Health Coaching involves a mentor and wellness practitioner that supports and helps individuals reach their optimal health and feel their best through a customized food and lifestyle program that meets their unique needs and goals.
Health coaching does not focus on one diet or way of living.
Integrative Nutrition Coaching focuses on:
Bio-individuality meaning we’re all different and are unique
Diet
Lifestyle
Emotional needs
Physical needs
It emphasizes health beyond the plate and wellness through primary food. However, at the core is the idea that there are areas that impact health just as much as food. This means that:
Relationships
Career
Spirituality
Physical activity
All contribute to overall well-being.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to health and wellness.
These professionals work with clients and teach them how to:
Detox their bodies
Fuel their bodies
Maintain their bodies
This leads to individuals becoming the:
Healthiest
Happiest
That they can be!
Health Coaching offers services in private one-on-one sessions and group coaching.
Make Your Health Goals Stick in 2026: How El Paso Back Clinic’s Integrative Team Supports Real Change
The patient uses a weight machine for injury rehabilitation under the supervision of a doctor of chiropractic and a nurse practitioner.
Most people don’t fail at New Year’s goals because they “don’t want it enough.” They fail because life gets busy, pain flares up, energy crashes, and stress piles on. When your body hurts or feels stiff, even simple plans—like walking more, lifting weights, or sleeping better—can feel harder than they should.
At El Paso Back Clinic, the goal is to make health changes easier to achieve and maintain through a team-based, integrative approach. That means bringing together the strengths of chiropractic care (movement, structure, mobility, and recovery) with the strengths of nurse practitioner care and wellness coaching (nutrition, sleep, stress, and whole-body support). The clinic describes this as a blend of injury care, wellness strategies, mobility programs, and integrated medicine designed to improve function and quality of life. El Paso Back Clinic® • 915-850-0900+2El Paso Back Clinic® • 915-850-0900+2
This kind of care supports common goals like:
increasing fitness and mobility
managing pain so you can stay active
improving energy and sleep
lowering stress and improving your stress response
“Integrative care” means your plan isn’t built around only one angle. Instead, it connects the pieces that usually get separated:
How you move
How you recover
How you eat
How you sleep
How you manage stress
How do you build habits that fit your real life
El Paso Back Clinic describes integrative chiropractic benefits as going beyond traditional adjustments by combining care approaches that support overall wellness and function. El Paso Back Clinic® • 915-850-0900
Why this matters for resolutions
Many resolutions are difficult to maintain because the plans ignore the real barriers. For example:
You want to exercise more—but your back pain spikes.
You want to lose weight—but your sleep is poor and your stress is high.
You want more energy—but your nutrition is inconsistent, and you’re not recovering.
An integrative plan helps because it aims to reduce the friction that makes healthy habits feel impossible.
The Team Approach: Chiropractor + Nurse Practitioner Mindset
Many clinics talk about how chiropractic care supports goals such as mobility, stress reduction, better sleep, and improved performance. gotcore.net+2Freedom Chiropractic+2 At El Paso Back Clinic, that support is often strongest when chiropractic care is paired with whole-person planning.
The chiropractor’s lane: move better with less strain
Chiropractic care commonly focuses on:
joint motion and spinal mechanics
posture and movement habits
mobility and flexibility
recovery support when you start working out again
helping reduce strain patterns that keep pain looping
The descriptions of services at El Paso Back Clinic emphasize spine-focused care and the restoration of function for back and musculoskeletal concerns. El Paso Back Clinic® • 915-850-0900+1
The NP/wellness lane: build a plan that supports your body from the inside out
A nurse practitioner and wellness-minded team approach can support:
nutrition planning that fits your schedule
sleep improvement routines
stress management strategies
health screening and medical risk review when appropriate
coaching that makes change more realistic to sustain
This matches the habit-focused guidance many health organizations recommend: set realistic goals, build routines, and avoid extreme “all at once” changes. Prism Health North Texas
Dr. Alexander Jimenez’s clinical observations (El Paso context)
Dr. Alexander Jimenez (DC, APRN, FNP-BC) frequently describes a dual-scope approach that connects biomechanics (how you move) with broader health planning (nutrition, functional assessments, and recovery strategies). His published clinic content also highlights the use of assessments and, when needed, imaging and integrated care planning to support recovery and function. LinkedIn+3El Paso, TX Doctor Of Chiropractic+3El Paso, TX Doctor Of Chiropractic+3
Why Resolutions Often Fail (And How an Integrative Plan Fixes That)
Here are common “resolution killers” and what a coordinated plan can do differently:
Pain blocks movement → Address mobility limits and movement mechanics so activity feels doable. National Spine & Pain Centers+1
Low energy → Improve sleep, nutrition consistency, and recovery structure. gotcore.net+1
Stress overload → Add stress skills and routines that calm the system and support follow-through. NIH News in Health+1
No accountability → Regular check-ins and plan adjustments keep you from quitting after a setback. drmmalone.com+1
A key idea in habit-based care is that early wins create a “positive feedback loop”—you feel better, so it becomes easier to keep going. drmmalone.com
1) Increase Fitness and Mobility (Without Getting Injured)
If your goal is to work out more, the priority is often moving well enough to train consistently.
Many chiropractic resources emphasize mobility, flexibility, and injury prevention as people increase activity at the start of the year. 5280 Balanced Health Center+2Freedom Chiropractic+2 El Paso Back Clinic also emphasizes flexibility, mobility, and agility programs to improve ability and quality of life. El Paso Back Clinic® • 915-850-0900
A simple evidence-based target
For general health, adults are commonly advised to aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity per week, plus 2 days of muscle-strengthening activities. CDC+1 That can be split into smaller chunks—like 30 minutes, 5 days a week.
What the integrative plan can look like
Assess mobility limits (hips, spine, shoulders) and address movement friction
Build a realistic weekly schedule
Progress intensity slowly, so you don’t crash or flare
Easy “start small” movement ideas:
10–20 minute walk after meals
2 strength sessions per week (basic full-body)
5-minute mobility routine daily
Progression rules that keep people consistent:
Add time before you add intensity
Keep at least 1–2 recovery days weekly
Measure consistency, not perfection
2) Manage Pain So You Can Stay Active
Pain goals often work better when you focus on function—not “zero pain tomorrow.” A pain-focused plan might aim to reduce flare-ups and increase what you can do safely. National Spine & Pain Centers
El Paso Back Clinic positions its care around helping people with frustrating injuries and chronic pain syndromes improve mobility and function. El Paso Back Clinic® • 915-850-0900
Practical pain goals that tend to stick
“Walk 20 minutes, 4 days/week without a flare.”
“Lift twice/week with pain staying under a 3–4/10.”
NP-style wellness support can focus on sleep, stress, consistency in nutrition, and pacing habits that support recovery. Prism Health North Texas+1
Helpful pacing ideas (simple but powerful):
Use shorter workouts more often
Stop just before your “flare threshold”
Build capacity gradually rather than “weekend warrior” bursts
3) Boost Energy the Smart Way
Energy is not just “motivation.” If you’re tired, your plan needs better recovery.
Many chiropractic sources link better sleep and reduced tension with feeling more capable and consistent over time. gotcore.net+1 El Paso Back Clinic also describes a wellness-focused approach aimed at improving energy, sleep, and overall function. El Paso Back Clinic® • 915-850-0900
It’s common to hear people say they want to “boost immunity.” A safe and practical way to think about this is:
You can support overall wellness by improving sleep, physical activity, and stress management—foundations that matter for health.
Regular physical activity is widely recommended for health. CDC
Mindfulness-based approaches have evidence supporting their effectiveness for stress, sleep, and pain management. NIH News in Health
So instead of chasing extreme detoxes or perfect diets, an integrative plan often focuses on steady basics:
sleep routine
movement most days
nutrition consistency
stress skills
That’s the kind of “quiet consistency” that makes resolutions last.
5) Lower Stress and Improve Stress Response
Stress shows up in the body: tight shoulders, headaches, jaw tension, shallow breathing, gut tension, and poor sleep.
Mindfulness-based treatments have evidence supporting reduced anxiety/depression symptoms and improved sleep, and may help people cope with pain. NIH News in Health Many chiropractic sources also connect care with stress reduction and better sleep as part of overall wellness. gotcore.net+1
Pick one main goal (fitness OR pain, energy, OR stress)
Add two support habits
Track consistency weekly
Adjust every 2–4 weeks
Examples of “support habits”:
protein at breakfast
20-minute walk 4x/week
5 minutes of mobility daily
bedtime routine 5 nights/week
A Simple 4-Week Plan (El Paso Back Clinic Style: Practical, Not Perfect)
This is a general example you can personalize with your provider team.
Week 1: Reduce friction
Identify mobility limits and pain triggers
Set one realistic activity goal
Begin a simple nutrition and sleep routine
Week 2: Build consistency
Add a second strength or mobility day
Keep intensity moderate
Track sleep and energy patterns
Week 3: Progress carefully
Increase walking time or training volume slightly
Add a stress routine you can repeat
Adjust the plan based on how your body responds
Week 4: Lock in your system
Keep what’s working
Simplify what isn’t
Create a “busy week version,” so you don’t fall off
This approach fits the clinic’s overall theme of improving function through mobility, recovery, and whole-person planning. El Paso Back Clinic® • 915-850-0900+1
When to Get Checked Right Away
If you have severe or unusual symptoms, don’t “push through.” Seek urgent medical care for red flags like:
chest pain, severe shortness of breath, fainting
sudden weakness, facial droop, confusion
loss of bowel/bladder control
fever with severe spine pain
major trauma with worsening symptoms
Bottom Line: Your Best Results Come From a Whole Plan
At El Paso Back Clinic, an integrative model supports real-life resolutions by combining:
Post-Holiday Reset in El Paso: Support Your Body’s Natural Detox System (No Extreme Cleanses Needed)
Patient speaks with a doctor about maintaining health during the holidays.
If you feel a little “off” after the holidays, you’re not alone. Extra sugar, richer foods, late nights, travel, and more alcohol than usual can leave you feeling bloated, tired, foggy, and stiff. The good news: you don’t need an extreme cleanse to “fix” it.
At El Paso Back Clinic, we like to keep it simple and safe. Your body already has a detox system. Your liver helps process and break down substances, your kidneys filter waste into urine, and your digestive system helps move waste out. A smart “reset” means giving your body what it needs to do that job well—hydration, whole foods, fiber, sleep, and gentle movement—instead of stressing your system with harsh detox plans. (NCCIH, 2024) NCCIH
Below are friendly, realistic steps to support your natural detox pathways after holiday treats—plus how an integrative chiropractor and nurse practitioner team can help you build a plan that fits your life.
First: What “Detox” Really Means (And What It Doesn’t)
A lot of “detox” marketing makes it sound like toxins are stuck in your body and you must flush them out fast. But the truth is:
Your body is always “detoxing” through normal organ function.
Most extreme detox programs don’t have strong research behind them.
Some cleanses can backfire by cutting calories too low, reducing fiber, or pushing supplements your body doesn’t need.
The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health explains that many “detox” programs are marketed to remove toxins, but research is limited, and many studies are of low quality. (NCCIH, 2024) NCCIH
The safer goal: lighten the load (less alcohol, less added sugar, fewer ultra-processed foods) and increase the basics (water, fiber, sleep, movement).
Step 1: Hydration That Supports Your Kidneys and Digestion
Hydration supports circulation and kidney filtration. It also helps your digestion move smoothly—especially when you increase your fiber intake.
A practical guideline from Mayo Clinic notes that total daily fluid needs vary, but gives general estimates (including fluids from food and drinks). (Mayo Clinic, n.d.) Mayo Clinic
Slow down at night so you don’t wake up to use the bathroom
Local note (El Paso): Dry air and big temperature swings can sneak up on you. If you’re outdoors, walking, or traveling, you may need more fluids than you think.
Step 2: Eat Whole Foods That “Nourish the Reset”
After a holiday stretch, your body usually does best with simple, colorful, balanced meals.
A “reset plate” you can repeat all week
½ plate: vegetables (raw, roasted, steamed, soups)
¼ plate: protein (fish, chicken, turkey, eggs, tofu, beans)
¼ plate: high-fiber carbs (oats, quinoa, brown rice, potatoes, fruit)
Many post-holiday reset guides emphasize returning to whole foods and cutting back on processed foods as a core step in recovery. (UPMC, 2015; Baptist Health, 2018) El Paso Back Clinic® • 915-850-0900+1
Step 3: Keep an Eye on Alcohol and Added Sugar
Two common holiday stressors on your system are alcohol and added sugar.
Alcohol: why “less is better” for a reset
The CDC notes your liver can only process small amounts of alcohol, and the rest can harm your liver and other organs as it moves through the body. (CDC, 2025) CDC The NIAAA also explains that alcohol affects many body systems—not only the liver. (NIAAA, 2025) NIAAA
Try this for 3–7 days:
Pick alcohol-free days
If you drink, slow down and alternate with water
Eat before drinking (not after)
Added sugar: a simple limit to remember
The FDA explains the Daily Value for added sugars is 50 grams per day (based on a 2,000-calorie diet), and the Dietary Guidelines recommend keeping added sugars under 10% of total calories. (FDA, 2024) U.S. Food and Drug Administration The CDC provides similar guidance and explains how added sugars can accumulate quickly. (CDC, 2024) CDC
Easy swaps that still feel satisfying
Replace soda with sparkling water + citrus
Replace candy with fruit + nuts
Replace pastries with Greek yogurt + berries
Replace sugary coffee drinks with lightly sweetened or unsweetened options
Step 4: Sleep Is One of Your Strongest “Reset Tools”
Sleep is not lazy. It’s repair time.
The CDC notes adults generally need at least 7 hours of sleep per night. (CDC, 2024) CDC When sleep drops, people often notice more cravings, a worse mood, and lower pain tolerance—so the reset gets harder.
A simple sleep reset checklist
Keep the same wake time most days
Get daylight in your eyes in the morning (even 5–10 minutes helps)
Stop heavy meals 2–3 hours before bed
Reduce screen time 30–60 minutes before sleep
Keep your room cool and dark
Dr. Jimenez also discusses how irregular sleep and late-night light exposure can disrupt your rhythm and contribute to brain fog and fatigue patterns. (Jimenez, n.d.) El Paso, TX Doctor Of Chiropractic
Step 5: Light Exercise Supports Circulation and Helps You Feel “Unstuck”
You don’t need a hard workout to support your body after the holidays. You need consistent, gentle movement.
El Paso Back Clinic often emphasizes circulation and movement as a supportive strategy for overall function, including how exercise helps blood and lymph flow and how integrative therapies can support the body’s natural processes. (Jimenez, 2025) El Paso Back Clinic® • 915-850-0900
Pick one simple movement option daily
10–30 minute walk
Gentle yoga flow
Light stretching + deep breathing
Easy cycling
Mobility work (hips, spine, shoulders)
“After-meal” movement (small but powerful)
5–10 minute walk after meals
Gentle spinal twists (seated or lying)
Calf raises or marching in place while cooking
Step 6: Stress, Digestion, and the Vagus Nerve Connection
After the holidays, stress can show up in the body as:
tight shoulders/neck
shallow breathing
bloating or “nervous stomach”
headaches
trouble sleeping
Dr. Jimenez explains that vagal tone is a key factor in maintaining calm and balance, influencing the stress response and digestion. (Jimenez, 2025) El Paso, TX Doctor Of Chiropractic
Two “reset” tools that take 2 minutes
Box breathing: inhale 4 seconds, hold 4, exhale 4, hold 4 (repeat 4 times)
These are small steps, but they can help your body shift from “fight or flight” to “rest and digest.”
How El Paso Back Clinic Can Help You Reset (The Integrative Way)
A post-holiday reset is easier when pain, stiffness, or stress is not getting in your way. El Paso Back Clinic describes a multidisciplinary approach that includes chiropractic care and functional medicine-style wellness support. El Paso Back Clinic® • 915-850-0900+1
Integrative chiropractic care may support your reset by helping you:
move better (so walking and exercise feel doable)
reduce tension patterns that build up during travel and long sitting
improve posture and mobility habits that affect breathing and comfort
Dr. Jimenez also writes about how travel and routine changes can increase postural strain, stiffness, and fatigue—and how chiropractic and integrative care can help people restore balance after those disruptions. (Jimenez, 2025) El Paso, TX Doctor Of Chiropractic
Nurse practitioner + functional medicine support can help you:
check for health issues that make fatigue worse (when appropriate)
create realistic nutrition and sleep plans (not extreme rules)
El Paso Back Clinic lists ways to connect, including calling 915-850-0900 and using online appointment options. El Paso Back Clinic® • 915-850-0900+1
A Simple 7-Day Post-Holiday Reset Plan (Doable, Not Perfect)
Days 1–2: Hydrate + simplify
Water on waking + water with meals
One big veggie-based meal per day (salad, soup, stir-fry)
10–20 minute walk
Lights out a little earlier
Days 3–5: Add fiber + cut added sugar
Add beans, oats, chia, berries, greens
Skip sugary drinks
Keep alcohol low or pause it
Add 5–10 minutes of stretching daily
Days 6–7: Lock in your “normal”
Choose 2–3 simple meals you can repeat next week
Pick your exercise rhythm (walks, yoga, mobility)
Keep the same sleep/wake schedule
Plan your next grocery run so your kitchen supports your goals
When to Get Checked Instead of “Resetting” at Home
Call a clinician if you have:
severe belly pain, ongoing vomiting, blood in stool
chest pain, fainting, or shortness of breath
yellowing of skin/eyes, dark urine, extreme fatigue
symptoms of dehydration that don’t improve
concerns about alcohol dependence or withdrawal
Also, if you have kidney disease, liver disease, heart conditions, or diabetes on medication, or you’re pregnant, avoid detox supplements and extreme plans. NCCIH recommends caution with many detox/cleanse products, citing limited evidence and potential safety concerns. (NCCIH, 2024) NCCIH
Takeaway: The Best “Detox” Is Basic Care Done Consistently
After holiday treats, your body usually doesn’t need punishment—it needs support:
And if pain, stress, or stubborn symptoms are blocking your progress, a team that blends chiropractic care + nurse practitioner support can help you reset in a smart, structured way. El Paso Back Clinic® • 915-850-0900+1
Best Magnesium Supplements for Pain Relief: Types, Benefits, and Chiropractic Insights
A chiropractor and nurse practitioner discuss magnesium supplements for pain relief.
Magnesium is a mineral that your body needs for many tasks. It helps muscles work, nerves send signals, and bones stay strong. Many people do not get enough magnesium from food like nuts, seeds, and greens. This can lead to problems such as muscle pain, fatigue, and stress. Supplements can help fill the gap. In this article, we look at how magnesium eases pain. We focus on forms such as malate, glycinate, and topical. These can help with muscle soreness, nerve pain, and more. Chiropractors often suggest them to boost treatments. We base this on health sites and expert views. Read on to learn which type might work for you.
Pain comes in many forms. It can be sore muscles after a workout or chronic issues like fibromyalgia. Magnesium helps relax muscles and calm nerves. It also cuts down on swelling. Studies show it can lower pain without strong drugs. For example, it supports energy production, helping counter fatigue associated with pain. Different forms absorb in unique ways. Oral pills go through the gut. Topical ones soak into the skin. This matters for how fast they help. Always talk to a doctor before starting supplements. They can check if it’s safe for you.
Understanding Magnesium’s Role in Pain Management
Magnesium plays a big part in how your body handles pain. It blocks pain signals in nerves and helps muscles relax. Low levels can make pain worse. About half of adults in the U.S. lack enough magnesium (Team Red White & Blue, n.d.). This leads to cramps, spasms, and soreness. Supplements fix this by boosting levels.
Here are key ways magnesium helps with pain:
Muscle Relaxation: It controls contractions to stop cramps and tension.
Nerve Calming: It balances signals to reduce nerve pain.
Less Swelling: It fights inflammation that causes discomfort.
Better Recovery: It supports energy for healing after injury.
Chiropractors use magnesium with adjustments. It improves treatment outcomes by loosening tight spots. For acute pain, like after surgery, it cuts down on opioid needs (MedCentral, n.d.). For long-term pain, it eases symptoms in conditions such as migraines and back pain.
Magnesium Malate: Effective for Muscle Soreness and Fatigue in Fibromyalgia
Magnesium malate mixes magnesium with malic acid. This form absorbs well in the gut. It boosts energy by helping make ATP, the body’s fuel (Miye Care, n.d.). That’s why it’s beneficial for fatigue and soreness. People with fibromyalgia often feel worn out and achy. This type can help manage those symptoms.
Benefits include:
Eases Muscle Soreness: Reduces pain after exercise or daily strain.
Fights Fatigue: Supports energy to lessen tiredness in chronic conditions.
Helps with Fibromyalgia: Limited studies show it may lower pain severity (Healthline, n.d.).
Good Absorption: Less likely to cause stomach upset than other forms.
Chiropractors like malate for chronic pain. It supports metabolism and reduces fatigue (Sonoma Sports Chiro, n.d.). Take 200-400 mg a day. Start low to see how your body reacts. It’s often available in pill or powder form.
Magnesium Glycinate: Suitable for Nerve Pain and Relaxation
Magnesium glycinate binds to glycine, an amino acid that calms the brain. This form is easily absorbed and gentle on the stomach (Trace Minerals, n.d.). It’s great for nerve pain and stress. It helps regulate signals to stop overexcitement that causes pain.
Key advantages:
Calms Nerves: Lowers anxiety and eases nerve-related pain.
Relaxes Muscles: Reduces tension and spasms.
Aids Sleep: Promotes rest, which helps pain recovery (NMB Chiro, n.d.).
Fewer Side Effects: No laxative issues like some types.
For chiropractic patients, it cuts inflammation and boosts adjustments (SanTe Chiropractic, n.d.). It’s ideal for back or joint pain. Dose is 300-400 mg daily, often at night.
Topical Magnesium Chloride or Sulfate: Direct Muscle Relief Through Baths or Oils
Topical magnesium goes on the skin. Chloride absorbs well and targets sore spots (Health.com, n.d.). Sulfate, or Epsom salts, is for baths. It soothes muscles without gut processing.
Why choose topical:
Localized Relief: Applies right to the painful areas.
Quick Action: Bypasses digestion for faster help.
No Stomach Issues: Avoids diarrhea from oral forms.
Good for Baths: Epsom salts relax the whole body (Team Red White & Blue, n.d.).
Absorption varies by skin type. Studies are mixed, but many feel relief from soreness (Pierce Chiropractic, n.d.). Use oils or soaks 2-3 times a week.
Selecting the Right Form: Malate for Energy, Glycinate for Nerves, Topical for Localized Pain
Choose based on your pain type. Absorption differs: Oral forms, such as malate and glycinate, are absorbed through the gut; topical forms are absorbed through the skin (Drugs.com, n.d.).
Selection tips:
For Energy and Chronic Pain: Pick malate.
For Nerve Calm: Go with glycinate.
For Spot Relief: Use topical chloride or sulfate.
Consider Absorption: Glycinate is best overall (MN Spine and Sport, n.d.).
Chiropractors’ Preferences: Glycinate and Malate for Pain Management
Chiropractors favor glycinate and malate. Glycinate calms muscles and nerves, aiding adjustments (Everybodys Chiropractic, n.d.). Malate boosts energy for recovery.
How they work together:
Relax Muscles: Lessens tension for better alignment.
Cut Inflammation: Reduces joint swelling.
Boost Nerve Function: Improves signals for less pain.
Support Healing: Speeds recovery after treatments (ChiroCredit, n.d.).
Even phosphate forms help energy and relaxation in care (Edinburgh Chiropractic, n.d.).
Clinical Observations from Dr. Alexander Jimenez
Dr. Alexander Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC, focuses on integrative pain care. His work stresses non-drug methods for back pain and neuropathy (Jimenez, n.d.). He sees magnesium fitting into plans that mix chiropractic with nutrition. It helps reduce reliance on opioids and boosts recovery. In his clinic, such approaches ease chronic pain by improving mobility and reducing inflammation.
Conclusion
Magnesium offers natural pain relief. Malate helps fight fatigue in fibromyalgia, glycinate calms nerves, and topical forms provide spot relief. Chiropractors use them to enhance care. Pick the right type for your needs. Always check with a health pro. This can lead to less pain and a better life.
Maintaining Gut Health During the Holidays: Causes, Symptoms, and Integrative Solutions
A woman grates cheese for a holiday meal.
The holiday season brings joy, family time, and lots of food. But it can also lead to stomach problems. Many people face issues like bloating, gas, indigestion, heartburn, diarrhea, and constipation. These happen because of rich foods, extra drinks, stress, and changes in daily habits. All this can upset your digestive system and the good bacteria in your gut. This can cause reflux, cramps, or even make conditions like IBS worse.
During holidays, people often eat more fatty, sugary, and heavy meals. They might drink more alcohol, too. Stress from planning and less sleep add to the mix. Diets may have less fiber from fruits and veggies. These factors strain the gut and change its bacterial balance. This leads to swelling in the stomach. Integrative health experts, like chiropractors and nurse practitioners, can help. They examine the main causes and offer ways to address them. This includes managing stress with mindfulness and exercise, giving diet tips for more fiber and water, and using supplements like probiotics and Vitamin D. They might also use hands-on therapy to calm the nervous system. This helps control symptoms and boosts long-term gut health.
Common Causes of Holiday Gut Issues
Holidays change how we eat and live. Large, rich meals with lots of fat and spice can trigger acid reflux. This causes stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus, causing heartburn. Overeating and indulgent foods add to discomfort. Foods high in fat, sugar, and alcohol can cause gas and bloating.
Stress plays a big role, too. High stress can slow or speed up digestion. It releases hormones, such as cortisol, that slow blood flow to the gut and cause swelling. Holiday stress affects the gut-brain link, making issues like IBS or GERD worse.
Alcohol and fizzy drinks are common triggers. They can lead to bloating and cramps. In winter, cold weather slows digestion and reduces blood flow to the gut. Less thirst means people drink less water, causing dehydration and constipation.
Diets shift to more sugary and processed foods. This harms the gut microbiome, the beneficial bacteria that help digest food. Low fiber from missing fruits and veggies adds to constipation.
Overindulgence in food and drink: 61% of people link issues to this.
Eating different foods: 59% say this worsens symptoms.
Stress and low moods: 50% eat more due to winter blues.
Specific items like Brussels sprouts, cream, or fizzy drinks.
These causes combine to make gut problems common. About 67% of adults face issues like reflux or indigestion during the holidays. A third say symptoms get worse at Christmas.
Symptoms to Watch For
Gut troubles show up in many ways. Bloating feels like fullness or pressure from overeating or fatty meals. Gas comes from swallowed air, carbonated drinks, or certain foods. Indigestion and heartburn happen when acid backs up.
Constipation is common due to low fiber intake and reduced activity. Diarrhea might be caused by food poisoning or by rich foods. Cramps and pain can signal IBS flare-ups.
Other signs include:
Abdominal pain or excessive gas.
Loss of appetite or overeating.
Reflux or GERD symptoms, such as chest burning.
Changes in bowel habits lasting more than a few days.
If symptoms last for more than 2 weeks or include blood, weight loss, or severe pain, see a doctor.
How Holidays Affect the Gut Microbiome
The gut microbiome is trillions of bacteria that help digest food and keep you healthy. Holidays can disrupt this balance. Sugary and fatty foods alter the types of bacteria, leading to inflammation.
Stress reduces the number of good bacteria and allows bad bacteria to grow. Alcohol harms the gut lining and bacteria. Low fiber starves beneficial bacteria.
This imbalance causes:
Slower digestion and bloating.
Weakened immune system.
More inflammation that lasts into the new year.
Winter adds to this with fewer diverse foods and more indoor time.
The Role of Integrative Practitioners
Integrative experts focus on whole-body health. They identify root causes such as stress or diet. Chiropractors and nurse practitioners use natural ways to help.
The brain-gut connection explains why. Stress affects the gut, and gut issues affect mood. Treatments calm the stress response and reduce swelling.
Dr. Alexander Jimenez, a chiropractor and nurse practitioner, observes that gut health links to inflammation and chronic issues. He uses functional medicine to assess diet, lifestyle, and genes. In his practice, he combines adjustments with nutrition to restore balance. He notes that holiday eating causes dysbiosis, leading to fatigue and pain. His approach includes supplements and lifestyle changes for long-term health.
Stress Management Techniques
Stress worsens gut issues, so managing it helps. Try mindfulness practices, such as deep breathing or meditation. Yoga calms the nervous system.
Take walks after meals to aid digestion.
Plan ahead to avoid rushing.
Get 7–9 hours of sleep a night.
Use apps for breathing exercises.
These boost the “rest and digest” response.
Dietary Advice for Better Gut Health
Eat more fiber to keep things moving. Choose fruits, veggies, and whole grains. Stay hydrated with at least 8 cups of water daily.
Tips include:
Use smaller plates for portion control.
Eat slowly and chew well.
Add fermented foods like yogurt or kimchi for probiotics.
Limit sugar, fat, and alcohol.
Follow the 80/20 rule: be healthy 80% of the time and indulge 20%.
Supplements like probiotics help restore gut bacteria. Vitamin D supports immune and gut health, especially in winter.
Manual therapy, such as chiropractic adjustments, helps balance the nervous system. This reduces inflammation and aids digestion. Dr. Jimenez uses this in his integrative practice for post-holiday recovery.
Probiotics from food or pills.
Digestive enzymes for heavy meals.
Fiber supplements, if needed.
Preventing Issues and Long-Term Health
Prevent problems by planning meals and staying active. Avoid trigger foods like dairy or gluten if sensitive.
For the long term, keep healthy habits year-round. This reduces inflammation and boosts energy. Integrative care helps maintain balance.
Dr. Jimenez sees that addressing gut health prevents chronic diseases. His observations show nutrition and adjustments improve outcomes.
Holidays don’t have to hurt your gut. With smart choices and expert help, you can enjoy the season and feel satisfied.
Unlocking Wellness at El Paso Back Clinic®: Telemedicine’s Role in Nutritional Counseling and Integrative Chiropractic Care
The Nutritionist prepares for an online telemedicine session.
Introduction
In the heart of El Paso, Texas, staying healthy doesn’t always mean long drives to the doctor’s office. At El Paso Back Clinic®, led by Dr. Alex Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC, CFMP, IFMCP, we make wellness easy with telemedicine. This tech uses video calls and apps to connect you with our experts for nutritional advice, right from your home. It’s perfect for busy El Paso families dealing with back pain, sports injuries, or just wanting more energy.
Our nutritional counseling via telemedicine isn’t just general tips—it’s custom-made for you. We help with meal plans that fight inflammation, support weight management, or boost recovery after an injury. Think personalized recipes, like anti-inflammatory Player Bowls packed with veggies and lean proteins, shared during your virtual session. We also link to services for medically tailored meals, delivered to your door in El Paso, to support conditions like diabetes or heart health.
What sets us apart at El Paso Back Clinic® is our blend of chiropractic care and functional medicine. Chiropractic adjusts your spine to ease pain and improve movement, while functional medicine digs into root causes, like poor diet or stress. Through telemedicine, we combine these for full-body plans, including food advice, supplements, and simple exercises. This helps your body heal naturally, without heavy meds or surgery.
Dr. Alex Jimenez, with his dual skills as a chiropractor and nurse practitioner, sees this work wonders every day. From our clinics in East Side, Central, and Northeast El Paso, he notes that patients with sciatica or chronic back pain recover faster when nutrition supports their adjustments. Simple swaps, such as adding omega-3-rich foods, reduce swelling and speed healing (Jimenez, 2023a).
This article explores how telemedicine powers nutritional guidance at El Paso Back Clinic®. We’ll cover the basics, how to prep for sessions, and the strength of our integrative approach. You’ll get real tips and insights to start your wellness journey with us.
Why Choose El Paso Back Clinic® for Telemedicine Nutrition?
Convenient virtual visits from anywhere in El Paso.
Expert team focused on back health, sports wellness, and functional nutrition.
Personalized care that fits your Texas lifestyle.
What Is Telemedicine for Nutritional Counseling at Our Clinic?
At El Paso Back Clinic®, telemedicine means meeting our registered dietitians or nutrition specialists online, without the need to visit our Vista Del Sol or Gateway East locations. Log in from your phone or computer for a one-on-one chat about your eating habits. We ask about your daily routine, health background, and goals, then create a plan tailored to El Paso life—maybe quick meals for shift workers or family-friendly options.
For instance, if you’re dealing with high blood pressure, we might suggest low-sodium Tex-Mex twists, like grilled chicken fajitas with fresh salsa. We send recipes via email or our secure app, where you can scan barcodes for nutrition info. Sessions are flexible—schedule around your job at the border or kids’ soccer practice.
Research supports this method. One study adapted tools like the NUTRI-TEC system for interactive care, helping patients track meals and meet goals from home (Hutton et al., 2020). Dr. Jimenez uses similar tech in our clinic for injury recovery. After a slip-and-fall, patients use video check-ins to adjust their diets, such as adding collagen-rich broths for joint support (Jimenez, 2023b).
What Happens in a Typical Session?
Quick health assessment and goal discussion.
Review of your food diary or lab results.
Custom tips with follow-up resources.
Personalized Meal Plans Through Virtual Consults at El Paso Back Clinic®
One of the best parts of our telemedicine service is creating meal plans tailored to your needs. Upload your blood work or a week’s food log to our portal, and during the call, Dr. Jimenez or our team will review it. We spot issues, like low iron from skipping veggies, and recommend fixes—perhaps spinach salads with local El Paso produce.
Our apps make it smart and simple. They generate weekly menus that avoid allergens or fit budgets. If you’re vegan, we swap in beans for meat. This keeps you on track, as plans feel realistic for daily life.
For ongoing issues like IBS, we focus on gut-soothing foods, such as probiotic yogurt or herbal teas. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) reports that virtual plans improve outcomes for diabetes and other conditions (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2023a). In our functional medicine wing, we go deeper with at-home tests, then tweak via app. Dr. Jimenez has seen autoimmune patients reduce flares by ditching inflammatory foods, guided by labs (Jimenez, 2024).
How We Build Your Plan Step by Step:
Snap photos of your meals to share.
Talk about tastes, allergies, and schedules.
Receive a shopping list with H-E-B or Walmart picks.
Delivering Educational Resources Remotely from El Paso Back Clinic®
Learning about nutrition should be engaging, not overwhelming. At our clinic, telemedicine delivers education in fun ways. Watch videos on portion control or join live webinars on beating sugar cravings. We host group sessions for El Paso locals on topics like healthy grilling for summer barbecues.
These build real skills. Learn to spot hidden fats on labels or follow virtual demos for easy smoothies. For families, we include kid tips, like hiding greens in pasta sauce.
HHS highlights group support for setting goals, where folks share successes like choosing water over soda (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2023a). Dr. Jimenez’s online classes teach how vitamins from fruits aid nerve repair after back strains, with slides you can revisit (Jimenez, 2023c).
Our Favorite Educational Tools:
Fun quizzes on balanced eating.
Video recipe collections.
Digital journals for tracking habits.
Coordinating Medically Tailored Meals with Our Telemedicine Services
When cooking is tough due to pain or other factors, we connect you with medically tailored meals (MTMs). These are ready-made dishes designed for your health, like low-carb options for blood sugar control, delivered across El Paso.
Our providers handle the setup, ensuring meals align with your plan. Track and provide feedback via the app for adjustments. This helps post-surgery patients and those with arthritis get the nutrients they need without effort.
HHS explains that MTMs address medical and social needs to improve management (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2023a). At El Paso Back Clinic®, we combine MTMs with chiropractic care to ensure complete healing. For scoliosis patients, anti-inflammatory meals with spices like turmeric can ease discomfort and support adjustments (Jimenez, 2023b).
Benefits of MTMs Through Us:
Customized for your diet restrictions.
Weekly deliveries to your El Paso address.
Easy app-based reviews for changes.
Preparing Patients and Families for Success at El Paso Back Clinic®
Ready for your first telemedicine nutrition session? We make prep simple. Check your device’s camera and internet, then gather notes on symptoms, meds, and recent eats.
Bring your family in—especially if they share meals. This way, everyone learns, like planning group hikes with healthy snacks. HHS notes shared plans create family-wide habits (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2023b).
For tech newbies, we offer phone backups or easy guides. Dr. Jimenez tells families in El Paso to log meals together to reduce stress and boost energy (Jimenez, 2024).
Your Prep Checklist:
Set up a quiet spot and charge gadgets.
Jot down questions in advance.
Include cooks or eaters in the call.
Functional Medicine’s Virtual Boost at Our El Paso Clinic
Functional medicine at El Paso Back Clinic® targets why you’re unwell—like gut issues causing fatigue. Telemedicine makes it accessible: Review home test results online, then get plans with foods, supplements, and lifestyle tweaks.
Our shared apps monitor sleep or activity, allowing real-time changes. Being Functional describes how this tracks markers like blood sugar without trips (Being Functional, n.d.).
Dr. Jimenez, with certifications in functional medicine, transforms care here. For hormone imbalances, he guides diets via portal, watching energy improvements (Jimenez, 2023c).
Key Functional Tools We Use:
Mailed home testing kits.
App logs for daily progress.
Connections to worldwide experts.
Chiropractic Meets Nutrition Online at El Paso Back Clinic®
Our chiropractic services fix spine issues for less pain, but nutrition multiplies the benefits. Virtually, we recommend foods like nuts for muscle relaxation after adjustments.
Grove Chiropractic notes that omega-3s reduce stiffness, complementing our alignments (Grove Chiropractic, n.d.). We stress hydration for disc health—aim for eight glasses daily.
Dr. Jimenez blends this expertly. Sciatica sufferers get guided stretches and bone-supporting supplements, shortening recovery (Jimenez, 2023a).
Top Nutrient-Chiro Combos:
Vitamin D for strong bones.
Turmeric to curb swelling.
Fiber for gut health linked to back wellness.
An Integrative Approach: Blending Services at El Paso Back Clinic®
Our strength is integrating telemedicine, functional medicine, and chiropractic. Virtual sessions review labs, craft diets, and add exercises—all in our secure app.
The Well-House Chiropractic uses telehealth for balanced coaching to avoid overwhelm (The Well-House Chiropractic, 2023a). Advanced Integrated Health emphasizes root fixes for enduring health (Advanced Integrated Health, n.d.).
Dr. Jimenez’s method shines: Structure from chiropractic, internal healing from functional, and access via tele. For sports injuries, we mix rehab moves, berry-rich antioxidant foods, and online follow-ups (Jimenez, 2023d).
This saves time and money, empowering El Paso residents.
Our Integrated Advantages:
Comprehensive plans for mind and body.
Instant adjustments through video.
Reduced need for ongoing meds.
Real-World Examples from El Paso Back Clinic® Patients
Meet Maria, an El Paso teacher with neck pain. Our telemedicine nutritionist recommended anti-inflammatory meals; functional tests revealed low magnesium, which we corrected with seeds. Chiropractic eased her posture, plus yoga tips. Soon, she felt vibrant.
Dr. Jimenez shares athlete stories: A local runner with knee issues received nutrient boosts and adjustments via the app, and was back on the trails quickly (Jimenez, 2024).
We use portals like NUTRI-TEC to track intake, helping meet intake goals (Hutton et al., 2020).
Patient Success Highlights:
Blood sugar stability with MTMs.
IBS relief through gut-focused plans.
Faster rehab with targeted supplements.
Challenges and Solutions in Our Telemedicine Program
Tech hiccups? We suggest backups like phone calls. Privacy? Our platforms are secure.
For those new to apps, start simple. Costs? Many insurances cover; check HHS resources (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2023a).
Dr. Jimenez helps rural El Paso areas with text reminders, closing gaps (Jimenez, 2023b).
Overcoming Common Issues:
Test runs with our support team.
Low-data modes for spotty connections.
Affordable options and payment plans.
The Future of Wellness at El Paso Back Clinic®
Looking ahead, we’ll add AI for meal ideas and VR for exercise demos. More coverage for our virtual functional-chiro mixes.
Dr. Jimenez envisions a broader reach for El Paso’s underserved, such as border workers, through expanded networks (Jimenez, 2023d).
Conclusion
At El Paso Back Clinic®, telemedicine enables personalized, convenient, and effective nutritional counseling. Paired with our chiropractic and functional medicine, it heals from the inside out. Visit us at our East Side location (11860 Vista Del Sol, Ste 128, 915-412-6677), or start virtually. Email spinedoctors@gmail.com or call 915-850-0900. Let Dr. Jimenez and our team guide your path to better health.
Revive Your Gut Naturally at El Paso Back Clinic®: Chiropractic Care for Better Digestion, Diet, and Detox in El Paso, TX
Stomach cramps, slow digestion, or constant puffiness can steal your joy in El Paso’s sunny days. These gut problems often stem from stress on the body’s control system. At El Paso Back Clinic® in El Paso, Texas, a trusted wellness team uses integrative chiropractic care to help them. Gentle spine adjustments, soft tissue therapy, smart eating plans, and natural detox steps work together. The focus is on the nervous system—it guides how food is broken down and waste is removed. Clear nerve paths mean less pain and smoother bowels. Fresh blood flow feeds organs. Simple diet and habit changes help the body clean itself. This full plan builds lasting gut strength for locals.
El Paso Back Clinic® sees the spine as the body’s main switchboard. A small bone shift can block signals to the stomach, liver, or intestines. Adjustments line up the spine to free nerves. The brain then sends clearer orders to enzymes and muscles. Patients feel less bloating and heartburn. Adding massage and food tips powers the body’s cleanup crew. The clinic helps thousands regain comfort without pills.
The gut and the liver work closely together. The gut moves waste; the liver filters it. Nerve blocks slow this pair, causing swelling and low energy. El Paso Back Clinic® restores the link with precise care. Dr. Alexander Jimenez, the clinic’s top chiropractor and nurse practitioner, sees quick wins daily. He notes that the spine helps reduce lower back swelling and supports the gut-liver axis (Jimenez, n.d.a.). Desk workers and crash survivors find their digestion steadies when nerves run clear.
Care here builds habits, not just quick relief. Guides cover tasty anti-inflammatory meals, water goals, and calm moves that fit El Paso life. These fuel detoxes ensure waste exits through bowels, skin, and breath—no harsh kits needed. A custom roadmap keeps changes simple and real.
Nervous System: The Gut’s Quiet Boss at El Paso Back Clinic®
Think of nerves as phone lines from the brain to the belly. They say when to mix acids, absorb vitamins, and push food along. The autonomic system automates this process. Poor posture or old injuries can pinch the spine. The middle back nerves tie to the stomach; the low back ones reach the colon. Pinches cause food to become stuck and waste to back up (Hyslop, 2023).
Clinic doctors examine by hand and with scans, then use soft thrusts to free spots. There is no force involved, only results. Nerves open; the vagus nerve—the gut leader—steps up. The body shifts to rest-and-digest calm. Gas drops ease cramps, and bowels move steadily (Parco of Ontario, n.d.).
Dr. Jimenez shares clinic wins. A driver with whiplash had daily bloat from thoracic pressure. Adjustments and simple stretches cleared both in weeks. Jimenez ties it to less stress juice that harms beneficial bugs (Jimenez, n.d.b.). Free signals keep the gut crew balanced and happy.
Spine Adjustments at El Paso Back Clinic®: Your Digestion Reset Button
Adjustments are the clinic’s star move—safe, no drugs, and proven. They realign the spine so the gut nerves work right. Focus lands on the thoracic and lumbar areas, home to the stomach and bowel wires.
Visits start with posture pics and light tests. A quick, gentle push may pop softly. Blood flows; nerves spark. Relief hits fast—easier stools, less reflux. Heartburn can drop 50% as diaphragm pressure lifts (Well Beings Medicine, n.d.). Colon nerves wake for wave motion, ending constipation (Abundant Life Chiropractor, n.d.).
Local athletes count on this. A soccer player with IBS saw patterns even out after lumbar care. Dr. Jimenez added planks to hold posture. Adjustments also address slouching that can crush organs. A tall spine gives guts space.
Circulation Power-Up: El Paso Back Clinic® Fuels Gut Healing
Strong blood flow brings oxygen and hauls trash. Spine stress or tight muscles clog it. Toxins stack; repair lags. The clinic clears the road.
Adjustments open the spine vessels, allowing blood to rush to the organs in the belly. This feeds gut walls and speeds junk to the liver (DC Labs, n.d.). Massage kneads knots; ultrasound warms deep for extra flow. Dr. Jimenez checks energy levels—patients see clear skin and pep as detox rolls (Jimenez, n.d.a).
Tips: strolls or home yoga. These move lymph that dispels waste. Less swelling stops gut leaks into the blood.
Nutrition Guidance at El Paso Back Clinic®: Meals That Heal
Food heals at the clinic. Three-phase plans.
Phase 1: Clear – Cut down on sweets and fast food to reduce harmful bacteria.
Phase 2: Build—load greens, beans, local salsa, and fermented foods.
Phase 3: Thrive – Mix proteins and fats for balance (Touch Chiropractic, n.d.).
Tests catch low beneficial bacteria. Dr. Jimenez suggests fish tacos with greens—tasty and anti-inflammatory. Hydration rule: clear urine means enough.
Detox Made Simple at El Paso Back Clinic®
The body cleans daily—liver, kidneys, skin, lungs. Clinic care speeds it. Adjustments push gut waste; massage moves lymph; diet traps toxins for exit (Spine and Joint Center, n.d.).
The El Paso sun helps—light sweat or a home sauna flushes skin. Mini-trampoline bounces junk out. Milk thistle supports liver health if medical tests indicate it is safe to use. Dr. Jimenez watches crash patients lose fog as toxins drop (Jimenez, n.d.c).
Dr. Jimenez Guides El Paso Back Clinic® with Real Results
Dr. Alexander Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC, IFMCP, leads with dual skills. Thousands of El Paso families trust his care yearly.
A factory worker, post-fall, had back pain and weeks of no bowel movements. Scans showed lumbar blocks. Adjustments, probiotics, and fiber were maintained for 6 weeks. Retests proved gut flora bounced back (Jimenez, n.d.a). Jimenez calls it spine-gut teamwork.
His plans use X-rays, stool checks, and food diaries—no guesses. As El Paso’s top wellness doctor, he hands patients the reins.
Begin Gut Wellness at El Paso Back Clinic® Today
El Paso Back Clinic® offers a clear path to gut ease. Start with a full spine and symptom review. Adjustments quiet nerve static; therapies and plans seal wins. Eat, move, and breathe for natural detox.
Call El Paso Back Clinic® in El Paso, TX—your gut deserves this care.
Fall Harvest Nutrition & Back Health in El Paso: September–October Produce, Recipes & Recovery Support
Introduction
El Paso Back Clinic is dedicated to restoring spinal health, relieving pain, and helping patients recover from back injuries, sciatica, disc conditions, and neuromusculoskeletal disorders. (El Paso Back Clinic® • 915-850-0900) In addition to manual therapies, imaging, chiropractic adjustments, and rehabilitation protocols, optimal recovery often depends on a well-balanced diet and proper nutrition.
In El Paso, September and October bridge the gap between late-summer produce and early-fall crops. This seasonal window is ideal for accessing fresh, nutrient-dense foods that support inflammation control, connective tissue repair, and metabolic resilience. By integrating seasonal eating into recovery programs, El Paso Back Clinic can further empower patients to heal more completely.
This article describes the fruits and vegetables in season in this region during September–October, offers practical recipes, and links these foods to spinal health and integrative care protocols used at El Paso Back Clinic.
Seasonal Produce in September and October
In Texas and El Paso-area markets, September still features warm-season favorites, while October introduces classic fall harvests. (Data from Texas Real Food, CSPI, and related sources inform these observations.)
Fruits to Watch
Apples become more available in early fall, offering great fiber, antioxidants, and natural sweetness.
Pears — juicy and mild, pair well with greens or in roasting blends.
Persimmons — a late-fall fruit with natural sugars used in jams or baking. (Mimi’s Organic Eats, 2023)
Prickly Pear (Cactus Fruit) — hardy in desert climates like El Paso; rich in antioxidants and hydration potential. (The Fit Cookie, 2024)
Grapes & Melons — still available in September as lingering summer stocks or from regionally shifted farms.
Vegetables & Roots
Pumpkins & Winter Squash — hearty, vitamin A–rich, useful for soups, roasting, and sides.
Sweet Potatoes — excellent source of complex carbs, fiber, and micronutrients.
Broccoli & Leafy Greens (kale, collards, spinach) — thrive in milder weather and deliver calcium, magnesium, and phytonutrients.
Carrots & Other Root Vegetables — store well, roast well, blend well.
Brassicas (e.g., cabbage, cauliflower) — begin to appear more often in October as cooler nights set in (Texas Farmers Market, n.d.).
Herbs (such as thyme, rosemary) — useful seasoning even late in the season.
Because El Paso is located on the border of desert and semi-arid zones, certain drought-tolerant plants, such as cacti (prickly pear), remain viable. Seasonal catalogs, such as those from Texas Real Food, list items that remain fresh during this transitional season. (El Paso Back Clinic® • 915-850-0900)
Why Seasonal Nutrition Matters for Back & Spine Recovery
At El Paso Back Clinic, core therapy modalities include chiropractic spinal adjustments, rehabilitative exercise, functional medicine diagnostics, and integrative protocols to reduce pain, restore mobility, and prevent relapses. (El Paso Back Clinic® • 915-850-0900) Nutrition plays a supportive role in several mechanisms critical to spinal healing:
Inflammation modulation
Many fruits and vegetables in the fall harvest carry anti-inflammatory compounds (e.g., polyphenols, carotenoids, flavonoids). These help temper chronic inflammation in the surrounding areas of the spinal joints, discs, and soft tissues.
Connective tissue repair & collagen support
Vitamin C (from apples, leafy greens) and minerals like magnesium (from greens, broccoli) support collagen synthesis, which is essential for ligament and disc healing.
Energy and glycemic balance
Complex carbohydrates from sweet potatoes and root vegetables offer sustained energy, preventing glycemic spikes that can worsen inflammatory stress.
Gut health & systemic resilience
Dietary fiber from produce helps the gut microbiome, which in turn influences systemic inflammation and immune regulation.
Micronutrient sufficiency
Some B vitamins, potassium, magnesium, and trace minerals abundant in fall produce support nerve conduction, muscle function, and bone health.
In clinical practice at El Paso Back Clinic, Dr. Jimenez can use diagnostic tools (imaging, functional labs) to detect structural or systemic contributors to back pain. When patients adopt seasonal nutrition strategies, it reinforces the mechanical and rehabilitative therapies.
Recipes for Fall, Spine-Friendly Meals
Below are simple recipes that use seasonal produce and align with a recovery-supportive diet.
Method: Preheat oven to ~400°F. Toss the veggies in olive oil and herbs, then roast for ~20–30 minutes, until tender and lightly browned. (Fueling a Southern Soul, 2024)
Benefit: Offers high fiber, vitamins A/C, and phytonutrients without heavy saturated fats.
Method: Arrange on a sheet pan, roast until cooked through (Marley Spoon, 2024)
Benefit: Balanced protein, carbs, and vegetables in one tray—ideal for patients easing into better nutrition with limited kitchen time.
6. Persimmon-Apple Warm Compote
Ingredients: Sliced persimmons and apples, cinnamon, nutmeg, a small amount of sugar or maple syrup
Method: Cook gently until the fruits are soft, then serve over oatmeal or yogurt. (Mimi’s Organic Eats, 2023)
Benefit: Cozy dessert alternative to heavy sweets, with fiber and seasonal flavor.
These recipes can be adapted to patient dietary needs (e.g. low-sodium, gluten-free) and incorporated into meal plans during rehabilitation.
Integrating Nutrition into Back Clinic Protocols
At El Paso Back Clinic, combining structural therapies with nutritional planning strengthens outcomes. Here is how to integrate these seasonal eating strategies:
Nutrition assessment during intake
When patients arrive, gather a dietary history and assess for deficiencies (e.g., low magnesium, vitamin D, and iron). This parallels the clinic’s diagnostic approach.
Tailored seasonal meal plans
Recommend 2–3 recipes per week from the seasonal list above. Emphasize rotating produce to maximize nutrient diversity.
Educational resources & handouts
Provide patients with one-page guides showing “Fall Produce & Spine Health,” linking each fruit/vegetable to a benefit (e.g., “Sweet potatoes → sustained energy for rehab”).
Monitoring & feedback loops
In follow-up visits, ask patients how their energy, inflammation, and recovery symptoms change when applying the seasonal diet. Adjust based on labs or symptom response.
Complemented by rehabilitation & therapies
The food supports but does not replace core therapies, such as chiropractic adjustments, spinal decompression, massage, traction, exercise, and neural mobilization.
Address barriers
Some patients may have limited access to fresh fruits and vegetables. Provide strategies: frozen vegetables, local farmers’ markets in El Paso, or community-supported agriculture (CSA) boxes.
Clinical Case Narratives & Correlation
(These examples are illustrative; real patient details must remain anonymized and within ethical boundaries.)
Case A: Post-auto accident low back pain
A 35-year-old male presented with lumbar disc strain after an MVA. Imaging revealed a disc bulge and facet irritation. His diet prior to injury was high in refined carbs and low in vegetables. Over rehabilitation, he adopted roasted vegetable bowls and seasonal soups. He reported a reduction in flare-up frequency and improved sleep depth within 8–10 weeks.
Clinical correlation: Combining spinal decompression, adjustments, micronutrient supplementation, an anti-inflammatory diet, and core exercises led to more durable relief.
Case B: Chronic sciatica with nutritional deficits
A 50-year-old female had chronic right-leg sciatica. Labs showed low magnesium and poor glycemic control. After incorporating leafy greens, broccoli, and sweet potatoes, along with magnesium supplementation, she observed fewer nighttime leg cramps and lower pain peaks on flare days.
Clinical correlation: managing micronutrient balance and glycemic swings helped attenuate neural excitability and improved responses to physical therapy.
Case C: Degenerative disc disease in mid-40s
A patient with early degenerative disc changes was counseled to adopt anti-inflammatory dietary habits preemptively. She began seasonal produce early in her therapy. Imaging stability over 2 years, accompanied by fewer episodes of sharp pain, suggests that nutritional support may help slow degenerative progression when combined with structural care.
These narratives exemplify how El Paso Back Clinic’s protocol—comprising structural, rehabilitative, and nutritional components—aligns with holistic recovery.
Conclusion
For El Paso Back Clinic, leveraging the seasonal abundance of September and October produce can strengthen patient recovery protocols. Apples, pears, pumpkins, sweet potatoes, broccoli, carrots, and leafy greens are more than just tasty—they offer targeted nutrition that supports the control of inflammation, connective tissue repair, energy balance, and systemic resilience.
When combined with the clinic’s existing structural, rehabilitative, and functional medicine strategies, seasonal eating becomes an additional tool in the healing arsenal. Patients who adopt these habits may experience smoother recoveries, fewer relapses, and improved long-term spinal health.
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