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Wellness

Clinic Wellness Team. A key factor to spine or back pain conditions is staying healthy. Overall wellness involves a balanced diet, appropriate exercise, physical activity, restful sleep, and a healthy lifestyle. The term has been applied in many ways. But overall, the definition is as follows.

It is a conscious, self-directed, and evolving process of achieving full potential. It is multidimensional, bringing together lifestyles both mental/spiritual and the environment in which one lives. It is positive and affirms that what we do is, in fact, correct.

It is an active process where people become aware and make choices towards a more successful lifestyle. This includes how a person contributes to their environment/community. They aim to build healthier living spaces and social networks. It helps in creating a person’s belief systems, values, and a positive world perspective.

Along with this comes the benefits of regular exercise, a healthy diet, personal self-care, and knowing when to seek medical attention. Dr. Jimenez’s message is to work towards being fit, being healthy, and staying aware of our collection of articles, blogs, and videos.


Natural Ways to Fix a Leaky Blood-Brain Barrier in Functional Neurology Part 1

Natural Ways to Fix a Leaky Blood-Brain Barrier in Functional Neurology Part 1

The blood-brain barrier is a protective shield that allows nutrients to enter the brain while keeping harmful components in the bloodstream from passing into the brain. However, many factors can cause a leaky blood-brain barrier. This can allow harmful components to penetrate the blood-brain brain, ultimately causing inflammation and brain health issues. A leaky blood-brain barrier is associated with many mental health issues and neurological diseases, including anxiety, depression, brain fog, fatigue, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and schizophrenia. In the article below, we will discuss natural ways which have been demonstrated to help fix a leaky blood-brain barrier and improve overall brain health.  

Improve Gut Health

Understanding the connection between the brain and the gut is important to treat a leaky blood-brain barrier. In 2014, scientists found that a group of mice that didn’t have bacteria in their gastrointestinal tract had very leaky blood-brain barriers. However, when the scientists of the research study introduced bacteria into the intestines of the unhealthy mice through a fecal transfer, their BBB permeability considerably improved. Increasing good bacteria in your gut can ultimately help improve a leaky blood-brain barrier. Eating probiotics, prebiotic fiber, and fermented foods can increase good bacteria in your GI tract.  

Avoid Eating Gluten

According to many healthcare professionals, we should avoid eating gluten to promote brain health. In 2006, scientists found that gluten can cause a leaky blood-brain barrier because it increases zonulin, a protein that affects BBB permeability and results in neuroinflammation. Gluten sensitivity or intolerance can also cause visible changes in the white matter of the brain. Dr. David Perlmutter, MD, author of Grain Brain and Brain Maker states that gliadin, another protein found in gluten, can also affect BBB permeability. Moreover, other food sensitivities or intolerances can also cause a leaky blood-brain barrier.  

Eat Food with Sulforaphane

Cruciferous vegetables, including Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and broccoli, among others, have sulforaphane, a phytochemical and well-known antioxidant with powerful anti-inflammatory properties, similar to turmeric or curcumin. Many research studies have shown that sulforaphane can help improve a leaky blood-brain barrier by decreasing BBB permeability, preventing the breakdown of the BBB, and improving cognitive functions after stroke and traumatic brain injuries. Sulforaphane in myrosinase-activated supplement form can also be taken. Myrosinase is an enzyme in broccoli that helps metabolize sulforaphane.  

Eat Food with Resveratrol or Pterostilbene

Foods like raspberries, grapes, red wine, and dark chocolate have resveratrol, another powerful antioxidant with potent anti-inflammatory properties that can help prevent the development of neurodegenerative diseases caused by a leaky blood-brain barrier. Scientists have found that eating food with resveratrol can ultimately help promote growth hormones in the brain and support mitochondria function. According to research studies, resveratrol can also protect the blood-brain barrier. Numerous other research studies have also found that eating foods with resveratrol can have other health benefits, including:  
  • Decreasing a leaky blood-brain barrier
  • Protecting the blood-brain barrier
  • Improving blood-brain barrier permeability
  Research studies have also shown that resveratrol can help protect the blood-brain barrier against oxidized LDL-induced damage. Furthermore, scientists believe that eating food with resveratrol may be a safe and effective way to naturally reduce the severity of multiple sclerosis.�Foods like blueberries have pterostilbene, a substance similar to resveratrol, that can also help protect the blood-brain barrier by decreasing oxidative stress and inflammation. Many healthcare professionals also refer to pterostilbene as the “better resveratrol” because it is often believed to be best absorbed by the body than resveratrol.  

Drink More Coffee

Caffeine can help promote overall brain health and support the blood-brain barrier. Research studies have shown that drinking coffee can help prevent the development of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease, among other health issues, by protecting the BBB. Scientists have also found that caffeine blocks blood-brain barrier permeability. Other research studies have also shown that drinking coffee can help prevent neurodegeneration by balancing the BBB. Because drinking coffee and caffeine can commonly affect sleep, however, make sure to consume these early in the morning.  

Take Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that are primarily found in fish. Although the body can’t produce these by itself, they are necessary for overall brain health. Omega-3 fatty acids can also help increase the growth hormones in the brain, help support mitochondria function, or help people overcome addiction and withdrawal, as well as help protect the blood-brain barrier. Scientists have found that taking omega-3 fatty acids can decrease damage to the BBB following a stroke or TBI and improve BBB permeability in people with multiple sclerosis. Omega-3 fatty acids can also be taken in supplement form.  

Take Melatonin and Improve Sleep

Sleep is fundamental for brain health. Poor sleep has also been shown to increase blood-brain barrier permeability. Taking melatonin supplements can also help improve sleep.�Melatonin is a hormone that is released by a small gland in the brain, known as the pineal gland. Melatonin helps regulate the circadian rhythm, or sleep and wake cycles. Enough melatonin is necessary to fall asleep quickly and sleep deeply throughout the night. Research studies have also shown that taking melatonin can help balance the blood-brain barrier and prevent further damage following a stroke and/or traumatic brain injury.  

Manage and Reduce Stress

According to research studies, stress can ultimately damage the blood-brain barrier. Chronic stress has also been found to increase inflammation and BBB permeability. Fortunately, managing and reducing stress can help fix the blood-brain barrier. Massage, acupuncture, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), emotional freedom techniques (EFT), heart-rate variability (HRV) training, and mindfulness meditation can also help manage and reduce stress. Taking supplements to help improve stress can also include, zinc, magnesium, ashwagandha, and phosphatidylserine, among others.  

Avoid Drinking Alcohol

According to healthcare professionals, drinking too much alcohol can cause a leaky blood-brain barrier. Research studies have shown that acetaldehyde, a byproduct of alcohol metabolism, can increase oxidative stress and affect the blood-brain barrier, resulting in inflammation and a variety of neurological diseases and brain health issues. Although some types of alcohol are better than others, it’s best to considerably decrease or avoid drinking alcohol. If you suspect that you may have a leaky blood-brain barrier, make sure to talk to your doctor about how drinking too much alcohol may cause a leaky BBB.   Dr. Alex Jimenez Insights Image
Many factors can cause a leaky blood-brain barrier, ultimately causing increased BBB permeability, oxidative stress, inflammation and a variety of brain and mental health issues, including neurodegenerative diseases. The blood-brain barrier is a protective shield which allows nutrients to enter the brain while keeping harmful components in the bloodstream from passing into the brain. A leaky blood-brain barrier is associated with anxiety, depression, brain fog, fatigue, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and schizophrenia. Fortunately, several natural ways have been demonstrated to help improve overall brain health and wellness as well as help fix a leaky blood-brain barrier. – Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
  The blood-brain barrier is a protective shield that allows nutrients to enter the brain while keeping harmful components in the bloodstream from passing into the brain. However, many factors can cause a leaky blood-brain barrier. This can allow harmful components to penetrate the blood-brain brain, ultimately causing inflammation and brain health issues. A leaky blood-brain barrier is associated with many mental health issues and neurological diseases, including anxiety, depression, brain fog, fatigue, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and schizophrenia. In the next article, we will discuss more natural ways which have been demonstrated to help fix a leaky blood-brain barrier and improve overall brain health.  

The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, and nervous health issues or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health protocols to treat injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. 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   References:
  • The Star Academy. �How to Repair a Leaky Blood-Brain Barrier.� The Star Academy, The Star Academy, 16 Oct. 2018, thestaracademy.co.za/repair-leaky-blood-brain-barrier/.
 
 

Neurotransmitter Assessment Form

[wp-embedder-pack width=”100%” height=”1050px” download=”all” download-text=”” attachment_id=”52657″ /]   The following Neurotransmitter Assessment Form can be filled out and presented to Dr. Alex Jimenez. The following symptoms listed on this form are not intended to be utilized as a diagnosis of any type of disease, condition, or any other type of health issue.  
 

Additional Topic Discussion: Chronic Pain

Sudden pain is a natural response of the nervous system which helps to demonstrate possible injury. By way of instance, pain signals travel from an injured region through the nerves and spinal cord to the brain. Pain is generally less severe as the injury heals, however, chronic pain is different than the average type of pain. With chronic pain, the human body will continue sending pain signals to the brain, regardless if the injury has healed. Chronic pain can last for several weeks to even several years. Chronic pain can tremendously affect a patient’s mobility and it can reduce flexibility, strength, and endurance.    
 

Neural Zoomer Plus for Neurological Disease

Neural Zoomer Plus | El Paso, TX Chiropractor Dr. Alex Jimenez utilizes a series of tests to help evaluate neurological diseases. The Neural ZoomerTM Plus is an array of neurological autoantibodies which offers specific antibody-to-antigen recognition. The Vibrant Neural ZoomerTM Plus is designed to assess an individual�s reactivity to 48 neurological antigens with connections to a variety of neurologically related diseases. The Vibrant Neural ZoomerTM Plus aims to reduce neurological conditions by empowering patients and physicians with a vital resource for early risk detection and an enhanced focus on personalized primary prevention.  

Food Sensitivity for the IgG & IgA Immune Response

Food Sensitivity Zoomer | El Paso, TX Chiropractor Dr. Alex Jimenez utilizes a series of tests to help evaluate health issues associated with food sensitivities. The Food Sensitivity ZoomerTM is an array of 180 commonly consumed food antigens that offers very specific antibody-to-antigen recognition. This panel measures an individual�s IgG and IgA sensitivity to food antigens. Being able to test IgA antibodies provides additional information to foods that may be causing mucosal damage. Additionally, this test is ideal for patients who might be suffering from delayed reactions to certain foods. Utilizing an antibody-based food sensitivity test can help prioritize the necessary foods to eliminate and create a customized diet plan around the patient�s specific needs.  

Gut Zoomer for Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)

Gut Zoomer | El Paso, TX Chiropractor Dr. Alex Jimenez utilizes a series of tests to help evaluate gut health associated with small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). The Vibrant Gut ZoomerTM offers a report that includes dietary recommendations and other natural supplementation like prebiotics, probiotics, and polyphenols. The gut microbiome is mainly found in the large intestine and it has more than 1000 species of bacteria that play a fundamental role in the human body, from shaping the immune system and affecting the metabolism of nutrients to strengthening the intestinal mucosal barrier (gut-barrier). It is essential to understand how the number of bacteria that symbiotically live in the human gastrointestinal (GI) tract influences gut health because imbalances in the gut microbiome may ultimately lead to gastrointestinal (GI) tract symptoms, skin conditions, autoimmune disorders, immune system imbalances, and multiple inflammatory disorders.  
Dunwoody Labs: Comprehensive Stool with Parasitology | El Paso, TX Chiropractor
GI-MAP: GI Microbial Assay Plus | El Paso, TX Chiropractor
 

Formulas for Methylation Support

Xymogen Formulas - El Paso, TX

  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. xymogen el paso, tx   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.  
 
Keeping Track of Your New Year’s Resolution

Keeping Track of Your New Year’s Resolution

Do you feel:

  • Inflammation in your body?
  • Like your energy is spent before the lunch hour?
  • Hormone imbalances?
  • Agitated, jittery, or have tremors?
  • Fatigue

If you are experiencing any of these situations, why not try to fix your resolution for the New Year.

New Year�s Resolution

With the new year coming up, many people make resolutions to better themselves for the upcoming year. Whether it be getting healthier, being more organized, stressing less, or living life to the fullest, resolutions are little reminders for anyone to get back on track on themselves. With the end of the month and during the holiday season, more people are more likely to put aside their health habits aside and indulge in the seasonal sweet and savory foods. The holiday season is filled with frequent gatherings with family and friends, which involves more consumption of food. In many parts of the U.S., sedentary behaviors have become a form of hibernation. Even though these holiday habits tend to make many people feel guilty, they always fuel resolutions so they can create healthier habits for when the new year begins.

iStock_000014325735_Large-700x420

Surprisingly, the most natural part is making resolutions; however, keeping them is the hardest part. Sometimes a person can make too many resolutions and can not follow through with them due to so many that they want to achieve. Other times there are people that are more likely to stick to their resolutions in the long run when their goals are more realistic than unattainable. There are a few changes that can make a tremendous impact on the person’s overall wellbeing and can make their lives a bit easier if they have a hectic lifestyle. One of the significant changes is getting healthier, and the majority of any chronic health issues can be rooted through a few practices that can sabotage a person’s physical, mental, and emotional health. So focusing on making good choices and making them habits or lifelong practices can provide a significant influence to not only the body but to the individual as well.

Getting Rid of Sugar

One of the first things that a person should do if they want to keep track of their health resolution is to ditch the overabundance sugar consumption. Many healthcare practitioners have continued to try and stop their patients from unbridled sugar consumption. It has been on the top list of chronic health problems that are plaguing the industrialized world since everyone in the world has consumed refined sugar into their bodies. Studies show that consuming refined sugar is the leading cause of dental cavities and being linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and endocrine dysfunction.

Studies even show that sugar consumption can also lead to hypertension and obesity-related cancers, as well as common mental disorders like depression. Research from the American Heart Association recommends that if both males and females want to limit their sugar consumption, then females must consume no more than six teaspoons of sugar a day. At the same time, males consume no more than nine teaspoons of sugar a day. The interesting fact is that people can reach that intake by just consuming a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Sadly though, according to a 2012 research study, the average American individuals in the U.S. have consumed 19 teaspoons of sugar a day.

The body�s metabolism requires sugar to make sure that the person�s energy is leveled. Research shows that the metabolic mechanisms in which sugar helps contribute to diseases that can be both indirect and direct to the body. When there either a low sugar count or even a high sugar count in a person, it can lead to a dysregulation of the lipids and carbohydrate metabolism. When this happens, the body can have chronic conditions like dyslipidemia, reduce beta-oxidation as well as insulin resistance. Other mechanisms can affect the body when sugar is traveling through the bloodstream, like a positive energy balance. In some cases, when the sugar metabolism is too high, it can lead to hyperuricemia, oxidative stress, and chronic inflammation in the body, and it can cause developing problems for the individual. So by making the right choices and eliminating added sugars that are in packaged foods out of the diet can result in a drastic shift towards better health for the person.

Staying Hydrated

It is highly essential that everyone at least drinks about eight glasses of 8 ounces of water every day. Sadly though, not many people drink the recommended amount of water, thus getting dehydrated. Studies show that dehydration is a common, under-recognized condition that many individuals have. Sometimes chronic dehydration starts in childhood and continues throughout their lifespan. Research shows that an estimated 54% of the population lives with chronic dehydration since the human body is nearly 85% of water and why dehydration can be problematic.

Sometimes dehydration can go beyond merely feeling thirsty. Studies show that when a person is mildly dehydrated, it can impair cognitive functions, and when it is prolonged, it can cause urinary and bladder dysfunction in the body. A good rule for anyone who wants to maintain adequate hydration is to drink at least half of their body weight in ounces of water since hydration is directly linked to body mass and making sure that the weight is leveled. By drinking plenty of water, it is a simple yet easy health resolution that people can get for free and can provide a powerful impact.

Eating a Healthy Protein Breakfast

Another health resolution that can have a significant positive impact on a person’s health is by consuming a protein-rich breakfast. Sadly though in North America, people have developed two breakfast habits that can be bad for their health. They are skipping breakfast altogether and consuming a high refined carbohydrate breakfast. Both of these bad habits have been associated with obesity and other related comorbidities.

In contrast, though when a person starts eating a protein-rich breakfast, the results are remarkable. Research shows that eating a protein-rich breakfast can help reduce a person�s appetite, increased their satiety, and provide a healthier energy intake that can get a person over the mid-afternoon slumps. The positive effects show that consuming a protein-rich diet can lower the effects of obesity and being overweight as well as reducing the risk of obesity-related health conditions that can affect the body. By eating a sumptuous protein breakfast, the results show that it can help the body by changing the blood lipids and blood pressure as well as reducing the risk of metabolic syndrome and chronically elevated insulin for individuals that have diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

Conclusion

With the new year coming around the corner, making resolutions to not only better oneself, but it can provide a positive change to the person. Many healthcare professionals can encourage their patients to make these simple yet highly effective changes to promote wellness. New Year’s resolutions do not have to be complicated or unattainable; they can be simple and easily attainable with these fundamental changes. By eliminating added sugars, drinking more water, and consuming a protein-rich breakfast can make anyone keep track of their resolution. Some products can help make sure that anyone can keep track of their resolutions by providing support to the body’s metabolism as well as regulating sugar metabolism as well.

The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, and nervous health issues or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health protocols to treat injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. To further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.


References:

Association, American Heart. �Added Sugars.� Www.heart.org, 17 Apr. 2018, www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/sugar/added-sugars.

Chang, Tammy, et al. “Inadequate Hydration, BMI, and Obesity Among U.S. Adults: NHANES 2009-2012.” Annals of Family Medicine, American Academy of Family Physicians, July 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4940461/?report=reader.

Chow, Kai Foo. �A Review of Excessive Sugar Metabolism on Oral and General Health.� The Chinese Journal of Dental Research: the Official Journal of the Scientific Section of the Chinese Stomatological Association (CSA), U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29181456.

Kn�ppel, Anika, et al. �Sugar Intake from Sweet Food and Beverages, Common Mental Disorder and Depression: Prospective Findings from the Whitehall II Study.� Scientific Reports, Nature Publishing Group U.K., 27 July 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5532289/.

Leidy, Heather J, et al. �Beneficial Effects of a Higher-Protein Breakfast on the Appetitive, Hormonal, and Neural Signals Controlling Energy Intake Regulation in Overweight/Obese, �Breakfast-Skipping,” Late-Adolescent Girls.� The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, American Society for Nutrition, Apr. 2013, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3718776/.

Maki, Kevin C, et al. �The Effects of Breakfast Consumption and Composition on Metabolic Wellness with a Focus on Carbohydrate Metabolism.� Advances in Nutrition (Bethesda, Md.), American Society for Nutrition, 16 May 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4863265/?report=reader.

Stanhope, Kimber L. �Sugar Consumption, Metabolic Disease and Obesity: The State of the Controversy.� Critical Reviews in Clinical Laboratory Sciences, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4822166/.

Team, DFH. �New Year’s Health Resolutions � Easy Does It.� Designs for Health, 23 Dec. 2019, blog.designsforhealth.com/node/917.

Urkin, Jacob, and Yair Bar-David. �Voluntary, Nonintentional Dehydration and Health.� American Journal of Public Health, American Public Health Association, Nov. 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4605154/.

Vos, Miriam B, et al. �Added Sugars and Cardiovascular Disease Risk in Children: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association.� Circulation, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 9 May 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5365373/.

 

The Benefits of Consuming Tea

The Benefits of Consuming Tea

Do you feel:

  • Inflammation in your gut or joints?
  • Stress from a hectic day?
  • Hormone imbalance?
  • Shaky, jittery, or have tremors?
  • Agitated, easily upset, nervous?

If you are experiencing any of these situations, then why not enjoy a cup of tea to relieve some stress from your hectic day.

Tea has been consumed by everyone and has been dated back since the Shen Nong dynasty in China. There is growing evidence that demonstrates that when people are drinking tea, it is beneficial to their health in various ways. In recent years, it has been established that there are antioxidative properties that are found in tea, especially in green tea, which has many components to help the body, especially L-theanine and caffeine. When a person drinks tea, the effects are quite favorable since the tea can help alleviate a person’s mood, stress, and anxiety they might be feeling. Consuming tea has also been known to reduce the risk of cognitive decline, cancer incidents, and mortality in the body. As more research shows that all kinds of tea, especially the non-caffeinated varieties, can exert multiple health benefits in the GI tract since it has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacity from its abundance of polyphenols.

Tea Consumption Benefits

tea.jpeg

Surprisingly the majority of studies that have been conducted have evaluated the effects of tea consumption on an individual’s health. Neuropsychological measures have approached the consumption of tea. It has been focusing on the neuroimaging that can measure the structure and function of a person as they consume tea. Furthermore, studies have shown that even though the individual properties are being presented in tea consumption, the benefits that it provides can help improve cognitive abilities and reduce the risk of neurocognitive decline in the body. Even though the neuropsychological measures show individuals consuming tea, there are no significant effects; however, there are synergistic effects with a multi-constituent combination of brewing whole tea leaves for consumption.

A recent study that was published in the National University of Singapore has explored how the effects of tea consumption on the brain were being investigated, both structural and functional as system-level brain networks. Researchers did a study on how tea consumption can affect the structural and functional imaging of the brain in healthy older adults. There are previous studies that have suggested that the DMN (default mode network) that is within the brain is the primary contributing factor that involves in neurodegenerative and cognitive diseases and aging.

Cognitive Benefits From Tea

Therefore, researchers can measure the interregional connectivity that is associated with DMN and the hemispheric asymmetries that the brain has to test the effectiveness of a person consuming tea. The results showed that when anyone is consuming tea, that the beneficial tea’s properties can improve the person’s engagement in the preparation of task implementation. The results also provided evidence of tea drinking can positively contribute to the brain structure by making the network organization more efficient. When a person drinks tea regularly, the beneficial properties have a protective effect in reducing age-related cognitive decline in the brain as well.

Since the rates of neurodegenerative diseases are unfortunately climbing at a rapid rate in the United States, it is essential to know that dietary and lifestyle factors can play a crucial role in the development of diseases that can harm the body. Therefore, being educated on incorporating more brain-healthy foods and beverages into a daily diet is very important. Surprisingly, the Mediterranean diet incorporates antioxidant-rich foods that are beneficial to the body and preventing inflammation from reaching critical masses. Plus, adding a cup or two of high-quality tea and consuming it daily is an easy way for anyone to boost their overall polyphenols.

Surprisingly for anyone that needs a caffeine boost in the morning or has been experiencing the mid-afternoon slumps, they can consider switching a cup of coffee for a cup of tea. The benefits of tea consumption are that it can help the body give a boost of energy without the jittery effects that coffee provides. With tea, it can help the body relax after it has been through a hectic, busy day and can relieve stress, anxiety, and improve cognitive functions in the body. Studies found that a variety of different teas can exert positive health benefits like decreasing stress, improving alertness, and sustain attention and memory.

Conclusion

So drinking tea has been around for several millennia and has provided excellent benefits for the body. By drinking at least one to two cups of tea, it can dampen the effects of inflammation as well as giving a caffeinated boost in the morning or the afternoon slumps to anyone. So go and enjoy a nice cup of tea as well as its benefits. Some products are beneficial to the body by relieving temporary stress that the human body may encounter.

The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, and nervous health issues or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health protocols to treat injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. To further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.


References:

Dietz, Christina, and Matthijs Dekker. �Effect of Green Tea Phytochemicals on Mood and Cognition.� Current Pharmaceutical Design, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28056735.

Journals LLC, Impact. �Habitual Tea Drinking Modulates Brain Efficiency: Evidence from Brain Connectivity Evaluation.� ScienceDaily, ScienceDaily, 11 Oct. 2019, www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/10/191011112235.htm.

Li, Junhua, et al. � Habitual Tea Drinking Modulates Brain Efficiency: Evidence from Brain Connectivity Evaluation.� Aging, 14 June 2019, www.aging-us.com/article/102023/text.

of Singapore, National University. �Drinking Tea Improves Brain Health, Study Suggests.� ScienceDaily, ScienceDaily, 12 Sept. 2019, www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/09/190912100945.htm.

Team, DFH. �A Tea Party for the Microbiome.� Designs for Health, 27 Mar. 2019, blog.designsforhealth.com/node/983.

Team, DFH. �Neuroimaging Study Reveals Habitual Tea Drinkers Have Improved Cognitive Function.� Designs for Health, 17 Dec. 2019, blog.designsforhealth.com/node/1172.

 

Why The Immune System Needs Elderberry

Why The Immune System Needs Elderberry

Do you feel:

  • Inflammation?
  • Shaky, agitated, have tremors?
  • Suffering from flu and cold-like symptoms?
  • Abdominal swelling?
  • Immune problems?

If you are experiencing any of these situations, then why not try some elderberries for your immune system.

With the full swing of the cold and flu season and the holiday season, the body�s immune system could use a little bit of extra support this time of the year. Back in the 17th century, elderberries have been used in traditional folk medicine to help the body give an added boost of immunity. Hippocrates has called this berry and its tree �his medicine chest,” due to its health-promoting properties for the body. Now with modern research, the elderberry has properties that are a great addition to the immune system against the cold and flu season.

Elderberries

Like all the other berries, elderberries are an excellent source of antioxidants, and their ORAC (oxygen radical absorbing capacity) score is higher than cranberries and blueberries since these two berries have the same ORAC score, which is relatively high. Elderberries have a dark purple-black color on them. They have anthocyanin and quercetin compounds that are found in other boldly colored berries and fruits. Not only that, these berries are excellent in pies and jellies to be enjoyed.

black-elderberry-sambucus-nigra-primary

Besides its antioxidant benefits that it provides, the elderberry has been known to be a powerful force when it is facing various strains of influenza and bacterial infections that are harmful to the body. Studies found out that in a double-blinded RCT (randomized controlled trial), the elderberry extract has immune-modulating properties for healthy people while playing the role of boosting the immune system. Surprisingly elderberry extract is effective against ten different strains and can destroy flu-like symptoms.

The same study also showed that elderberry extract could increase the production of inflammatory cytokines between 2 to 45 folds. Compared to LPS (lipopolysaccharide) is known as a monocyte activator that can ramp up any of these free tools by 3 to 10 folds in the immune system. The researchers have concluded that with the addition to its antiviral properties, elderberry extract can activate healthy immune systems in the body by increasing the production of inflammatory cytokines. With many other studies supporting elderberry’s effects against many flu strains and illnesses, elderberry in a syrup form can help relieve flu-like symptoms less than four days.

Elderberry Properties

In another study, it showed individuals that were given elderberry extract, experienced a faster resolution they have been experiencing from fever and many other flu-like symptoms. With the elderberry group, about 93% of individuals have shown entirely of an improvement in fever-like symptoms in just two days than the individuals who were in the placebo group. Even though the results have different days, elderberry can be beneficial for anyone who needs to be in their tip-top shape as well as feeling better faster. These include:

  • Doctors
  • Emergency responders
  • Parents
  • Teachers
  • Law Enforcement

Surprisingly studies also suggest that elderberry can be potent when it is consumed and be useful when the symptoms make their first appearance in the body. What is impressive about elderberries is that they are not only effective at fighting the flu, but these powerful berries are packed with an antimicrobial punch as well. Research shows that elderberries are effective against certain bacterial strains from harming not only the body but also the immune system as well. With elderberry extract, it can go to a concentration level at 10% is added to bacterial strains and decreasing their growth by over 70%.

As if these powerful berries could not get any better, elderberries have been in the spotlight for fighting off winter illnesses. Nutritionally speaking, these berries are making a comeback in the nutrition department. Studies show that elderberries are an excellent source of vitamins and nutrients for a healthy body. About one cup of elderberries has about 27 grams of carbohydrates with only 10 grams of fiber; these berries are an excellent choice for anyone that is watching their carbohydrate intake but still want to enjoy some fruit, then elderberry is for them.

Conclusion

Elderberries are the super antioxidant berries that can help dampen the effects of inflammation in the immune system. These berries can help the body from alleviating symptoms from the cold or flu, while also dampening the bacterial strains that the body may encounter. By adding these berries into pies and jams, a person can get the full benefits from the super berry, while also lessening the chances to get sick during the colder seasons where cold and flu season starts. Some products work well with elderberry by providing support to the gastrointestinal system and designed for more excellent stability for the body.

The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, and nervous health issues or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health protocols to treat injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. To further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.


References:

Barak, V, et al. �The Effect of Sambucol, a Black Elderberry-Based, Natural Product, on the Production of Human Cytokines: I. Inflammatory Cytokines.� European Cytokine Network, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2001, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11399518.

Charlebois, D. �Elderberry as a Medicinal Plant.� ASHS Press, 2007.

Krawitz, Christian, et al. �Inhibitory Activity of a Standardized Elderberry Liquid Extract against Clinically-Relevant Human Respiratory Bacterial Pathogens and Influenza A and B Viruses.� BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, BioMed Central, 25 Feb. 2011, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3056848/.

Krawitz, Christian, et al. �Inhibitory Activity of a Standardized Elderberry Liquid Extract against Clinically-Relevant Human Respiratory Bacterial Pathogens and Influenza A and B Viruses.� BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, BioMed Central, 25 Feb. 2011, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21352539.

Team, DFH. �Elevate the Immune System with Elderberry.� Designs for Health, 5 Jan. 2018, blog.designsforhealth.com/elevate-the-immune-system-with-elderberry-0.

Vlachojannis, J E, et al. �A Systematic Review on the Sambuci Fructus Effect and Efficacy Profiles.� Phytotherapy Research: PTR, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Jan. 2010, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19548290.

Zakay-Rones, Z, et al. �Inhibition of Several Strains of Influenza Virus in Vitro and Reduction of Symptoms by an Elderberry Extract (Sambucus Nigra L.) during an Outbreak of Influenza B Panama.� Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine (New York, N.Y.), U.S. National Library of Medicine, 1995, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9395631.

Zakay-Rones, Z, et al. �Randomized Study of the Efficacy and Safety of Oral Elderberry Extract in the Treatment of Influenza A and B Virus Infections.� The Journal of International Medical Research, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2004, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15080016.

 

 

 

 

 

Functional Neurology: Diagnosis and Treatment of a Leaky Brain

Functional Neurology: Diagnosis and Treatment of a Leaky Brain

Our brain is a complex organ that controls many essential functions in our body. Therefore, brain health is vital for our survival. This is where the blood-brain barrier comes in. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) consists of a group of cells held together by “tight junctions” that protect the brain from potentially harmful components in the bloodstream. This security system only permits passage to certain molecules and keeps most other chemicals or substances out. �

Understanding a Leaky Brain

If damage due to an injury or underlying condition occurs, small gaps can start to develop in the tight junctions of the group of cells in the brain and potentially harmful components in the bloodstream can ultimately penetrate the BBB and enter the complex organ. This is known as a “leaky brain”. Several chemicals or substances can commonly cause brain inflammation. Research studies have demonstrated a connection between gut health and brain health. As a matter of fact, scientists have also determined that our gut microbiome, or the bacteria in our gastrointestinal (GI) tract, can affect our brain. �

 

The stomach and small intestine consist of a group of cells like the blood-brain barrier that also protects the gut from potentially harmful components in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Similar factors that cause a leaky gut can cause a leaky brain, including poor diet, food sensitivities or intolerances, infections, and toxins. Research studies have demonstrated that a protein found in wheat and gluten, known as gliadin, can increase the production of another protein known as zonulin. Zonulin can cause the tight junctions of the gut and BBB to become loose or broken, leading to a leaky brain and a leaky gut. �

 

Diagnosis of a Leaky Brain

If you suspect that you may have a leaky brain following common causes and symptoms associated with the breakdown of the blood-brain barrier, make sure you talk to a qualified and experienced healthcare professional to receive a proper diagnosis and follow up with treatment. Healthcare professionals can receive a variety of screening tests in order to be able to find out their overall risk of a leaky brain. These can include one or more of the following tests: �

 

Occludin and Zonulin

The proteins known as occludin and zonulin can help determine both gut and blood-brain barrier permeability in a leaky gut and a leaky brain. According to research studies, increased levels of antibodies combating against occludin and zonulin proteins are another common way to diagnose a leaky brain. �

 

Genetic Testing

A leaky brain can also be diagnosed using genetic testing. Changes in any of the genes that regulate the cells of tight junctions in the brain, oxidative stress, inflammation, or immune response can cause a leaky brain. Diagnosis of these genes can even further help determine treatment for a leaky brain. �

 

GABA-EEG

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a neurotransmitter that helps control signals in the brain. Recent research studies have demonstrated that GABA can penetrate the BBB and enter the brain. A GABA-EEG can help determine how much gamma-aminobutyric acid passes the BBB to cause a leaky brain. �

 

MMP9 Level Evaluation

Matrix metalloproteinases, also known as MMPs, are enzymes that break down the peptide bonds that hold proteins together. These, however, can ultimately cause the cells of the tight junctions in the brain to become lose and broken, breaking down the BBB. MMPs can also increase after damage, injury, or an underlying condition in the liver or brain, such as a stroke or a traumatic brain injury. Testing for increased MMPs in the bloodstream can help diagnose a patient’s risk of developing a leaky brain. As an initial treatment, several patients can start taking an MMP inhibitor to decrease BBB permeability.

 

Spectrophotometry and Optical Imaging

The protein known as albumin flows in the bloodstream, however, it can’t penetrate the BBB or enter the brain under healthy conditions. To diagnose a leaky brain using spectrophotometry and optical imaging, healthcare professions may inject albumin with a dye called Evans Blue which only binds and dyes the protein in the bloodstream. Spectrophotometry and optical imaging can demonstrate the amount of Evans Blue dye that has accumulated in the brain. �

 

Treatment of a Leaky Brain

According to many healthcare professionals, treating a leaky brain ultimately starts by treating a leaky gut. Reducing and/or eliminating all of the factors that cause a leaky gut and a leaky brain as well as including diet and lifestyle modifications can help promote overall gut and brain health. The following steps can help treat a leaky brain by decreasing inflammation in the brain and the body, increasing oxygen, glucose, and other nutrients in the brain, improving the removal of harmful components in the brain, reducing oxidative stress, and restoring the BBB by ultimately repairing cells in the tight junctions of the brain. �

 

  • Treat bacterial and viral infections
  • Detox from heavy metals and pesticides
  • Prevent exposure to environmental toxins in the air, water, and food
  • Reduce or eliminate food sensitivities and intolerances
  • Avoid sugar and processed foods
  • Reduce inflammation through diet
  • Eat essential fatty acids, including avocado, coconut oil, flaxseed, hemp seed, oily fish, pumpkin seeds, and walnuts
  • Take probiotics to help maintain a healthy gut
  • Seek supplements that help repair the BBB
  • Stop drinking excess alcohol
  • Exercise and practice yoga or mindful meditation
  • Manage stress
  • Get good rest and quality sleep

 

Dr. Alex Jimenez Insights Image

Too much inflammation may cause a variety of brain health issues and neurological diseases associated with the breakdown of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), also known as a leaky brain. Because many research studies have suggested the connection between a leaky gut and a leaky brain, maintaining a healthy gut microbiome may be an effective treatment for brain health issues and neurological diseases. Scientists have started working towards developing successful ways to allow drugs and/or medications as well as other treatments to penetrate and enter the brain through the blood-brain barrier and from the bloodstream. A leaky brain may be caused by a variety of factors and various symptoms can commonly manifest.� – Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight

 

Our brain is a complex organ that controls many essential functions in our body. Therefore, brain health is vital for our survival. This is where the blood-brain barrier comes in. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) consists of a group of cells held together by “tight junctions” that protect the brain from potentially harmful components in the bloodstream. This security system only permits passage to certain molecules and keeps most other chemicals or substances out. �

 

The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, and nervous health issues or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health protocols to treat injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. 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 �

 

References:

  • Mindd Foundation. �What Causes Leaky Brain? Repairing the Blood-Brain Barrier.� Mindd, 11 June 2019, mindd.org/leaky-brain/.

 


 

Neurotransmitter Assessment Form

 

The following Neurotransmitter Assessment Form can be filled out and presented to Dr. Alex Jimenez. The following symptoms listed on this form are not intended to be utilized as a diagnosis of any type of disease, condition, or any other type of health issue. �

 


 

Additional Topic Discussion: Chronic Pain

Sudden pain is a natural response of the nervous system which helps to demonstrate possible injury. By way of instance, pain signals travel from an injured region through the nerves and spinal cord to the brain. Pain is generally less severe as the injury heals, however, chronic pain is different than the average type of pain. With chronic pain, the human body will continue sending pain signals to the brain, regardless if the injury has healed. Chronic pain can last for several weeks to even several years. Chronic pain can tremendously affect a patient’s mobility and it can reduce flexibility, strength, and endurance. �

 

 


 

Neural Zoomer Plus for Neurological Disease

Neural Zoomer Plus | El Paso, TX Chiropractor

Dr. Alex Jimenez utilizes a series of tests to help evaluate neurological diseases. The Neural ZoomerTM Plus is an array of neurological autoantibodies which offers specific antibody-to-antigen recognition. The Vibrant Neural ZoomerTM Plus is designed to assess an individual�s reactivity to 48 neurological antigens with connections to a variety of neurologically related diseases. The Vibrant Neural ZoomerTM Plus aims to reduce neurological conditions by empowering patients and physicians with a vital resource for early risk detection and an enhanced focus on personalized primary prevention. �

 

Food Sensitivity for the IgG & IgA Immune Response

Food Sensitivity Zoomer | El Paso, TX Chiropractor

Dr. Alex Jimenez utilizes a series of tests to help evaluate health issues associated with food sensitivities. The Food Sensitivity ZoomerTM is an array of 180 commonly consumed food antigens that offers very specific antibody-to-antigen recognition. This panel measures an individual�s IgG and IgA sensitivity to food antigens. Being able to test IgA antibodies provides additional information to foods that may be causing mucosal damage. Additionally, this test is ideal for patients who might be suffering from delayed reactions to certain foods. Utilizing an antibody-based food sensitivity test can help prioritize the necessary foods to eliminate and create a customized diet plan around the patient�s specific needs. �

 

Gut Zoomer for Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)

Gut Zoomer | El Paso, TX Chiropractor

Dr. Alex Jimenez utilizes a series of tests to help evaluate gut health associated with small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). The Vibrant Gut ZoomerTM offers a report that includes dietary recommendations and other natural supplementation like prebiotics, probiotics, and polyphenols. The gut microbiome is mainly found in the large intestine and it has more than 1000 species of bacteria that play a fundamental role in the human body, from shaping the immune system and affecting the metabolism of nutrients to strengthening the intestinal mucosal barrier (gut-barrier). It is essential to understand how the number of bacteria that symbiotically live in the human gastrointestinal (GI) tract influences gut health because imbalances in the gut microbiome may ultimately lead to gastrointestinal (GI) tract symptoms, skin conditions, autoimmune disorders, immune system imbalances, and multiple inflammatory disorders. �

 


Dunwoody Labs: Comprehensive Stool with Parasitology | El Paso, TX Chiropractor


GI-MAP: GI Microbial Assay Plus | El Paso, TX Chiropractor


 

Formulas for Methylation Support

Xymogen Formulas - El Paso, TX

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.

xymogen el paso, tx

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 Top Tests Used for Integrative Medicine

The Top Tests Used for Integrative Medicine

Functional medicine is about taking the human body and treating it as a whole. The human body has many systems but they all work together to maintain homeostasis. In many cases with traditional medicine, a patient with headaches, joint pain, inflammation, and fatigue will be referred to many specialists to treat each individual symptom.� However, by looking at the entire body as a whole and digging into the root cause of the issue and not just the symptom itself, a lot can be revealed.

With functional medicine, often times a series of labs are run that look deeper than the typical basic blood panel. In traditional medicine, a glucose and AHb1c test will be done to assess diabetes. In functional medicine, a deeper test is ordered to rule out other possibilities and practitioners are able to view all components of diabetes including , Adiponectin, Insulin.� This allows a deeper understanding of what is happening inside the body and how to best treat it.�

With this being said, there are many labs that functional and integrative medicine practitioners utilize, each specializing in their own unique panels. The average integrative practice uses an average of 5-10 different lab companies for their patients to have the best care. Eight of the most utilized lab companies are:

  1. Diagnostic Solutions offer many tests but their specialty lies within their GI Map. This test measures the gastrointestinal microbiota DNA from a stool sample. This allows practitioners to see and detect the exact microbes that may be causing a disturbance in the gut or a factor contributing to illness.
  2. Vibrant Wellness has a wide variety of tests but one of the most frequently used is the food sensitivity panel. This allows practitioners to see what foods their patients are consuming that are creating havoc for their gut health.
  3. SpectraCellstarted as a nutritional testing company but has since evolved into a lab that tests cellular nutrition, cardiometabolic health, hormone balances, and genetic predisposition.
  4. Precision Analytical (the D.U.T.C.H test) the D.U.T.C.H test stands for Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones and takes a look at adrenal and hormone imbalances.
  5. Genova Diagnostics has a wide variety of tests but one of the most common is the GI Effects Comprehensive Profile. This test takes a patient’s stool and detects an organism’s DNA as part of a comprehensive assessment.
  6. Doctors Data provides a wide array of functional testing to provide patients with the best outcomes. Some tests include Environmental Exposure and Detoxification, Toxic and Essential Elements, and Allergy and Immunity.
  7. Cyrex categories their tests as “arrays”. These arrays test for things like diabetes autoimmune reactivity,� The blood-brain barrier, Mucosal Immune Reactivity and more.
  8. Dunwoody Labs offers food sensitivity testing, adrenal, neurotransmitters and many more. Dunwoody can test for specific IgE and IgG4 molecules.

The patient’s health comes first, and getting down to the underlying issues sometimes requires one than one lab company. These companies use the top of the line technology to ensure their patients and physicians obtain the most accurate results for optimal healing.

It is important to make sure the patient gets the best possible care available. This usually means ordering different labs from different companies to obtain the best results. Each lab is great in its own way, but they often specialize in a certain area. This is key because it often allows the patient and the practitioner to get the highest quality of results. A practitioner who uses multiple labs is educated on the subject and truly cares for their patients. – Kenna Vaughn, Senior Health Coach�

*The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, and nervous health issues or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health protocols to treat injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request.�

References:
Cyrex Laboratories. �Cyrex Laboratories > Home.� Cyrex Laboratories > Home, www.cyrexlabs.com/.
�Doctor’s Data Specialty Testing Clinical Laboratory: Doctor’s Data.� Doctor’s Data Inc, www.doctorsdata.com/.
�Dunwoody Labs.� Dunwoody Labs, www.dunwoodylabs.com/.
�Dutch Complete�.� DUTCH Test, dutchtest.com/.
�Food Sensitivity.� Vibrant Wellness, www.vibrant-wellness.com/tests/food-sensitivity/.
Genova Diagnostics, www.gdx.net/tests/alphabetical.
�GI-MAP: GI Microbial Assay Plus.� Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory, 13 Dec. 2019, www.diagnosticsolutionslab.com/tests/gi-map.
�Menu.� SpectraCell Laboratories, 13 Dec. 2019, www.spectracell.com/.

Functional Neurology: Causes and Symptoms of a Leaky Brain

Functional Neurology: Causes and Symptoms of a Leaky Brain

Our brain is a complex organ that controls many essential functions in our body. Therefore, brain health is vital for our survival. This is where the blood-brain barrier comes in. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) consists of a group of cells held together by “tight junctions” that protect the brain from potentially harmful components in the bloodstream. This security system only permits passage to certain molecules and keeps most other chemicals or substances out.

Understanding a Leaky Brain

If damage due to an injury or underlying condition occurs, small gaps can start to develop in the tight junctions of the group of cells in the brain and potentially harmful components in the bloodstream can ultimately penetrate the BBB and enter the complex organ. This is known as a “leaky brain”. Several chemicals or substances can commonly cause brain inflammation. Research studies have demonstrated a connection between gut health and brain health. As a matter of fact, scientists have also determined that our gut microbiome, or the bacteria in our gastrointestinal (GI) tract, can affect our brain. �

 

The stomach and small intestine consist of a group of cells like the blood-brain barrier that also protects the gut from potentially harmful components in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Similar factors that cause a leaky gut can cause a leaky brain, including poor diet, food sensitivities or intolerances, infections, and toxins. Research studies have demonstrated that a protein found in wheat and gluten, known as gliadin, can increase the production of another protein known as zonulin. Zonulin can cause the tight junctions of the gut and BBB to become loose or broken, leading to a leaky brain and a leaky gut. �

 

Causes of a Leaky Brain

As previously mentioned above, a leaky gut is one of the most well-known causes of a leaky brain. Infections, autoimmune diseases, mental health issues, and stress or vagus nerve dysfunction are common factors that may also affect the blood-brain barrier. However, inflammation is generally the source of the problem in most of these brain and gut health issues. Below, we will discuss several factors that can ultimately cause a leaky brain in further detail. �

 

  • Infections can breakdown the BBB and allow bacteria to penetrate and enter the brain
  • Exposure to toxins can cause inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain which can affect the BBB
  • Too much glutamate can increase BBB permeability and permit passage to harmful components
  • Free radicals can also cause inflammation and promote aging, further affecting the blood-brain barrier
  • High blood sugar and diabetes can also cause oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain
  • Increased homocysteine, commonly found in people with heart health issues, autoimmune diseases, cancer, and neurological diseases, as well as in people who survive a stroke, can affect the tight junctions in the group of cells of the blood-brain barrier
  • High-fat, high-calorie diets and obesity can increase oxidative stress and prevent the brain from getting enough oxygen
  • Hypoxia causes the body to have an insufficient supply of oxygen which can further damage the tight junctions of the BBB
  • An injury or an underlying condition in the liver can release a signal, known as MMP9, that increases BBB permeability
  • Insufficient blood flow to the brain and abnormal activity in the brain, which is common in patients with mood changes
  • Poor sleep affects the sleep-wake cycle necessary in the uptake of nutrients and the offload of toxins which increases inflammation
  • Changes in the molecules found between the brain and bloodstream which develop tight junctions in the BBB.

 

Symptoms of a Leaky Brain

A leaky brain can ultimately cause a variety of symptoms. Because various factors may also cause the breakdown of the blood-brain barrier and allow harmful components to penetrate or enter the brain through the bloodstream, it’s essential to be aware of the type of symptoms that can manifest when you have a leaky brain. A leaky brain can cause a variety of symptoms as well as increase the risk of developing various brain health issues, including: �

 

  • Difficulty concentrating and memory loss, also known as brain fog
  • Sudden headaches or migraines that become worse throughout the day
  • Cognitive impairment that may ultimately lead to dementia and Alzheimer�s disease
  • Mood changes associated with anxiety, stress, depression, and schizophrenia
  • Chronic fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest or sleep
  • ADD/ADHD/Autism spectrum disorders
  • Brain health issues and neurological diseases, such as neuropathies or muscular sclerosis
  • Seizures and epilepsy

 

Dr. Alex Jimenez Insights Image

Too much inflammation may cause a variety of brain health issues and neurological diseases associated with the breakdown of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), also known as a leaky brain. Because many research studies have suggested the connection between a leaky gut and a leaky brain, maintaining a healthy gut microbiome may be an effective treatment for brain health issues and neurological diseases. Scientists have started working towards developing successful ways to allow drugs and/or medications as well as other treatments to penetrate and enter the brain through the blood-brain barrier and from the bloodstream. A leaky brain may be caused by a variety of factors and various symptoms can commonly manifest.� – Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight

 

Our brain is a complex organ that controls many essential functions in our body. Therefore, brain health is vital for our survival. This is where the blood-brain barrier comes in. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) consists of a group of cells held together by “tight junctions” that protect the brain from potentially harmful components in the bloodstream. This security system only permits passage to certain molecules and keeps most other chemicals or substances out. �

 

The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, and nervous health issues or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health protocols to treat injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. 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 �

 

References:

  • Mindd Foundation. �What Causes Leaky Brain? Repairing the Blood-Brain Barrier.� Mindd, 11 June 2019, mindd.org/leaky-brain/.

 


 

Neurotransmitter Assessment Form

 

The following Neurotransmitter Assessment Form can be filled out and presented to Dr. Alex Jimenez. The following symptoms listed on this form are not intended to be utilized as a diagnosis of any type of disease, condition, or any other type of health issue. �

 


 

Additional Topic Discussion: Chronic Pain

Sudden pain is a natural response of the nervous system which helps to demonstrate possible injury. By way of instance, pain signals travel from an injured region through the nerves and spinal cord to the brain. Pain is generally less severe as the injury heals, however, chronic pain is different than the average type of pain. With chronic pain, the human body will continue sending pain signals to the brain, regardless if the injury has healed. Chronic pain can last for several weeks to even several years. Chronic pain can tremendously affect a patient’s mobility and it can reduce flexibility, strength, and endurance. �

 

 


 

Neural Zoomer Plus for Neurological Disease

Neural Zoomer Plus | El Paso, TX Chiropractor

 

Dr. Alex Jimenez utilizes a series of tests to help evaluate neurological diseases. The Neural ZoomerTM Plus is an array of neurological autoantibodies which offers specific antibody-to-antigen recognition. The Vibrant Neural ZoomerTM Plus is designed to assess an individual�s reactivity to 48 neurological antigens with connections to a variety of neurologically related diseases. The Vibrant Neural ZoomerTM Plus aims to reduce neurological conditions by empowering patients and physicians with a vital resource for early risk detection and an enhanced focus on personalized primary prevention. �

 

Food Sensitivity for the IgG & IgA Immune Response

Food Sensitivity Zoomer | El Paso, TX Chiropractor

 

Dr. Alex Jimenez utilizes a series of tests to help evaluate health issues associated with food sensitivities. The Food Sensitivity ZoomerTM is an array of 180 commonly consumed food antigens that offers very specific antibody-to-antigen recognition. This panel measures an individual�s IgG and IgA sensitivity to food antigens. Being able to test IgA antibodies provides additional information to foods that may be causing mucosal damage. Additionally, this test is ideal for patients who might be suffering from delayed reactions to certain foods. Utilizing an antibody-based food sensitivity test can help prioritize the necessary foods to eliminate and create a customized diet plan around the patient�s specific needs. �

 

Gut Zoomer for Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)

Gut Zoomer | El Paso, TX Chiropractor

 

Dr. Alex Jimenez utilizes a series of tests to help evaluate gut health associated with small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). The Vibrant Gut ZoomerTM offers a report that includes dietary recommendations and other natural supplementation like prebiotics, probiotics, and polyphenols. The gut microbiome is mainly found in the large intestine and it has more than 1000 species of bacteria that play a fundamental role in the human body, from shaping the immune system and affecting the metabolism of nutrients to strengthening the intestinal mucosal barrier (gut-barrier). It is essential to understand how the number of bacteria that symbiotically live in the human gastrointestinal (GI) tract influences gut health because imbalances in the gut microbiome may ultimately lead to gastrointestinal (GI) tract symptoms, skin conditions, autoimmune disorders, immune system imbalances, and multiple inflammatory disorders. �

 


Dunwoody Labs: Comprehensive Stool with Parasitology | El Paso, TX Chiropractor


GI-MAP: GI Microbial Assay Plus | El Paso, TX Chiropractor


 

Formulas for Methylation Support

Xymogen Formulas - El Paso, TX

 

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.

xymogen el paso, tx

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.