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.
If you are experiencing any of these problems or situations in your body, why don’t you try foods that are rich with antioxidants by using the ORAC.
Throughout scientific literature, it has been well established at how necessary the daily vegetable and fruit intake is for anyone’s physiological health and wellbeing. Not many people understand the importance of consuming more vegetables and fruit in their diet. Many healthcare professionals will often prescribe patients fruits and vegetables as well as more exercising, although some do not often explain why they should eat more fruits and vegetables.
Fruits and vegetables are filled with antioxidants like polyphenols, phytochemicals, and nutrients that are measured by their ORAC value. ORAC or oxygen radical absorbance capacity is a measurement of any food, spice, or nutrient/substance�s ability to get rid of oxidative free radicals in a test tube. What is interesting is that free radicals and reactive oxidative species (ROS) are synonymous. What this means is that essentially free radicals are unstable molecules that are produced under a normal metabolic process.
Free radicals can take the electrons from other molecules that are nearby in the body, which will cause a chain reaction consisting of oxidative stress and damage. When the body has continuous oxidative damage from inflammation, it can be a significant culprit to many degenerative conditions and age-related diseases, harming the person.
Many people would consider any medical diagnosis of any illnesses or diseases to be part of “normal” aging. With any conditions, people will accept and adapt to it, however, it may come as a shock for many people to find out that �age-related diseases� are not inevitable but a sign of unhealthy aging. Studies found out that cultures living in the blue zones are the healthiest cultures that have the highest life expectancy around the world. With these healthy cultures, they are a testament to anyone that aging does not equal to disease and poor health.
With healthy aging, it is defined as the metabolic age of being “younger than” the biological and chronological age. A journal review mentioned how to reduce systemic inflammation is the key to longevity and can prevent the development of the chronic disease. Studies were researching how risk factors for all-cause mortality and cardiovascular disease incidences in elders that live in Northern Greece. They found out that drinking coffee and tea, consuming fruit in vast quantities, and exclusive usage of olive oil was associated with cardiovascular diseases.
For anyone that is living in the blue zone, their diets and lifestyle factors are the primary determinants for their health and are the essential factors of longevity. The diets from the blue zones are usually plant-based, high in fiber and loads of vegetables, while also incorporating locally-caught fish that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, this diet is similar to the Mediterranean-style diet.
ORAC Nutrients
There are a few specific vitamins and dietary compounds in food that have some of the highest ORAC values. One of the vitamins is vitamin E subfractions, especially delta-and gamma tocotrienols, which have a higher ORAC value than alpha-tocopherol while respectively contributing to substantially more significant health benefits. The two foods that are very high on the ORAC charts are cherries and elderberries. These two are highly nutritious due to phytonutrient-rich components like anthocyanins and quercetin. For vegetables, leafy greens like spinach and lycopene possess a high antioxidant profile.
In early 2019, a study showed how the consumption of spinach could help modulate the metabolism of lipids in the liver, while also finding out that the hepatic accumulation of alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, and lutein was correlated with blood glucose and total serum cholesterol. The many other fruits and vegetables that have antioxidants components that can help damp oxidative stress in the body and are highly nutritious for anyone to eat.
With many high ORAC fruits and vegetables can be condensed and form into supplements inside capsules and powders. Research shows that powdered greens that contain fruits and vegetable blends have become very popular amongst the health and wellness community. It makes sense due to that these capsules are loaded with antioxidant-rich phytochemicals that support the individual’s overall health. Since densely packed fruits and vegetable powders are great tools, some individuals would argue that these powders are not adequate amounts for a person�s diet.
With antioxidant-rich green powders, they are helpful for older adults who have limited mobility. For anyone that cannot prepare their meals, the powders can be blended with water or added to smoothies for optimal nutrition for the body. Another benefit that green powders have is that they can help counteract the deleterious effects of process food intake. For anyone unwilling to change their dietary patterns if they are taking particular nutrient-depleting medicine, as well as anyone who smokes or drinks alcohol, will suffer from chronic diseases in their body.
Conclusion
With the abundance of other compounds and foods that have a high ORAC value, any foods that have these antioxidants can help the body by removing inflammation in the joints and the gut, combating free radicals, and getting rid of oxidative stress that will cause systemic inflammation. By using the ORAC value system, finding food that has high antioxidant properties are essential. Even incorporating more fruits and vegetables in the diet is necessary for a healthy, functional body. Some products are formulated to help counter the metabolic effects of stress and support the gastrointestinal system in 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:
Barclay, Eliza. �Eating To Break 100: Longevity Diet Tips From The Blue Zones.� NPR, NPR, 11 Apr. 2015, www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2015/04/11/398325030/eating-to-break-100-longevity-diet-tips-from-the-blue-zones.
Elvira-Torales, Laura In�s, et al. �Ameliorative Effect of Spinach on Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Induced in Rats by a High-Fat Diet.� International Journal of Molecular Sciences, MDPI, 3 Apr. 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30987167.
Hossain, Afzal, et al. �Enhancement of Antioxidant Quality of Green Leafy Vegetables upon Different Cooking Method.� Preventive Nutrition and Food Science, The Korean Society of Food Science and Nutrition, Sept. 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29043220.
Liu, Qing, et al. �Comparison of Antioxidant Activities of Different Grape Varieties.� Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), MDPI, 23 Sept. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30249027.
Pisoschi, Aurelia Magdalena, et al. �Antioxidant Capacity Determination in Plants and Plant-Derived Products: A Review.� Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, Hindawi Publishing Corporation, 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28044094.
Team, DFH. �Cherries: Whats Not to Love?� Designs for Health, 5 Jan. 2018, blog.designsforhealth.com/cherries-whats-not-to-love.
Team, DFH. �Elevate the Immune System with Elderberry.� Designs for Health, 5 Jan. 2018, blog.designsforhealth.com/elevate-the-immune-system-with-elderberry-0.
Team, DFH. �Tocotrienols.� Designs for Health, 7 Dec. 2018, blog.designsforhealth.com/node/909.
Tsoupras, Alexandros, et al. �Inflammation, Not Cholesterol, Is a Cause of Chronic Disease.� Nutrients, MDPI, 12 May 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5986484/.
Weil, Andrew. �ORAC: Scoring Antioxidants? – Dr. Weil.� DrWeil.com, 5 Aug. 2016, www.drweil.com/vitamins-supplements-herbs/vitamins/orac-scoring-antioxidants/.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIH), approximately 20 percent of the population in the United States are diagnosed with a brain health issue every year, with depression and phobias being the most common types of diagnosable mental health issues. Moreover, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that the suicide rate in the United States had reached 13 for every 100,000 people in 2014, which is the highest it had ever been since 1986. Scientists are starting to associate brain health issues with inflammation and its effects on the blood-brain barrier. �
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a connection of blood vessels that protect the brain against harmful free radicals in the bloodstream. However, the blood-brain barrier is so effective at protecting the brain from these “harmful” components in the bloodstream, that it can ultimately even prevent drugs and/or medications from penetrating this security system to treat brain health issues. A research study published in Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics demonstrated that the effectiveness of antidepressants is only slightly more effective compared to placebos in the treatment of mental health issues. �
What Causes a Leaky Brain?
Scientists continue to analyze ways to effectively penetrate the blood-brain barrier to treat brain health issues. Several research studies have also determined that inflammation may reduce the function of brain cells in the frontal lobe of people diagnosed with depression. Other scientists are starting to believe that antidepressants and medicines used to treat depression are ineffective because these don’t necessarily treat inflammation in the brain. When the blood-brain barrier is damaged or injured, harmful components can enter the brain through the bloodstream and cause neurodegenerative symptoms. �
A “leaky brain” is a well-known term that is increasingly being used to describe blood-brain barrier permeability. A variety of blood tests, including those that measure the levels of the proteins occludin and zonulin, can be used to determine a leaky brain. Immunoglobulin levels may also be measured. Scientists also measure the levels of a molecule, known as microRNA-155, which increases with inflammation. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play the fundamental role of regulating immune reactions, with miR-155 as a biomarker for inflammation in the brain due to a leaky blood-brain barrier. According to various research studies, this molecule can cause small gaps to develop in the BBB which can ultimately cause inflammation and lead to a leaky brain. �
Several different research studies have also discussed how inflammation on the blood-brain barrier can eventually cause a leaky brain. Meanwhile, other research studies have demonstrated a link between inflammation and a variety of psychiatric disorders. Scientists also demonstrated that pro-inflammatory cytokines can increase and cause increased blood-brain barrier permeability. Many harmful components can also affect the structure of the mitochondria and the blood-brain barrier. Microglial cells in the brain may also trigger and activate the release of molecules that can further affect the BBB. �
Further evidence has also associated blood-brain barrier dysfunction with a leaky gut. Scientists have suggested treating an underlying leaky gut to help treat a leaky brain. According to research studies, intestinal permeability, or a �leaky gut�, may ultimately be associated with blood-brain barrier permeability. Bacteria, small molecules, and toxins in the blood are commonly found in celiac disease, a well-known problem caused by gluten sensitivity or intolerance. Although true celiac disease is considered to be rare, a leaky gut associated with celiac disease and brain health issues are considered to be more common. �
One research study discusses the connection between the gut microbiome, inflammation, and the integrity of the blood-brain barrier. The scientists of a different research study discussed how a variety of treatments used to help improve the biodiversity of the gut microbiome, including a healthy diet and lifestyle modifications, fecal microbiota transplantation, prebiotics, and probiotics, have demonstrated to support the function of the gut-brain axis. Scientists believe it will be possible to use the gut microbiome to improve brain and mental health issues as well as to prevent further complications. �
Too much inflammation may cause a variety of brain and mental health issues associated with blood-brain barrier permeability. 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 and mental health. Although the brain is protected by the blood-brain barrier, this security system can frequently prevent drugs and/or medications from being able to effectively treat many brain and mental health issues. Scientists have started working towards developing successful ways to allow treatments to penetrate the blood-brain barrier.� – Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
As previously mentioned, the National Institute of Mental Health (NIH) states that about 20 percent of Americans are diagnosed with a mental health issue every year, where depression and phobias are considered to be the most common types of diagnosable brain health issues. Furthermore, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recorded that the suicide rate in the United States reached 13 for every 100,000 people in 2014, which is the highest it has ever been since 1986. Scientists associate mental health issues with brain inflammation and how it causes a “leaky” blood-brain barrier. �
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a group of blood vessels that protect the brain against “harmful” components in the bloodstream. However, because the blood-brain barrier can be so effective at protecting the brain from these harmful free radicals in the bloodstream, it can ultimately prevent drugs and/or medications from successfully penetrating the BBB to treat mental health issues. Research studies published in Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics determined that the effectiveness of certain medicines can only be slightly more effective, compared to placebos, in the treatment of brain health issues. �
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:
Figeley, Melanie. �Do You Have A Leaky Brain?� Biotics NW Inc., Biotics NW Inc., 15 Jan. 2019, www.bioticsnw.com/blogs/news/do-you-have-a-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
�
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
�
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)
�
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. �
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. �
How often do you feel agitated, easily upset, and nervous between meals? How often do you have difficulty concentrating before eating? How often does your energy level drop in the afternoon? Inflammation associated with a leaky blood-brain barrier can cause a variety of brain health issues. Our brain is a complex organ that controls various structures and functions of our body, from our memory to our breathing, muscle movements, and hormones. �
Unfortunately, brain health issues are common in our society. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 20 percent of adults in the United States have a brain health issue and American adults spend about $113 billion on treatment every year. Additionally, these statistics don’t even include the treatment cost of autoimmune brain health issues, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and autism. In the article below, we will discuss how inflammation is associated with a “leaky” blood-brain barrier and what you can do to improve a variety of brain health issues. �
“Leaky” Blood-Brain Barriers and Inflammation
Scientists have previously discussed how leaky gut syndrome, a well-known digestive health issue that affects the lining of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, can be associated with various health issues. However, current research studies have shown that leaky gut syndrome may also be associated with a leaky blood-brain barrier or the breakdown of the blood-brain barrier.�The gut-brain connection ultimately suggests that a “leaky gut” may cause a “leaky brain”. �
Biomarkers using the proteins occludin and zonulin can help determine the presence of leaky gut syndrome and a leaky blood-brain barrier. Scientists have demonstrated that increased antibodies against occludin and zonulin are one way to determine leaky brain syndrome. Scientists have also demonstrated that a molecule known microRNA-155 can increase with inflammation. MicroRNA-155 can ultimately cause microscopic gaps to develop in the blood-brain barrier that permitted passage to “harmful” components. This permeability can trigger the brain’s immune system and cause brain inflammation. �
Various research studies from the cytokine model of cognitive function evaluated how brain inflammation and a leaky blood-brain barrier may be associated with cases of anxiety, depression, brain fog, and autoimmune brain health issues. By way of instance, scientists evaluated how inflammation can decrease the activation of brain cells in the frontal lobe of people with depression. In cases of brain inflammation, using drugs and/or medications, such as antidepressants, are frequently ineffective because they aren’t treating the underlying brain inflammation. If a patient suffers from anxiety, depression, brain fog, or autoimmune brain health issues, many healthcare professionals may suggest the presence of a leaky brain or a leaky blood-brain barrier. �
8 Steps to Improve a Leaky Blood-Brain Barrier
Inflammation and a leaky blood-brain barrier may ultimately cause a variety of bran health issues if it’s misdiagnosed and left untreated. If you suspect you may have anxiety, depression, brain fog, or autoimmune brain health issues due to inflammation associated with a leaky blood-brain barrier, it’s important to talk to a healthcare professional to receive proper diagnosis and treatment. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to improve a leaky blood-brain barrier:� �
Evaluate your blood-brain barrier by conducting labs for blood-brain barrier proteins, which can show BBB permeability, occludin and zonulin, which can show the antibodies against these proteins, homocysteine, which shows blood-brain barrier damage or injury through the increased levels of this amino acid, and brain agers like inflammation, which can accelerate the aging of the brain. High blood sugar may also show BBB permeability.
Determine a “leaky” blood-brain barrier by conducting microbiome labs. A “leaky gut” can cause a “leaky brain”. Understanding the gut-brain axis can help determine the presence of any underlying brain health issues. Bacterial imbalances and yeast overgrowths can cause neurological symptoms. By way of instance, anxiety and depression are associated with the bacteria known as Lactobacillus helveticus and Bifidobacterium longum.
Prevent yourself from eating foods, such as processed, refined and sugary foods as well as other toxins, that can cause a leaky blood-brain barrier.
Regulate stress for overall brain health. Research studies ultimately suggest that acute stress can increase the breakdown of the blood-brain barrier. Tai chi, yoga, and mindfulness meditation are several effective ways to help manage stress for the overall well-being of the human brain.
Take natural compounds, such as apigenin, baicalein, catechins, curcumin, luteolin, resveratrol, and rutin, that have all been suggested to reduce brain inflammation. However, because the correct dosage will be different for everyone, make sure to talk to a doctor before taking natural medicine.
Participate in exercise and physical activity that can help increase a brain-derived neurotrophic factor, BDNF, which helps promote brain health.
Reduce your consumption of alcohol. Alcohol can stress the brain and several research studies suggest that it can affect the blood-brain barrier.
Consider visiting a functional medicine practitioner to improve a leaky blood-brain barrier. While there’s no immediate fix for many chronic brain health issues, functional medicine customizes diagnostics and natural protocols based on your unique needs to help promote overall well-being.
The brain is protected by the blood-brain barrier, however, this security system can frequently prevent drugs and/or medications from being able to effectively treat brain health issues. Scientists have started working towards developing successful ways to allow treatments to penetrate the blood-brain barrier. Other research studies have demonstrated that the aging brain or neurodegeneration can cause the breakdown of the blood-brain barrier. However, research studies have demonstrated ways to restore and even reverse leaky blood-brain barriers and several brain health issues. Patients can take several steps to help improve a leaky blood-brain barrier. – Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
How often do you feel agitated, easily upset, and nervous between meals? How often do you have difficulty concentrating before eating? How often does your energy level drop in the afternoon? Inflammation associated with a leaky blood-brain barrier can cause a variety of brain health issues. Our brain is a complex organ that controls various structures and functions of our body, from our memory to our breathing, muscle movements, and hormones. �
Unfortunately, brain health issues are common in our society. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 20 percent of adults in the United States have a brain health issue and American adults spend about $113 billion on treatment every year. Additionally, these statistics don’t even include the treatment cost of autoimmune brain health issues, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and autism. In the article above, we discussed how inflammation is associated with a “leaky” blood-brain barrier and what you can do to improve a variety of brain health issues. �
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:
Cole, William. �Signs You Might Have A �Leaky Brain� + What To Do About It.� Mindbodygreen, Mindbodygreen, 22 July 2015, www.mindbodygreen.com/0-20800/signs-you-might-have-a-leaky-brain-what-to-do-about-it.html.
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
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
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)
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. �
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. �
If you are experiencing any of these situations, then you might be experiencing some gut and liver issues in your body.
The role of the gut-liver axis in NAFLD (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease) has been examining probiotics and have found some new information on the gut microbiome and how probiotics work in NAFLD. The new information that future research found was quite interesting. It stated that there were about 26 major randomized controlled trials that used probiotics for NALFD that ranged between 20 to 200 individuals in four weeks to 1 year. The laboratory assessments included liver enzymes and anthropometric parameters in the body. Some of the studies added cardiovascular risk factors like C-reactive proteins and lipid profiles as markers for insulin resistance. Furthermore, most of the studies have used a probiotic formulation that includes multiple species, although a few were conducted by using a single strain.
What NAFLD does to the body is that it becomes a hepatic consequence of metabolic syndrome. This includes obesity, diabetes, and dyslipidemia. What is interesting about the connection between gut microbiota and NAFLD has been attracting a significant amount of attention in recent years. The data has shown that the gut microbiota can affect the hepatic lipid metabolism while also influencing the balance between pro/anti-inflammatory effectors in the liver.
Chronic Liver Diseases
Even though chronic liver disease is the primary cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Studies showed that gut dysbiosis was identified as an essential factor in the pathogenesis of the liver disease. The relationship between the gut microbiota and the liver is still not understood, but the dysfunction of leaky gut and an increased bacterial translocation into the liver. Another study showed that immense importance is a massive advancement in understanding the roles of the gut and liver microbiome that is driven by a high DNA sequencing and improving them.
There are many stages of liver disease that can happen, but when it comes to excessive alcohol in the liver. Studies show that excessive alcohol consumption is the leading cause of chronic liver disease worldwide. The stages of alcoholic liver disease are hepatic steatosis, steatohepatitis, and, ultimately, liver cirrhosis. One of the main characteristics of alcohol liver disease is that there is an increased gut permeability due to a direct toxic effect of alcohol on the epithelial cell in the gastrointestinal tract and a decreases expression of the tight-junction protein.
Probiotic Supplements
For probiotic supplementation, they have demonstrated a significant decrease in liver enzymes, which were compared to the placebo group. Studies found that probiotics were shown to have synergistic effects with metformin on liver enzymes for patients that have NASH. Any products that contained both prebiotics and probiotics can demonstrate a similar effect in the probiotic groups. In another study, it showed a reduction of intrahepatic fat that is measured by MRI, but the improvement in liver enzymes in the body did not reach any clinical significance. It is essential to know that liver enzymes can have a highly variable and do not always have a direct correlation with disease progression that they may encounter.
Research shows that there are five meta-analyses included and that they all demonstrated that probiotics and synbiotics have improved on AST and ALT levels in the body significantly. Surprisingly, several other studies have assisted probiotics by countering hepatic steatosis, fibrosis, and liver stiffness in the body. Ultrasound imaging can help assist these parameters and show some positive clinical outcomes with these two supplements.
When probiotics help restore the gastrointestinal barrier function in the body, they can eliminate the harmful bacteria that has interacted with the gastrointestinal system. Not only that, but probiotics can also be beneficial by modulating the immune system, reduce liver fats, and improve the liver enzymes as well. By using probiotics, they are most likely to be more productive by helping the body and preventing bacterial translocation in the gut, thus reducing the effects of the intestinal microbiota on the liver to prevent chronic illnesses from forming and causing havoc.
Conclusion
For individuals that have NAFLD, they will already establish the disease and required a higher nutrient intake demand than what can be obtained from any diets alone. So using dietary supplements should be considered to help reduce the NAFLD disease’s progression, thus improving the liver and its functions. The gut-liver axis is connected to the body since if anything happens to the liver like chronic diseases, it can affect the gut as well. Using probiotics to help the liver is essential to make sure that the liver is functioning correctly and that the body is being as healthy as possible. Some products are here to offer gastrointestinal and metabolic support while also supporting multiple aspects of the biliary system.
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:
Jurgelewicz, Michael. �New Review Demonstrates the Role of the Gut Microbiome and Probiotics in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease.� Designs for Health, 25 Nov. 2019, blog.designsforhealth.com/node/1160.
Konturek, Peter Christopher, et al. �Gut?Liver Axis: How Do Gut Bacteria Influence the Liver?� Medical Sciences (Basel, Switzerland), MDPI, 17 Sept. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6165386/.
Tripathi, Anupriya, et al. �The Gut-Liver Axis and the Intersection with the Microbiome.� Nature Reviews. Gastroenterology & Hepatology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, July 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6319369/.
Xie, Chencheng, and Dina Halegoua DeMarzio. “Role of Probiotics in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Does Gut Microbiota Matter?” MDPI, Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute, 19 Nov. 2019, www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/11/11/2837.
Blood vessels in the brain protect us from “harmful” components in the bloodstream. This is known as the blood-brain barrier. A Science Translational Medicine research study demonstrated how inflammation and cognitive impairment in a group of aging mice may be associated with the breakdown of the blood-brain barrier. In the following article, we will discuss how restoring the breakdown of the blood-brain barrier may improve overall brain health. �
What is a Leaky Blood-Brain Barrier?
Scientists determined that the breakdown of the blood-brain barrier can ultimately trigger a signaling protein in brain cells, known as astrocytes. They then created and evaluated a drug/medication that blocked the activation of the astrocytes, or the signaling protein known as the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta). Following the treatment, the group of aging mice demonstrated reduced brain inflammation and improved cognitive function. �
“Our team of scientists associates the aging brain in the same way we associate neurodegeneration. The aging brain is characterized by loss of cognitive function and dead brain cells,” stated Daniela Kaufer, co-senior author and professor of integrative biology at the University of California, Berkeley. “However, our research study determined a different story about why the aging brain doesn’t function properly: It is because of brain fog,” she concluded. �
According to the research study, reducing inflammation and brain fog by restoring the breakdown of the blood-brain barrier can help improve the overall health and wellness of the aging brain. The results may also help scientists understand how cognitive impairment associated with inflammation and brain fog can accompany the aging brain and neurodegeneration as well as how the blood-brain barrier may be associated with improved brain function. �
Inflammation, Brain Fog, and Cognitive Impairment
A variety of research studies, including imaging research studies performed by Alon Friedman, co-senior author of Ben-Gurion University of the Negev in Israel and Dalhousie University in Canada, discussed the breakdown of the blood-brain barrier and how it can ultimately become less effective with age. A “leaky” blood-brain barrier can make it easier for “harmful” compounds to penetrate the brain and damage cells and tissue from the bloodstream. �
Kaufer and Friedman are also co-senior authors of another Science Translational Medicine research study that evaluated inflammation and brain fog in leaky blood-brain barriers. By way of instance, patients with Alzheimer’s disease may experience epileptic episodes, however, they may not be aware of them. Aging is a risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease and epilepsy where research studies have associated a connection between the two brain health issues. �
For the second research study, the team of scientists evaluated EEG readings from patients with Alzheimer’s disease and determined an EEG signature for what is ultimately known as paroxysmal slow wave events (PSWEs). From the EEGs, the scientists demonstrated how the rate of PSWEs appeared to match the level of cognitive impairment of the patients. In EEGs of patients with epilepsy, they demonstrated that PSWEs that happened between seizures matched cases of leaky blood-brain barriers. They determined the same match in aging mice, mice prone to Alzheimer’s disease, and rats with induced epilepsy. �
Further research studies in young rats also demonstrated that the blood-brain barrier can start to breakdown by introducing the protein albumin to the brain. According to the results, this ultimately caused an increased rate of PSWEs. Friedman and Kaufer also demonstrated that the protein albumin can penetrate the blood-brain barrier following trauma. The protein albumin can attach itself to the TGF-beta receptor of astrocytes and cause brain health issues. The team of scientists also concluded that a leaky blood-brain barrier may ultimately be a cause of inflammation, brain fog, and cognitive impairment. �
Leaky Blood-Brain Barrier Biomarkers
The scientists suggest that the results of the various research studies on leaky blood-brain barriers and brain health ultimately help offer a variety of biomarkers that could possibly help healthcare professionals recognize these type of problems by using MRI, which can detect leaky blood-brain barriers, and using EEG, which can detect abnormal brain rhythms. The outcome measures may also help develop the treatment that they may use as a way to restore a leaky blood-brain barrier to reduce and even reverse several of the brain health issues it may ultimately cause, including neurodegeneration. �
“Our team of scientists now use several biomarkers that demonstrate leaky blood-brain barriers, so healthcare professionals can choose patients for treatment,” stated professor Daniela Kaufer. “These research studies ultimately support the effects of leaky blood-brain barriers on a variety of brain health issues, including dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, associated with inflammation, brain fog, and cognitive impairment as well as offer possible results for future research studies,” stated Diego Gomez-Nicola, an associate professor of neuroscience at the University of Southampton in the United Kingdom, �
After the discoveries of the German scientist Paul Ehrlich during the late 1800s, a collection of experiments on a group of mice demonstrated how the brain regulates what to permit passage to and what to block from entering its blood vessels through the blood-brain barrier. The brain is ultimately protected by the blood-brain barrier, however, this security system can frequently prevent drugs and/or medications from being able to effectively treat brain health issues. Scientists have started working towards developing successful ways to allow treatments to penetrate the blood-brain barrier. Other research studies have demonstrated that by the aging brain, as well as neurodegeneration, can cause the breakdown of the blood-brain barrier. A leaky blood-brain barrier can ultimately cause inflammation, brain fog, and cognitive impairment. However, research studies have demonstrated ways to restore and even reverse leaky blood-brain barriers and several brain health issues. – Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
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. �
Blood vessels in the brain protect us from “harmful” components in the bloodstream. This is known as the blood-brain barrier. A Science Translational Medicine research study demonstrated how inflammation and cognitive impairment in a group of aging mice may be associated with the breakdown of the blood-brain barrier. In the following article, we will discuss how restoring the breakdown of the blood-brain barrier may 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:
Catharine Paddock, Ph.D. �Repairing Leaky Blood-Brain Barrier May Rejuvenate Brain Function.� Medical News Today, MediLexicon International, 6 Dec. 2019, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327248.php#1.
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
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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
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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)
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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. �
Formulas for Methylation Support
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If you are a patient of Injury Medical & Chiropractic�Clinic, you may inquire about XYMOGEN by calling 915-850-0900.
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If you are experiencing any of these situations, then you might have pain and inflammation in your body. Here are some ways to help naturally ease the pain in your body.
There is some evidence the conventional go-to pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medicine can help by delivering their benefits along with a host of potentially dangerous effects to anyone. Both medical professionals and patients are looking for alternative medicines that have the same effects as pharmaceutical medicine but that are safe and more effective. Fortunately, numerous natural compounds are backed up by clinical research and studies that are available to help anyone that have a variety of issues that are caused by pain and inflammation.
Factors Involving Inflammation
Research from the Cleveland Clinic had warned patients that NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are intended for short-term use. That person should never use it continuously for fever for more than three days and at least ten days for pain without the consultant from a healthcare provider. Studies show that for any fish oils or other sources of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids that have the same effect since it is the precursor to anti-inflammatory prostaglandins and resolvins for the body.
Natural Products for Inflammation
If there is a long-term consumption food that is high in EPA and DHA that are dangerous, there will be a substantial fish-eating population in East Asia and Scandinavia; then, there would be a considerable problem long ago. This, however, is the opposite of what epidemiological studies found since fish consumption is beneficial for the person’s health and improving the biomarker for cardiovascular risk. For anyone that is allergic to fish, eggs, flaxseeds, and it is oil or algal oil is a rich source of omega-3s for the body.
There are other various foods and herbal extracts that been shown to be beneficial in managing pain and inflammation. One of them is ginger. Ginger has been used for a long time as a remedy for upset stomach and indigestion, while also being effective for reducing menstrual cycle pain like NSAIDs. Studies show the herb Boswellia can reduce the pain and stiffness that are associated with osteo- and rheumatoid arthritis and one of the mechanics that are responsible for the body that inhibits the inflammatory 5-LOX (5-lipoxygenase).
What is interesting about Boswellia is that studies show that the herb is different from NSAIDs because NSAIDs may induce potential life-threating GI tract bleeding. The evidence shows that the Boswellia herb can improve inflammatory conditions in the gastrointestinal tract, like chronic colitis. There are more natural compounds that are the potential to ease pain and inflammation like cannabis. With the expanding legalization throughout the US, medicinal and recreational cannabis can help many people deal with their pain with this impressive plant.
Incorporating Changes To Stop Inflammation
Besides incorporating these natural herbs and anti-inflammatory foods into a person�s diet to help alleviate pain and inflammation, no one should neglect the non-diet strategies. Changing food and supplements are not the only changes when a person is seeking alternatives. A past article started to explore how laughter, positive thinking, and maintaining physical activity has the potential to manage chronic pain that the body may encounter. Even though the old saying states that “laughter is the best medicine,” the old saying is contradicted now and days. Even though laughter is not the best medicine, but laughter can undoubtedly be a form of medicine.
Another way a person can reduce or resolve inflammation is by their diet. This can affect what a person does not eat than what they do eat. Studies show that ketogenic diets, which are high in fats and very low in carbohydrates, have been known to increase pain tolerance and reduce acute inflammation. The results were astounding as patients with type 2 diabetes following a ketogenic diet for one year, experienced a 39% reduction in hsCRP, which is a massive indicator for inflammation. Another research study observed patients who followed a ketogenic diet for two years, had a 37% reduction from their baseline.
More research studies show that patients that have metabolic syndrome and follow a carbohydrate-restricted Paleolithic diet for four weeks have experienced a 39% reduction in their hsCRP as well as 35% and 29% reduction in their TNF-a and IL-6. When low-carb Paleo diets are combined with intensity exercises can help improve the body by dampening the inflammatory markers significantly.
Conclusion
For anyone that is living with inflammation in their body, using pharmaceutical medicines is not always the answer. Combining a carb-restricted diet and other natural interventions can help with inflammation. By making small changes for the body, the chronic pain and inflammation can be reduced, thus the body can start healing naturally. Some products are designed to help relax the tight muscles in the body to prevent inflammation while also helping the body to relax and provide a better night’s sleep.
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:
Alhassan, Abeer, et al. �Consumption of Fish and Vascular Risk Factors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Intervention Studies.� Atherosclerosis, US National Library of Medicine, Nov. 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28992469.
Ammon, H P T. �Boswellic Acids in Chronic Inflammatory Diseases.� Planta Medica, US National Library of Medicine, Oct. 2006, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17024588.
Athinarayanan, Shaminie J, et al. �Long-Term Effects of a Novel Continuous Remote Care Intervention Including Nutritional Ketosis for the Management of Type 2 Diabetes: A 2-Year Non-Randomized Clinical Trial.� Frontiers in Endocrinology, Frontiers Media SA, 5 June 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6561315/.
Bhanpuri, Nasir H, et al. �Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factor Responses to a Type 2 Diabetes Care Model Including Nutritional Ketosis Induced by Sustained Carbohydrate Restriction at 1�Year: an Open Label, Non-Randomized, Controlled Study.� Cardiovascular Diabetology, BioMed Central, 1 May 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5928595/.
Calder, Philip C. �Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Inflammatory Processes.� Nutrients, Molecular Diversity Preservation International, Mar. 2010, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3257651/.
Commissioner, Office of the. �The Benefits and Risks of Pain Relievers: Q & A on NSAIDs.� US Food and Drug Administration, FDA, 24 Sept. 2015, www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/benefits-and-risks-pain-relievers-q-nsaids-sharon-hertz-md.
Drug Evaluation and Research, Center for. �FDA Drug Safety Communication.� US Food and Drug Administration, FDA, 9 July 2015, www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-drug-safety-communication-fda-strengthens-warning-non-aspirin-nonsteroidal-anti-inflammatory.
Gupta, I, et al. �Effects of Gum Resin of Boswellia Serrata in Patients with Chronic Colitis.� Planta Medica, US National Library of Medicine, July 2001, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11488449.
Gyorkos, Amy, et al. �Carbohydrate-Restricted Diet and High-Intensity Interval Training Exercise Improve Cardio-Metabolic and Inflammatory Profiles in Metabolic Syndrome: A Randomized Crossover Trial.� Cureus, Cureus, 8 Sept. 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6822889/.
Hosomi, Ryota, et al. �Seafood Consumption and Components for Health.� Global Journal of Health Science, Canadian Center of Science and Education, 28 Apr. 2012, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4776937/.
Masino, Susan A, and David N Ruskin. �Ketogenic Diets and Pain.� Journal of Child Neurology, US National Library of Medicine, Aug. 2013, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4124736/.
Nandivada, Prathima, et al. �Eucaloric Ketogenic Diet Reduces Hypoglycemia and Inflammation in Mice with Endotoxemia.� Lipids, US National Library of Medicine, June 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27117864.
Team, Cleveland Clinic. �NSAIDs: What You Need to Know.� Cleveland Clinic, 2016, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/11086-non-steroidal-anti-inflammatory-medicines-nsaids.
Team, DFH. �3 Non-Pharmacological Daily Practices for Managing Pain.� Designs for Health, 1 Feb. 2019, blog.designsforhealth.com/node/942.
Team, DFH. �Ginger � as Effective as NSAIDs for Menstrual Pain.� Designs for Health, 5 Jan. 2018, blog.designsforhealth.com/ginger-as-effective-as-nsaids-for-menstrual-pain.
If you are experiencing any of these situations, then why not try these botanical herbs in your food dish.
The holiday season brings out the joy out of people with holiday traditions and its unique, universal foods, drinks, seasonal herbs, and spices to the table. The colder seasons are where everyone in the U.S. indulges in hearty soups, pumpkin spice products, root vegetables, and turkey leftovers. Many holiday menu items will incorporate sweet and savory herbs and spices in their food dishes. What people do not realize is that even though these herbs and spices enhance the flavors of the food, they also provide a plethora of health benefits for the body. So using these herbs and spices in the kitchen can help increase the person’s chances to receive their beneficial properties, hence “the more, the merrier.”
Throughout the centuries, medicinal plants have been traditionally used by a variety of cultures. Some of nature’s most potent herbs are most used in culinary dishes, while also providing the beneficial properties to the human body; they are rosemary, sage, and clove.
Rosemary
Being commonly used as a condiment and a food preservative, rosemary is a native herb in the Mediterranean region. A review did an animal study of in vivo and in vitro that showed that rosemary had demonstrated similar beneficial effects to any medications that are for a variety of physiological disorders. Some of the physiological disorders include:
Lead hepato-nephrotoxicity
Stress
Anxiety
Bodyweight and dyslipidemia
Pain
Cerebral ischemia
Another review was looking at how rosemary has antimicrobial and antioxidant properties and that its abundance in isoprenoid quinones. The review stated that rosemary could �act as chain terminators for free radicals and as chelators for ROS (reactive oxygen species.)” The antioxidative properties in rosemary have about the majority of phenolic diterpenes; like carnosic acid and carnosol, that are responsible for about 90% of this herb. Since it inhibits lipid peroxidation, scavenge radicals, and helps reduce cytochrome c by activating the redox-dependent signaling pathways in the body.
With carnosic acid, it has been shown to provide superior antimicrobial actions to other significant constituents that are found in rosemary. Furthermore, there have been studies shown that rosemary has antibacterial effectiveness against resistant bacteria in the body.
Sage
Sage is another herb that is native to the Mediterranean and Middle East regions and has been used in traditional folk medicine to treat a variety of disorders in the body. There is recent research that has suggested that sage can possess a wide range of beneficial properties for the body due to the presence of carnosic acid and carnosol in this herb. Another study showed that sage contains high contents of glycosidic flavones that provide functional inhibitory capacity against xanthine oxidase activity in the body. Some of the beneficial properties include:
Anti-inflammatory
Antinociceptive
Antibacterial
Hypoglycemic
Antioxidative
There is further research that demonstrates how sage has powerful cognitive enhancing and neuroprotective properties. Studies show that patients with Alzheimer�s disease took a 4-month supplementation of sage, and the results are remarkable. Alzheimer patients experienced significant improvements in their cognitive function and mood enhancements. In another study, sage extract can help reduce the severity of physical and psychological systems that are experienced in premenstrual syndrome in the body. A recent article showed how freshly harvested sage leaves can become a potent modulator for neuroreceptor pathways that involves serotonin transporters that may help normalize thermoregulation and mental impairment for menopausal women.
Surprisingly though, both rosemary and sage have been proven and shown that they can help improve gabaergic pathways in the brain and can help decrease the neuronal activities that are associated with anxiety disorders. Studies show that rosemary and sage extracts have hepatoprotective and antioxidative roles that can increase catalase and glutathione levels and decrease lipid peroxidation in the body.
Cloves
Clove buds were initially found in east Indonesia, and it plays a role as the herb has a potent antimicrobial and antioxidative botanical. Research shows that clove oil possesses a bactericidal effect against pathogenic species that can harm the body. Earlier this year, a research study found out that clove oil extract can enhance anti-inflammatory activity by reducing myeloperoxidase activity in human neutrophils significantly. This herb can help reduce ROS and a variety of other inflammatory mediators that can promote significant damage to the body at the site of inflammation.
Conclusion
So for the holidays, adding these three powerful herbs to the next holiday feast are not just there to help enhance the flavors of the dishes, but they are beneficial to the body. Since they provide anti-inflammatory properties to the body by decreasing the inflammatory responses. So for the colder seasons, add that extra dash of herbs into the dish recipe will make anyone’s day merry. Some products are specialized in countering the metabolic effects of temporary stress and can support 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:
Chniguir, Amina, et al. �Syzygium Aromaticum Aqueous Extract Inhibits Human Neutrophils Myeloperoxidase and Protects Mice from LPS-Induced Lung Inflammation.� Pharmaceutical Biology, Taylor & Francis, Dec. 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6366422/#!po=2.63158.
Choukairi, Zineb, et al. �Effect of Salvia Officinalis L. and Rosmarinus Officinalis L. Leaves Extracts on Anxiety and Neural Activity.� Bioinformation, Biomedical Informatics, 15 Mar. 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6637401/.
de Oliveira, Jonatas Rafael, et al. �Rosmarinus Officinalis L. (Rosemary) as Therapeutic and Prophylactic Agent.� Journal of Biomedical Science, BioMed Central, 9 Jan. 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6325740/.
Lopresti, Adrian L. �Salvia (Sage): A Review of Its Potential Cognitive-Enhancing and Protective Effects.� Drugs in R&D, Springer International Publishing, Mar. 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5318325/.
Nieto, Gema, et al. �Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Properties of Rosemary (Rosmarinus Officinalis, L.): A Review.� Medicines (Basel, Switzerland), MDPI, 4 Sept. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6165352/.
Pavi?, Valentina, et al. �Extraction of Carnosic Acid and Carnosol from Sage (Salvia Officinalis L.) Leaves by Supercritical Fluid Extraction and Their Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activity.� Plants (Basel, Switzerland), MDPI, 9 Jan. 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6359053/.
Pereira, Ol�via R, et al. �Salvia Elegans, Salvia Greggii and Salvia Officinalis Decoctions: Antioxidant Activities and Inhibition of Carbohydrate and Lipid Metabolic Enzymes.� Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), MDPI, 1 Dec. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6321363/.
Team, DFH. �Spice Up the Holidays with Medicinal Botanicals.� Designs for Health, 25 Nov. 2019, blog.designsforhealth.com/node/1156.
Tober, Carsten, and Roland Schoop. �Modulation of Neurological Pathways by Salvia Officinalis and Its Dependence on Manufacturing Process and Plant Parts Used.� BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, BioMed Central, 13 June 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6567565/.
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