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.
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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.
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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.
Dr. Alex Jimenez Explains How Inflammation and Oxidative Stress Affects Methylation
DNA methylation activity is in charge of a variety of essential bodily functions, however, this process can be easily interrupted. According to healthcare professionals, proper nutrition and lifestyle habits can help decrease inflammation and oxidative stress which can affect methylation. Although a complete research study on the treatments which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress is beyond the scope of this article, the following list offers common treatments utilized to help promote methylation support.
Inflammation
Regulating blood glucose levels can help manage inflammation in the human body. Increased circulating glucose levels as well as acute, postprandial glucose spikes can ultimately trigger oxidative stress, demonstrating that glucose should be controlled. Excess weight can also develop pro-inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-alpha and IL-6, which has been associated with abnormal DNA methylation patterns. An increased body-mass index, or BMI, and especially central adiposity, can ultimately trigger chronic inflammation.
Excessive levels of bacteria or dysbiosis in an individual’s gastrointestinal, or GI, tract can also promote higher levels of local and systemic inflammation. Bacterial pro-inflammatory compounds with systemic effects can originate from both the small and large intestine as well as in the stomach and oral cavity. Pro-inflammatory pathogenic bacterial species may also be found in internal tissues, such as atherosclerotic plaque. Helicobacter pylori, potentially located in the stomach, is also associated with abnormal methylation.
Food allergies and food sensitivities have also been demonstrated to increase inflammation through innate immune activation. Follow an anti-inflammatory diet which avoids the consumption of pro-inflammatory foods, such as sugars, refined carbohydrates, conventionally-raised animal products, refined vegetable oils, hydrogenated fats, and phytonutrient-rich whole plant foods and omega-3 fatty acids. Furthermore, pro-inflammatory lifestyle factors, such as stress and sedentary behavior, can be regulated through stress management techniques and physical activity. Lifestyle factors also affect DNA methylation, inflammation, and oxidative stress.
Oxidative Stress
Oxidative stress can be caused due to metabolic, dietary or environmental factors, including excessive calories, excessive sugars/refined carbohydrates, too little or too much exercise, excessive alcohol consumption, tobacco smoke, air pollutants, fungal toxins, charbroiled foods and other advanced glycation end products, ionizing radiation, chronic infections, poor sleep, and gut dysbiosis, can all contribute to oxidative stress which may lead to inflammation and affect DNA methylation activity.
Regulating oxidative stress, and therefore inflammation and DNA methylation activity, includes decreasing pro-inflammatory sources as well as increasing support in the form of antioxidants found in a high plant-food diet, herbs, spices, nuts, seeds, and unrefined oils. Specific supplements such as N-acetylcysteine, alpha lipoic acid and coenzyme Q10 may also be useful. The process by which oxidative stress can lead to inflammation and affect methylation is demonstrated by a variety of processes in the diagram below.
Inflammation is the human body’s natural response to injury, infection, or disease. Although it plays a fundamental role by signaling the immune system to heal and repair damaged tissue as well as to defend itself against foreign invaders, chronic inflammation caused by oxidative stress can affect DNA methylation. As mentioned in the article above, proper nutrition and lifestyle habits can help reduce inflammation caused by oxidative stress, ultimately improving methylation and 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 regulate oxidate stress and inflammation to 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
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Research has given us even more reasons to eat our veggies. Several studies have revealed that certain types of vegetables, specifically those known as cruciferous vegetables, have properties that could make them useful in preventing cancer.
Contents
What are Cruciferous Vegetables?
Some of the crunchiest, tastiest vegetables belong to the Cruciferae family. Typically cool weather vegetables, they are most notably characterized by four petal flowers somewhat resembling a cross.
These flower buds or the leaves are the parts of these plants that are most often consumed. However, the seeds or roots of some of these vegetables are also edible. Incorporating some of these cruciferous vegetables into your diet may help lower your risk for cancer:
Broccoli
Cabbage
Wasabi
Collard greens
Bok choi
Brussels sprout
Arugula
Cauliflower
Mustard (leaves and seeds)
Turnips
Horseradish
Rutabaga
Kale
Radish
Watercress
What is the Link Between Cruciferous Vegetables and Cancer?
Cruciferous vegetables are packed with nutrients that are believed to lower a person�s risk for several types of cancers, including prostate cancer, colorectal cancer, lung cancer, and breast cancer. This includes the carotenoids zeaxanthin, lutein, and beta-carotene as well as folate and vitamins C, E, and K. They are also rich in minerals and an excellent source of fiber which is well known for preventing colorectal cancer.
This group of vegetables is also a good dietary source of glucosinolates which also has cancer-fighting properties. When intact, the glucosinolates are not effective, but when they are broken down through chewing, processing, and pests, they then make contact with the myrosinase enzyme and initiate a process that releases specific chemicals that can prevent cancer.
How Cruciferous Vegetables Prevent Cancer
There are three primary ways that cruciferous vegetables can prevent cancer. Researchers have found substantial evidence that shows when they are part of a healthy, clean, low-fat diet, a person�s risk of cancer can be decreased.
Glucosinolates � These are chemicals that contain sulfur and are present in all cruciferous vegetables, giving them their trademark bitter flavor and pungent aroma. When this substance is broken down by chewing, preparation, or digestion, it forms certain compounds (indole-3-carbinol and sulforaphane) that scientists have identified as having �anticancer properties.� They do this by impeding the development or growth of cancer. Studies have looked at this effect on mice and rats and found that it is particularly useful in specific organs. Researchers are also looking at other ways the substances can prevent cancer. When working in the body, they:
Have anti-inflammatory properties
Aid in preventing DNA damage to cells
Inhibit the formation of blood vessels in tumors
Are antibacterial and antiviral
Inhibit the migration of tumor cells, thus halting metastasis
Cause cancerous cells to die
Aid in causing carcinogens to become inactiveBioactive components � Some studies have shown that the bioactive components of these veggies can affect the biomarkers of processes related to cancer in the human body such as decreasing abnormal cell growth. Genetic encoding of glutathione S-transferase � Glutathione S-transferase is an enzyme that helps the body metabolize and eliminate isothiocyanates. This is important because isothiocyanates prevent the activation of carcinogens, increase the speed at which the carcinogens are removed from the body, and counteract the dangerous effects of active carcinogens.
Best Ways to Consume Cruciferous Vegetables
Cruciferous vegetables are at their most nutritious and have the greatest cancer-fighting properties when they are raw. When the vegetables are chopped and chewed they release the most cancer-fighting chemicals. Likewise, when they are cooked, they lose a great deal of those properties. Steaming or cooking the vegetables very lightly for less than 5 minutes will allow them to retain some of those cancer-fighting properties.
Patients from all around, each with a variety of occupations experience common painful symptoms affecting their health and wellness and quality of life. Every testimonial describes how neck pain, back pain, and piriformis syndrome, can tremendously limit their ability to engage in everyday responsibilities.
Dr. Alex Jimenez, a doctor of chiropractic, has helped them find relief from their symptoms. Each patient describes their rehabilitation, and they highly recommend Dr. Jimenez as the non-surgical choice.
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The spinal cord and brain make up the central nervous system while the spinal nerves that branch to the spinal cord and cranial nerves that branch to the brain makes up the peripheral nervous system.
There are thirty-one sets of nerves that extend out of the spinal cord and are connected to it by the nerve root. Each nerve branches out about a half inch from the spinal cord before dividing into smaller branches. The dorsal rami are on the posterior side of the branch while the larger ventral rami are on the anterior side.
The dorsal rami provide nerve function for the skin of the trunk and posterior muscles. The ventral rami from T1 to T12 provide nerve function to the skin of the trunk as well as the lateral and anterior muscles. The anterior divisions that remain for plexuses, networks that provide nerve function to the body. Each plexus has specific areas on the body for skin sensitivity as well as certain muscles. Their point where they exit the spine determines how they are numbered. The four primary plexuses are:
Cervical plexus, C1 � C4, innervates the diaphragm, shoulder, and neck
Brachial plexus, C5 � T1, innervates the upper limbs
Lumbar plexus, T12/L1 � L4, innervates the thigh
Sacral plexus, L4 � S4, innervates the leg and foot.
These spinal nerves have two sets of fibers: motor and sensory. Motor fibers facilitate movement and provide nerve function to the muscles. Sensory fibers facilitate sensitivities to touch, temperature and other stimuli. They provide nerve function to the skin.
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What are Myotomes and Dermatomes?
A group of muscles that are innervated by the motor fibers that stem from a specific nerve root is called a myotome. An area of the skin that is innervated by the sensory fibers that stem from a specific nerve root is called a dermatome. These patterns of myotome and dermatome are almost always identical from person to person. There are occasionally variances, but that is rare.
This consistency allows doctors to treat nerve pain in patients. If a specific area is hurting, they know that it is attributed to a certain myotome or dermatome, whichever the case may be, and its corresponding nerve root. Problems with nerve damage are often the result of stretching the nerve or compressing it.
When the nerves are injured in specific areas like the lumbosacral or brachial plexus, it presents as sensory and motor deficits in the limbs that correspond to them. Myotomes and dermatomes are used to assess the extent of the damage.
How are Myotomes and Dermatomes used to Assess Nerve Damage?
When a doctor tests for nerve root damage in a patient, he or she will often test the myotomes or dermatomes for the nerves assigned to that location. A dermatome is examined for abnormal sensation, such as hypersensitivity or lack of sensitivity.
This is done by using stimulus inducing tools such as a pen, paper clip, pinwheel, fingernails, cotton ball, or pads of the fingers. The patient is instructed to provide feedback regarding their response. Some of the abnormal sensation responses include:
A myotome is tested for nerve damage in the muscles which presents as muscle weakness. This grading scale, which assigns a rating to the degree of muscle weakness, is often used:
5 � Normal � Complete range of motion against gravity with full resistance
4 � Good � Complete range of motion against gravity with some resistance
3 � Fair � Complete range of motion against gravity with no resistance, active ROM
2 � Poor � Complete range of motion with some assistance and gravity eliminated
1 � Trace � Evidence of slight muscular contraction, no joint motion evident
0 � Zero � No evidence of muscle contraction
During a typical chiropractic exam, your chiropractor will assess both dermatomes and myotomes for potential neurological problems. This gives them additional insight on how to treat your condition, whether it’s related to a subluxation of vertebral bodies or other, other disease processes.
Hiking�with the family and you twist your ankle. It hurts, but you make it back without much problem. You notice you have some swelling and soreness, so you head home for some R.I.C.E. (rest, ice, compression, elevation).
You pass it off, saying, �Oh, it�s just a sprain.� But when your doctor checks you out the next day, he tells you that it is �strained.� Sprain vs. strain, what�s the difference?
While many people use the two terms interchangeably, they are not the same. There are some distinct differences although many of the symptoms are almost identical. In short, when a ligament is injured, it is called a sprain. When a muscle or tendon is injured, it is called a strain.
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What Exactly are Sprains & Strains?
Ligaments are tough bands of tissue that connect two bones as they sit in a joint. For example, the tibia and fibula come together to fit in the ankle joint. Tendons join those two bones together to keep the ankle stable. A joint sprain occurs when these ligaments are torn or overstretched. The ankle is the most commonly sprained joint.
Tendons are cords of tissue made up of a dense network of fibers. They connect the muscle to the bone. A joint strain occurs when the tendons or muscles tear or overstretch. The lower back and hamstrings are the most common areas for muscle strain.
Both injuries are very similar, so it stands to reason that the symptoms of the injuries are also almost identical. This is why they are so commonly confused.
Symptoms of Sprains & Strains
The symptoms for each condition is very similar, but there are some differences.
Symptoms of Sprains include:
Pain around the area that is affected
Bruising in the affected area
Swelling in the immediate area but can expand to encompass more area
Limited range of motion
Decreased flexibility
Symptoms of Strains include:
Pain at the site of the joint that is affected
Muscle spasm
Swelling in the immediate area but can expand to encompass more area
Limited range of motion
Decreased flexibility
As you can see, the symptoms of sprains and strains are very close. The primary differences though are that bruising may occur with a sprain while a strain may elicit muscle spasms in the muscle that is affected.
What Causes Sprains and Strains?
Experiencing a sprain or strain every once in a while is not out of the ordinary. We put our bodies through a lot in a day. However, certain activities can make you more susceptible to movements that can lead to these injuries. They include:
Exercise or athletic activities, especially those that are high impact
Walking
Repetitive motion for a long period of time
Overexertion
Jogging or running
Slipping or falling
Standing or sitting in an unnatural or awkward position
Walking or running on unstable surfaces, like rocks or ice
Lifting objects that are too heavy
The most common areas for these injuries include:
Back
Ankle
Wrist
Knee
Thumb
How to Avoid Sprains and Strains
Sometimes injuries just happen and there�s nothing you can do about it. However, in most cases, you can take proactive steps to minimize your risks. These are some of the most common risk factors:
Being in poor physical condition
Using proper form when exercising
Failing to warm up before activities like exercising
Not using the right equipment for your workout or sporting activity.
Maintaining a hazardous environment at home, such as clutter on the floor or things you can trip over or slip on.
Fatigue or overly tired
Failure to avoid hazardous areas like floors that are wet and slippery or sidewalks that are iced over and slick.
If you have a sprain or strain and notice that the swelling has not subsided or if you still have pain after a week or so, you need to follow up with your doctor to make sure you don�t have a more severe injury.
*Sciatica Pain* Treatment Relief | El Paso, TX (2019)
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