated?
Unfortunately, there is no cure for mitochondrial disease, however, treatment can help reduce symptoms or slow the decline of overall well-being. Treatment varies from patient to patient and depends on the severity and the mitochondrial disease characterized. There is absolutely no way to predict a patient’s reaction or forecast how that person will be affected in the long-term. No two people respond the same way to the same treatment even if they have the same mitochondrial disease. �
Treatments for mitochondrial disease may include: �
Vitamins and supplements, including Coenzyme Q10; B complex vitamins, such as thiamine (B1) and riboflavin (B2), Alpha lipoic acid, L-carnitine (Carnitor), Creatine, and L-Arginine.
Exercise and physical activity, including endurance exercises and resistance/strength training to increase muscle strength. Endurance exercises include walking, running, swimming, dancing, cycling and others. Resistance/strength training includes exercises such as sit-ups, arm curls, knee extensions, weight lifting and others.
Conserving energy. Don�t try to do too much in a short period of time. Pace yourself.
Other treatments including speech therapy, respiratory therapy, physical therapy, and chiropractic care, among others.
Avoid situations which can make the health issue worse. This includes exposure to cold and/or warmth, starvation, lack of sleep, stressful situations, and usage of alcohol, smokes and monosodium glutamate or MSG, a flavor enhancer commonly added to Chinese foods, canned vegetables, soups, as well as processed meats, among other processed foods. �
Mitochondrial diseases are long-term, genetic, and frequently inherited health issues which occur when the mitochondria fail to produce enough energy for the human body to function accordingly. According to research studies, approximately one in 5,000 people has a genetic mitochondrial disease. Chiropractic care is an alternative treatment option which can help relieve symptoms associated with a variety of health issues, including mitochondrial diseases. Many chiropractors are qualified and experienced in the treatment of neurological diseases. – Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
The purpose of the article above is to describe mitochondrial disease and its effect on overall health and wellness. Neurological diseases are associated with the brain, the spine, and the nerves. 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: Chronic Pain
Sudden pain is a natural response of the nervous system which helps to demonstrate possible injury. By way of instance, pain signals travel from an injured region through the nerves and spinal cord to the brain. Pain is generally less severe as the injury heals, however, chronic pain is different than the average type of pain. With chronic pain, the human body will continue sending pain signals to the brain, regardless if the injury has healed. Chronic pain can last for several weeks to even several years. Chronic pain can tremendously affect a patient’s mobility and it can reduce flexibility, strength, and endurance.
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 of the above XYMOGEN policies remain strictly in force. �
Ever wondered why your job is so stressful? Or that you haven�t gotten enough sleep due to partying with your friends, even though you were supposed to finish that essay for that one class you signed up for and now you are typing away to meet the deadline and turning it in. Or even better� the two p.m. slumps.
Well, it might be because your L-theanine is a bit low. However, there are many ways to make sure that you get a boost of energy even though you feel tired and you are probably drinking it right now. Green tea seems to help us when we are overly stressed and when it�s nice and hot, we feel relaxed and whatever stress we hold onto melts away. However, L-theanine can also stimulate the brain and overall make you feel good, as well as blocking out certain neurotransmitters in your brain.
Try Green Tea
If you are wondering about the benefits of green tea, you can look at many Google searches and they will tell you different things about the health benefits of drinking green tea. However, they will say the same thing that is truly effective. That green tea can help your central nervous system function properly. Even though green tea has the same properties as coffee in the caffeine department without the extra �jittery� effect.
Green tea can be effective as it can make you more productive but can also give you more stable energy, while improving your brain to function properly. There is even a study that green tea can protect your brain when you are older. And that it may help lower the chances of getting Parkinson�s disease and Alzheimer�s disease. Both are very common neurodegenerative diseases that can be prevented by the various protective effect by drinking green tea. Not only that but it can also balance out the two neurotransmitters that are a key essential to having a healthy brain activity.
Neurotransmission
There are two types of neurotransmitters in our brains that work together to make sure that we are functioning properly. They are Glutamate and GABA. Both are mostly located in the brain�s neuro system as they are together and bringing a balance to our system. Glutamate’s function is to make our brain fired up and ready to learn new things. As well as being an important part of our brain development.
But when there is too much Glutamate in our brain, we become very hyper-aware of our surroundings, neurological inflammation, and anxiety. But when we add L-theanine to Glutamate, the Glutamate�s neurotoxicity is lowered by the L-theanine supplement. But the only way to counteract Glutamate is with GABA. GABA or Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid is the body�s main neurotransmitter that is responsible for our cells.
Chill Out
It�s basically the �chill pill� for our central nervous system. This neurotransmitter counteracts with Glutamate, which is very hyper; while GABA is very relaxed. Not only GABA calms downs our central nervous system, but it also gives us a much-needed restful sleep when we are exhausted from a long day. And when we are done with exercising, GABA helps our muscle tissue regenerate. GABA seems to know when we need to rest our brains from burning out and crashing hard on the couch after a long stressful day at work or school.
The best way to describe how GABA and Glutamate work together is to imagine your body as a car. Glutamate is the gas where we have to go from one place to the other and GABA is the brakes where we have stop and rest a bit. And when we add L-theanine to the mixture, it�s a sense of an added booster to our body and central nervous system to not only be relaxed but also have a bit of energy to go out on our daily day to day life.
But there is always still going to be stress in our lives if we don�t control it. Stress can be caused by many things that we all go through. Sometimes it can be something small like deadlines on projects that you are preparing for, that one exam that you have to take in class, or trying to find a job.
Those give us minor headaches that we have to step back a bit and take a deep breath. Other times stress can be something major like having too many commitments that we can�t handle, having poor organization skills, or even having a very highly stressed job. These major stressors can cause us to have high blood pressure and heart disease that we have to go to the doctor to get a prescription or even see a therapist so we can calm our mind down.
L-Theanine
Going back to L-theanine, it is proven that L-theanine can help us relax a bit in stressful situations. An animal study showed us what would happen when L-theanine is in the blood system of rats. Those rats that are treated with L-theanine are more relaxed in a stressful situation than those that are not treated.
With L-theanine, it is proven that this supplement has beneficial properties to help us calm down our central nervous system but also makes us feel a bit better in our day to day lives. We all deal with stress differently as there are certain things that help us alleviate it and even help us get better if we continue to do the things we love.
Conclusion
Whether it is taking a walk, writing down in a journal, exercising, seeking some professional help if things get way too hectic or doing a hobby that we love; stress is always going to be there within us, but only we can control it with the right ingredients.
Therefore, whenever you feel overly stressed from working too hard, having way too many plans that you can�t commit, or feeling very low on energy. Remember to stop and breathe a bit as you get into your comfiest clothes, put on a movie or binge-watch a series on Netflix, and make yourself a cup of hot green tea. Then when you are all comfortable on the couch and when you take that first sip, not only your body; but your brain will thank you for that break in your hectic daily life.
Excessive Foot Pronation can Affect *FOOT POSTURE & MOBILITY* | El Paso, TX (2019)
The following video discusses how excessive foot pronation can ultimately have an effect on foot posture and mobility. Several things can impact foot posture and mobility, such as excessive foot pronation. Excessive foot pronation is most widespread among the overall populace, therefore, it’s regarded as one of the most frequent factors for abnormal foot posture and mobility, which can lead to a variety of health issues like overuse injuries. Excessive foot pronation and supination can ultimately impact general health and wellness.
What’s Afoot
Foot Dysfunction can very easily cause a domino effect that extends all the way to the back. The feet are the foundation of the body and when there is a problem with the way they function it can cause the entire body to shift out of alignment. For instance, overpronation of the foot causes a series of internal changes that extend up through the leg. The femur may rotate causing hip pain and inflammation of the sacroiliac joint which leads to back pain. Other misalignments in the body that are caused by foot problems can also lead to chronic lower back pain as well.
NCBI Resources:
Researchers at Japan�s Kyoto University found that drinking green tea could help prevent deadly abdominal aortic aneurysms. They believe that the beneficial compounds in green tea are polyphenols, a type of antioxidant that fights free radicals and reduces inflammation. The polyphenols also appear to make arteries stronger and more flexible by regenerating elastin, an essential protein that makes arteries stretchy, yet sturdy. Green and white teas contain large amounts of EGCG, a powerful antioxidant linked to a lower risk of heart disease, Alzheimer�s disease, and numerous types of cancer. A study at Japan�s Okayama University found that senior citizens who drank large amounts of green tea slashed their risk of dying from heart disease by as much as 76 percent, and a Chinese study found that drinking green tea cut the risk of lung cancer by two-thirds.
Cerebrovascular disease is characterized as a group of diseases, conditions, and disorders which ultimately affects the blood vessels and the blood supply to the human brain. Brain damage can occur when a blockage, malformation, or hemorrhage prevents the brain cells from receiving enough oxygen. Cerebrovascular disorders can include stroke, transient ischemic attack or TIA, aneurysm, and vascular malformation. �
Cerebrovascular disease can develop due to a variety of health issues, such as atherosclerosis, where the arteries become narrow; thrombosis or embolic arterial blood clot, which is a blood clot in an artery of the brain; or cerebral venous thrombosis, which is a blood clot in a vein of the brain. �
In the United States, cerebrovascular disease is one of the most common causes of death. In 2017, it caused about 44.9 deaths per 100,000 individuals or 146,383 deaths in total. Fortunately, people can decrease their risk of developing cerebrovascular disease. In the following article, we will describe the types, the symptoms, the diagnosis, and the treatment for cerebrovascular disease and how to prevent them. �
Contents
Cerebrovascular Disease Symptoms
The symptoms of cerebrovascular disease are commonly based on the region of the health issue and its effect on the brain. � Different types of cerebrovascular disease may have different symptoms, however, common symptoms can include: �
a severe and sudden headache
hemiplegia or paralysis on one side of the human body
weakness on one side, also known as hemiparesis
confusion
difficulty communicating, including slurred speech
losing vision on one side
loss of balance
becoming unconscious
Emergency Response
The American Stroke Association promotes the public knowledge of the F.A.S.T. acronym as a way to help people recognize the warning signs of a stroke or any other type of cerebrovascular disease to take action immediately, including: �
face drooping
arm weakness
speech difficulty
time to call 911
Immediate medical attention is fundamental if anyone demonstrates symptoms of a cerebrovascular disease attack because these may ultimately have long-term effects if not treated immediately, such as cognitive impairment and paralysis. �
Types of Cerebrovascular Disease
Stroke, TIA, and subarachnoid hemorrhage are several types of cerebrovascular disease. Aneurysms and hemorrhages may cause acute health issues. Blood clots can affect the brain directly or indirectly from other regions of the human body.
Ischemic Stroke
Ischemic strokes occur when a blood clot or atherosclerotic plaque blocks a blood vessel which supplies blood to the brain. A clot or thrombus may develop in a narrow artery. A stroke occurs when a blood supply deficiency causes brain cell death.
Embolism
An embolic stroke is the most common type of ischemic stroke. An embolism occurs when a clot breaks off from another region in the human body and travels to the brain and blocks a smaller artery. People who have arrhythmias, which are health issues associated with irregular heart rhythm, are more vulnerable to developing an embolism as well as other health issues. �
A tear in the lining of the carotid artery, which is found in the neck, can ultimately cause an ischemic stroke. The tear allows blood circulation to flow between the layers of the artery, reducing blood flow to the brain, and causing it to become narrow. �
Hemorrhagic Stroke
Hemorrhagic strokes occur when a blood vessel in part of the brain weakens and pops open, causing blood to flow into the brain. The leaking blood puts pressure on the brain tissue, causing edema, which can ultimately damage brain tissue. The hemorrhage may cause parts of the brain to lose their supply of oxygen-rich blood, causing a variety of other health issues. �
Cerebral Aneurysm or Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
A cerebral aneurysm or subarachnoid hemorrhage can occur due to structural health issues associated with the blood vessels of the brain. An aneurysm is a bulge which in the arterial wall which may rupture and bleed. A subarachnoid hemorrhage occurs when a blood vessel ruptures and bleeds between two membranes in the brain, damaging brain cells. �
Cerebrovascular Disease Causes
Cerebrovascular disease develops due to a variety of factors. If damage occurs to a blood vessel in the brain, it won’t be able to deliver enough or any blood to the necessary region of the brain. The deficiency of blood can affect the delivery of oxygen and brain cells can begin to die. Brain damage is irreversible. �
Immediate medical attention is fundamental to decrease a person’s risk of long-term brain damage and increase their chances of survival. Atherosclerosis is a key cause of cerebrovascular disease. This occurs when cholesterol levels, as well as inflammation in the brain’s arteries, cause cholesterol to build-up. This plaque may restrict or completely obstruct blood circulation into the brain, causing a cerebrovascular disease attack, including a stroke or TIA. �
Risk Factors
Stroke is the most common type of cerebrovascular disease. The risk of stroke increases with age, especially if a person or their close relatives have previously had a cerebrovascular disease attack. The risk doubles every 10 years, between 55 and 85 years of age. However, a stroke can occur at any age, even during infancy. � Factors which increase the risk of stroke and other types of cerebrovascular disease include: �
hypertension, which the American College of Cardiology defines as blood pressure of 130/80 mm Hg or higher
smoking
obesity
poor diet and lack of exercise
diabetes
blood cholesterol levels of 240 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl) or higher
The same factors can increase a person’s risk of developing a cerebral aneurysm. However, people with a congenital anomaly or previous head trauma may also be at risk of developing a cerebral aneurysm. Pregnancy can also increase the risk of developing cerebral venous thrombosis which is a blood clot affecting a vein in the human brain. � Other risk factors of cerebrovascular disease include: �
Moyamoya disease, a progressive condition which causes a blockage of the cerebral arteries and their major branches
venous angiomas, which affect around 2 percent of the U.S. population and rarely bleed or cause symptoms
a vein of Galen malformation, an arterial disorder which develops in a fetus during pregnancy
Certain drugs and/or medication, as well as other health issues, can make the blood more likely to clot and also increase the risk of ischemic stroke. Hormone replacement therapy or HRT may also increase the risk of a cerebrovascular disease attack in people who currently have atherosclerosis or carotid artery disease, among other health issues. �
Cerebrovascular Disease Diagnosis
Any cerebrovascular disease can be considered a medical emergency and anybody who recognizes the symptoms must contact 911 for support and evaluation. Early diagnosis is fundamental to reduce brain damage. In the clinic, a doctor will ask about the person’s medical history and search for specific neurological, motor, and sensory health issues, including: �
changes in vision or visual fields
reduced or altered reflexes
abnormal eye movements
muscle weakness
decreased sensation
A doctor may also utilize a cerebral angiography, vertebral angiogram, or carotid angiogram to identify a vascular abnormality, such as a blood clot or a blood vessel health issue. These include injecting dye to demonstrate any clots as well as their size and form on MRI or CT imaging. �
A CAT scan will also help a doctor diagnose hemorrhagic strokes as it can distinguish between blood, bone, and brain tissue. However, it does not reveal damage from an ischemic stroke in the first phases. An MRI scan may detect early-stage strokes. An electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) may diagnose cardiac arrhythmia which is a risk factor for embolic strokes. �
Cerebrovascular Disease Treatment
A cerebrovascular disease requires emergency treatment. Rapid diagnosis and treatment are crucial because a person must receive stroke drugs and/or medications from the beginning of their symptoms. In the case of an acute stroke, the emergency group may administer a medicine known as tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) which breaks up the blood clot. �
A neurosurgeon must evaluate a person who has had a brain hemorrhage. They may perform surgery to decrease the pressure which bleeding causes in the brain. A carotid endarterectomy involves making an incision in the carotid artery and removing the plaque. This allows blood to flow again. The surgeon then repairs the artery with sutures or a graft. �
Several patients may need carotid angioplasty and stenting which involves a doctor inserting a balloon-tipped catheter into the artery so that the artery reopens when they inflate the balloon. Then, the doctor matches a slim, metal mesh tube, or stent, within the carotid artery to improve blood flow in the formerly blocked artery. The stent helps to prevent the artery from closing-up or collapsing following the procedure.
Cerebrovascular Disease Rehabilitation
Because a cerebrovascular disease attack can cause irreversible brain damage, people can experience temporary or permanent disability. For this reason, they may require a variety of supportive and rehabilitative treatments so that they can keep as much function as possible. These may ultimately include: �
Physical therapy: The goal is to restore mobility, flexibility, and upper and/or lower extremity function.
Speech therapy: This helps improve communication and regain speech after a stroke or cerebrovascular disease attack.
Occupational therapy: This can help access facilities which support a return to work and daily life.
Psychological therapy: Physical disability can create unexpected emotional demands and often requires intensive readjustment. A person may benefit from visiting a psychiatrist, psychologist, or counselor after experiencing a cerebrovascular disease attack if they feel overwhelmed.
Cerebrovascular Disease Prevention
Techniques and methods which can ultimately help reduce the risk of cerebrovascular disease include: �
no smoking
getting at least 150 minutes of moderate to intense exercise and/or physical activity every week
eating a balanced diet which supports vascular health, such as the DASH diet
maintaining a healthy body weight
managing blood cholesterol and blood pressure with diet as well as drugs and/or medications, if necessary
People with heart arrhythmia should seek immediate medical attention from a healthcare professional and discuss whether they should be taking a blood thinner to prevent strokes. �
Stroke and other cerebrovascular diseases may lead to death but with immediate medical attention, a partial or full recovery is possible. Patients with cerebrovascular disease should follow their healthcare professional’s instructions and lifestyle modifications to ultimately help decrease the prospect of a cardiovascular disease attack. �
Decreasing the Risk of Stroke
Taking blood platelet inhibitors, including, Dipyridamole, Ticlopidine, and clopidogrel, can decrease the chance of stroke before it occurs. These can help prevent stroke in people who have a medical history or higher prospect of experiencing a cerebrovascular disease attack. �
Doctors recommended people to take a daily dose of aspirin to decrease the chance of a heart attack or stroke. However, current guidelines recommend people to take aspirin only if they’re at risk of experiencing cardiovascular disease because aspirin increases the risk of bleeding. � Doctors prescribe statins to manage high cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of ischemic stroke and heart attack. �
As previously mentioned above, cerebrovascular disease is identified as a group of diseases, conditions, and disorders which affects the blood vessels and the blood flow supply to the human brain. There are several types of cerebrovascular diseases and their diagnosis and treatment depends on the type and severity. Prompt treatment and lifestyle modifications can improve the outlook of a patient with cerebrovascular disease. Chiropractors are qualified and experienced to help patients with cerebrovascular disease recover from their symptoms. – Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
The purpose of the article above is to describe cerebrovascular disease and its effect on overall health and wellness. Neurological diseases are associated with the brain, the spine, and the nerves. 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: Chronic Pain
Sudden pain is a natural response of the nervous system which helps to demonstrate possible injury. By way of instance, pain signals travel from an injured region through the nerves and spinal cord to the brain. Pain is generally less severe as the injury heals, however, chronic pain is different than the average type of pain. With chronic pain, the human body will continue sending pain signals to the brain, regardless if the injury has healed. Chronic pain can last for several weeks to even several years. Chronic pain can tremendously affect a patient’s mobility and it can reduce flexibility, strength, and endurance.
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If you are wondering about the 
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The best way to describe how GABA and Glutamate work together is to imagine your body as a car. Glutamate is the gas where we have to go from one place to the other and GABA is the brakes where we have stop and rest a bit. And when we add L-theanine to the mixture, it�s a sense of an added booster to our body and central nervous system to not only be relaxed but also have a bit of energy to go out on our daily day to day life.
But there is always still going to be stress in our lives if we don�t control it. 
