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What Are The Benefits Of Potassium?

What Are The Benefits Of Potassium?


Introduction

As more and more people start to keep track of their health, many often try to figure out what foods contain the right amount of vitamins and supplements to benefit their bodies and support the vital organs and the body’s gene levels. Many fruits and vegetables have a chock-full of vitamins and minerals that the body needs for energy and to prevent chronic issues from affecting the body. Today’s article looks at the most beneficial mineral the body needs, potassium, its benefits, and what kind of foods have potassium for the body. We refer our patients to certified providers that consolidate many available treatments for many individuals suffering from low potassium levels affecting a person’s body and correlating to chronic conditions that can cause overlapping risk profiles. We encourage each patient by referring them to associated medical providers based on their diagnosis when it is appropriate. We understand that education is a fantastic way when asking our providers intricated questions at the patient’s request and understanding. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., only utilizes this information as an educational service. Disclaimer

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What Is Potassium?

Have you been experiencing muscle cramps and aches throughout your entire body? What about feeling tired constantly or experiencing low energy? Or have you noticed that your blood pressure is elevated? Many of these chronic issues are correlated with low levels of potassium in the body. Studies reveal that potassium is an essential mineral that the human body needs to function properly. Potassium is important since it is an electrolyte to replenish the body when a person sweats. Many athletic people need to fill their bodies with electrolytes after an intense workout session to ensure that the extracellular and intracellular compartments are hydrated. Additional studies also mentioned that potassium is one of the shortfall nutrients that many people often forget because of the adequate intake that needs to be met for the body to have the recommended amount of potassium to function throughout the entire day. However, incorporating different types of food that have potassium can provide the recommended amount that the individual needs and provide beneficial results. 

 

The Benefits Of Potassium

When it comes to the body and potassium, there are many beneficial factors that this essential mineral can provide. Research studies have revealed that increasing potassium intake with healthy, nutritious foods can benefit body health. Some of the beneficial properties that potassium can provide include the following:

  • Lowering blood pressure
  • Reduce the progression of renal disease
  • Decrease the risk of osteoporosis
  • Manages hypercalciuria
  • Prevent diabetes development

All these chronic issues that can affect the body are correlated with low potassium levels. When the body doesn’t have the right amount of vitamins and supplements to help prevent these issues, it can lead to pain-like symptoms associated with the muscles, joints, and vital organs. So when pain specialists like chiropractors or functional medicine doctors thoroughly examine patients and ask questions to determine if the patient’s body has low potassium levels. When the body has low potassium levels, studies reveal that chronic issues like hypertension and elevated glucose levels could potentially lead to cardiovascular problems associated with chest pain and diabetes. When these overlapping issues affect the body, it is known as somato-visceral pain. Somato-visceral pain is when the affected organs are causing problems to the body’s muscles and causing referred pain in different locations. 


An Overview Of Potassium

Biomedical physiologist expert Alex Jimenez is going to be going over potassium. He mentions that potassium is a cat ion that is positively charged. So potassium is important for a few different reasons. It helps us regulate our heartbeat. It helps us regulate how our muscle and nervous tissue work, and it’s important for synthesizing protein and metabolizing carbohydrates. The recommended daily amount of potassium is 4.7 grams for the U.S. and 3.5 for the U.K. So, an average of three and a half grams. When we think about potassium and what foods are high in potassium, what’s the first that comes to mind? The banana, right? A banana only has 420 or 422 milligrams of potassium. So to get our daily amount of potassium, that’s going to require us to eat eight and a half bananas. I don’t know anybody eating eight and a half bananas unless you’re a monkey. So let’s look at other foods high in potassium to help counterbalance the nutritional amount instead of just eating eight and a half bananas. Some foods high in potassium are dried fruits, specifically dried apricots and raisins, which have about 250 milligrams per half-cup serving.


Foods That Are High In Potassium

It is easy to incorporate potassium into a person’s daily habits. Many pain specialists like chiropractors work with associated medical providers like nutritionists and physical therapists to restore the body, prevent chronic conditions from progressing further, and reduce muscle and joint pain. Everybody knows that bananas are one of the more known fruits with potassium; however, eating bananas alone can be tiresome. So many fruits and vegetables have higher potassium levels and can help replenish the body’s electrolytes. Some of the nutritious foods that have potassium include:

  • Banana
  • Avocado
  • Sweet Potatoes
  • Spinach
  • Dried Fruits (Apricots, Raisins, Peaches, Prunes)

Now eating potassium-riched foods can help the body’s intra- and extracellular water intake but combined with treatments and exercises can prevent chronic issues associated with muscle and joint pain. When people utilize these healthy habits in their daily lives, they can feel better and function throughout the day.

 

Conclusion

Trying to be healthier should not be difficult and can begin small with the right motivation. Incorporating a healthy diet combined with exercises and therapy treatments can restore the body to its healthier version and prevent overlapping issues affecting the muscles, joints, vital organs, and gene levels. Eating whole, nutritional foods filled with potassium can help restore lost electrolytes and help prevent chronic disorders from progressing further in the body to avoid muscle and joint pain.

 

References

He, Feng J, and Graham A MacGregor. “Beneficial Effects of Potassium on Human Health.” Physiologia Plantarum, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Aug. 2008, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18724413/.

Stone, Michael S, et al. “Potassium Intake, Bioavailability, Hypertension, and Glucose Control.” Nutrients, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 22 July 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4963920/.

Sur, Moushumi, and Shamim S Mohiuddin. “Potassium – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 11 May 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539791/.

Weaver, Connie M. “Potassium and Health.” Advances in Nutrition (Bethesda, Md.), U.S. National Library of Medicine, 1 May 2013, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3650509/.

Disclaimer

Bone Broth Benefits: El Paso Back Clinic

Bone Broth Benefits: El Paso Back Clinic

Bone Broth Benefits: Bone broth is made by simmering the bones and connective tissue from just about any animal, including chicken, turkey, beef, pork, fish, lamb, bison, buffalo, and venison. It is a highly nutritious stock commonly used in soups, sauces, and gravies and recently as a health drink. Research has shown bone broth benefits, including increased immune system function and helping build up the body’s systems to overcome disorders like allergies, asthma, and arthritis. And the broth form allows the body to easily absorb minerals like calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, silicon, and sulfur.

Bone Broth Benefits: EP's Chiropractic Functional Wellness TeamBone Broth Benefits

Bone broth dates back to prehistoric times when inedible animal parts like bones, hooves, and knuckles were turned into broth. It is important to understand that most store-bought stocks and broths are not made of bone or animals. Companies, instead, use lab-produced meat flavors. Homemade bone broth is made by simmering bones, water, and vinegar for 10 -12 hours, extracting the collagen from the bones into the liquid. This creates a rich form of stock. Bones are often roasted before making the broth.

Simple Recipe

Making bone broth is very simple, and there are many recipes online. A large pot, water, bones, and vinegar are all that is necessary to get started, here’s an easy recipe:

Ingredients

  • One gallon (4 liters) of water.
  • 2 tbsp (30 mL) apple cider vinegar.
  • Adding vinegar is important because it extracts valuable nutrients out of the bones and into the water.
  • 2–4 pounds (around 1–2 kg) of animal bones.
  • Salt and pepper, to taste.
  • Vegetables, herbs, or spices can be added to create and enhance flavor.
  • Garlic, onion, celery, carrot, parsley, and thyme can be added in step one.

Directions

  • Place all ingredients in a large pot or slow cooker.
  • Bring to a boil.
  • Reduce to a simmer and cook for 12–24 hours.
  • The longer it cooks, the better it tastes and provides more nutrition.
  • Let the broth cool.
  • Strain into a large container and discard the bones.

Because of the long cooking, large amounts of collagen are extracted, making the bone broth gelatinous at room temperature.

Benefits

Digestion

  • Bone broth is a rich source of glutamine, an amino acid that improves digestion and gut health.
  • It can be particularly beneficial for people with digestive conditions such as leaky gut syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease.
  • Gelatin can also bind to water in the digestive tract, which helps foods move through the gut more easily.
  • Bone broth can benefit individuals with the following:
  • Leaky gut
  • Irritable bowel syndrome – IBS.
  • Inflammatory bowel disease/IBD like ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease.

Low Glycemic Index

  • Homemade vegetarian or meat-based broths are very low glycemic, with no added sugar, low in calories, and a great way to hydrate the body.
  • It can be a healthy snack between meals without an insulin spike that can lead to post-meal energy crashes.

Collagen Improves Hair, Skin, and Nail Health

  • Bone broth contains collagen. Collagen is a protein in structural and connective tissues that includes skin, bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
  • The fibrous structure contributes to strength, shape, and elasticity and can fortify hair, skin, and nails.
  • Bone broth can be beneficial for pregnant women, as it can help preserve skin elasticity during pregnancy while the skin stretches and grows.

Anti-Inflammation

  • The amino acids glycine and arginine have anti-inflammatory effects.
  • Arginine may be especially beneficial for fighting chronic inflammation.

Protects Bones and Joints

  • Bone broth contains calcium for maintaining strong bones and preventing bone loss as the body ages.
  • Collagen also protects joints from age-related deterioration.
  • It can help individuals with bone and joint conditions like osteoarthritis.

Bones

Instead of throwing leftover bones from meals in the garbage, save them. They can be collected in a bag and stored in the freezer until ready to roast and cook. Individuals who don’t buy and eat whole chickens and bone-in meat can ask for them at the local butcher or farmers market. The meat department at most grocery stores will often have them. They’re inexpensive, and a butcher may even offer them for free. It is recommended to find pastured chicken or grass-fed beef bones as these are the healthiest and provide maximum health benefits.

Storage

  • Making broth in large batches is recommended, as it can only be stored safely in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • To help the broth last longer, it can be frozen in small containers and heated up for individual servings as needed.

Functional Nutrition


References

Koutroubakis, I E et al. “Serum laminin and collagen IV in inflammatory bowel disease.” Journal of clinical pathology vol. 56,11 (2003): 817-20. doi:10.1136/jcp.56.11.817

Mar-Solís, Laura M et al. “Analysis of the Anti-Inflammatory Capacity of Bone Broth in a Murine Model of Ulcerative Colitis.” Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania) vol. 57,11 1138. 20 Oct. 2021, doi:10.3390/medicina57111138

McCance, R A et al. “Bone, and vegetable broth.” Archives of disease in childhood vol. 9,52 (1934): 251-8. doi:10.1136/adc.9.52.251

Peterson, Orion J et al. “Neuroprotective Effect of Enriched Chicken Bone Broth as a Dietary Supplement in a Model of Migraine Mediated by Early Life Stress.” Journal of medicinal food vol. 23,12 (2020): 1259-1265. doi:10.1089/jmf.2019.0312

Managing Holiday Eating: El Paso Back Clinic

Managing Holiday Eating: El Paso Back Clinic

The holidays are a wonderful time to gather with family and friends and celebrate. However, it can be a time of overindulgence and overeating. Managing holiday eating habits is achievable by having options to help you make better choices so you can indulge and enjoy the festive food and drinks without overdoing it. Here are a few techniques to be successful.

Managing Holiday Eating: Chiropractic Functional Nutrition Clinic

Managing Holiday Eating

Many individuals overeat during the holidays. It’s understandable as the holiday season means letting loose, relaxing with friends and family, and enjoying the moment are major factors in overeating as auto-pilot is engaged. The next thing you know, the plate is clean, and more food is being added. It’s all about maintaining a healthy balance. Here are a few ways to manage holiday eating.

Practice Mindful Eating

  • Don’t just start devouring the food.
  • Try to spend a few moments tasting the food.
  • Slow down and chew the food slowly.
  • Savor every bite.

Doing this will help to cut down on how much food you’re consuming while truly enjoying the meal.

Prioritize sleep

  • Before the busy season begins, get enough sleep.
  • Getting the proper rest will make it easier to manage holiday stress and avoid unhealthy indulgences.

Eating Triggers

  • Stress, too many cocktails, and easy access to various foods can make individuals overeat.
  • Plan how to handle eating triggers.
  • For example, make a small plate and don’t return for seconds.

Pay Attention To The Foods and How Much

  • It’s easy to get distracted and lose track while you’re busy and socializing.
  • Distraction can cause you to eat more than you realize.

Eat and Drink Slow

  • Have what you want, but in moderation, and consume slowly.
  • Pay attention to your body signals. You could be full before the plate is clean.

Seasonal Treats

  • These can be special foods that you don’t get every day, so enjoy them.
  • But try to maintain moderation or alternate with something healthy.

Constantly Drink Water In Between

  • Take a drink of water in between bites and beverages.
  • A stomach with water can curb hunger.
  • Plenty of water helps with digestion and heartburn issues.

Moderate Alcoholic and Sugary Drinks

  • Too many holiday sweet drinks and alcoholic beverages add empty calories.
  • Try to go with the healthiest option or reduce sugar and alcohol.
  • Have one drink, then a glass of water or healthy juice, etc.

Don’t Go To The Dinner/Party Hungry

Super Foods

Adding superfoods to your holiday nutrition plan to help balance food indulgences. These are foods with high levels of vitamins and nutrients, dietary fiber that helps reduce cholesterol, and antioxidants that fight free radicals. 

Nutrients

  • Vitamin A – Protects against infections and promotes eye and skin health.
  • Vitamin C – Helps heal wounds and aids in iron absorption.
  • Vitamin K – Supports healthy digestion and blood clotting.

Superfoods include dark leafy greens, nuts, fruits, dark chocolate, olive oil, and oily/fatty fish. Here are a few superfoods you can enjoy:

Sweet Potatoes

  • Rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and potassium.

Beans

  • They are high in fiber and protein, magnesium, and potassium.

Pumpkins

  • High in fiber and vitamin A.

Pomegranates

  • Rich in flavonoids and tannins are a healthy source of folate, potassium, and vitamin K.

Cranberries

  • Contain antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Kale

  • Low in calories.
  • High in vitamins A, C, and K, manganese, potassium, and fiber.

Winter Squash

  • High in fiber and a great source of vitamin A and carotenoids.

Parsnips

  • Provide fiber, vitamin C, folate, and manganese.

From the Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Team, have a happy, safe, and healthy Thanksgiving!


Functional Nutrition


References

Seven tips for reining in holiday overeating www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/7-tips-for-reining-in-holiday-overeating

Brown, Tanya, et al. “Have a Food-Safe Holiday Season.” Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics vol. 117,11 (2017): 1722-1723. doi:10.1016/j.jand.2017.08.123

Díaz-Zavala, Rolando G et al. “Effect of the Holiday Season on Weight Gain: A Narrative Review.” Journal of obesity vol. 2017 (2017): 2085136. doi:10.1155/2017/2085136

Get Your Superfood Nutrition for Good Health www.scripps.org/news_items/4431-get-your-superfood-nutrition-for-good-health.

Healthline, 2019; Ruled by Food? 5 Strategies to Break the Cycle of Overeating health.clevelandclinic.org/ruled-by-food-5-strategies-to-break-the-cycle-of-overeating/

Healthline, 2019; 23 Simple Things You Can Do to Stop Overeating www.healthline.com/nutrition/how-to-stop-overeating.

Lobo, V et al. “Free radicals, antioxidants, and functional foods: Impact on human health.” Pharmacognosy reviews vol. 4,8 (2010): 118-26. doi:10.4103/0973-7847.70902

What Is a Superfood, Anyway? health.clevelandclinic.org/what-is-a-superfood/

Back Discomfort After Eating: El Paso Back Clinic

Back Discomfort After Eating: El Paso Back Clinic

Back pain after eating is often the result of conditions and/or disorders in other areas of the body that radiate to the back. These problems range from unhealthy posture, digestive issues, bowel problems, ulcers, allergies, etc. This is because the nerves of the back and the abdominal area run through areas of the spine. In addition to the classic symptoms like bloating and gas, individuals can develop symptoms beyond the gut, including sleep problems, fatigue, headaches, urinating problems, muscle aches, pelvic discomfort, and back pain. Chiropractic care and functional medicine can realign the body, alleviate symptoms, and restore function.Back Discomfort After Eating: Injury Medical Chiropractic

Back Discomfort

Back pain after eating can be linked to the body’s digestive process.

Food Intolerances or Allergies

Many individuals are affected by food intolerances or allergies.

  • Individuals in this group can experience inflammation after consuming specific foods.
  • Inflammation could worsen existing back problems.
  • Individuals with food intolerance will have uncomfortable but usually not dangerous symptoms.
  • Individuals with food allergies can experience life-threatening allergic reactions.

Heartburn

Heartburn results from acid reflux, when stomach contents and acid flow back into the esophagus. Heartburn’s key symptom is a burning sensation in the chest. However, heartburn and indigestion do not directly cause back pain. But for individuals with back problems, heartburn can worsen back discomfort.

GERD

  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, could cause back pain in individuals with more than two weekly heartburn episodes.
  • The digestive system condition results from the chronic backflow of stomach acid.
  • Over time, the powerful acid can inflame the esophageal lining.
  • A stomach or esophageal ulcer can develop if GERD is not managed.
  • Pain could be felt in the lower to middle back around the stomach and lower intestines.

Ulcers

  • Ulcers can also result from a bacterial infection of Helicobacter pylori (or H. pylori).
  • Long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (or NSAIDs) can also enable ulcer formation.
  • A peptic ulcer (or open sore) can develop on your stomach’s interior lining.
  • The small intestine’s upper portion can also be affected.
  • An H. pylori bacterium infection can cause a peptic ulcer.
  • Long-term NSAID use can cause a peptic ulcer.

Peptic ulcers cause burning pain in the stomach. These flare-ups can worsen existing back problems and pain. Spicy foods and stress don’t cause peptic ulcers but can worsen their effects. In severe cases, a peptic ulcer can cause referred back pain felt in another location than where the pain originates. This means pain could be felt in the lower to middle back adjacent to the stomach and lower intestines.

Kidney Infection

Back pain could result from a bacterial kidney infection.

  • Kidney dysfunction infections, kidney stones, and chronic kidney diseases can be mistaken for general back and side pain.
  • Other symptoms can include chills, fever, nausea, and vomiting.

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis can develop if the pancreas becomes inflamed, brought on by excess alcohol consumption or gallstones. This definitely can cause back discomfort and pain.

  • Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas.
  • After eating, individuals can experience worsening abdominal pain that can refer to the back.
  • The body’s network of interconnecting sensory nerves causes the pain to be felt in other areas.
  • Most individuals will experience pain in the upper left or middle abdomen.

Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease.

When individuals with celiac disease consume foods with gluten, the small intestine gets damaged, and their bodies cannot properly absorb the necessary nutrients.

  • Gluten enteropathy is an allergy to gluten in the diet.
  • It causes inflammation, abdominal cramping, diarrhea, and weight loss.
  • Back pain can result from the symptoms and prolonged bed rest.

Treatment

Besides the back discomfort, there could be a burning sensation during urination or other urinary tract symptoms. Stools could be dark or black, a possible ulcer symptom. To reduce the chances of back discomfort after eating, avoid sugary, spicy, fatty foods or anything that triggers heartburn and reduce alcohol consumption. If you are experiencing frequent episodes of back pain after eating or the pain worsens, contact your physician, healthcare provider, or a chiropractor.


Hormonal Dysfunction In Men


References

Celiac Disease Foundation. (n.d.) “What is celiac disease?” celiac.org/about-celiac-disease/what-is-celiac-disease/

Mayo Clinic. (n.d.) “Celiac disease.” www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/celiac-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20352220#:~:text=Celiac%20disease%2C%20sometimes%20called%20celiac,response%20in%20your%20small%20intestine

Mayo Clinic. (n.d.) “Peptic ulcer.” www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/peptic-ulcer/symptoms-causes/syc-20354223
Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.) “Kidney pain.” my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/17688-kidney-pain

Pfizer. (April 25, 2022) “Heartburn, acid reflux, or GERD: what’s the difference?” www.pfizer.com/news/articles/heartburn_acid_reflux_or_gerd_what_s_the_difference#:~:text=The%20terms%20acid%20reflux%2C%20heartburn,meals%20or%20when%20lying%20down

Prairie Spine & Pain Institute. (n.d.) “What may cause back pain after eating: symptoms & prevention.” prairiespine.com/spine-care/5-things-that-may-cause-back-pain-after-eating-symptoms-and prevention/#:~:text=Exercises%20practiced%20in%20yoga%2C%20Pilates,chi%20may%20be%20particularly%20beneficial.&text=If%20a%20doctor%20cannot%20identify,ice%2C%20and%20taking%20pain%20relievers.

The Digestive Process: Functional Medicine Back Clinic

The Digestive Process: Functional Medicine Back Clinic

The body needs food for fuel, energy, growth, and repair. The digestive process breaks down food into a form the body can absorb and use for fuel. The broken-down food gets absorbed into the bloodstream from the small intestine, and the nutrients are carried to the cells throughout the body. Understanding how the organs work together to digest food can help with health goals and overall health.The Digestive Process: Chiropractic Functional Medicine Clinic

The Digestive Process

The organs of the digestive system are the following:

  • Mouth
  • Esophagus
  • Stomach
  • Pancreas
  • Liver
  • Gallbladder
  • Small intestine
  • Large intestine
  • Anus

The digestive process starts with the anticipation of eating, stimulating the glands in the mouth to produce saliva. The digestive system’s primary functions include:

  • Mixing food
  • Moving food through the digestive tract – peristalsis
  • The chemical breakdown of food into smaller absorbable components.

The digestive system converts food into its simplest forms, which include:

  • Glucose – sugars
  • Amino acids – protein
  • Fatty acids – fats

Proper digestion extracts nutrients from food and liquids to maintain health and function properly. Nutrients include:

  • Carbohydrates
  • Proteins
  • Fats
  • Vitamins
  • Minerals
  • Water

Mouth and Esophagus

  • The food is ground up by the teeth and moistened with saliva to swallow easily.
  • Saliva also has a special chemical enzyme that starts breaking down carbohydrates into sugars.
  • Muscular contractions of the esophagus massage the food into the stomach.

Stomach

  • The food passes through a small muscle ring into the stomach.
  • It gets mixed with gastric chemicals.
  • The stomach churns the food to break it down further.
  • The food is then squeezed into the first part of the small intestine, the duodenum.

Small Intestine

  • Once in the duodenum, the food mixes with more digestive enzymes from the pancreas and bile from the liver.
  • The food passes into the lower parts of the small intestine, called the jejunum and the ileum.
  • Nutrients are absorbed from the ileum, lined with millions of villi or thread-like fingers that facilitate the absorption.
  • Each villus is connected to a mesh of capillaries, which is how nutrients get absorbed into the bloodstream.

Pancreas

  • The pancreas is one of the largest glands.
  • It secretes digestive juices and a hormone called insulin.
  • Insulin helps regulate the amount of sugar in the blood.
  • Problems with insulin production can lead to conditions like diabetes.

Liver

The liver has several different roles that include:

  • Breaks down fats using bile stored in the gallbladder.
  • Processes proteins and carbohydrates.
  • Filters and processes impurities, medications, and toxins.
  • Generates glucose for short-term energy from compounds like lactate and amino acids.

Large Intestine

  • A large reservoir of microbes and healthy bacteria live in the large intestine and play an important role in healthy digestion.
  • Once the nutrients have been absorbed, the waste is passed into the large intestine or bowel.
  • Water is removed, and the waste gets stored in the rectum.
  • It is then passed out of the body through the anus.

Digestive System Health

Ways to keep the digestive system and the digestive process healthy include:

Drink More Water

  • Water helps the food flow more easily through the digestive system.
  • Low amounts of water/dehydration are common causes of constipation.

Add More Fiber

  • Fiber is beneficial to digestion and helps with regular bowel movements.
  • Incorporate both soluble and insoluble fiber.
  • Soluble fiber dissolves in water.
  • As soluble fiber dissolves, it creates a gel that can improve digestion.
  • Soluble fiber may reduce blood cholesterol and sugar.
  • It helps your body improve blood glucose control, which can aid in reducing your risk for diabetes.
  • Insoluble fiber does not dissolve in water.
  • Insoluble fiber attracts water into the stool, making it softer and easier to pass with less strain on the bowels.
  • Insoluble fiber can help promote bowel health and regularity and supports insulin sensitivity which can help reduce the risk of diabetes.

Balanced Nutrition

  • Eat fruit and vegetables daily.
  • Choose whole grains over processed grains.
  • Avoid processed foods in general.
  • Choose poultry and fish more than red meat and limit processed meats.
  • Cut down on sugar.

Eat Foods with Probiotics or Use Probiotic Supplements

  • Probiotics are healthy bacteria that help combat unhealthy bacteria in the gut.
  • They also generate healthy substances that nourish the gut.
  • Consume probiotics after taking antibiotics that often kill all the bacteria in the gut.

Eat Mindfully and Chew Food Slowly

  • Chewing food thoroughly helps to ensure the body has enough saliva for digestion.
  • Chewing food thoroughly also makes it easier for nutritional absorption.
  • Eating slowly gives the body time to digest thoroughly.
  • It also allows the body to send cues that it is full.

How The Digestive System Works


References

GREENGARD, H. “Digestive system.” Annual review of physiology vol. 9 (1947): 191-224. doi:10.1146/annurev.ph.09.030147.001203

Hoyle, T. “The digestive system: linking theory and practice.” British journal of nursing (Mark Allen Publishing) vol. 6,22 (1997): 1285-91. doi:10.12968/bjon.1997.6.22.1285

www.merckmanuals.com/home/digestive-disorders/biology-of-the-digestive-system/overview-of-the-digestive-system

www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/digestive-system-how-it-works

Martinsen, Tom C et al. “The Phylogeny and Biological Function of Gastric Juice-Microbiological Consequences of Removing Gastric Acid.” International journal of molecular sciences vol. 20,23 6031. 29 Nov. 2019, doi:10.3390/ijms20236031

Ramsay, Philip T, and Aaron Carr. “Gastric acid and digestive physiology.” The Surgical clinics of North America vol. 91,5 (2011): 977-82. doi:10.1016/j.suc.2011.06.010

Viscerosomatic Gut Bloating Issues

Viscerosomatic Gut Bloating Issues

Viscerosomatic Gut Bloating: Everybody has healthy bacteria in the gut, but it can get thrown off balance with unhealthy bacteria that start taking over. Stress, viruses, and antibiotics can disrupt healthy bacteria levels. The bacterial balance known as the microbiome in the intestines is an essential factor in body wellness. The connection between intestinal and overall health is an important one as the gut is responsible for producing serotonin, a primary chemical necessary for emotional wellbeing. A viscerosomatic reflex is an organ/s causing pain to show up in the area where the injured, infected, dysfunctional organ is or, as referred pain in other areas of the body. Stress and unhealthy foods contribute to weight gain, organ stress, and chronic pain.

Viscerosomatic Gut Bloating

Viscerosomatic Gut Bloating

Bloating

Bloating is the feeling of pressure or gas in the abdomen. Distention refers to the physical expansion of the abdomen. However, these symptoms can present separately or in combination. Bloating can be a symptom on its own but often presents alongside other gastrointestinal disorders like:

After eating, flatulence, belching, bloating, and distention are a normal part of the digestive process. These issues are not considered problems until they cause pain and/or disrupt everyday life.

Stress

Stress can cause inflammation in the digestive tract, increasing pain receptors and distress-related bloating. Stress can disrupt the normal microbiome, creating intestinal dysbiosis and bacterial overgrowth. This can lead to digestive problems and symptoms that include bloating. This can be partly from excess gas production causing the sensation of bloating and physical distention combined with stress, creating an increased perception of bloating.

Foods Can Cause Inflammation

Animal products can cause inflammation because meat, poultry, and fish contain endotoxins/lipopolysaccharides found in the outer membrane of bacterial cells. These compounds are classified as toxins as they can cause health problems. No matter how these foods are cooked or prepared, the endotoxins are still present, absorbed into the body, and can trigger immune responses like inflammation. Eggs can cause inflammation because they contain high levels of cholesterol and arachidonic acid, which is an acid that is part of the inflammatory response. Excess cholesterol in the blood can trigger inflammation as well.

Dairy products can also trigger the inflammatory response in individuals that don’t produce the lactase enzyme, which breaks down the lactose in dairy products, are intolerant of casein and whey, two proteins in cow milk, or from the hormones and antibiotics given to cows to stimulate milk production and prevent infection. Dairy consumption has been linked to an increased risk of cancer and inflammatory conditions that include:

  • Acne
  • Asthma
  • Type 1 diabetes
  • Arthritis
  • Multiple sclerosis

Other Causes of Bloating

Other health conditions can present with visceral gut bloating and distention. This includes disorders and other underlying causes that include:

  • Medications
  • Obesity
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Menstruation
  • Ovarian cysts
  • Type-2 diabetes
  • Autoimmunity

Musculoskeletal disorders can increase bloating and abdominal distention and can be triggered by stress. Two include:

Abdominal Muscle Dysfunction

  • These are abnormal contractions of the diaphragm and belly muscles that can occur after eating that can cause the nervous system to create a sense of bloating.
  • This viscerosomatic reflex leads to unhealthy postures and enlargement of the abdominal muscles that can worsen bloating sensations.
  • Exercises can be recommended to retrain the muscles to contract, usually after eating, which can help reduce bloating.

Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

  • Stressful situations naturally cause muscles to tighten, leading to increased contractions in the pelvic floor muscles.
  • These muscles control the bladder, bowel, and sexual function.
  • Overly contracted/tight muscles can create a condition known as high-tone pelvic floor dysfunction.
  • The opposite can happen when the pelvic floor muscles become too relaxed. This can make it difficult to have regular bowel movements.
  • Increased tone and/or over-relaxed muscles can lead to various symptoms, including bloating.

Chiropractic and Health Coaching

The nervous system controls the digestive process. Properly aligning the spine releases the stress and strain on the bones, muscles, and nerves to work correctly. Chiropractic body adjustments, diet/lifestyle adjustments, supplemental recommendations, and exercises can reduce the underlying causes of viscerosomatic gut bloating. Digestive problems such as:

  • Chronic heartburn
  • Gas
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Bloating
  • Irritable bowel syndrome

Chiropractic offers a medication-free approach to treating digestive issues.


Descompresion Espinal DRX9000


References

Dragan, Simona, et al. “Dietary Patterns and Interventions to Alleviate Chronic Pain.” Nutrients vol. 12,9 2510. 19 Aug. 2020, doi:10.3390/nu12092510

Fifi, Amanda C, and Kathleen F Holton. “Food in Chronic Pain: Friend or Foe?.” Nutrients vol. 12,8 2473. 17 Aug. 2020, doi:10.3390/nu12082473

Lacy, Brian E et al. “Management of Chronic Abdominal Distension and Bloating.” Clinical gastroenterology and hepatology: the official clinical practice journal of the American Gastroenterological Association vol. 19,2 (2021): 219-231.e1. doi:10.1016/j.cgh.2020.03.056

Mari, Amir et al. “Bloating and Abdominal Distension: Clinical Approach and Management.” Advances in therapy vol. 36,5 (2019): 1075-1084. doi:10.1007/s12325-019-00924-7

Rice, Amanda D et al. “Decreasing recurrent bowel obstructions, improving quality of life with physiotherapy: Controlled study.” World journal of gastroenterology vol. 24,19 (2018): 2108-2119. doi:10.3748/wjg.v24.i19.2108

Cheat Meals Healthy

Cheat Meals Healthy

Maintaining a healthy weight is challenging, especially Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and extended weekends, increasing the risk of binge eating and weight gain. This is where healthy cheat meals and snacks come into play to help individuals stick to their diet while enjoying healthy junk food. Plus, finding the proper high-calorie carb-packed meal can help optimize the body’s hormones to prevent adverse effects on metabolism and hunger.

Healthy Cheat Meals

Cheat Meals

One way to look at a diet and still have the flexibility for sweet or savory foods is to set up the flexibility. To maintain health,  practice portion control and eat healthy foods 80% of the time, allowing a 20% margin for the junk foods. To improve health, eat healthy foods 90% of the time, and allow a 10% margin until a health goal is reached.

Cheeseburger without the Buns and Sweet Potato Fries

  • Try lean meat and replace the regular fries with sweet potato fries.
  • It is high in carbohydrates and calories but still contains plenty of nutrients.
  • Add a little salad, and there is a balanced meal that is the perfect fuel for working out.

Loaded Nachos

  • High in calories and carbs.
  • They can be made healthy with lean ground beef, beans, peppers, cheese, avocado, tomatoes, and jalapeños for a meal that incorporates quality protein and healthy fats.
  • It can be made vegetarian by removing the meat and adding more beans and vegetables.

Fish Tacos

  • Fish tacos are ideal for getting Omega-3s, lean protein, and vitamin D.
  • Easy to put together and can be combined with radishes, cucumbers, red onion, fennel, olives, and lemon juice for added flavor and health benefits.
  • By grilling, the calories will also be cut.

Pancakes

  • Try to always have ingredients on hand to make some pancakes.
  • Bananas, blueberries, strawberries, chocolate chips, peanut butter, and cinnamon apple sauce can be added.

Dark Chocolate

  • Dark chocolate can be a healthy snack.
  • Dark chocolate contains monounsaturated fats that can help improve cholesterol, blood sugar, and insulin levels.
  • Dark chocolate also supplies vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for heart and brain health.

Dietician Nutritionist

These are a few examples; the objective is to get individuals to learn to create their healthy cheat meals A diet or adjusting for a more nutritional food plan should always start with a nutritionist, dietician, or health care provider. They can help develop a customized plan that fits an individual’s specific needs. It is about finding the balance and creating a positive relationship with food.


Fibromyalgia Food Choices Nutraceutical Options


References

Coelho de Vale R, et al. (2016). The benefits of behaving badly on occasion: Successful regulation by planned hedonic deviations.
doi.org/10.1016/j.jcps.2015.05.001

Kuijer RG, et al. (2014). Chocolate cake. Guilt or celebration? Associations with healthy eating attitudes, perceived behavioral control, intentions, and weight loss. DOI:
10.1016/j.appet.2013.11.013

Murray SB, et al. (2018). Cheat meals: A benign or ominous variant of binge eating behavior? DOI:
10.1016/j.appet.2018.08.026

Warren JM, et al. (2017). A structured literature review on the role of mindfulness, mindful eating, and intuitive eating in changing eating behaviors: Effectiveness and associated potential mechanisms. DOI:
10.1017/S0954422417000154