Supplements can become overwhelming with everything that’s out there. This will touch on key categories of supplements and the best way on how to use them.
Supplements are divided into categories:
Nutrients
(Nutraceuticals or Orthomolecular Medicine)
Botanicals
(Herbal Medicine or Phytotherapy)
Hormones
Hormone Replacement Therapy or Restorative Medicine
Each category is meant to support underlying excesses or deficiencies, with the ultimate goal of bringing the body back into balance.
Where it becomes complicated is understanding the different uses and dosing of specific:
Extracts
Chelates (a chemical compound that dissolves more easily and is easily absorbed compared to other types of molecules and compounds)
Prepared Compounds
Nutrients
Nutrients are defined as ingredients that would otherwise be found in food, which include:
Vitamins
Minerals
Phytochemicals
Antioxidants
What are Nutrients?
For sustaining life and staying healthy, the human body requires a balance of nutrients, which can be categorized as macronutrients and micronutrients.
Macronutrients constitute the major food groups of
Carbohydrates
Fats
Proteins
These are required in large amounts and are used for energy production and tissue growth.
Micronutrients are required in small amounts and include vitamins and minerals.
Phytonutrients, such as anthocyanin found in blueberries or resveratrol found in grapes, are also often classified as micronutrients.
How do Nutrients Work?
Macronutrients are the caloric basis for our
Daily energy needs
Provide the building blocks of tissue development
Fiber for our microbiota
Cholesterol for hormone production
Micronutrients are not relevant for energy and contribute to:
Tissue development
Hormone and Neurotransmitter Production
Brain function
Immune function
Common Nutritional Supplements
Dietary supplements can provide nutrients in a condensed form, which allow for targeting specific conditions or in order to upregulate certain pathways that require those nutrients.
Examples include:
Whey Protein Isolate
Omega 3 Fatty Acids
Calcium
B vitamins
Eating Properly/Healthy & Staying Hydrated
Making Protein A Priority
Muscle injuries are one of the most popular reasons for chiropractic visits. Protein helps build and heal muscle tissue, helping it to renew itself back to a pre-injury state.
If your daily intake of protein is low, it can hinder the healing process and stand in the way of chiropractic visits giving you the maximum results. Fish and lean meats are the foods that offer the highest protein.
Other vegetarian options are tofu, soybeans, eggs, milk, and nuts. Help your muscles rebuild and heal by adding high protein foods into every meal menu.
Staying H2o Hydrated
Why do most of us view water drinking with dread? If you wish to promote healing, it�s imperative to drink enough water every day.
Water provides an entire slew of benefits, from transporting those important nutrients to where they need to be, to flushing harmful toxins out of the body. Aim for eight glasses of water a day, and try to drink it throughout the day.
Getting into this habit will boost overall health, and promote healing of injuries and other medical conditions.
While it�s a smart goal to try to ingest all the nutrients you need through food and drink, supplements are available to bridge the gap. Before beginning a supplement regimen, talk to you chiropractor for recommendations on the type and dosage that will aid and improve your unique situation.
You may also want to download a smartphone app to track your daily intake of calories, calcium, protein, and liquid. There are many available, one being My Fitness Pal.
Chiropractic treatment is a big step in the right direction for overall health/well-being and incorporating these nutritional tips into your daily routine will help you get the most out of your chiropractic care.
Correct your Bad Posture with *FOOT ORTHOTICS* | El Paso, Tx
Posture is the position in which we hold our bodies while standing, sitting, or lying down. Good posture allows the body parts to be properly supported through correct alignment to promote the right amount of tension against gravity. Bad posture can cause a variety of health issues, including neck pain and back pain. Understanding how bad posture can affect your health is essential for overall wellness. Custom foot orthotics can also help improve posture. Dr. Jimenez is the non-surgical choice for posture health issues.
What’s Afoot
Treatment for foot pain varies depending on the condition/injury. Treatment can go from rest and ice to physical therapy, chiropractic and in severe cases surgery. Reflexology can provide relief, as well as, stretching exercises. Over the counter pain medication is often used. If the pain is too intense that it prevents sleep, a physician may prescribe non-addictive pain medication. Wear shoes with good arch supports, and if pain persists, see a podiatrist for special orthotic shoe inserts. Insurance often covers orthotics.
NCBI Resources
Don�t forget that most pain in the body is caused by inflammation and can be helped with anti-inflammatory diet and lifestyle stressors. Concentrate on eating whole, unprocessed foods. Stay away from sugar, alcohol, artificial sweeteners, and white flour. Make sure to drink enough water every day, and get eight hours of sleep. This is one of the most effective ways to address inflammation. Bring the body back into balance.
Magnesium is an essential mineral, yet it tends to be overlooked as a health concern. To illustrate, a study shows that up to 75% of individuals are not intaking the recommended daily amount (2). This stems from the fact that most foods have steadily decreased the amount of magnesium they provide. Thus leaving many consumers with the need to supplement. Different magnesium supplements have been shown to facilitate the body in different ways.� Magnesium citrate can help to lower blood pressure whereas Magnesium L-Threonate can help with memory loss. So, which magnesium supplement should you be taking?��� �
Magnesium Citrate Overview
Magnesium Citrate is one of the most bioavailable forms of magnesium out there, meaning it’s ready and easily absorbed by the body’s digestive tract (5). In addition to this, Magnesium Citrate has been shown to improve arterial stiffness, lower blood pressure, and in turn, help to prevent cardiovascular disease in patients who are slightly obese (3). However, be aware that magnesium citrate is also used to treat constipation, therefore it can act as a laxative by helping to absorb water in the intestines (1). �
Magnesium L-Threonate Overview
Magnesium L-Threonate is a newer form of magnesium, therefore there are fewer studies showing its full capabilities. However, Magnesium L-Threonate is the only form of magnesium to cross the blood-brain barrier more readily. The blood-brain barrier is extremely selective in order to reduce the amount of toxins entered into the CNS (central nervous system). Due to this, it has been proven to increase synapse density and aid in memory loss, cognitive decline, as well as help to improve short term memory (4). In a long term study of 17 years performed with Magnesium L-Threonate, the results manifested that subjects were 37% less likely to get dementia (4). �
If you are looking for something to assist in relaxation, sleep, and memory; Magnesium L-Threonate is the supplement for you. Although, if you are looking for something to relieve occasional constipation and something to aid in blood pressure that mixes well with water and has little to no taste, magnesium citrate is the route you should consider. Getting started on the right magnesium supplement today could set you up with a better tomorrow. – Kenna Vaughn, Health Coach Insight
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal and nervous health issues as well as functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. To further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 . �
References
(1)Cisar�, Fabio, et al. �Bowel Preparation for Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Procedures With Sodium Picosulphate-Magnesium Citrate Is an Effective, Safe, and Well-Tolerated Option in Pediatric Patients: A Single-Center Experience.� Gastroenterology Nursing : the Official Journal of the Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30063687.
(2)Guerrera, Mary P, et al. �Therapeutic Uses of Magnesium.� American Family Physician, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 15 July 2009, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19621856.
(3)Schutten, Jo�lle C, et al. �Effects of Magnesium Citrate, Magnesium Oxide and Magnesium Sulfate Supplementation on Arterial Stiffness in Healthy Overweight Individuals: a Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial.� Trials, BioMed Central, 28 May 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31138315.
(4)”Science Review: Magnesium L-Threonate.” Metagenics Institute. 01 Aug. 2019 .
(5)Walker, Ann F, et al. �Mg Citrate Found More Bioavailable than Other Mg Preparations in a Randomised, Double-Blind Study.� Magnesium Research, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Sept. 2003, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14596323. �
Orthotics Treat Other Areas Than the Feet
�
�
Additional Topic Discussion: Xymogen� Supplements
The average adult in the United States takes one or more dietary supplements on a regular basis. Dietary supplements include vitamins, minerals, herbals and botanicals, amino acids, enzymes, and a variety of other products. Several of the most common dietary supplements include vitamin D and vitamin E, minerals such as calcium and iron, herbs such as echinacea and garlic, and products such as glucosamine, probiotics, and fish oils. For people who don’t have balanced nutrition, taking dietary supplements can help them get necessary amounts of essential nutrients and can help improve overall well-being.
Formulas for Methylation Support
�
XYMOGEN�s Exclusive Professional Formulas are available through select licensed health care professionals. The internet sale and discounting of XYMOGEN formulas are strictly prohibited.
� Proudly,�Dr. Alexander Jimenez makes XYMOGEN formulas available only to patients under our care.
� Please call our office in order for us to assign a doctor consultation for immediate access.
� If you are a patient of Injury Medical & Chiropractic�Clinic, you may inquire about XYMOGEN by calling 915-850-0900.
For your convenience and review of the XYMOGEN products please review the following link.*XYMOGEN-Catalog-Download � * All of the above XYMOGEN policies remain strictly in force. �
The human body can absorb toxins in a variety of ways, from the type of foods we eat to the external and environmental factors we’re exposed to on a regular basis. Fortunately, the human body can also eliminate toxins in a variety of ways. Healthcare professionals have recognized that the accumulation of toxins in the human body can cause numerous health issues, including inflammation which may lead to back pain and sciatica. A good detox plan can help improve your overall health and wellness from the inside. Detoxing is also a fundamental process which can help relieve sciatica and back pain.
Back Pain and Sciatica
Back pain is one of the most common health issues reported among the general population. Although back pain affects approximately 80 percent of people at least once throughout their lifetime, sciatica continues to be one of the most frequently misunderstood health issues across the world. Also known as sciatic nerve pain, sciatica is characterized by irritation or inflammation due to the compression or impingement of the sciatic nerve, the longest and largest nerve in the human body. The sciatic nerve travels from the lower back, down the hips and buttocks, into the legs and feet. �
A variety of alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, can help safely and effectively treat sciatica symptoms without the side-effects of drugs and/or medications. Many healthcare professionals may recommend the use of drugs and/or medications to help offer sciatic nerve pain relief, however, these are only managing the symptoms rather than treating the health issue at the source. Research studies demonstrated that 76 percent of patients with sciatica reported complete relief of their symptoms without any toxic side-effects after following a detox plan for 45 days. �
Detox for Sciatica and Back Pain
For those people who may not be sure how or where to start with a detox plan, it’s fundamental for you to know that you can detox the human body on a variety of levels. First, you can start off with a simple foot detox. Healthcare professionals have demonstrated that a detox foot bath is a good way to cleanse the human body. Best known as the BioElectric Field Enhancement Unit, this helps generate positive and negative ions which creates the pH balance in the human body. As a result, the human body’s negative ions decrease while the human body’s positive ions increased to provide pain relief. �
To perform a detox foot bath, soak your feet for 30 minutes in warm salt water together with the foot coil. This process can help give muscles the strength and endurance they need to deal with back pain and sciatica symptoms. Moreover, a detox foot bath can also help eliminate free radicals which enhance range of motion. A detox foot bath also supports circulation. A good detox plan to help improve sciatica and back pain can also include following proper nutrition. Healthcare professionals can recommend a diet food plan which can help detox the human body from the inside with other treatment approaches. �
As previously mentioned, nutrition and lifestyle modifications below can help cleanse and detox the human body, including: �
Drinking more water, at least a minimum of two liters a day.
Drinking freshly squeezed juices without adding sugar, several times a day.
Replacing one meal with fresh smoothies, preferably breakfast.
Eating a healthy diet without processed foods, red meat, sugar, and dairy products.
According to healthcare professionals, it is a healthy practice to follow a detox plan once every 3 to 4 months. Do you remember when was the last time you had a detox? Or do you at least remember ever having a moment where you considered detoxification? Whether you followed a detox plan a few months ago, a year ago, several years ago, many years ago or simply never, it doesn�t matter. There is no better time then to start now. A detox plan cleanses the bloodstream, improves gut health, channels energy levels and strengthens muscles. Detox helps improve sciatica from its source. �
Sciatica is a collection of symptoms which can manifest due to a variety of underlying health issues. However, numerous research studies have demonstrated that following a detox plan can help tremendously reduce irritation and inflammation associated with sciatic nerve pain. Following a proper nutrition and lifestyle modifications together with a detox plan can ultimately help improve overall health and wellness, including sciatica and back pain. – Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
Non-Invasive Treatments for Chronic Low Back Pain
Following a detox plan may help pain and inflammation associated with sciatica. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal and nervous health issues as well as functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. To further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900�. �
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez �
Additional Topic Discussion: Severe Sciatica
Back pain�is one of the most prevalent causes of disability and missed days at work worldwide. Back pain attributes to the second most common reason for doctor office visits, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections. Approximately 80 percent of the population will experience back pain at least once throughout their life. Your spine is a complex structure made up of bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles, among other soft tissues. Injuries and/or aggravated conditions, such as�herniated discs, can eventually lead to symptoms of sciatica, or sciatic nerve pain. Sports injuries or automobile accident injuries are often the most frequent cause of painful symptoms, however, sometimes the simplest of movements can have these results. Fortunately, alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, can help ease sciatic nerve pain, or sciatica, through the utilization of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, ultimately improving pain relief. �
�
Formulas for Methylation Support
�
XYMOGEN�s Exclusive Professional Formulas are available through select licensed health care professionals. The internet sale and discounting of XYMOGEN formulas are strictly prohibited.
Proudly,�Dr. Alexander Jimenez makes XYMOGEN formulas available only to patients under our care.
Please call our office in order for us to assign a doctor consultation for immediate access.
If you are a patient of Injury Medical & Chiropractic�Clinic, you may inquire about XYMOGEN by calling 915-850-0900.
�
� For your convenience and review of the XYMOGEN products please review the following link.*XYMOGEN-Catalog-Download �
* All of the above XYMOGEN policies remain strictly in force. �
Sciatica is a health issue caused by the compression or impingement of the sciatic nerve, or the longest and largest nerve in the human body. Patients with sciatica can experience painful symptoms anywhere along the length of the sciatic nerve. Common symptoms associated with sciatica include pain and discomfort, tingling sensations, numbness, and weakness. �
Sciatic nerve pain can be caused by a variety of health issues,� such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, pregnancy, scar tissue, tight muscles, sacroiliac joint dysfunction, degenerative disc disease, tumors, and infection. Sciatic nerve pain can occur along one or both sides of the human body. According to numerous research studies, inflammation caused by an improper diet can cause sciatic nerve pain. Below, we will discuss how certain types of foods, both good and bad, can affect sciatica. �
Good Foods for Sciatica
Patients with sciatica caused by muscle spasms, such as piriformis syndrome, can benefit from consuming a variety of magnesium-rich foods. The human body uses magnesium to help release muscle contractions. Several magnesium-rich foods include dairy products, fish, meat, seafood, apples, apricots, brown rice, dulse, and lima beans. Foods with considerable amounts of vitamin B-12, such as liver, clams, oysters, lamb, and cheese, might also be beneficial for sciatic nerve pain. �
Halibut is a magnesium-rich food which may help treat sciatica associated with tight muscles or muscle spasms. Halibut contains numerous nutrients, including tryptophan, selenium, phosphorus, magnesium, protein, omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins B3, B6 and B12. The significantly increased levels of vitamin B12 in halibut can also help reduce painful symptoms. Halibut is also used to help treat cardiovascular problems, such as heart arrhythmia and elevated blood pressure. �
Because sciatica is a collection of symptoms rather than a single condition, patients with sciatic nerve pain should seek help from a healthcare professional to determine if an underlying health issue is causing the painful symptoms. In some cases, sciatic nerve pain may be caused by a serious problem, such as a tumor. Although further research studies may be needed to confirm the benefits of foods for sciatica, more research studies still have demonstrated how foods can also affect sciatica. �
Bad Foods for Sciatica
According to numerous research studies, eating a low-nutrient diet or a diet which may cause weight gain can ultimately cause a variety of health issues, including sciatic nerve pain and inflammation. Consuming foods rich in B-vitamins are essential for healthy nerve tissue. When we eat refined grain products, valuable nutrients are lost through the process, including B-vitamins. To make sure we eat nutrient dense foods, choose whole grains over refined grain products, such as white bread, instant rice, enriched pasta, low-fiber cereals and baked goods prepared with white, baking or cake flour. �
Added sugars are ingredients which add sweet flavor and calories to foods, however, they offer very little nutrients. These are also high-glycemic and they may have a considerable impact on blood sugar levels. A high-glycemic diet can increase inflammation and it also leaves less room for beneficial, anti-inflammatory foods, including fresh fruits and vegetables. Foods and beverages particularly high in added sugars include regular soft drinks, candy, pancake syrup, frosting, sweetened cereals, frozen desserts and commercially-prepared cakes, cookies, pies, and brownies, among other foods and beverages. �
Saturated fats can also increase inflammation. The American Heart Association recommends restricting the consumption of saturated fats to less than 7 percent of total daily calories. Common sources of saturated fats include red and processed meats, dark-meat poultry, poultry skin, high-fat dairy products, fried foods, and egg yolks. Healthcare professionals recommend replacing saturated fats in your diet with omega-3 fatty acids, or healthy fats with anti-inflammatory properties, to reduce sciatica. Sources of omega-3s include cold-water fish like salmon and mackerel, flaxseeds, canola oil, and walnuts. �
Trans-fats, also well-known as trans-fatty acids, are chemically-produced fats which can increase LDL, or “bad,” cholesterol and decrease HDL, or “good,” cholesterol. According to research studies, trans-fats are also pro-inflammatory substances and they can ultimately account for less than 1 percent of the calories in a heart-healthy diet. Common sources of trans-fats include stick margarine, shortening, and commercial foods which list hydrogenated vegetable oil as an ingredient. �
Sciatica, or sciatic nerve pain, can be caused by a variety of underlying health issues, including herniated discs and spinal stenosis, among other spine problems. However, numerous research studies have demonstrated that the foods we eat can affect painful symptoms, such as those associated with sciatic nerve pain or sciatica. “Good” foods can help reduce sciatica symptoms while “bad” foods can increase sciatica symptoms, affecting overall health and wellness. – Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
Non-Invasive Treatments for Chronic Low Back Pain
�
�
A healthy diet may help manage pain and inflammation associated with sciatica. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal and nervous health issues as well as functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. To further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900�. �
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez �
Additional Topic Discussion: Severe Sciatica
Back pain�is one of the most prevalent causes of disability and missed days at work worldwide. Back pain attributes to the second most common reason for doctor office visits, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections. Approximately 80 percent of the population will experience back pain at least once throughout their life. Your spine is a complex structure made up of bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles, among other soft tissues. Injuries and/or aggravated conditions, such as�herniated discs, can eventually lead to symptoms of sciatica, or sciatic nerve pain. Sports injuries or automobile accident injuries are often the most frequent cause of painful symptoms, however, sometimes the simplest of movements can have these results. Fortunately, alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, can help ease sciatic nerve pain, or sciatica, through the utilization of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, ultimately improving pain relief.
�
�
Formulas for Methylation Support
XYMOGEN�s Exclusive Professional Formulas are available through select licensed health care professionals. The internet sale and discounting of XYMOGEN formulas are strictly prohibited.
Proudly,�Dr. Alexander Jimenez makes XYMOGEN formulas available only to patients under our care.
Please call our office in order for us to assign a doctor consultation for immediate access.
If you are a patient of Injury Medical & Chiropractic�Clinic, you may inquire about XYMOGEN by calling 915-850-0900.
For your convenience and review of the XYMOGEN products please review the following link.*XYMOGEN-Catalog-Download � * All of the above XYMOGEN policies remain strictly in force. �
Research has given us even more reasons to eat our veggies. Several studies have revealed that certain types of vegetables, specifically those known as cruciferous vegetables, have properties that could make them useful in preventing cancer.
What are Cruciferous Vegetables?
Some of the crunchiest, tastiest vegetables belong to the Cruciferae family. Typically cool weather vegetables, they are most notably characterized by four petal flowers somewhat resembling a cross.
These flower buds or the leaves are the parts of these plants that are most often consumed. However, the seeds or roots of some of these vegetables are also edible. Incorporating some of these cruciferous vegetables into your diet may help lower your risk for cancer:
Broccoli
Cabbage
Wasabi
Collard greens
Bok choi
Brussels sprout
Arugula
Cauliflower
Mustard (leaves and seeds)
Turnips
Horseradish
Rutabaga
Kale
Radish
Watercress
What is the Link Between Cruciferous Vegetables and Cancer?
Cruciferous vegetables are packed with nutrients that are believed to lower a person�s risk for several types of cancers, including prostate cancer, colorectal cancer, lung cancer, and breast cancer. This includes the carotenoids zeaxanthin, lutein, and beta-carotene as well as folate and vitamins C, E, and K. They are also rich in minerals and an excellent source of fiber which is well known for preventing colorectal cancer.
This group of vegetables is also a good dietary source of glucosinolates which also has cancer-fighting properties. When intact, the glucosinolates are not effective, but when they are broken down through chewing, processing, and pests, they then make contact with the myrosinase enzyme and initiate a process that releases specific chemicals that can prevent cancer.
How Cruciferous Vegetables Prevent Cancer
There are three primary ways that cruciferous vegetables can prevent cancer. Researchers have found substantial evidence that shows when they are part of a healthy, clean, low-fat diet, a person�s risk of cancer can be decreased.
Glucosinolates � These are chemicals that contain sulfur and are present in all cruciferous vegetables, giving them their trademark bitter flavor and pungent aroma. When this substance is broken down by chewing, preparation, or digestion, it forms certain compounds (indole-3-carbinol and sulforaphane) that scientists have identified as having �anticancer properties.� They do this by impeding the development or growth of cancer. Studies have looked at this effect on mice and rats and found that it is particularly useful in specific organs. Researchers are also looking at other ways the substances can prevent cancer. When working in the body, they:
Have anti-inflammatory properties
Aid in preventing DNA damage to cells
Inhibit the formation of blood vessels in tumors
Are antibacterial and antiviral
Inhibit the migration of tumor cells, thus halting metastasis
Cause cancerous cells to die
Aid in causing carcinogens to become inactiveBioactive components � Some studies have shown that the bioactive components of these veggies can affect the biomarkers of processes related to cancer in the human body such as decreasing abnormal cell growth. Genetic encoding of glutathione S-transferase � Glutathione S-transferase is an enzyme that helps the body metabolize and eliminate isothiocyanates. This is important because isothiocyanates prevent the activation of carcinogens, increase the speed at which the carcinogens are removed from the body, and counteract the dangerous effects of active carcinogens.
Best Ways to Consume Cruciferous Vegetables
Cruciferous vegetables are at their most nutritious and have the greatest cancer-fighting properties when they are raw. When the vegetables are chopped and chewed they release the most cancer-fighting chemicals. Likewise, when they are cooked, they lose a great deal of those properties. Steaming or cooking the vegetables very lightly for less than 5 minutes will allow them to retain some of those cancer-fighting properties.
Most people now acknowledge just how bad sugar is. The problem is, many are not willing to give it up. The evidence is clear though, over the last three decades chronic disease like diabetes, cancer, and heart disease have grown exponentially in occurrences that correlate strongly with Americans� ever-increasing intake of sugar.
But while this may not be new information, people are still unwilling to make the changes necessary � even with the threat of poor or worsening health (and even death) hanging over their heads.
One of the problems is that it is very difficult to get away from. Pick up almost any product on your grocery store shelves and read the ingredients. Sugar is there most of the time.
It is found in most processed foods including spaghetti sauce, salad dressings, dried fruit, fruit juices, even so-called �healthy� foods like frozen quinoa blends and �diet� frozen dinners. Sugar is everywhere and people are consuming it without even realizing that they are doing so.
Sugar is Addictive
Again, this is not new information, but many people don�t realize just how addictive sugar really is. One research article compared sugar addiction to drug addiction. The authors even went so far as to say sugar is as addictive as cocaine (or more so).
There is strong evidence to support this; sugar does affect a person at the neurobiological level. It activates the brain�s reward center, similar to what drugs do. Regular exposure provokes cravings similar to drug addiction and withdrawal symptoms when it is stopped.
The real problem here is that it is 1) legal, and 2) available for anyone to purchase- even children. There is a huge push to market sugar to children through heavily sugared cereals, drinks, and snack foods.
The children want it because they saw it on TV, the parents buy it, and the children end up cognitively impaired, obese, and chronically ill. It�s time to start connecting the dots and making significant changes in not only what we eat, but what we feed our children.
But Why is Sugar so Bad?
In its pure form, right out of the sugar cane, the juice has nutritional properties. However, all of that nutrition is destroyed when it is processed and refined as sugar (even “raw,” turbinado, and other forms – it’s still sugar). It becomes something that may be edible but isn�t really food. It is just a substance with absolutely no nutritional value � but lots of potential for damage.
The moment sugar enters your bloodstream your body begins secreting insulin. Insulin is produced in the pancreas and its function is to regulate sugar in the blood, to keep it balanced. When you overwhelm your body with sugar it keeps producing more and more insulin. A diet that is high in sugar can result in insulin resistance which can lead to obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and other dangerous conditions.
The more sugar you consume, the harder your body has to work to process it. It gets stored in the liver, leading to a fatty, enlarged liver, high glucose levels, and even affect the function of your organs including your kidneys. If you have conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure, the risk of damage to your organs is increased even more.
High glucose levels have also been linked to impaired cognitive function, loss of memory, depression, and anxiety as well as an increased risk of dementia. It can cause difficulty in concentration and the inability to focus or stay on task.
The solution here is to avoid sugar or make low sugar choices. Read labels! Take the time to think about what you are putting into your body and how it will affect you. If you make a conscious effort to reduce your sugar intake, over time your body will stop craving it.
*Detox Your Body* | Detox Doctor | El Paso, TX (2019)
Healthcare professionals can utilize a variety of clinical assessments to evaluate the methylation status of patients. However, there is no single assessment method or technique which can accurately demonstrate the complexity of methylation in the human body. Current assessments can help provide an understanding into methylation-related genetic polymorphisms, nutrient status, methylation-related neurotransmitters and neurotransmitter metabolites, amino acids, hormones and metabolites, oxidative stress, and detoxification load, all of which can also help provide the understanding of a patient’s methylation status.
Understanding Methylation Status
Some assessment methods and techniques, including measures to determine DNA methylation status, are generally limited to research studies and are not yet available to healthcare professionals. As DNA methylation status assessments become available, healthcare is necessary to understand data because conflicting outcome measures have been demonstrated in research studies based on a variety of methodologies while methylation is further evaluated. Moreover, although methods and techniques, as well as research studies, are quickly evolving, patterns of DNA methylation status in humans across cells, tissues, age, populations, environmental factors like nutrition and lifestyle modifications, and disease, are only just being characterized by healthcare professionals.
It is essential that we emphasize a variety of indicators and be mindful of the restrictions of our interpretations as well as their misunderstood factors. Plasma homocysteine, by way of instance, can decrease as methylation activity improves, however, it can also decrease when oxidative stress levels increase, independently of methylation activity improvements. But, as we�ve previously discussed, only a few SNPs have known, quantifiable changes in enzymatic function, and even then, their overall outcome measures on methylation are unknown. Healthcare professionals must depend on multiple clinical assessments to determine methylation health. In the following articles, we will discuss methylation status assessment options available to healthcare professionals.
Understanding Genetic Profiling
Genetic profiling can help provide some evidence of potential methylation status and risk of developing diseases. Several gene SNPs increase methylation activity, such as CBS, and several other gene SNPs may decrease methylation activity, such as MTHFR, BNMT, MTR, MTRR, and AHCY. However, understanding the overall outcome measures of gene SNPs is complicated to determine through polymorphisms and environmental factors. By way of instance, research studies have demonstrated that the MTHFR C677T polymorphism is associated with an increased risk of autism spectrum disorder, (with an odds ratio = 1.42, 95% CI 1.09-1.85), however, similar research studies have also demonstrated that this risk can decrease through periconceptional folate or folic acid intake.
Furthermore, if a maternal MTHFR C677T polymorphism is combined with a CBS polymorphism, a lack of prenatal supplementation with B vitamins, and a fetal COMT polymorphism, the odds ratio for autism spectrum disorder can increase tremendously, (7.2, CI = 2.3�22.4; P=0.05). The risk of diseases associated with genotype is unfortunately rare because research studies on the combined outcome measures of gene SNPs are still very much in their early stages. In many circumstances, healthcare professionals will need to use careful clinical assessments to evaluate as well as to guide their treatments. The methylation-related genes presented in Table 1 below are frequently evaluated for SNPs. The outcome measures can help doctors understand patient methylation status.
A variety of methods and techniques are available to determine the methylation status of patients. However, the assessment of methylation status can still be challenging for many healthcare professionals. DNA methylation is characterized by the addition of a methyl group to DNA. Healthcare professionals must first understand the pros and cons of the variety of methods and techniques available to determine methylation status to allow them to make an informed choice when deciding which assessment will best suit their research study needs.
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
Smoothies and Juices for Methylation Support
While many healthcare professionals can recommend nutritional guidelines and lifestyle modifications to improve methylation support, there are several options you can try yourself at home. As described above, methylation support supplementation should be determined by a healthcare professional. Smoothies and juices are a fast and easy way to include all the necessary nutrients you need for methylation support without any side-effects. The smoothies and juices below are part of the Methylation Diet Food Plan.
Sea Green Smoothie Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1/2 cup cantaloupe, cubed � 1/2 banana � 1 handful of kale or spinach � 1 handful of Swiss chard � 1/4 avocado � 2 teaspoons spirulina powder � 1 cup water � 3 or more ice cubes Blend all ingredients in a high-speed blender until completely smooth and enjoy!
Berry Bliss Smoothie Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1/2 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen, preferably wild) � 1 medium carrot, roughly chopped � 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seed � 1 tablespoons almonds � Water (to desired consistency) � Ice cubes (optional, may omit if using frozen blueberries) Blend all ingredients in a high-speed blender until smooth and creamy. Best served immediately!
Sweet and Spicy Juice Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1 cup honeydew melons � 3 cups spinach, rinsed � 3 cups Swiss chard, rinsed � 1 bunch cilantro (leaves and stems), rinsed � 1-inch knob of ginger, rinsed, peeled and chopped � 2-3 knobs whole turmeric root (optional), rinsed, peeled and chopped Juice all ingredients in a high-quality juicer. Best served immediately!
Ginger Greens Juice Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1 cup pineapple cubes � 1 apple, sliced � 1-inch knob of ginger, rinsed, peeled and chopped � 3 cups kale, rinsed and roughly chopped or ripped � 5 cups Swiss chard, rinsed and roughly chopped or ripped Juice all ingredients in a high-quality juicer. Best served immediately!
Zesty Beet Juice Servings: 1 Cook time: 5-10 minutes � 1 grapefruit, peeled and sliced � 1 apple, washed and sliced � 1 whole beet, and leaves if you have them, washed and sliced � 1-inch knob of ginger, rinsed, peeled and chopped Juice all ingredients in a high-quality juicer. Best served immediately!
Protein Power Smoothie Serving: 1 Cook time: 5 minutes � 1 scoop protein powder � 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed � 1/2 banana � 1 kiwi, peeled � 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon � Pinch of cardamom � Non-dairy milk or water, enough to achieve desired consistency Blend all ingredients in a high-powered blender until completely smooth. Best served immediately!
ProLon� Fasting Mimicking Diet
Balanced methylation support can be achieved through proper nutrition. The ProLon� fasting mimicking diet offers a 5-day meal program which has been individually packed and labeled to serve the foods you need for the FMD in precise quantities and combinations. The meal program is made up of ready-to-eat or easy-to-prepare, plant-based foods, including bars, soups, snacks, supplements, a drink concentrate, and teas. The products are scientifically formulated and great tasting. Before starting the ProLon� fasting mimicking diet, 5-day meal program, please make sure to talk to a healthcare professional to find out if the FMD is right for you. The ProLon� fasting mimicking diet can help promote methylation support, among a variety of other healthy benefits.
Many doctors and functional medicine practitioners may recommend higher doses of methyl donors in several patients, however, further research studies are needed to determine the proper amount of methylation supplementation. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal and nervous health issues as well as functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. To further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topic Discussion: Acute Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most prevalent causes of disability and missed days at work worldwide. Back pain attributes to the second most common reason for doctor office visits, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections. Approximately 80 percent of the population will experience back pain at least once throughout their life. Your spine is a complex structure made up of bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles, among other soft tissues. Injuries and/or aggravated conditions, such as herniated discs, can eventually lead to symptoms of back pain. Sports injuries or automobile accident injuries are often the most frequent cause of back pain, however, sometimes the simplest of movements can have painful results. Fortunately, alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, can help ease back pain through the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, ultimately improving pain relief.
Formulas for Methylation Support
XYMOGEN�s Exclusive Professional Formulas are available through select licensed health care professionals. The internet sale and discounting of XYMOGEN formulas are strictly prohibited.
Proudly, Dr. Alexander Jimenez makes XYMOGEN formulas available only to patients under our care.
Please call our office in order for us to assign a doctor consultation for immediate access.
If you are a patient of Injury Medical & Chiropractic Clinic, you may inquire about XYMOGEN by calling 915-850-0900.
For your convenience and review of the XYMOGEN products please review the following link.*XYMOGEN-Catalog-Download
* All the above XYMOGEN policies remain strictly in force.
IFM's Find A Practitioner tool is the largest referral network in Functional Medicine, created to help patients locate Functional Medicine practitioners anywhere in the world. IFM Certified Practitioners are listed first in the search results, given their extensive education in Functional Medicine
