Heart Health. The heart beats about 2.5 billion times over an individual’s lifetime, pushing millions of gallons of blood to every part of the body. This steady flow carries oxygen, fuel, hormones, other compounds, and essential cells. It also takes away the waste products of metabolism. However, when the heart stops, the essential functions fail.
Given the heart’s never-ending workload, it can also fail. It can be brought down by a poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, infection, unfortunate genes, and more. One of the key problems is atherosclerosis. This is the accumulation of cholesterol-rich plaque inside the arteries. This plaque can limit blood flow through the arteries, coronary arteries, and other arteries throughout the body. When a plaque breaks apart, it can cause a heart attack or stroke.
Although many develop some form of cardiovascular disease (diseases affecting the heart and blood vessels) as they get older, a healthy lifestyle, especially when starting early, goes a long way to prevent cardiovascular disease. In addition, lifestyle changes and medications can help heart-harming illnesses, like high blood pressure or high cholesterol, before they cause damage. And there are medications, operations, and devices that can help support heart health if damage occurs.
Affordable Healthy Eating in El Paso, TX: Tips from El Paso Back Clinic® for Wellness and Chiropractic Care
A man and woman are eating some fresh fruit as a snack.
In El Paso, Texas, people often wonder about ways to boost their wellness and lifestyle. A big question is: How do I make healthy eating affordable? At El Paso Back Clinic®, we know that good nutrition is key to feeling great and healing the body. We help patients eat better without breaking the bank as the leading provider of wellness chiropractic care in El Paso. To make healthy eating affordable in El Paso, try meal planning, choosing seasonal or frozen produce, using beans for protein, shopping at sales and discount stores, and cooking at home more often. We also suggest using local spots like farmers’ markets and food pantries to save on nutritious foods.
At El Paso Back Clinic®, making healthy eating affordable means smart shopping, such as buying seasonal produce, buying in bulk at local markets, and cutting food waste through batch cooking. Our integrative chiropractic care fits right in. We offer holistic, patient-centered services that mix spinal adjustments with nutrition counseling, physical rehab, and lifestyle coaching. This helps fix the main causes of health problems. Led by Dr. Alex Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC, our clinic focuses on whole-body wellness to support your healthy eating goals.
Healthy eating gives you energy, helps you control your weight, and helps fight disease. In the Paso del Norte area, including El Paso, eating a balanced diet with the right calories provides the needed nutrients and reduces the risk of conditions like obesity and diabetes (Paso del Norte Health Foundation, n.d.). Many folks skip enough fruits and veggies, but our tips at El Paso Back Clinic® can help change that.
Why Healthy Eating Matters at El Paso Back Clinic®
El Paso mixes cultures, with many Mexican flavors in its meals. But eating out can cost more and offer less nutrition. In the U.S., eating out accounts for 46% of food spending, and it can lead to weight gain (City of El Paso, n.d.). Cooking at home lets you pick ingredients and sizes. Local efforts like Eat Well El Paso work with eateries to add healthier choices, making it simpler to eat well even outside.
Wellness is more than food—it’s about body balance too. At El Paso Back Clinic®, our integrative chiropractic care fixes spinal problems that impact health. We link nutrition to better results, helping patients in El Paso live stronger.
Meal Planning: A Simple Start from El Paso Back Clinic®
Meal planning saves cash and keeps you healthy. Begin by writing out weekly meals. Check your kitchen first to use what you have and skip waste (Scripps Health, n.d.). This stops random buys.
Here are easy tips:
Plan with sales: Check store flyers and build recipes around cheap items.
Add mix: Include a variety of proteins, veggies, and grains for balance.
Prep early: Make big batches and freeze. Saves time on rushed days (American Heart Association, n.d.).
Try apps: Use MyPlate’s Shop Simple for deals and ideas (Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, 2024).
At El Paso Back Clinic®, we teach meal planning in our nutrition counseling. It fits local tastes, like healthy tacos with beans.
Our meal prep services make it even easier. We offer macro-friendly options like Player Bowls and overnight oats starting at $6. These are packed with nutrients to fuel your day and support recovery (El Paso Back Clinic, n.d.).
Picking Affordable Produce with Clinic Advice
Produce brings vitamins, but fresh produce can be expensive. Choose seasonal fruits and veggies for low prices and fantastic flavor. In Texas, look for in-season items like summer tomatoes or winter greens (Lone Star Circle of Care, 2024).
Frozen or canned: Often cheaper and nutritious. Get fruits in water or juice and veggies without salt (American Heart Association, n.d.).
Farmers’ markets: El Paso markets offer fresh, local produce at great prices. Hunt for closing deals.
Grow some: Plant herbs or simple veggies if you can—it’s low-cost fun.
No waste: Buy what you’ll eat. Freeze leftovers for blends or broths.
Seasonal picks in El Paso let you enjoy chiles at a low price. At our clinic, we suggest anti-inflammatory foods to reduce pain and aid healing.
Budget Protein: Tips from El Paso Back Clinic®
Protein builds strength and fills you up, but meat adds up. Swap in beans, lentils, and tofu for savings. They also provide fiber (Lone Star Circle of Care, 2024).
Beans/lentils: Dry or canned for soups, salads, and burritos.
Eggs/nuts: Cheap and store well.
Seafood weekly: Canned tuna or salmon on a budget (Scripps Health, n.d.).
Veggie days: One or two meat-free meals cut costs.
Beans work in El Paso dishes. Our nutrition team recommends them to help fight inflammation, which ties into chiropractic care.
Smart Shopping at El Paso Back Clinic®’s View
Smart shopping gets you more value. Use sales, coupons, and stores like Aldi or markets.
List it: Follow it to dodge extras.
Bulk buys: Cheaper for rice and oats.
Read labels: Less sugar, salt.
Eat first: Avoid hunger buys (Lone Star Circle of Care, 2024).
Programs like SNAP help low-income folks (Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, 2024). El Paso pantries give free or cheap food.
We guide patients on shopping in counseling sessions, linking it to wellness plans.
Home Cooking and Batch Methods
Home cooking beats eating out for savings. Batch cooking uses big meals to store extras, cutting waste.
Easy recipes: Roast veggies or bean mixes (Scripps Health, n.d.).
Double it: Cook more, freeze half.
Reuse: Chicken becomes tacos next.
Local healthy: Whole grains and veggies in Mexican food.
Paso del Norte Health Foundation classes teach affordable cooking (Paso del Norte Health Foundation, n.d.).
At El Paso Back Clinic®, batch cooking fits our meal prep. We provide ready meals for busy patients to support rehab.
El Paso Resources for Savings
El Paso offers help for healthy food.
Markets: Low-price fresh produce.
Pantries: Free items from places like the Kelly Center (Paso del Norte Health Foundation, n.d.).
Eat Well: Healthier menus at spots like Andale and Track One (City of El Paso, n.d.).
Restaurants: Queen’s Table for cauliflower and Pokeworks for bowls (Tripadvisor, 2026).
WIC and school programs aid families (Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, 2024).
Our clinic ties these to care, suggesting coaching resources.
Blending Chiropractic Care at El Paso Back Clinic®
Healthy eating teams with our integrative care. We do spinal adjustments, nutrition advice, rehab, and coaching.
El Paso Back Clinic® is El Paso’s go-to for injury and wellness. Our 30,000+ square feet include gyms and therapy spots. We use non-invasive methods such as decompression and acupuncture (El Paso Back Clinic, n.d.).
Holistic: Fixes roots, not just pain.
Nutrition: Anti-inflammatory foods for less swelling.
Custom: Plans for El Paso patients.
This supports affordable habits through long-term health education.
Dr. Alexander Jimenez’s Observations
Dr. Alex Jimenez, our leader with 30+ years of experience, sees nutrition as the core of healing. He promotes affordable macro- and probiotic supplements for gut health, reducing inflammation (Jimenez, n.d.a).
In El Paso, he says healthy fajitas keep flavor while nourishing (Jimenez, n.d.b). Probiotics in yogurt help digestion, boosting chiropractic results (Jimenez, n.d.c).
Gut link: To immunity, pain cut.
Plans: Adjustments plus diet for metabolism.
Local: Webinars on loss and swelling for locals.
His dual skills drive natural, cheap wellness.
Wrapping Up
Affordable healthy eating in El Paso uses planning, choices, and resources. At El Paso Back Clinic®, we pair this with chiropractic for full wellness. Dr. Jimenez’s tips show nutrition and care team up.
Jimenez, A. (n.d.b). Dr. Alexander Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC, IFMCP, CFMP, ATN ♛ – Injury Medical Clinic PA | LinkedIn. Retrieved from https://www.linkedin.com/in/dralexjimenez/
Natural Detox Support at El Paso Back Clinic®: Enhancing Your Body’s Wellness in El Paso, TX
A Chiropractor/Nurse Practitioner points to various organs on a computer screen.
In the busy city of El Paso, Texas, staying healthy means helping your body naturally cleanse itself. Organs like the liver and kidneys handle detoxification every day, removing waste from food, air, and daily life. But factors like stress, poor diet, or injuries can slow this down. At El Paso Back Clinic®, a top wellness chiropractic care clinic in El Paso, TX, we focus on supporting your body’s own detox processes. Our team, led by Dr. Alexander Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC, combines nurse practitioner expertise with integrative chiropractic care for a whole-body approach. We avoid quick fixes and instead promote lasting health through nutrition, adjustments, and lifestyle tips.
Many folks chase trendy detoxes like juice cleanses, but experts agree the body doesn’t need them if it’s working well. The liver breaks down toxins, and the kidneys filter them out (MD Anderson Cancer Center, n.d.). Risky methods like colon cleanses can harm your gut balance (Lehigh Valley Health Network, n.d.). At our clinic, we guide patients toward safe, natural ways to support detoxification, drawing on over 30 years of Dr. Jimenez’s experience in functional medicine and injury recovery.
Dr. Jimenez’s clinical work at El Paso Back Clinic® demonstrates how gentle methods help reset the body, especially after holidays or other sources of stress. We address root causes, such as gut issues or pain, that affect detox, using personalized plans for El Paso residents (Jimenez, n.d.a; Jimenez, n.d.b).
How Nurse Practitioners at El Paso Back Clinic® Aid Natural Detox
At El Paso Back Clinic®, our nurse practitioners (NPs) are key to detox support. As advanced nurses, they diagnose and manage health needs, focusing on liver and kidney function with everyday habits. Located at 11860 Vista Del Sol Dr, Suite 128, in El Paso, TX, we offer convenient care for locals dealing with pain, fatigue, or toxin buildup.
Boosting Liver and Kidney Health
The liver and kidneys are detox powerhouses. Our NPs help by recommending simple nutrition and hydration changes tailored to your life in El Paso, where dry weather can make staying hydrated tough.
Choose colorful produce: Fruits and veggies full of antioxidants protect your liver (Whole Family Health Care, n.d.).
Drink plenty of water: This flushes the kidneys and fights dehydration common in our desert climate (Care and, n.d.).
Balance protein intake: Opt for plant-based options to avoid overloading the kidneys (Care and, n.d.).
Add fiber: Whole grains and beans help gut detox by binding waste (University of Wisconsin Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, n.d.).
We monitor your health to spot early signs of strain, like from meds or local pollution. Dr. Jimenez uses functional tests at the clinic to check for toxins and suggest nutrient boosts (Jimenez, n.d.a).
Hydration is extra important here in El Paso. Our NPs teach that water supports sleep and that much detox occurs (Comprehensive Cancer Centers of Nevada, n.d.). We swap soda for herbal teas to keep things natural.
Handling Substance Withdrawal Safely
For those in El Paso facing addiction, detox means safe withdrawal. Our NPs manage this with meds and checks, easing symptoms in a supportive setting.
Prescribe calming meds: Like lorazepam for alcohol withdrawal (National Center for Biotechnology Information, n.d.a).
Track health signs: Watch blood pressure to avoid risks (Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services, n.d.).
Offer comfort: Counseling helps through emotional ups and downs (Health eCareers, n.d.).
As certified addictions experts, our team customizes detox protocols, using tapers for substances like opioids (Mississippi Drug and Alcohol Treatment Center, n.d.). We stabilize patients medically and mentally first (National Center for Biotechnology Information, n.d.b). Family involvement builds strong support, key in our community-focused clinic (Health eCareers, n.d.).
Dr. Jimenez’s neuropathy and addiction care at El Paso Back Clinic® blends NP skills for symptom relief without over-relying on drugs (Jimenez, n.d.b).
Using Holistic Techniques for Stress Relief
Stress is a big detox blocker, raising hormones that slow liver work (Richmond Functional Medicine, n.d.). At our El Paso clinic, NPs use whole-person methods to calm the mind and body.
Safe herbs: Like milk thistle for liver aid, chosen just for you (Natural Healers, n.d.).
Relaxing therapies, such as massage or acupuncture, promote peace (Collaborating Docs, n.d.).
Dr. Jimenez notes stress management is vital for chronic pain patients here, using clinic tools to balance emotions (Jimenez, n.d.a).
Promoting Lasting Lifestyle Shifts
We stress habits that stick, not fads. Our NPs create plans fitting El Paso’s active lifestyle, from border walks to mountain hikes.
Healthy eating: Focus on whole foods to fuel detox (Whole Family Health Care, n.d.).
Quality rest: 7-9 hours lets your body clean house (Comprehensive Cancer Centers of Nevada, n.d.).
Move daily: Exercise boosts blood flow and sweat (University of Wisconsin Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, n.d.).
Handle stress: Yoga classes at our clinic keep systems smooth (Richmond Functional Medicine, n.d.).
Plans are personal, taking into account your job or family. We collaborate with other pros to resolve issues like stress from long commutes. Education empowers you—learn why changes help (Natural Healers, n.d.). In addiction recovery, we cover triggers (Health eCareers, n.d.).
At El Paso Back Clinic®, Dr. Jimenez’s integrative NP role uses nutrition science to support detoxification without judgment (Jimenez, n.d.b). This builds natural health for our community.
How Integrative Chiropractors at El Paso Back Clinic® Enhance Detox
Our integrative chiropractors at El Paso Back Clinic® look at the whole you, starting with spine health. They improve nerve function, flow, and organ work for better detox, all in our welcoming El Paso spaces.
Fine-Tuning the Nervous System
Nerves control detox organs. Spine misalignments block signals, slowing cleanup. Our adjustments fix this gently.
Realign spine: Eases nerve pressure for optimal function (DC Labs, n.d.).
Support organs: Better signals help the liver and kidneys (Impact Chiropractic, n.d.a).
Dr. Jimenez’s clinic observations indicate that chiropractic aids detoxification in functional medicine (Jimenez, n.d.a).
Adjustments enhance natural waste removal, not myths about toxin release (Dr. Chris Harlan, n.d.).
Boosting Lymph and Blood Flow
Lymph drains waste; blood carries nutrients. Chiropractors promote this for efficient detox.
Increase movement: Adjustments get fluids circulating (Impact-Chiropractic, n.d.).
Cut swelling: Less inflammation eases detox (Dallas Accident and Injury Rehab, n.d.).
We add exercise tips, like stretches for El Paso’s warm days (Mountain Movement Center, n.d.).
Dr. Jimenez sees adjustments as helping circulation during sports recovery, aiding detox (Jimenez, n.d.b).
Holistic Support for Organs
Our chiropractors combine adjustments with nutrition and lifestyle advice for comprehensive detox support.
Eat smart: Anti-inflammatory foods for organ health (Hutsell Chiropractic, n.d.).
Hydrate well: Water supports the kidneys in our dry area (Cascades Chiropractors, n.d.).
Daily habits: Exercise and relaxation improve waste exit (Mountain Movement Center, n.d.).
We relieve pressure through alignment, no harsh flushes (DC Labs, n.d.).
Dr. Jimenez combines this with NP care for conditions such as sciatica (Jimenez, n.d.b).
Steering Clear of Quick Fixes
We guide away from extremes, toward steady changes for El Paso lifestyles.
Fix posture: Reduces organ stress (Impact Chiropractic, n.d.b).
Pair with nutrition: Boosts adjustment benefits (Hutsell Chiropractic, n.d.).
Patients often feel happier and more energetic post-care (Dr. Chris Harlan, n.d.).
Dr. Jimenez’s gentle resets align with our clinic’s philosophy (Jimenez, n.d.b).
The Benefits for Your Long-Term Wellness in El Paso
At El Paso Back Clinic®, NPs and chiropractors team up for top detox support, avoiding the risks of fad diets. We enhance the liver, kidneys, nerves, and flow for true wellness.
Dr. Jimenez’s expertise ensures smart, non-invasive care (Jimenez, n.d.a; Jimenez, n.d.b). Call 915-850-0900 to start your journey.
Natural detox thrives on support, not shortcuts. Our clinic empowers El Pasoans for healthier lives.
Healthy Mexican Food in El Paso: Wellness Choices at El Paso Back Clinic®
Mexican food brings fresh, bold flavors to life in El Paso, Texas. At El Paso Back Clinic®, the premier wellness chiropractic care clinic, we see how good nutrition supports recovery, reduces inflammation, and boosts overall health. Led by Dr. Alexander Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC, our team combines chiropractic adjustments with nutrition guidance to help patients heal from injuries and live pain-free.
In a city rich with Mexican culture, choosing healthier versions of classic dishes fits perfectly into a holistic wellness plan. Focus on grilled proteins, plenty of vegetables, and fresh ingredients to enjoy tasty meals that aid healing and mobility.
Shrimp Ceviche Recipe – Meals by Molly: Seafood Recipes
Chicken Tortilla Soup: Broth-based with lean chicken, veggies, and avocado.
Burrito Bowls: Brown rice, beans, grilled protein, and fresh salsa.
Soft Tacos: Corn tortillas with fish, chicken, or beans plus extra veggies.
These dishes use natural ingredients like beans for gut health, avocado for good fats, and fresh salsas for vitamins (Havranek, n.d.; Isabel Eats, n.d.).
Key fresh ingredients that support wellness include:
Beans (black or pinto) for fiber and protein.
Avocado for healthy fats that fight inflammation.
Nopalitos (cactus) and calabacitas (zucchini) for low-calorie nutrients.
Pico de gallo with tomatoes, onions, and chilies.
Lean proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or fish.
These elements help reduce swelling and support recovery, especially when paired with care at El Paso Back Clinic® (Gran Luchito, n.d.).
El Paso offers excellent spots for healthy Mexican options. Many places let you customize for wellness:
Sabrosa La Vida for fresh meals.
Verde Salad Co. for build-your-own bowls.
Timo’s Restaurant for lean, veggie-focused plates.
Look for restaurants that grill proteins and use fresh prep. These choices make it easy to eat well while enjoying local flavors.
At El Paso Back Clinic®, we focus on holistic wellness. Dr. Alexander Jimenez uses integrative chiropractic care and nurse practitioner expertise to treat the whole person. Spinal adjustments improve alignment and nerve function, while nutrition advice targets inflammation and healing.
Dr. Jimenez often recommends anti-inflammatory foods like fresh veggies, lean proteins, and healthy fats found in healthier Mexican dishes. This helps patients recover faster from back pain, injuries, or chronic issues (Jimenez, n.d.a; Jimenez, n.d.b).
Our clinic offers:
Personalized chiropractic adjustments.
Nutrition plans to reduce inflammation.
Functional medicine for root-cause healing.
Rehab to build strength and mobility.
Combining these with smart food choices yields better long-term wellness outcomes (Cleveland Clinic, n.d.).
Here are simple tips to make healthy Mexican eating part of your routine:
Start with ceviche or salsa instead of chips.
Fill half your plate with veggies.
Choose water or herbal tea over sugary drinks.
Try home cooking with local fresh ingredients.
In El Paso’s dry climate, staying hydrated helps too.
Healthy Mexican food supports the body in powerful ways. At El Paso Back Clinic®, we help patients use nutrition and chiropractic care together for pain relief, better mobility, and vibrant health. Dr. Jimenez and the team are here to guide you toward feeling your best.
Contact us today to start your personalized wellness journey.
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
Beat Holiday Stress with Fun Movement and Smart Body Care
A man and a woman play table tennis to ease holiday stress.
The holiday season brings joy, family time, and tasty food, but it can also be stressful. Busy schedules, shopping, travel, and extra tasks can make anyone feel overwhelmed. One great way to feel better is through simple movement and exercise. Physical activity releases endorphins, chemicals in your brain that improve mood and reduce stress (Mayo Clinic, 2023). Even short sessions of fun activities can clear your mind and boost energy.
Many experts agree that almost any form of movement helps manage stress. It acts like a natural reset for your body and brain (Kitsap Physical Therapy, n.d.). Adding some holiday cheer to your routine makes it easier to stick with. This guide shares easy, enjoyable ways to stay active and calm during the holidays.
Why Movement Helps Reduce Holiday Stress
Exercise does more than keep you fit. It pumps up endorphins, boosting a happier feeling, and distracts you from worries. Activities like walking or dancing provide “meditation in motion,” helping you forget daily irritations (Mayo Clinic, 2023). Regular movement also improves sleep, builds confidence, and helps your body better handle stress.
During the holidays, people often move less due to cold weather or busy plans. This can make stress worse. But even one quick workout can lift your mood for hours (Gorman, 2022). Fun, low-pressure activities work best to avoid adding more pressure.
Releases feel-good chemicals to fight anxiety
Clears the mind and improves focus
Boosts energy and helps you sleep better
Builds strength to handle physical holiday demands, like carrying bags
Fun Sports-Inspired Activities to Boost Endorphins
Try activities that feel like play. Sports-inspired moves get your heart pumping and bring smiles.
Jumping rope: A quick cardio blast that raises your heart rate fast. Do it for 10-15 minutes while listening to holiday music (Avec Apartments, n.d.).
Dance breaks: Turn on your favorite songs and dance freely. Join a family dance party or try simple steps. Dancing combines rhythm and fun for great stress relief (NMC Health, n.d.; Triathlete Magazine, n.d.).
Pickup games: Play basketball, tennis, volleyball, or soccer with friends or family. These team sports combine exercise with social time, which further lowers stress (King Chiropractic, n.d.).
Shadowboxing: Punch the air like a boxer. This low-impact move releases tension without needing equipment. It’s perfect for a hotel room or living room (FightCamp, n.d.; Triathlete Magazine, n.d.).
These activities are easy to start and don’t require much space or gear.
Quick and Easy Bodyweight Exercises for Fast Relief
No gym? No problem. These simple moves use only your body and take little time.
Here are some top picks:
High knees: Run in place, lifting knees high. Do it for 1 minute to get your blood flowing (Echelon Fit, n.d.).
Planks: Hold a straight body position on your forearms and toes. Start with 30 seconds of core strength work (Echelon Fit, n.d.).
Bodyweight squats: Lower as if sitting in a chair, then stand up. Great for legs and glutes (Hydrow, n.d.).
Push-ups: Modify on knees if needed. Strengthen your upper body quickly (Hydrow, n.d.).
Jumping jacks: Classic move to warm up and boost mood (Echelon Fit, n.d.).
Try a 20-minute circuit: 30 seconds of each, with short rests in between. Repeat a few times (FightCamp, n.d.). Add holiday twists, like “present pick-up” squats—bend down as if grabbing gifts (Performance Health Academy, n.d.).
Mindful Practices for Calm and Flexibility
For gentler options, try mindful movements that focus on breath and flow.
Yoga flows: Simple poses like downward dog or warrior help stretch and center your mind. A 15-20 minute session reduces tension (Avec Apartments, n.d.; King Chiropractic, n.d.).
Tai Chi: Slow, flowing moves called “meditation in motion.” It improves balance and eases stress without strain (Mind Body Spine, n.d.; FightCamp, n.d.).
These practices calm the nervous system and pair well with busier days.
Outdoor Options: Walks and Hikes for Mind Clearing
Fresh air makes everything better. A brisk walk or hike builds endurance and clears thoughts.
Go for a festive neighborhood walk to see lights. Make it fun with a scavenger hunt for decorations (NMC Health, n.d.).
Hike in nature for extra calm. Being outdoors boosts positive feelings, such as gratitude (Triathlete Magazine, n.d.).
Add active games, such as playing in the yard or stair climbing, between tasks (Muscle MX, n.d.).
Aim for 30 minutes most days. No special gear needed—just good shoes (Club Getaway, n.d.).
Make It Festive: Holiday-Themed Active Fun
Keep things light by tying movement to celebrations.
Dance to holiday tunes or play charades that get everyone moving.
Try “Santa bag throws” or “candy cane curls” with simple weights or air motions (Performance Health Academy, n.d.).
Family games like obstacle courses or mini-golf indoors keep energy high and stress low (NMC Health, n.d.).
These ideas turn exercise into shared joy.
How Integrative Chiropractic Care Fits In
Physical tension from stress often shows up as tight muscles or misalignment. Integrative chiropractic care helps by using gentle adjustments to ease tension and support the nervous system. This improves your body’s stress response and promotes better flexibility (Chiropractic Works Collinsville, n.d.).
Chiropractors may suggest stretches or movements to help maintain alignment. This holistic approach complements exercise for full-body relief. Dr. Alexander Jimenez, a chiropractor and nurse practitioner with over 30 years of experience, notes that spinal health drives overall wellness. His integrative methods combine adjustments with posture exercises and stress management for better mobility and calm (Jimenez, n.d.; Jimenez, 2025a). He often sees that staying active and making adjustments help prevent holiday-related tension and support recovery (Jimenez, 2025b).
Pairing chiropractic visits with daily movement creates a balanced way to enjoy the season.
Tips to Get Started and Stay Consistent
Starting small is key during busy times.
Pick activities you enjoy to make it fun.
Schedule short sessions, like 10-20 minutes.
Involve family or friends for accountability.
Listen to your body—keep it light to avoid extra stress.
Combine with deep breathing for extra calm.
Consistency brings the best results. Even small efforts add up to less stress and more energy (American Fitness Professionals & Associates, n.d.).
By adding these fun movements and mindful care, you can handle holiday demands with ease. Focus on feeling good, not perfect. Your body and mind will thank you.
Fitness vs. Wellness: How Exercise and Chiropractic Care Can Boost Your Overall Health
Strong woman lifts a barbell during a CrossFit workout
Many people talk about being fit or feeling well, but what do these terms really mean? Fitness is about your body’s ability to do physical tasks. It includes things like strength, endurance, and how well you can move. For example, if you can run a mile without getting too tired or lift heavy boxes, that’s fitness in action. Wellness, on the other hand, is bigger. It covers your whole health, including your body, mind, emotions, and even how you get along with others. It’s about feeling good in all parts of life, not just the physical side. Exercise is the key link between the two. When you move your body regularly, it builds strength for fitness and also helps your mind stay calm and your emotions balanced for wellness.
Think of fitness as the engine that powers your daily activities. Without it, simple things like walking up stairs or playing a game could feel difficult. Wellness is like a full car – it needs a good engine, fuel, maintenance, and a smooth ride to get you where you want to go. Exercise keeps everything running well. In this article, we’ll explore these ideas, examine how chiropractic care fits in, and see why combining them all leads to better health.
What Is Fitness?
Fitness focuses on the physical side of health. It’s your body’s capacity to handle activities without getting worn out or hurt. This includes strength, which helps you lift and carry things, and endurance, which lets you keep going for longer periods. Fitness also covers flexibility, balance, and how your heart and lungs work during movement.
Here are some key parts of fitness:
Cardio endurance: This is how well your heart and lungs supply oxygen during activities like running or biking. It helps you last longer without feeling out of breath.
Muscular strength: Built through things like weightlifting, it makes muscles stronger for tasks like pushing or pulling.
Flexibility: Stretching exercises improve the range of motion in your joints, reducing the risk of pulls or strains.
Body composition: The mix of fat and muscle in your body, which exercise can help balance for better health.
People often measure fitness by how they perform in sports or daily chores. For instance, if you can do push-ups or walk briskly for 30 minutes, you’re building fitness. Regular activities like swimming or yoga can improve these areas and lower the risk of conditions like heart disease or diabetes. But fitness alone isn’t enough for total health – that’s where wellness comes in.
What Is Wellness?
Wellness is a wider idea than fitness. It’s about achieving optimal health across all areas of life. While fitness is mostly physical, wellness includes mental, emotional, social, and even spiritual parts. It’s like a wheel with many spokes – if one is weak, the whole thing wobbles.
Key areas of wellness include:
Physical wellness: This overlaps with fitness and involves eating well, sleeping enough, and staying active to keep your body strong.
Mental wellness: Keeping your mind sharp through learning, stress management, and positive thinking.
Emotional wellness: Handling feelings like anger or sadness in healthy ways, often through speaking with friends or journaling.
Social wellness: Building positive relationships and feeling connected to others.
Other areas: like financial stability or environmental awareness, affect how you feel overall.
Wellness is a daily practice, not a one-time goal. It means making choices that help you thrive, not just survive. For example, someone might be fit from gym workouts but lack wellness if they’re stressed or lonely. True wellness balances everything for a happier life.
How Exercise Connects Fitness and Wellness
Exercise is the bridge between fitness and wellness. It’s any movement that gets your body working, like walking, dancing, or lifting weights. For fitness, exercise builds muscle, boosts heart health, and improves endurance. But it also touches wellness by reducing stress, lifting mood, and helping you sleep better.
Benefits of exercise for fitness:
Burns calories to control weight.
Strengthens bones and muscles to prevent injuries.
Improves heart function to lower disease risks.
Benefits for wellness:
Releases feel-good chemicals in the brain to fight depression and anxiety.
Boosts energy for daily tasks and social activities.
Enhances sleep, which supports mental clarity and emotional balance.
Types of exercise include aerobic (like running for heart health), strength training (like weights for muscle), and flexibility work (like yoga for movement). Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity a week, plus strength work twice a week. Even small steps, like a daily walk, can make a big difference. Exercise doesn’t just make you stronger; it helps you feel more balanced overall.
The Role of Chiropractic Care in Fitness and Wellness
Chiropractic care is a natural way to support both fitness and wellness. It focuses on aligning your spine and improving the function of your nerves. This can ease pain, boost movement, and help your body heal itself. Chiropractors use adjustments – gentle pushes on the spine – to fix misalignments that cause issues like back pain or headaches.
How chiropractic helps fitness:
Improves joint mobility for better exercise performance.
Reduces injury risk by maintaining balance.
Speeds up recovery after workouts or strains.
For wellness, it goes deeper:
Lowers stress by relaxing tight muscles.
Boosts immune function through better nerve flow.
Supports overall health by addressing root causes rather than just symptoms.
Dr. Alexander Jimenez, a chiropractor and nurse practitioner, has observed in his practice that combining chiropractic with lifestyle changes leads to better outcomes. He notes that patients with chronic pain often improve faster when adjustments are paired with exercise and nutrition. His work shows how this approach prevents problems and promotes long-term wellness.
Integrating Chiropractic Care with Exercise for Better Results
When you mix chiropractic care with exercise, the results are even stronger. Chiropractic provides a solid base by aligning your body, while exercise builds on that with strength and heart health. This team-up reduces injury chances, improves how you move, and supports lasting wellness.
Steps to integrate them:
Start with a chiropractic check-up to fix any alignments.
Get personalized exercise tips, like stretches for flexibility or core work for stability.
Combine with other habits, such as healthy nutrition and stress relief.
Examples of exercises chiropractors recommend:
Core strengthening, like planks, supports the spine.
Stretches for the hips and back to ease tension.
Low-impact activities like swimming for overall fitness without strain.
Dr. Jimenez’s clinical work supports this. He uses integrative methods, like spinal decompression and tailored workouts, to help patients recover from injuries and stay active. His observations show that this holistic path leads to less pain, more energy, and a better quality of life.
In sports or daily life, this combo helps you perform better and feel great. For instance, athletes use chiropractic to stay aligned during training, while everyday people use it to handle desk jobs without back issues. It’s about prevention – catching problems early so you can keep moving.
Why This Matters for Long-Term Health
Focusing on fitness and wellness through exercise and chiropractic isn’t just for now; it’s for the future. Regular movement and care can prevent chronic issues like arthritis or heart problems. It also makes life more enjoyable, with more energy for hobbies and time with loved ones.
Challenges might include starting slow if you’re new, but small changes add up. Consult pros like chiropractors for safe plans. Remember, wellness is a journey – keep balancing all parts for the best results.
In summary, fitness builds your physical power, wellness covers your whole self, and exercise ties them together. Adding chiropractic care creates a strong foundation for health. As Dr. Jimenez’s practice shows, this integrated way leads to real improvements in how people feel and function.
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.
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