Back Clinic Neuropathy Treatment Team. Peripheral neuropathy is a result of damage to peripheral nerves. This often causes weakness, numbness, and pain, usually in the hands and feet. It can also affect other areas of your body. The peripheral nervous system sends information from the brain and spinal cord (central nervous system) to the body. It can result from traumatic injuries, infections, metabolic problems, inherited causes, and exposure to toxins. One of the most common causes is diabetes mellitus.
People generally describe the pain as stabbing, burning, or tingling. Symptoms can improve, especially if caused by a treatable condition. Medications can reduce the pain of peripheral neuropathy. It can affect one nerve (mononeuropathy), two or more nerves in different areas (multiple mononeuropathies), or many nerves (polyneuropathy). Carpal tunnel syndrome is an example of mononeuropathy. Most people with peripheral neuropathy have polyneuropathy. Seek medical attention right away if there is unusual tingling, weakness, or pain in your hands or feet. Early diagnosis and treatment offer the best chance for controlling your symptoms and preventing further damage to the peripheral nerves. Testimonies http://bit.ly/elpasoneuropathy
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We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.
Did you ever let your foot fall asleep and suffer first from numbness and then from a tingling, pins-and-needles sensation while it �awakened�? People with peripheral neuropathy suffer from those types of sensations all the time. And there�s growing evidence that peripheral neuropathy is linked with celiac disease and gluten sensitivity.
The Prevalence of Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that occurs from damaged nerves in the arms, legs, hands, and feet. Commonly, symptoms experienced as a result of this are numbness, tingling, burning, and pain. The condition has a number of different causes, such as, diabetes, chemotherapy, statin medications, disc herniation and traumas, toxic metal exposure, chronic alcohol consumption and vitamin deficiencies. Now, however, scientists have linked peripheral nerve damage to gluten sensitivity and celiac disease.
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, spelt, kamut and barley. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that wreaks havoc on the digestive tract. When a person afflicted with celiac�s eats even the tiniest bit of gluten it causes damage to the small intestine and interferes with nutrient absorption. In many cases, the inability to absorb nutrients can stunt growth, weaken bones and damage peripheral nerves resulting in neuropathy.
Celiac disease affects one out of every 100 people throughout the world. In America, two-and-a-half million Americans are undiagnosed and at risk for serious health problems, according to the Celiac Foundation. If it goes untreated, after a while a person can develop disorders like type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, dermatitis herpetiformis (itchy skin rash), anemia, osteoporosis, infertility, miscarriage, neurological conditions like epilepsy, migraines, short stature, intestinal cancers, and now nerve damage.
It was approximately five years ago that researchers first discovered a possible link between celiac disease and neuropathy. A new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association Neurology has found celiac disease patients are at an increased risk for nerve damage. �It�s quite a high figure, compared to many other outcomes in celiac disease,� the study�s coauthor Dr. Jonas Ludvigsson, a pediatrician and professor at Karolinska Institutet in Sweden, said in a statement. �There is a real association between celiac disease and neuropathy� [and] we have precise risk estimates in a way we haven�t had before.�
Furthermore, Swedish researchers studied medical records between 1969 and 2008 from over 28,000 patients with celiac disease and compared them to 139,000 people who were never diagnosed with the autoimmune disorder. Those with celiac disease were 2.5 times more likely to suffer from nerve damage also known as neuropathy.
Meanwhile, non-celiac gluten sensitivity is a newly-recognized condition, and physicians who are performing research on this topic say tingling and numbness in the extremities represents one of the most common gluten sensitivity symptoms.
In another study, researchers screened 215 patients with peripheral neuropathy. A total of 140 of these had �idiopathic neuropathy,� meaning there was no apparent medical reason for their peripheral neuropathy.
The researchers tested those 140 people for antibodies to gluten using two celiac disease blood tests, the AGA-IgA test and the AGA-IgG test. Although these tests are not thought to be very specific to celiac disease, they can detect if your body views gluten as an invader and is generating antibodies against the protein.
Thirty-four percent of those tested � 47 people � had high antibodies to gluten in one or both of those tests, compared with a 12% rate of high antibodies to gluten in the overall population.
The researchers also performed endoscopies and biopsies on those people in the study suspected to have celiac disease, and found that 9% of those in the �unexplained neuropathy� group actually had celiac. The celiac disease genes � i.e., HLA-DQ2 and HLA-DQ8 � were found in 80% of all peripheral neuropathy patients.
Celiac, Gluten Sensitivity Symptoms & Neuropathy
New research has revealed that peripheral neuropathy actually is one of the most common non-digestive symptoms of celiac disease, and gluten sensitivities, according to the University of Chicago Celiac Disease Center. In fact, it�s possible to have no noticeable gastrointestinal symptoms of celiac disease, but instead to have mainly peripheral neuropathy and other neurological symptoms.
Researchers analyzed medical records of over 28,000 patients with biopsy-confirmed celiac disease and then they followed up with all the study participants after a median of 10 years to see if they had developed nerve damage. They found that those with celiac disease had a 2.5-fold increased risk of developing nerve damage over a period of time as compared to the control population.
How Gluten Sensitivity Causes Nerve Damage
Neurological symptoms such as peripheral neuropathy, migraines and brain fog are even more common in non-celiac gluten sensitivity, according to Harvard Medical School�s Dr. Alessio Fasano, one of the lead researchers in the field of gluten sensitivity. Dr. Fasano says up to 30% of people he�s diagnosed with gluten sensitivity have neurological symptoms � a much larger percentage than people with neurological symptoms in celiac disease.
Dr. Fasano: Gluten Sensitivity May Affect 6% to 7% Overall
Dr. Fasano, director of the University of Maryland Center for Celiac Research, published the first study looking at the molecular basis for gluten sensitivity and how it differs from celiac disease. He also participated in the research concluding that celiac disease incidence is one in every 133 people.
According to Dr. Fasano, gluten sensitivity potentially affects far more people than celiac disease. He estimates about 6% to 7% of the U.S. population may be gluten-sensitive, meaning some 20 million people in the United States alone could be sensitive to gluten.
Symptoms of gluten sensitivity in this population can include digestive problems, headaches, rashes and eczema-like skin symptoms, brain fog, fatigue, and peripheral neuropathy. Almost one-third of those he�s diagnosed as gluten-sensitive report brain fog and headaches as symptoms, he says.
Dr. Ford and Dr. Fine Say Percentage Could Be Far Higher � Up To 50%
Dr. Ford, a pediatrician in Christchurch, New Zealand and author of The Gluten Syndrome, says he believes the percentage of people who are gluten-sensitive actually could be much higher � potentially between 30% and 50%.
�There are so many people who are sick,� he says. �At least 10% are gluten-sensitive, and it�s probably more like 30%. I was sticking my neck out years ago when I said at least 10% of the population is gluten-sensitive. My medical colleagues were saying gluten sensitivity didn�t exist. We�ll probably find it�s more than 50% when we finally settle on a number.�
Dr. Fine, a gastroenterologist who founded and directs the gluten sensitivity testing service Enterolab, agrees that gluten sensitivity probably affects half the population.
Another large percentage of Americans have autoimmune disorders, irritable bowel syndrome, chronic headaches and/or microscopic colitis, which place them at high risk for gluten sensitivity. About 60% to 65% of people with those conditions test positive for gluten sensitivity through Enterolab, Meanwhile, about 20% to 25% of people with no symptoms are diagnosed with gluten sensitivity based on Enterolab testing results, says Dr. Fine.
�When we did the math, we came up with the number of about one in two are gluten-sensitive,� he says.
Neuropathy Found in People with Gluten Sensitivity
A study published in 2010 in the journal of Neurology found that a gluten free diet led to stabilization of the neuropathy for many of the patients in this study.
Over the past many years, gluten has been shown to induce an autoimmune antibody response to nerve cells, myelin sheath (protective coating around nerves, as well as receptor sites on cells that bind neurotransmitters (chemicals that allow nerves to communicate).
It has also been discovered that gluten can contribute to the breakdown of the blood brain barrier. This allows chemical toxins to leak into the blood supply of the brain itself .
In addition, it has become a well researched fact that Gluten sensitivity can damage the gut inducing malabsorption of vitamins and minerals (such as vitamins B1 and B12). Gluten sensitivity has been linked to the following list of neurologic conditions:
So it goes without saying, if you have been diagnosed with Celiac disease or gluten sensitivity/intolerance or if you suspect you may have these conditions, going gluten free is imperative for the health of your nerves and your GI tract. If you are unsure, then try the � GLUTEN FREE FOR 3 � challenge. Go completely gluten free for just 3 days and keep a journal to log in how you feel and sleep during those 3 days. If you feel better, overall, then chances are high that you are gluten sensitive.
For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
Additional Topics: Early Intervention After Auto Injury
When a person is involved in an unexpected automobile accident, the most common type of injury which often results from the incident is whiplash. Whiplash is identified as a neck injury caused by the sudden, back-and-forth motion of the head during a car crash. Whiplash can cause a variety of symptoms and complications if left untreated, which is why seeking medical treatment immediately after being involved in an auto accident is essential in order to help people recover quickly without developing further issues.
It�s often assumed that in order to develop type 2 diabetes, you have to be overweight. While it�s true that excess weight is clearly associated with insulin resistance and diabetes, it�s the insulin resistance � not necessarily the weight gain � that drives the disease.
As such, many people with a healthy weight are not metabolically healthy, putting them at risk of diseases like type 2 diabetes � even without being overweight or obese.
One of the greatest risk factors, according to University of Florida researchers, is actually inactivity, which drives up your risk of pre-diabetes regardless of your weight.
Inactivity Is Associated with Diabetes
If you were looking for motivation to get moving, this study, published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, is as good as it gets.
In a survey of more than 1,100 healthy-weight individuals, those who were inactive (physically active for less than 30 minutes per week) were more likely to have an A1C level of 5.7 or higher, which is considered to be pre-diabetic.
The researchers suggested that people who live a largely sedentary lifestyle yet have a healthy weight may have �normal-weight obesity or �skinny fat,’� which they described as a �high proportion of fat to lean muscle.�
�Don�t focus solely on the scale and think you�re OK. If you have a sedentary lifestyle, make sure you get up and move,� lead author Arch Mainous III, chair of health services research, management and policy in the University of Florida�s College of Public Health and Health Professions, said in a news release.
Weight Doesn�t Always Reveal Metabolic Health
Weight isn�t always an accurate tool by which to gauge metabolic health, and research by Dr. Robert Lustig, professor of pediatric endocrinology at the University of California, San Francisco (USCF), bears this out.
Lustig is perhaps best known for speaking out about the health risks of sugar, but in our 2015 interview he explained the problem with �judging a book by its cover� in terms of weight and health.
More than two-thirds of the American population is overweight or obese. About 50 percent have diabetes or pre-diabetes, and 1 out of every 3 have high blood pressure. Many also have high serum triglycerides, which is a risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Insulin resistance is a component of all of these health issues.
According to Lustig, at least 50 percent of Americans have some form of insulin resistance � whether you�re overweight or not � and that is what�s driving our seemingly out-of-control disease statistics.
Exercise Is Important
The evidence is clear that regular physical activity, which includes reducing your time spent sitting and exercising, is crucial to lower your risk of diabetes (and treat it if you�ve already been diagnosed).
For instance, sitting for more than eight hours a day has been shown to increase your risk of type 2 diabetes by 90 percent, while people with diabetes who engaged in a six-month moderate-intensity exercise program experienced significant health improvements, including decreased fat in the abdomen, liver and around the heart.
How to Determine if You�re Pre-Diabetic
If you�re reading this and aren�t sure what your fasting insulin and glucose levels are, these are blood tests I recommend receiving annually. Your fasting insulin level reflects how healthy your blood glucose levels are over time.
A normal fasting blood insulin level is below 5, but ideally you�ll want it below 3. A fasting glucose level below 100 mg/dl suggests you�re not insulin resistant, while a level between 100 and 125 confirms you have pre-diabetes. If this, or your A1C level, confirms you either have or are at risk of pre-diabetes or diabetes, the time to take action is now. You might also find a hip-to-waist size index chart helpful.
This is far better than body mass index (BMI) for evaluating whether or not you may have a weight problem, as BMI fails to factor in both how muscular you are and your intra-abdominal fat mass (the dangerous visceral fat that accumulates around your inner organs), which is a potent indicator of insulin/leptin sensitivity and the associated health problems.
You Can Improve Your Insulin Sensitivity in Just Two Weeks
Fortunately, proper exercise and attention to diet can reverse the course of this disease, with benefits seen in as little as two weeks (and to some extent after just one exercise session).
For instance, unfit but otherwise healthy middle-aged adults were able to improve their insulin sensitivity and blood sugar regulation after just two weeks of interval training (three sessions per week). A follow-up study also found that interval training positively impacted insulin sensitivity.
The study involved people with full-blown type 2 diabetes, and just one interval training session was able to improve blood sugar regulation for the next 24 hours.10 You can actually reap much greater benefits by exercising in short, high-intensity bursts known as intervals than you can exercising for longer periods at a slower steady pace.
The high-intensity interval training (HIIT) approach I personally use and recommend is the Peak Fitness method, which consists of 30 seconds of maximum effort followed by 90 seconds of recuperation, for a total of eight repetitions. I also recommend super slow weight lifting for your resistance training.
Getting Up From Your Chair Is Also Important
When you hear the term sedentary, it�s important to understand that exercising for 20 or 30 minutes a day, and then sitting for much of the rest, is not enough to pull you out of this category. Long hours spent sitting are linked to chronic diseases including diabetes, and this may be, in part, because it increases aging at the cellular level.
In a study of 64- to 95-year-old women, those who sat for more than 10 hours a day and got less than 40 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity had shorter telomeres and were, on average, eight years older, biologically speaking, than women who moved around more often.
Every time a cell divides, the telomeres get shorter, which is why they�re used as a measure of biological aging. Short telomeres have also been linked with chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease and diabetes.
In addition, your body�s ability to respond to insulin is affected by just one day of excess sitting, which leads your pancreas to produce increased amounts of insulin. Research published in Diabetologia also found that those who sat for the longest periods of time were twice as likely to have diabetes or heart disease, compared to those who sat the least. I recommend replacing the majority of your sedentary sitting time with active movement, keeping sitting to three hours a day or less.
What to Do if You Have Pre-Diabetes or Diabetes
You may be thin but that doesn�t mean you have more lean muscle than fat in your body. Having a higher percentage of fat than lean muscle can set the stage for insulin resistance.
The take-home message to remember is that you shouldn�t assume you�re metabolically healthy just because you�re not overweight or obese � especially if you live a largely sedentary lifestyle. You could actually be �skinny fat,� with many of the same health risks as someone who�s overweight or obese and sedentary.
The good news is that there�s plenty you can do to not only reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes and pre-diabetes but also improve your metabolic health at the same time.
During the three-year Diabetes Prevention Program study, for instance, lifestyle interventions were found to be more effective than the diabetes drug metformin at preventing or delaying the development of diabetes in people at high risk of the disease. A follow-up study monitored the group for 15 years � and lifestyle interventions were still more effective than metformin at preventing diabetes.13
One of the most important dietary recommendations is to limit net carbs (total carbohydrates minus fiber) and protein, replacing them with higher amounts of high-quality healthy fats, like seeds, nuts, raw grass-fed butter, olives, avocado, coconut oil, organic pastured eggs and animal fats (including animal-based omega-3s).
If you�re insulin resistant or diabetic, I also strongly suggest you limit your total fructose intake to 15 grams per day until your insulin/leptin resistance has resolved (then it can be increased to 25 grams) and start intermittent fasting as soon as possible.
As mentioned, exercise and reduced sitting time are also crucial, along with attention to proper sleep, optimized vitamin D levels and gut health. Taken together, this plan will lower your risk of diabetes and related chronic diseases and help you to avoid becoming victim to a health condition you might not even realize you have.
For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
Additional Topics: Early Intervention After Auto Injury
When a person is involved in an unexpected automobile accident, the most common type of injury which often results from the incident is whiplash. Whiplash is identified as a neck injury caused by the sudden, back-and-forth motion of the head during a car crash. Whiplash can cause a variety of symptoms and complications if left untreated, which is why seeking medical treatment immediately after being involved in an auto accident is essential in order to help people recover quickly without developing further issues.
High level performers are always looking for strategies that will give them an edge in their field of endeavor. Athletes want to run a split second faster and jump an inch higher while business executives want to have sharper mental clarity and improved working efficiency. Specific meal timing and superfood strategies have been shown to optimize performance and recovery.
We all want to perform at our peak no matter whether we are a teacher, stay at home mom, doctor or athlete. It is also integral that we recover fast and effectively. The goal is peak performance and quick and effective recovery so we can get up the next day and do it all over again.
Optimize Your Performance
Performance in any field depends upon high level mental activity and often kinesthetic activity whether that be running or jumping or eye-hand coordination. The keys for healthy function include good fats, anti-oxidants and clean protein sources.
Providing lots of clean healthy foods and meal timing properly can make a huge difference in your overall energy and daily performance. Use the principles in this article to help guide you in preparing your body for great energy and daily performance in your daily life.
Coconut
This superfood is loaded with medium chain triglycerides (MCT�s) that break down for energy very easily. Unlike most fat sources which consist of long chain fatty acids these MCT�s do not depend upon bile and instead go right to the liver and are metabolized immediately for energy.
Muscle cells are also able to store MCT�s and use them immediately for energy during exercise sessions.
Bone Broth Protein
Bone broth contains a wide variety of valuable nutrients including collagen, gelatin, hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate, glycosamino glycans, proline, glycine, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and potassium. These all help with the development of healthy joints, bones, ligaments and tendons as well as hair and skin.
These nutrients are considered beauty foods because they help the body with proper structural alignment and beautiful skin and hair. They also help to prevent against injuries by strengthening joints, tendons and ligaments. Additionally, bone broth is great for the immune system.
If you are unable to make your own bone broth, than you can try our Bone Broth Protein which comes with the same benefits as homemade broth, but it�s even more versatile in so many recipes. Bone Broth Protein begins as a true bone broth liquid. It�s then dehydrated, making it into a concentrated source of high-quality, tasty powder.
Berries
Berries are loaded with anti-oxidants and are low in sugar. Berries contain unique phytonutrients called anthocyanin�s that give them their strong pigments and allow them to handle intense sunlight. Consuming these anthocyanin�s helps our bodies adapt to stress effectively.
Be sure to get your berries organic as the thin skin makes them susceptible to pesticides and they are highly contaminated with dangerous pesticides when produced on conventional farms.
Spinach
This superfood is loaded with blood purifying chlorophyll and the anti-oxidants lutein and zeaxanthin. Spinach also contains its own plant based steroids called phyoecdysteroids that boost the bodies ability to adapt to stress. Phytoecdysteroids are similar to insect molting hormones and have been shown to dramatically increase glucose metabolism.
This keeps blood sugar levels stable and minimizes the need for the critical fat-storage hormone insulin. Additionally, phytoecdysteroids increase human muscle tissue growth rates by 20% when applied in a culture medium.
Rice & Pea Proteins
For sensitive cases where people have pronounced sensitivities I prefer to use either a brown rice or pea protein. Pea protein appears to be the most hypoallergenic of all protein powders and has a 98% absorption rate. This combination of 1% brown rice and 99% pea protein has a great blend of branched chain amino acids, lysine and arginine for lean body tissue development and good circulation
Pea & brown rice protein has also been shown to be very easy on the digestive system and the protein is fairly quickly assimilated into muscle tissue. This is important because slower digesting and assimilating proteins have a greater chance of producing gas and making one feel bloated. Most plant proteins have poor assimilation rates but pea, brown rice and hemp proteins are the rare exceptions.
These are loaded with sulfur containing amino acids like methionine and cysteine which are critical for glutathione production. They are also a rich vegetarian source of branched chain amino acids. They contain essential fatty acids and edestin and albumin which are similar to the makeup of human blood and these help with critical functions like DNA repair.
Grass-Fed Butter
Dairy from grass-fed cows is extraordinarily rich in essential fats and critical nutrients like vitamin K2 and magnesium. The best foods from this group include grass-fed butter and ghee which are loaded with anti-inflammatory fats and anti-oxidants.
Grass-fed butter and ghee are also rich in conjugated linoleic acid, which helps burn fat and is anti-carcinogenic. It is the best food source of the anti-inflammatory short chain fatty acid butyrate. Finally, it is full of choline which supports healthy brain and neurotransmitter production. I use butter and ghee generously each day. Look for Kerry Gold grass-fed butter here
Red Onions
These are loaded with the flavonoid anti-oxidant quercetin. They also contain sulfur containing amino acids that boost cysteine and glutathione production within the body. They also have chromium which helps to regulate blood sugar levels.
Grass-Fed Beef
Cows that are fed a 100% green diet are loaded with anti-oxidants like carnosine and essential fatty acids. Because cows have multiple stomachs and are able to fully digest grass (humans cannot) we are getting the benefits of this fully digested super-greens in a high protein food.
A fantastic source for grass-fed beef and pastured poultry is US Wellness Meats here
Avocados
Avocados are loaded with good fats and carotenoid anti-oxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin. It is very easy on the digestive system and helps support optimal hormone function, muscle development and exercise recovery.
Raw Chocolate
This is rich in good fats and polyphenol anti-oxidants for fuel and recovery. Chocolate contains theobromine which is a natural cardiovascular stimulant that helps improve circulation throughout the body.
Proper Meal Timing
It is best to eat light before our times of performance to keep as much energy focused on the specific performance rather than on digestion. Instead of food, turn to water, as optimal hydration correlates very strongly with great performance. I try to stay super hydrated throughout the day and notice that as my water intake drops, my energy and mental acuity declines.
After the performance we want to have our largest meal to replenish our system with nutrients. Ideally, you have your largest meal at the end of your day as opposed to the beginning of your day. This helps your body to recover from the stresses of the day. You are in a relaxed position at this point, as you no longer have to work hard and perform, so it allows you to digest and absorb the nutrients you need more effectively.
This helps to take stress off of your gut lining and improves the integrity of your digestive system. When you eat in a hurry or have a large meal before a stressful event or a busy day, you compromise your digestive system and cause more inflammation in the body.
These ideas and much more I teach in our Navigating the Ketogenic diet program. Opt-in here for more details and a FREE video training series I give you on advanced strategies to improve your performance.
Diet and Nutrition for a Healthy Back
As most patients are well aware, good nutrition and a balanced diet are important components of overall health. What may surprise people with back problems is that diet, nutrition and maintaining a healthy weight also play a major role in the back � including preventing many problems and healing from injuries.
The bones, muscles and other structures in the spine need good nutrition and vitamins so that they are strong enough to support the body and to perform their other functions. Using these nutritional guidelines, patients can integrate back-friendly vitamins and nutrients into their diets.
Choosing the Right Foods for Optimal Nutrition
Eating a balanced diet that includes the right amount and variety of vitamins and nutrients will reduce back problems by nourishing the bones, muscles, discs and other structures in the spine. Particular importance is given to calcium, which can be obtained through a variety of healthy food choices as well as nutritional supplements.
While a healthy diet calls for many vitamins and nutrients, this partial list highlights a number of healthy choices that can be directly beneficial for helping back patients.
Role of Vitamin or Nutrient Food Sources
Vitamin A
An antioxidant that assists the immune system in fighting off diseases. It is good for the back because it helps repair tissue and in the formation of bone. It also helps the body use protein effectively.
Additionally, the body can convert beta-carotene into vitamin A. Beta-carotene can be found in dark green leafy vegetables and most orange vegetables and fruits.
It�s important not to get more then the recommended daily allowance of vitamin A, as too much can promote bone fractures. Beta-carotene does not increase the risk of fracture.
Vitamin A can be found in beef, calf and chicken liver; dairy products like milk, butter, cheese and eggs; orange fruits such as apricots, nectarines and cantaloupe; orange or green vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes and spinach.
Vitamin B12
Necessary for healthy bone marrow and for the body � and the spine � to grow and function normally. Vitamin B12 can be found in meat products, such as liver, fish, red meat and poultry; dairy products, such as milk, yogurt and cheese; and eggs.
Vitamin C
Necessary for the development of collagen, which is an important part of the process that allows cells to be able to form into tissue. This is extremely important for healing problems caused by injured tendons, ligaments and vertebral discs, as well as for keeping bones and other tissues strong.
Vitamin C can be found in fruits, such as strawberries, kiwi fruit and citrus fruits (e.g. oranges, guavas, grapefruits) and tomatoes; many vegetables, such as broccoli, spinach, red and green peppers, sweet potatoes and white potatoes.
Vitamin D
Improves calcium absorption, which is important for the development of strong and healthy bones. Adequate calcium absorption is particularly important to help prevent development of osteoporosis, a disorder characterized by weak and brittle bones in the spine that can results in painful vertebral fractures. Vitamin D is naturally occurring in egg yolks and fish oils; also found in most brands of fortified milk in the US; can also be obtained by spending time in the sunlight.
Vitamin K
Needed for the bones to properly use calcium. The combination of vitamin K and calcium works to help bones throughout the body stay strong and healthy. Vitamin K is found in liver, pork, green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale and broccoli, and dairy products.
Iron
Needed for cells to remain healthy as it helps them receive oxygen and get rid of carbon dioxide. It also aids in the production of myoglobin, an important element of healthy muscles that are needed to support the spine. Iron is found in meat products such as liver, pork, fish, shellfish, red meat and poultry; lentils, beans, soy, eggs, grains, and green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale and broccoli.
Magnesium
Important for the relaxing and contracting of muscles. It also helps maintain muscle tone and bone density, which in turn can help prevent back problems. Further, it assists in the body�s use of protein. Magnesium is found in whole grains and whole-grain breads, beans, seeds, nuts, potatoes, avocados, bananas, kiwi fruit, shrimp, and green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale and broccoli.
Calcium
Essential for bone health and helps maintain the necessary level of bone mass throughout the lifespan and especially in old age. Adequate calcium intake is particularly important to help prevent development of osteoporosis, which results in weak and brittle bones in the spine that can results in painful vertebral fractures. Calcium is found in dairy products such as yogurt, cheese and especially milk; dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach, broccoli and kale; tofu, peanuts, peas, black beans and baked beans; some types of fish (salmon and sardines); a variety of other foods such as sesame seeds, blackstrap molasses, corn tortillas, almonds and brown sugar.
For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
Additional Topics: Choosing the Right Vitamins
Following a balanced nutrition can help ensure we receive the necessary vitamins and minerals we need to maintain our overall health and wellness. Although many people may successfully follow a healthy diet, it might not always be easy to intake all the right foods we require. More than half of Americans report taking a multivitamin or dietary supplement. There are a wide variety of supplements available in the market and knowing which of these are the correct ones to take can be challenging for many, according to research studies.
For many families, type 2 diabetes can develop in several members of the household. For some people, diabetes has been diagnosed throughout previous generations of family members. However, does this mean, you are bound to inherit the condition?
Over a period of 25 years, according to statistics, the number of people in the world who are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes has increased from 35 million to 240 million. Moreover, these statistics don’t take into account the number of individuals with undiagnosed diabetes. Many families have the relevant concern regarding whether they or future generations could genetically develop type 2 diabetes. While the magnitude of cases is quite significant, the reality is that the widespread issue of diabetes couldn’t have simply occurred through genetic or inherited means in such a short time span.
If genetic alteration is not the reason behind the dramatic increase in type 2 diabetes cases, then why has the condition been on the rise over the past few decades? As a matter of fact, diabetes is a condition that is almost entirely caused by environmental and lifestyle factors. Our genetic code itself may not be altered through these circumstances but our environment as well as stress and improper nutrition and fitness habits can influence the way those genes are expressed. Predisposed genes can certainly contribute to the development of diabetes, however, if you are not exposed to these environmental and lifestyle triggers, the diabetes gene may never fully develop.
The factors that can have the greatest influence on the development of type 2 diabetes among the general population include: diet, exercise, stress management, exposure to environmental and/or food-based toxins and habits which promote weight gain and obesity.
Ultimately, an individual’s exposure to these environmental and lifestyle factors, which subsequently affects their genetic expression, is the greatest contributor to the development of diabetes among families than their actual genome, or set of genes. In fact, according to the World Health Organization, approximately 90 percent of diseases may be caused due to external factors, not through genetic or inherited means.
External environmental sources which can contribute to type 2 diabetes include:�
Air
Water
Diet
Drugs / medications
Pollutants
Heavy metals
Radiation
Physical or psychological stressors
Internal processes include:
Inflammation
Free radical production
Oxidative stress (body�s ability to detoxify chemicals)
Allergens
Infections
Dysbiosis (imbalance of bad to good biotic gut flora)
It�s essential to understand that genetic code cannot change. What can change are which parts of this code are expressed. Research studies have discovered that our environment, as well as our diet, microbes, allergens, toxins, stresses and social connections, even our thoughts and beliefs can trigger which genes are expressed. A person’s genetic code can be tagged by an environmental or lifestyle factor, then, those can alter how their genes are expressed and passed down through future generations.
For example, if your grandmother consumed an excess amount of sugar, smoked, or was exposed to mercury from eating too much sushi, she may have triggered the genetic expression that could lead to obesity and the development of type 2 diabetes, passing it down from generation to generation. However, this does not necessarily mean that you will develop the same conditions she did. The predisposed genes could contribute to obesity and diabetes but this does not mean you are bound to inherit the condition. If you do not expose yourself to the same environmental and lifestyle factors as your grandmother, in this example, you may never develop type 2 diabetes.
In the end, diabetes shouldn’t be strictly considered to be a genetic or inherited disorder. While it’s true that the hereditary genes from your parents and/or grandparents increase your risk of developing the condition, this doesn’t mean you will develop type 2 diabetes. The condition is a direct outcome of environmental and lifestyle factors. Fortunately, you can change this outcome.
Can Type 2 Diabetes be Reversed?
Most people believe that diabetes is irreversible and that once you have it, you will gradually begin to experience a decline in function, including hear disease, kidney failure, blindness, amputation, strokes and dementia. Nonetheless, research studies and scientific evidence has demonstrated that type 2 diabetes is reversible, especially if it is treated aggressively in its early stages through changes in environmental exposure and lifestyle habits, including nutrition and fitness interventions.
Even more advanced stages of diabetes can be reversed with very intense lifestyle changes, supplements and medications. A research study showed that individuals with progressive type 2 diabetes can indeed recover from the condition, even if their pancreas have becomed damaged. The research study also demonstrated that diabetes can be reversed in just one week through drastic changes in diet, particularly a plant-based diet, low in glycemic and calories.
When patients modified their lifestyles, their blood sugar levels plummeted, triglyceride levels fell and the pancreas recovered. After a single week, they were taken off their medication, proving that diabetes is not a progressive, incurable condition. The consumption of a balanced nutrition became the source of their overall health and wellness. While it may take a lot of commitment to reverse type 2 diabetes, you can certainly heal your own body with the right conditions.
7 Strategies to Control Diabetes
Even if you�ve recently been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or you’ve lived with the condition for years, diabetes is reversible. For further support, you can read “the Blood Sugar Solution” to learn essential strategies and incorporate their comprehensive dietary, nutrient and lifestyle plan to help you reverse your diabetes.
In the mean time, there are several other strategies you can implement right now to prevent or reverse type 2 diabetes.
Whether diabetes is a condition found in several members of your family, it has been diagnosed throughout several generations in your family or you have this disorder yourself, the ability to normalize blood sugar levels and lower insulin can be under your control, beginning with the following seven strategies.
Ask your doctor for the proper tests. Most doctors focus on fasting blood sugar. This is actually a poor indicator of diabetes. The best test to help properly diagnose the condition is an insulin response test where insulin levels are measured first in a fasting state and then again at one and two hour intervals after consuming a sugary drink. Request this test from your doctor.
Avoid sugar.�The basics of nutrition are very simple. Considerably decrease or eliminate refined sugars and processed carbohydrates from your diet. Include whole, real foods, such as lean protein (chicken or fish), veggies, nuts, seeds, beans, and whole grains.
Supplement intelligently. Supplements are an essential part of treating diabetes. A good multivitamin, vitamin D, fish oil, and special blood sugar balancing nutrients, such as alpha lipoic acid, chromium picolinate, biotin, cinnamon, green tea catechins, and glucomannan, should also be included.
Relax. Stress is a major unrecognized contributor to insulin resistance and blood sugar imbalances. Relax every day with deep breathing, visualization, yoga, meditation, and other relaxation techniques.
Be more active. Aside from changing your diet, exercise and physical activity is probably the best form of treatment for obesity and diabetes. Walk a minimum of 30 minutes every day to experience the wonderful benefits of exercise. For some, 30 to 60 minutes of vigorous aerobic exercise, 4 to 6 times a week may be necessary.
Address your environment. Environmental toxins have also been proven to contribute to obesity and the development of diabetes. Filter your water, look for green cleaning products and avoid plastics whenever you can.
Get enough sleep. Studies show even one partial night of poor sleep can contribute to insulin resistance as well as other complications which could lead to the development of type 2 diabetes.
Many people who have family members with type 2 diabetes are concerned whether they themselves or future generations could be at risk of inheriting the condition. While scientific studies and evidence have shown that predisposed genes could influence the development of diabetes, more research studies have demonstrated that environmental and lifestyle factors are the true source of type 2 diabetes. However, changing these factors could prevent and even reverse diabetes.
For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
Neck pain is characterized as the most prevalent symptom after being involved in an automobile accident. During an auto collision, the body is exposed to a sheer amount of force due to the high speed impact, causing the head and neck to jolt abruptly back-and-forth as the rest of the body remains in place. This often results in the damage or injury of the cervical spine and its surrounding tissues, leading to neck pain and other common symptoms associated with whiplash-related disorders.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 29 million type 2 diabetes cases have currently been diagnosed in the United States, where another 8.1 million cases are undiagnosed. Diabetes can have various serious complications, including the development of diabetic peripheral neuropathy.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services stated that between 60 and 70 percent of individuals diagnosed with diabetes have some form of neuropathy. Patients with diabetes often report experiencing symptoms of pain and discomfort, while other may report minor or no symptoms at all. Nerve damage can even manifest up to 10 years after being diagnosed with diabetes.
Causes of Neuropathy
Diabetic neuropathy can occur due to an extended period of elevated blood sugar levels. High, unregulated blood glucose can cause injury to the vessels that supply the body’s nerves with the proper nutrition and oxygen they require to function accordingly. Over time, the nerves can become damaged, impairing the nervous system’s ability to communicate effectively. The symptoms of peripheral neuropathy can vary greatly depending on the severity and extent of the nerve damage.
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the majority of individuals with diabetes experience moderate to severe nerve injury. The symptoms of neuropathy generally manifest in the legs and feet, gradually manifesting in the arms and hands over time.
Symptoms of Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy is frequently identified by its set of characteristic symptoms, although each can differ from person to person. The symptoms experienced by the individual will depend largely on the location and severity of the nerve damage. The most common symptoms of neuropathy include: pain and discomfort, tingling sensations or numbness; burning sensations; loss of balance; sensitivity; and trouble sleeping. Each symptoms can also vary depending on the grade of severity and progression of the condition.
Pain and Discomfort
Many patients with diabetes commonly describe feeling sudden and sharp symptoms of pain shoot through their extremities. Other people may feel severe, cramping pain along their muscles. This variety of symptoms occur in the muscles of the feet, calves, hands and/or forearms. The pain and discomfort caused by diabetic neuropathy can also frequently result in muscle weakness, causing patients to struggle to hold items as a result of their symptoms.
Tingling Sensations or Numbness
Tingling sensations and numbness are also some of the most commonly reported symptoms of peripheral neuropathy in patients with diabetes. Tingling in the hands and/or feet can feel the same as when one of your limbs falls asleep. It may also feel as if you’re wearing a glove or sock when you’re not. Numbness results in the inability to feel your hands and feet. This can ultimately be a difficult situation for some people as this can often lead to puncture wounds in the feet when walking barefoot. The risk of foot injuries can be especially dangerous to patients diagnosed with diabetes because the presence of neuropathy as well as poor blood circulation can make wounds troublesome to heal. Wounds that don’t heal properly can be exposed to infections. In serious cases, these infections may lead to amputations.
Burning Sensations
Many diabetic neuropathy sufferers describe burning sensations, followed by several of the previously mentioned symptoms, especially in their feet. The burning pain is generally described as being bitten by fire ants or worse. Some patients report feeling as if their feet are on fire. Patients frequently soak their feet in an ice bath to achieve relief, however, the solution is unfortunately only temporary.
Loss of Balance
Loss of balance and coordination is another common sign of peripheral neuropathy caused by diabetes. This is the single largest complication which can result in life threatening accidents and injuries, especially among older adults. Muscle weakness may typically affect the strength, mobility and flexibility of the ankle, altering an individual’s gait.
Sensitivity to Touch
Diabetic neuropathy can often overload regular sensations, resulting in an extreme sensitivity to touch. Many patients with peripheral neuropathy describe being unable to tolerate the weight of their bed sheets against their legs, sometimes even the sensation of clothing against their skin can create tremendous discomfort. Holding a cup of warm coffee may feel painfully hot for some people with neuropathy or it could actually hurt if a person with cold hands touches their skin. Also, their hands or feet may feel hot or cold for no reason.
Difficulty Sleeping
Because the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy can often worsen at night, these can begin to interfere with a person’s ability to get a good night’s rest. This occurs due to a couple of reasons. Foremost, people who have been very active throughout the day can aggravate the inflammation on the nerves, increasing the pain, discomfort, and other symptoms of the condition. Subsequently, when settling down to sleep, the stimulus of the body decreases drastically, causing the signals of pain to become more pronounced than they were during the day. This can cause a person’s pain perception to be more intense, interrupting their capability to fall asleep or stay asleep.
Types of Neuropathy
There are several different types of neuropathy, or nerve damage, each with their own set of causes and symptoms, although the majority share most of the common characteristics associated with nerve injuries.
Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy primarily affects the legs, feet, toes, arms and hands. When a person has developed type 2 diabetes, the damage to the nerves caused by this type of neuropathy will generally affect the legs and feet before it extends to the arms and hands. The symptoms of peripheral neuropathy largely depend on which area of the peripheral nerves, or central nerves, have suffered damage or injury.
Damage to the motor portion of the nerve can manifest as cramping, muscle weakness and/or muscle wasting. This can often lead to alterations in the patient’s balance, mobility and gait. Injury to the sensory portion of the nerve can manifest as tingling sensations, numbness, burning pain and/or sensitivity to touch, where many people describe being unable to tolerate bed sheets on their legs.
Autonomic Neuropathy
Autonomic neuropathy is associated with damage or injury to the nerves in charge of regulating the automatic and semi-automatic functions of the body, including digestion, bladder and bowel functions, heart function and sexual function. This type of neuropathy will affect the proper function of the automatic nerve responses in the body’s internal organs. Individuals who develop autonomic neuropathy due to type 2 diabetes may experience issues digesting food, breathing, urinating or incontinence and/or sexual problems, such as impotence.
Complications related with autonomic neuropathy can also make it difficult for medical professionals to determine when a patient’s blood sugar levels have become too low. Symptoms of hypoglycemia, such as sweating and heart palpitations can be easily detected, however, those symptoms can be concealed by nerve damage.
When autonomic neuropathy begins to affect the digestive system, individual’s can experience constipation, trouble swallowing or gastroparesis, a disorder which causes a delay in digestion. Gastroparesis can also gradually worsen over time, leading to debilitation caused by frequent nausea and vomiting. Delayed digestion can also make keeping track of glucose levels in the body a challenge. In more serious cases, gastroparesis can cause a patient to have to subsist on a liquid diet or be fed through a feeding tube.
Nerve damage to the cardiovascular system can alter a person�s heart rate and blood pressure. People with type 2 diabetics resulting in autonomic neuropathy may experience a drop in blood pressure after sitting or standing, causing them to feel light headed and dizzy.
Nerve injury to the urinary tract and sex organs can cause difficulty controlling urination and sexual functions. Neuropathy affecting the bladder may cause incontinence or can make it more difficult to fully empty. Autonomic neuropathy also decreases sexual function, leaving men without the ability to become erect and women with vaginal dryness and/ difficulty achieving orgasm.
Proximal Neuropathy
Proximal neuropathy can also commonly affect people with type 2 diabetes, especially older adults. It primarily affects the hips, thighs, buttocks or legs and generally develops on one side of the body. This type of neuropathy can weaken the legs. In serious cases, a person may lose sufficient muscle tone where they will no longer be able to stand from a sitting position without assistance. Proximal neuropathy is often described to be very painful.
What Can You do if You have Neuropathy?
Currently, about 29.1 million Americans have been diagnosed with diabetes in the United States. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, it’s estimated that approximately 38 percent of Americans may also have pre-diabetes. Of these million, about 70 percent can or may develop some form of neuropathy as a result of the condition. While these statistics can be shocking, there’s several steps you can take to increase and maintain your health and wellness once you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes or pre-diabetes.
Eat low glycemic index foods. This will allow your glucose levels to substantially decrease.
Minimize grain and other starch consumption to no more than 2 servings per day. For example, you may have a small serving of oatmeal for breakfast (men- 1 cooked cup / women 1/2 cup, cooked) and rice with lunch (same portion size as oatmeal). Eliminate any starches at dinner time. Eat only protein, non-starchy vegetables and good fat.
Avoid Trans fats (hydrogenated and partially hydrogenated oils) and vegetable oils (sunflower, safflower, soybean oil, corn oil, canola oil, peanut oil). Use Ghee (clarified butter), coconut oil or extra virgin olive oil.
Start exercising. You don�t necessarily have to find a gym. Start by walking around your neighborhood. If your balance and stability is poor, make sure to take your cane or walker with you and stay on even surfaces. Exercising will help increase your insulin sensitivity.
Get adequate sleep (7-8 hours). Even one night of inadequate sleep can raise your insulin resistance. This is because the stress hormone, cortisol, is elevated. This will cause you to crave more carbs, but even when you eat them, you will feel worse afterward because your glucose tolerance has been reduced. If you�ve had a poor nights sleep, it�s especially important to eat low glycemic index foods.
In addition to keeping blood sugar levels within a healthy range, research studies have demonstrated that controlling blood pressure to avoid complications from diabetes can be just as important. In 2010, the British Medical Journal stated, �In patients with type 2 diabetes, the risk of diabetic complications was strongly associated with raised blood pressure.� Any reduction in blood pressure is likely to reduce the risk of other issues, with the lowest risk being in those with systolic blood pressure less than 120 mm/Hg. If you follow the steps above, however, your blood pressure will naturally begin to decrease.
Diabetic Neuropathy Can Be Reversed
The reality is that the various forms of diabetic neuropathy don’t necessarily cause death. There are many clinical studies published in widely respected journals, such as the Journal of Neurology and the British Medical Journal, which show effective treatments that reverse the damage to peripheral nerves, including chiropractic care.
In the United States, millions of Americans have been diagnosed with pre-diabetes or diabetes, where a large percentage may develop neuropathy. Diabetes can cause damage to the nerves, which is the most common reason for the development of diabetic neuropathy. There are several types of neuropathies, each with their own set of symptoms.
For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
Each year, cases of liver disease developing without the instance alcohol abuse are increasing throughout the United States, the U.K, and Australia. Decades ago, fatty liver disease and cirrhosis were diagnosed due to excessive alcohol consumption. Currently, however, more and more adults and even children are diagnosed with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, or NAFLD.
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is a medical condition that is characterized by an excessive accumulation of fats within liver cells. More precisely, NAFLD causes normal, healthy liver tissue to become partially replaced with fatty tissue. Although it’s common for the liver to have some fat, an accumulated amount of more than 5 to 10 percent of the individual’s liver weight can create complications. Excess fat can begin to invade the liver, eventually covering healthy regions of the liver and decreasing the amount of healthy liver tissue.
According to statistics, approximately 70 million Americans may have fatty liver disease and not even know it.
The Function of the Liver
The liver is one of the most active and highly functioning organs in the body, working hard and tirelessly to maintain the body’s overall health and wellness. The liver is in charge of regulating chemical levels and toxins in the blood as well as excreting bile. Bile is necessary to break down fats stored in the body. All of the blood which leaves the stomach and intestines must be filtered through the liver. The liver’s primary function is to detoxify the blood. Other essential functions of the liver include:
Detoxifies chemicals and metabolizes (breaks down) drugs.
Manufactures proteins important for the regulation of blood clotting
Breaks down excess hormones circulating in bloodstream
Produces cholesterol (necessary for vitamin D and hormone production and for healthy nerves)
Stores and releases glucose, as needed
Stores iron
Converts harmful ammonia to urea (urea is an end product of protein metabolism that gets excreted in the urine)
Clears the blood of alcohol, medications, drugs and other harmful chemicals
Produces immune factors and removes bacteria from the bloodstream
Clears and removes bilirubin (excessive buildup causes jaundice -yellowing of skin and eyes)
The liver is also responsible of processing and storing important nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals and iron, in order for these to be more effectively absorbed by the body.
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, or NAFLD, has become a prevalent condition in the United States and western Europe as weight gain, obesity, insulin resistance, diabetes and metabolic syndrome have dramatically increased over the population. It is now the most common cause of liver disorders in the United States as well as in other western countries, such as Australia and the U.K. Approximately 1 in 5 people, amounting up to 25 percent of the population in these regions have NAFLD.
While some research studies have demonstrated that non-alcoholic fatty liver disease most commonly develops due to excess weight and obesity, metabolic syndrome and diabetes, studies have also shown that the excessive use of prescribed medications and pain killers can lead to fatty liver disease as well.
Symptoms of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
NAFLD is referred to as a silent disease. People with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease may initially experience no symptoms from the disorder, where they will often live with the condition for many years, even decades without a diagnosis. Eventually, however, several signs and symptoms may begin to manifest. These symptoms include:
feeling tired
fatigue
weight loss
loss of appetite
weakness
nausea
confusion
trouble concentrating
pain in the center or right upper part of belly
enlarged liver
bloating and gas
dark urine
bruising easily
sweating, excessively
constipation
dry and dark patches on neck and under arms
If non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is left untreated for an extended period of time, it could eventually lead to the development of cirrhosis. Cirrhosis results when scar tissue develops in the liver, preventing the liver from functioning properly. This scar tissue can then block the normal flow of blood that passes through the liver and can also slow down the processing and absorption of nutrients, hormones, drugs and naturally produced toxins as well as the production of proteins and other substances produced by the liver. The symptoms of cirrhosis are usually severe and they include the buildup of fluid in the body, particularly in the abdominal cavity called ascites, muscle weakness, internal bleeding, yellowing of the skin and eyes, and liver failure.
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Diagnosis
Utilizing an abdominal ultrasound or a biopsy is the best way to diagnose fatty liver disease. Individuals with NAFLD often don’t have elevated levels of liver enzymes, which is why blood tests generally appear normal. Elevated levels of liver enzymes do however indicate that there may be some inflammation in the liver due to non-alcoholic fatty liver disase or another more serious condition known as NASH.
Causes and Risk Factors of Fatty Liver Disease
There are numerous risk factors which may increase your chances of having NAFLD, including:
Obesity
Gastric bypass surgery
High cholesterol
High levels of triglycerides in the blood
Type 2 diabetes
Metabolic syndrome
Medications
Sleep apnea
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism)
Underactive pituitary gland (hypopituitarism)
Hemachromatosis (excess iron accumulation)
A research study published in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology in 2006 stated that NAFLD is commonly diagnosed in 84 to 96 percent of patients who are undergoing bariatric surgery. The study also recognized that the disease is most common in men but can increase with menopause in women.
Foods Which Can Lead to Fatty Liver Disease
High-Carbohydrate & Refined Foods
When we consume an excess of refined carbohydrates and other types of foods, insulin levels can spike significantly. Foods such as white bread and other carbs should be reduced or eliminated from your diet, even whole grains should be consumed in moderation as these can convert into sugar. Rice and corn should also be avoided. Insulin sensitivity is a major factor in the development of liver disease.
Sugary Beverages
Sports drinks, such as gatorade or powerade, soda, energy drinks and fruit juices, contain refined sugars and artificial sweeteners. When these substances are consumed in excess, they could eventually lead to fatty liver disease. The average 12-ounce can of soda, for instance, has about 10 teaspoons of sugar. The human body is not designed to be able to break down the elevated amounts of sugar the average American consumes on a daily basis and this can greatly impact the health of the liver. The average person consumes 20 tsp of sugar per day, equaling to about 66 pound of sugar per year.
The American Heart Association, or AHA, recommends that no more than 6 tsp of sugar per day for women and 9 tsp per day for men should be consumed. A child�s sugar intake should not exceed 3 tsp per day.
According to a research study conducted at Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta, refined sugars, particularly fructose, are suspected to be a common contributor to the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Fructose has been demonstrated to cause extensive damage to liver cells. There have also been substantial connections between increased fructose consumption and obesity, dyslipidemia and insulin resistance.
Processed Foods
Refined sugars, hydrogenated oils, convenience foods and lunch meats can be toxic to your body in the long run. Nitrates and nitrites, for instance, are commonly found in processed foods and they have been closely associated to the development of serious conditions, including cancer. The high fructose corn syrup found in processed foods is the single biggest cause of fatty liver disease. It’s essential that you eliminate these products from your diet to heal liver disease.
Foods Which Can Improve Fatty Liver Disease
A research study published in the European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry revealed that natural enzymes found in fruits and vegetables as well as in plant extracts and herbs, can be utilized traditionally to treat various liver diseases. It’s essential to add these foods into your everyday diet. Fruits and vegetables can be easily added into your diet through juicing.
When the proper function of the liver is impaired due to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and/or due to other liver conditions, juicing fruits and vegetables has the additional benefit of making these easier to digest for better absorption. Vegetables ideal for a liver detox include, kale, cabbage, lettuce, cauliflower, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, asparagus, beets and celery.
Beets
Beets can naturally cleanse and purify the blood, boosting the function of the liver and increasing nutrient production in the body. Beets are also rich in antioxidants, folate, iron, fiber and betaine, a natural digestive enzyme. Beets are great additions to juicing recipes and can also be added into smoothies. You can also daily shred some beets and toss them into your salads.
Broccoli
Broccoli and other members of the cruciferous family, such as brussel sprouts, cauliflower, arugula, cabbage, collard greens, kale and bok choy, are rich in fiber and glucosinolates, which help the liver naturally cleanse the body of carcinogens and other toxins.
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes, carrots, butternut squash and pumpkin are rich in beta-carotene, a natural anti-inflammatory. When an individual has a potassium deficiency, it can disrupt the proper function of the liver. �Sweet potatoes, which are naturally high in potassium, can be tremendously beneficial because they help support healthy liver function. One sweet potato contains nearly 700 milligrams of potassium. Sweet potatoes are also rich in vitamins B6, C, D, magnesium and iron. These are also easy to eat because they�re naturally sweet and their sugars are slowly released into the bloodstream through the liver, preventing blood sugar spikes.
Lemons
Lemons are great for your liver. They provide a variety of antioxidants and can help the liver produce more enzymes to give you more energy and help with digestion. Lemons are also naturally rich in electrolytes. Although lemons are acidic, once they enter the body they become alkaline, which helps neutralize toxins and excrete wastes. Juice 1 fresh lemon, daily and drink it undiluted on an empty stomach every morning to enjoy its wonderful benefits.
Bananas
With about 470 milligrams of potassium, bananas can also be great for cleansing the liver as well as for overcoming low levels of potassium in the body. In addition, bananas can help with digestion, helping to release toxins and heavy metals from the body, decreasing the liver’s work load.
Garlic, Whole Cloves
Garlic is high in allicin and selenium, two fundamental nutrients for the liver. These function by cleansing and nourishing the entire body, especially the blood. Selenium is a naturally detoxifying mineral and allicin helps counter immune system invaders, also assisting to decrease the load on the liver. Garlic also activates enzymes in the liver which aid digestion and flush out toxins. Use whole garlic cloves instead of processed minced garlic or powder.
Ginger Root
Ginger has powerful anti-inflamatory properties and it’s also an excellent antioxidant. For people diagnosed with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, consuming ginger can be fundamental. Ginger root can also drastically lower blood sugar levels. Insulin resistance and elevated glucose levels are major factors in the development of NAFLD. You can make ginger tea by boiling slices of ginger in green tea or water. You can also add ginger to a stir-fry, salad or smoothie.
Leafy Greens
Consuming leafy greens are a huge part of a balanced nutrition as these can be beneficial for just about any type of health issue. Spinach, kale, chard, romaine, arugula, and collards are all some of the most nutrient dense leafy greens to enjoy. These are rich in chlorophyll, which assists in liver function by purifying the blood, alleviating toxins, decreasing inflammation and promoting the healing of wounds. Chlorophyll is also amazing at neutralizing heavy metals, toxic chemicals, and even pesticides that can burden liver function.
Supplements Which Can Improve Fatty Liver Disease
Dandelion Root
Dandelion root contains vitamins and nutrients which are important to help cleanse the liver in order to allow it to keep functioning properly. Dandelions have also been known to aid the digestive system by maintaining the proper flow of bile. Dandelion root is a natural diuretic and it allows the liver to eliminate toxins effectively. Dandelion stems which can be brewed in a tea are also rich in vitamin C, which can help with mineral absorption, reduces inflammation and prevents the overall development of many diseases.
Milk Thistle
Milk thistle is a powerful detoxifier, aiding and supporting proper liver function. This supplement helps rebuild liver cells and removes toxins from the body which have been processed through the liver. According to a research study published in Digestive Diseases and Sciences, milk thistle has the power to improve mortality rates in patients with liver failure as it is capable of naturally reversing the harmful effects of excessive alcohol consumption and that of pesticides in our food, heavy metals in water supply, pollution in the air we breathe in and even poisons. A 2010 study showed that milk thistle benefits treatments of alcoholic liver disease, acute and�chronic viral hepatitis as well as toxin-induced liver diseases.
Vitamin D
Recent research studies have shown that vitamin D deficiencies can often lead to NAFLD, or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Vitamin D deficiency has also been demonstrated to cause severe cases of NAFLD, including serious liver inflammation and liver fibrosis, or hardening of the liver. The research study also revealed that vitamin D deficiencies can lead to insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. All of these factors can additionally play a considerable role in the development of peripheral neuropathy. Optimal vitamin D levels should be between 70-100 ng/ml for overall health and wellness.
Curcumin
Curcumin is the active component of turmeric and it’s considered to be the most powerful herb on the planet, effectively helping to treat and reverse disease naturally. Currently, there are over 6,000 published articles emphasizing on the amazing health benefits of curcumin. Other research studies have also demonstrated that curcumin could prevent the progression of liver disease, helping to reduce the inflammation of the liver and the body alike.
Black Seed Oil
Black seed oil can help speed up the healing process of people with fatty liver disease. A research study published in the European Review for Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences measured black seed oil�s ability to restrict liver oxidative stress markers. The results of the research study indicated that black seed oil can benefit liver disease patients because it�s capable of decreasing issues associated with the gradual progression of liver disease.
Maintaining a healthy and balanced nutrition is the best course of action to treat fatty liver disease. Many people with liver disease are overweight and malnourished. A healthy diet can provide the body with essential vitamins and nutrients needed for the body to function. Weight loss along with a balanced diet can be an effective treatment for fatty liver disease as well. Exercising regularly for a minimum of 30 minutes a day and eating a healthy plant-based diet can ultimately help your overall well-being.
Can Fatty Liver Disease Cause Peripheral Neuropathy?
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, or NAFLD, is considered to be the most common liver disorder in the western region . It�s recognized as one of the most common forms of chronic liver disease across the world.
A research study published in the Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology in 2003 reported a connection between non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and peripheral neuropathy. The research revealed that 73 percent of people with NAFLD could develop peripheral nerve damage leading to the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy.
As if the development of peripheral neuropathy wasn’t bad enough, scientific evidence demonstrated that the longer you have NAFLD, the more likely it is to progress into liver fibrosis, or the accumulation of abnormal fibrous tissue, cirrhosis, or the accumulation of scar tissue in the liver, and NASH, or severe liver inflammation and cell damage.
Although, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is most likely to occur in people who are overweight with metabolic syndrome or type 2 diabetes, recently there are more and more cases of children with NAFLD. This is a direct result of the standard American diet. Pediatric NAFLD has been reported in children as young as 3 years old.
If you have been diagnosed with NAFLD or are overweight, suffer from metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance or diabetes, it�s important to take action. The good news is, the liver is the only organ capable of fully regenerating itself. As long as at least 15 percent of your liver is working and functioning properly, your body can repair and regenerate your liver.
Liver disease is commonly diagnosed in people due to excessive alcohol consumption. While this instance can cause an accumulation of fats within liver tissue, each year, more adults even children are diagnosed with a specific type of condition, referred to as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. NAFLD can occur for a variety of reasons.
For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
Neck pain is characterized as the most prevalent symptom after being involved in an automobile accident. During an auto collision, the body is exposed to a sheer amount of force due to the high speed impact, causing the head and neck to jolt abruptly back-and-forth as the rest of the body remains in place. This often results in the damage or injury of the cervical spine and its surrounding tissues, leading to neck pain and other common symptoms associated with whiplash-related disorders.
Type 2 diabetes in the United States has tripled since the 1980’s, where researchers have estimated that one in three Americans will have diabetes by 2050. More than one-third of American adults are obese and one in three Medicare dollars are spent on issues relating to diabetes. Unfortunately, these numbers continue to increase.
The sequence of health complications associated with insulin resistance, obesity and diabetes are characterized as the underlying cause of the majority of heart disease, cancer and premature death in the world. According to research, however, these conditions are preventable and reversible. Type 2 Diabetes is associated with the following chronic illnesses and diseases:
Both obesity and diabetes are preventable and reversible with proper lifestyle changes and a balanced diet and nutrition. On average, people consume approximately 152 pounds of sugar and 146 pounds of flour every year. The consumption of food high on refined sugar and flour can have a drastic effect on a person’s overall health and wellness.
When you remove foods that are causing disease from your diet and exchange them for nutritious foods, disorders such as diabetes, can be reversed, even in patients with obesity. The following seven strategies can be implemented every day with patients to prevent, treat and reverse insulin resistance, obesity and type 2 diabetes without the use of drugs and surgery:
5 to 5 grams of PGX, a unique type of fiber that controls appetite and blood sugar, before each meal with eight ounces of water
200 � 600 mcg of chromium polynicotinate or picolinate
600 mg of alpha lipoic acid twice daily
2,000 IUs or more of vitamin D3 (Thorne Research)
One to two grams of omega 3 fatty acids (Tuna Omega by Standard Process)
A high-quality multivitamin/mineral (Basic Nutrients by Thorne Research)
Get the proper nutrients.�Taking supplements can make your cells be more sensitive to insulin while increasing their effectiveness to metabolize sugar and fat in the body. Together with varies lifestyle changes and a proper diet, these can help the individual balance their blood sugar as well as prevent or reverse diabetes.
Stock up on whole, unprocessed foods. Whole, unprocessed foods can help balance blood sugar levels, reduce inflammation and oxidative stress as well as improve your liver detoxification, to prevent or reverse insulin resistance and diabetes. Choosing a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables known to have a low to moderate glycemic index, and foods rich in omega-3 fats, coconut butter and olive oil, legumes, nuts and seeds, can help promote a healthy metabolism, reverse insulin resistance and diabetes, even slow down aging and age-related diseases, such as heart disease.
Cut the Sugar.�Consuming foods and beverages with refined sugars and carbohydrates can create high levels of insulin, which can eventually lead to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Among the many complications associated with chronic, elevated levels of insulin, inflammation, high blood pressure, poor sex drive, increased risk for cancer and depression can also occur. The most important thing you can do to reduce your risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes is to reduce or eliminate sugar from your diet.
Get the right exercise.�Participating in physical activity or exercise can have tremendous benefits for your overall well-being. Effective exercise can help balance blood sugar and lower insulin levels. The goal is to walk or perform any other cardio activity for 60 minutes, up to six times a week, although even 30 minutes of physical activity can help. Studies show high-intensity interval training can also benefit type 2 diabetes and obesity. Best of all, you can do these in only a few minutes a day.
Get sufficient sleep. Lack of sleep or poor sleep can affect your metabolism, may spike sugar and carb cravings, can increase your appetite, and may even increase of developing several diseases, including Type 2 diabetes. One study found that even a partial night�s poor sleep could induce insulin resistance. Therefore, sleeping properly should be a priority. Create a sleep ritual that includes turning off the T.V. in the bedroom, herbal therapies consisting of aromatherapy with essential oils, soaking in warm bath with 2 cups of Epsom salts and essential oils and creating total darkness and quiet.
Control stress levels.�With chronic stress, our levels of insulin, cortisol, and inflammatory compounds called cytokines all increase. This can trigger a metabolic dysfunction that leads to weight gain, insulin resistance, and eventually, type 2 diabetes. The connection between stress, weight gain, mental disorders, and blood sugar imbalances show that managing stress is a critical component when managing obesity and diabetes. You can�t eliminate stress, but you can learn to control it. Meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, massage, laughing, and dancing are among the best ways to manage stress and reverse type 2 diabetes.
Journal Your Results. Research shows that people who track their results lose twice as much weight and do twice as well. Begin by getting a journal to track your progress. That could be as simple as a pad of paper, a notebook, a spreadsheet in your computer, or anything that is convenient and works for you. You should track: what you eat; the baseline of all measurements, weight, waist size, body mass index, or BMI; daily blood pressure (optional); and daily glucose readings (if diabetic). Many patients become inspired to stay on task when they begin to see their results on paper.
Every year in the United States, 1 million people are diagnosed with diabetes. Diabetes is known to be the 7th leading cause of death. The good news is that this statistic can be changed according to new research. Diabetes is no longer inevitable. You can prevent and reverse type 2 diabetes.
Research studies have demonstrated that developing type 2 diabetes occurs as a result of environmental factors, such as how you eat, chemical exposure and stress management, among others. When you eliminate these negative factors, the pancreas has the ability to heal and cells will regain insulin sensitivity. This is ultimately fundamental considering that diabetes is responsible for a host of debilitating illnesses such as: Peripheral neuropathy; heart disease and stroke; kidney disease and kidney failure; and alzheimer’s disease.�
Type 2 diabetes affects many individuals in the United States and it’s often considered to be the underlying cause of heart disease and other diseases. According to new research studies and evidence, diabetes can be prevented and reversed by following several important life changes and a proper nutrition.
For more information, feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.
Neck pain is characterized as the most prevalent symptom after being involved in an automobile accident. During an auto collision, the body is exposed to a sheer amount of force due to the high speed impact, causing the head and neck to jolt abruptly back-and-forth as the rest of the body remains in place. This often results in the damage or injury of the cervical spine and its surrounding tissues, leading to neck pain and other common symptoms associated with whiplash-related disorders.
IFM's Find A Practitioner tool is the largest referral network in Functional Medicine, created to help patients locate Functional Medicine practitioners anywhere in the world. IFM Certified Practitioners are listed first in the search results, given their extensive education in Functional Medicine
