High level performers are always looking for strategies that will give them an edge in their field of endeavor. Athletes want to run a split second faster and jump an inch higher while business executives want to have sharper mental clarity and improved working efficiency. Specific meal timing and superfood strategies have been shown to optimize performance and recovery.
We all want to perform at our peak no matter whether we are a teacher, stay at home mom, doctor or athlete. It is also integral that we recover fast and effectively. The goal is peak performance and quick and effective recovery so we can get up the next day and do it all over again.
Optimize Your Performance:
Performance in any field depends upon high level mental activity and often kinesthetic activity whether that be running or jumping or eye-hand coordination. The keys for healthy function include good fats, anti-oxidants and clean protein sources.
Providing lots of clean healthy foods and meal timing properly can make a huge difference in your overall energy and daily performance. Use the principles in this article to help guide you in preparing your body for great energy and daily performance in your daily life.
Coconut:
This superfood is loaded with medium chain triglycerides (MCT�s) that break down for energy very easily. Unlike most fat sources which consist of long chain fatty acids these MCT�s do not depend upon bile and instead go right to the liver and are metabolized immediately for energy.
Muscle cells are also able to store MCT�s and use them immediately for energy during exercise sessions.
Bone Broth Protein:
Bone broth contains a wide variety of valuable nutrients including collagen, gelatin, hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate, glycosamino glycans, proline, glycine, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and potassium. These all help with the development of healthy joints, bones, ligaments and tendons as well as hair and skin.
These nutrients are considered beauty foods because they help the body with proper structural alignment and beautiful skin and hair. They also help to prevent against injuries by strengthening joints, tendons and ligaments. Additionally, bone broth is great for the immune system.
If you are unable to make your own bone broth, than you can try our Bone Broth Protein which comes with the same benefits as homemade broth, but it�s even more versatile in so many recipes. Bone Broth Protein begins as a true bone broth liquid. It�s then dehydrated, making it into a concentrated source of high-quality, tasty powder.
Berries:
Berries are loaded with anti-oxidants and are low in sugar. Berries contain unique phytonutrients called anthocyanin�s that give them their strong pigments and allow them to handle intense sunlight. Consuming these anthocyanin�s helps our bodies adapt to stress effectively.
Be sure to get your berries organic as the thin skin makes them susceptible to pesticides and they are highly contaminated with dangerous pesticides when produced on conventional farms.
Spinach:
This superfood is loaded with blood purifying chlorophyll and the anti-oxidants lutein and zeaxanthin. Spinach also contains its own plant based steroids called phyoecdysteroids that boost the bodies ability to adapt to stress. Phytoecdysteroids are similar to insect molting hormones and have been shown to dramatically increase glucose metabolism.
This keeps blood sugar levels stable and minimizes the need for the critical fat-storage hormone insulin. Additionally, phytoecdysteroids increase human muscle tissue growth rates by 20% when applied in a culture medium.
Rice & Pea Proteins
For sensitive cases where people have pronounced sensitivities I prefer to use either a brown rice or pea protein. Pea protein appears to be the most hypoallergenic of all protein powders and has a 98% absorption rate. This combination of 1% brown rice and 99% pea protein has a great blend of branched chain amino acids, lysine and arginine for lean body tissue development and good circulation
Pea & brown rice protein has also been shown to be very easy on the digestive system and the protein is fairly quickly assimilated into muscle tissue. This is important because slower digesting and assimilating proteins have a greater chance of producing gas and making one feel bloated. Most plant proteins have poor assimilation rates but pea, brown rice and hemp proteins are the rare exceptions.
These are loaded with sulfur containing amino acids like methionine and cysteine which are critical for glutathione production. They are also a rich vegetarian source of branched chain amino acids. They contain essential fatty acids and edestin and albumin which are similar to the makeup of human blood and these help with critical functions like DNA repair.
Grass-Fed Butter:
Dairy from grass-fed cows is extraordinarily rich in essential fats and critical nutrients like vitamin K2 and magnesium. The best foods from this group include grass-fed butter and ghee which are loaded with anti-inflammatory fats and anti-oxidants.
Grass-fed butter and ghee are also rich in conjugated linoleic acid, which helps burn fat and is anti-carcinogenic. It is the best food source of the anti-inflammatory short chain fatty acid butyrate. Finally, it is full of choline which supports healthy brain and neurotransmitter production. I use butter and ghee generously each day. Look for Kerry Gold grass-fed butter.
Red Onions:
These are loaded with the flavonoid anti-oxidant quercetin. They also contain sulfur containing amino acids that boost cysteine and glutathione production within the body. They also have chromium which helps to regulate blood sugar levels.
Grass-Fed Beef:
Cows that are fed a 100% green diet are loaded with anti-oxidants like carnosine and essential fatty acids. Because cows have multiple stomachs and are able to fully digest grass (humans cannot) we are getting the benefits of this fully digested super-greens in a high protein food.
A fantastic source for grass-fed beef and pastured poultry is US Wellness Meats.
Avocados:
Avocados are loaded with good fats and carotenoid anti-oxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin. It is very easy on the digestive system and helps support optimal hormone function, muscle development and exercise recovery.
Raw Chocolate:
This is rich in good fats and polyphenol anti-oxidants for fuel and recovery. Chocolate contains theobromine which is a natural cardiovascular stimulant that helps improve circulation throughout the body.
Proper Meal Timing:
It is best to eat light before our times of performance to keep as much energy focused on the specific performance rather than on digestion. Instead of food, turn to water, as optimal hydration correlates very strongly with great performance. I try to stay super hydrated throughout the day and notice that as my water intake drops, my energy and mental acuity declines.
After the performance we want to have our largest meal to replenish our system with nutrients. Ideally, you have your largest meal at the end of your day as opposed to the beginning of your day. This helps your body to recover from the stresses of the day. You are in a relaxed position at this point, as you no longer have to work hard and perform, so it allows you to digest and absorb the nutrients you need more effectively.
This helps to take stress off of your gut lining and improves the integrity of your digestive system. When you eat in a hurry or have a large meal before a stressful event or a busy day, you compromise your digestive system and cause more inflammation in the body.
These ideas and much more I teach in our Navigating the Ketogenic diet program. Opt-in here for more details and a FREE video training series I give you on advanced strategies to improve your performance.
Fat Burning Foods Video
Food: Diet and Nutrition for a Healthy Back
As most patients are well aware, good nutrition and a balanced diet are important components of overall health. What may surprise people with back problems is that diet, nutrition and maintaining a healthy weight also play a major role in the back – including preventing many problems and healing from injuries.
The bones, muscles and other structures in the spine need good nutrition and vitamins so that they are strong enough to support the body and to perform their other functions. Using these nutritional guidelines, patients can integrate back-friendly vitamins and nutrients into their diets.
Eating a balanced diet that includes the right amount and variety of vitamins and nutrients will reduce back problems by nourishing the bones, muscles, discs and other structures in the spine. Particular importance is given to calcium, which can be obtained through a variety of healthy food choices as well as nutritional supplements.
While a healthy diet calls for many vitamins and nutrients, this partial list highlights a number of healthy choices that can be directly beneficial for helping back patients.
Role of Vitamin or Nutrient Food Sources
Vitamin A:
An antioxidant that assists the immune system in fighting off diseases. It is good for the back because it helps repair tissue and in the formation of bone. It also helps the body use protein effectively.
Additionally, the body can convert beta-carotene into vitamin A. Beta-carotene can be found in dark green leafy vegetables and most orange vegetables and fruits.
It’s important not to get more then the recommended daily allowance of vitamin A, as too much can promote bone fractures. Beta-carotene does not increase the risk of fracture.
Vitamin A can be found in beef, calf and chicken liver; dairy products like milk, butter, cheese and eggs; orange fruits such as apricots, nectarines and cantaloupe; orange or green vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes and spinach.
Vitamin B12:
Necessary for healthy bone marrow and for the body – and the spine – to grow and function normally. Vitamin B12 can be found in meat products, such as liver, fish, red meat and poultry; dairy products, such as milk, yogurt and cheese; and eggs.
Vitamin C:
Necessary for the development of collagen, which is an important part of the process that allows cells to be able to form into tissue. This is extremely important for healing problems caused by injured tendons, ligaments and vertebral discs, as well as for keeping bones and other tissues strong.
Vitamin C can be found in fruits, such as strawberries, kiwi fruit and citrus fruits (e.g. oranges, guavas, grapefruits) and tomatoes; many vegetables, such as broccoli, spinach, red and green peppers, sweet potatoes and white potatoes.
Vitamin D:
Improves calcium absorption, which is important for the development of strong and healthy bones. Adequate calcium absorption is particularly important to help prevent development of osteoporosis, a disorder characterized by weak and brittle bones in the spine that can results in painful vertebral fractures. Vitamin D is naturally occurring in egg yolks and fish oils; also found in most brands of fortified milk in the US; can also be obtained by spending time in the sunlight.
Vitamin K:
Needed for the bones to properly use calcium. The combination of vitamin K and calcium works to help bones throughout the body stay strong and healthy. Vitamin K is found in liver, pork, green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale and broccoli, and dairy products.
Iron:
Needed for cells to remain healthy as it helps them receive oxygen and get rid of carbon dioxide. It also aids in the production of myoglobin, an important element of healthy muscles that are needed to support the spine. Iron is found in meat products such as liver, pork, fish, shellfish, red meat and poultry; lentils, beans, soy, eggs, grains, and green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale and broccoli.
Magnesium:
Important for the relaxing and contracting of muscles. It also helps maintain muscle tone and bone density, which in turn can help prevent back problems. Further, it assists in the body’s use of protein. Magnesium is found in whole grains and whole-grain breads, beans, seeds, nuts, potatoes, avocados, bananas, kiwi fruit, shrimp, and green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale and broccoli.
Calcium:
Essential for bone health and helps maintain the necessary level of bone mass throughout the lifespan and especially in old age. Adequate calcium intake is particularly important to help prevent development of osteoporosis, which results in weak and brittle bones in the spine that can results in painful vertebral fractures. Calcium is found in dairy products such as yogurt, cheese and especially milk; dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach, broccoli and kale; tofu, peanuts, peas, black beans and baked beans; some types of fish (salmon and sardines); a variety of other foods such as sesame seeds, blackstrap molasses, corn tortillas, almonds and brown sugar.
Specific meal timing and superfood strategies have been shown to optimize performance and recovery. As most patients are well aware, good nutrition and a balanced diet are important components of overall health. What may surprise people with back problems is that diet, nutrition and maintaining a healthy weight also play a major role in�spine health.�For Answers to any questions you may have please call Dr. Jimenez at�915-850-0900
Peripheral neuropathy is a medical condition where nerve damage or dysfunction occurs, triggering common symptoms such as tingling or burning sensations or numbness in the hands and feet. The source of the neuropathy can often be difficult to diagnose but some of the factors which can contribute to the development of the condition include: vitamin deficiencies, traumatic injuries, diabetes, chemotherapy, alcoholism, infections, kidney disease, tumors and exposure to poisons.
Although these are some of the most frequently reported factors responsible for the development of the condition, many of the common foods people eat on a daily basis and in large quantities can actually worsen peripheral neuropathy. The following are various of the foods which can aggravate nerve damage and dysfunction as well as increase the painful symptoms of neuropathy.
Gluten
First of all, what is gluten? Gluten is a storage protein found in wheat, barley and rye. The most common sources of gluten include a majority of breads, cereals, pasta, crackers, cookies, cakes, pastries and all foods containing white, wheat, cake or baking flour.
People with celiac disease, best described as a gluten allergy, can trigger and worsen the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy if gluten is consumed. Approximately 50 percent of adults with celiac disease aren’t even aware that they have this autoimmune disorder. Celiac disease, as mentioned before, is an allergy to gluten, however, many individuals may have a sensitivity to gluten without celiac disease. As a matter of fact, 18 million people in the United States have currently been diagnosed with some form of gluten sensitivity. Both gluten sensitivity and celiac disease can cause or increase tingling sensations and numbness as well as other neuropathic symptoms.
If you have any type of gluten sensitivity or allergy, suitable alternatives to the storage protein include: rice, oatmeal, corn and rice-based cereals, breads labeled as gluten free and potatoes.
Refined Grains
Refined grains can aggravate peripheral neuropathy because these are high-glycemic, meaning they can have a tremendous impact on your blood sugar levels. Because refined sugars cause a spike in blood sugar, inflammation throughout the body is increased, worsening any other symptoms associated with it. Chronic inflammation can both cause peripheral neuropathy and worsen nerve damage, resulting in increased pain and decreased function of many structures of the body.
According to the Diabetes Association, controlling glycemic levels in the body can be the most effective strategy for preventing the progression of neuropathy associated with pre-diabetes or diabetes, which is the most common reason for the disorder.
To control glycemic in the body, replace refined grains and products, including white and wheat bread, enriched pasta, white and instant rice, low-fiber cereals and processed snack foods, such as pretzels, potato chips and crackers, with whole grains. Nutritious whole grade alternatives include oats, barley, brown rice, quinoa and millet.
Added Sugars
Supplementary sugars which are added to foods, such as cane sugar, corn syrup, and high fructose corn syrup, add sweet flavor to many of our favorite snack but these supply very few nutrients to foods and can ultimately increase the symptoms associated with peripheral neuropathy.
Common sources of added sugars include: regular soft drinks, candy, milk chocolate, sugary cereals, pancake syrup, jellies, frozen desserts and commercially baked cakes, cookies, pastries and pies.Similar to refined grains, they are high-glycemic and can affect blood sugar levels in the body. Additionally, diets rich in added sugars are most commonly associated with poor nutrient intake.
To protect yourself against nutritional deficiencies which may lead to worsened neuropathic symptoms, choose nutritious foods with natural sugars, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains, instead of sugary snacks.
Bad Fats
Fats are as essential to your diet as protein and carbohydrates as these are necessary to provide energy to the body and to assist in processing a variety of vitamins and manufacturing hormones. However, when our diet is made up of mostly bad fats as compared to good fats,�many complications can begin to affect the body.
The worst type of dietary fats are trans fats. Trans fats are commonly listed on labels as hydrogenated oils or partially hydrogenated oils. These can increase inflammation in the body, raise bad cholesterol or LDL, and may contribute to the development of insulin resistance which can harm small blood vessels necessary for delivering nutrients to the peripheral nerves.
Saturated fats commonly found in fatty meats and dairy products are often given a bad reputation within the medical field but research studies, including one study from Harvard Health Publications, show that a diet with a moderate amount of saturated fat from fruits, such as avocados and coconut oil, may offer extensive health benefits to the cardiovascular system. Further studies also concluded that a small to moderate consumption of animal saturated fat can also provide several health benefits. It’s recommended to eat moderate amounts of healthy fat sources, including: avocados, nuts, seeds, coconut oils and ghee.
Dairy
Dairy is one of the most inflammatory foods in our modern diet, second only to gluten. It causes inflammation in a large percentage of the population. Individuals who’ve already developed peripheral neuropathy have some form of nerve damage and inflammation can impact the nerves even further, subsequently increasing the pain and other symptoms associated with neuropathy. �Inflammation caused by the consumption of dairy can also result in digestive issues, such as bloating, gas, constipation, diarrhea and may worsen autistic behaviors.
Why the Food We Eat Impacts Neuropathy
Essentially, the food we consume provides our body with the necessary nutrients it needs to function properly. Without the proper nutrients, our metabolic processes can suffer and our overall health and wellness can decline. The food we eat is central to our well-being.
Nutrients are the substances found in food which are fundamental for the growth, development, repair and maintenance of the body’s functions. If an individual’s diet is deficient in nutrients, their health may be affected. Nutritional deficiencies occur by consuming a diet made up fast foods, junk foods or processed foods with very little whole foods. In addition, consuming regular beverages such as soda, coffee, energy drinks, sugary drinks and alcohol, can deplete essential vitamins and minerals in the body, including: vitamins B1, B6, B12, folic acid, calcium and magnesium, among others.
Nutrients are in charge of giving our bodies instructions about how to effectively function by also providing it with the necessary materials to carry out the appropriate functions to maintain overall health and wellness. In conclusion, its important to remember that the food we eat can act as a medicine to maintain, prevent, and treat diseases, such as peripheral neuropathy.
For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .�
Neck pain is characterized as the most prevalent symptom after being involved in an automobile accident. During an auto collision, the body is exposed to a sheer amount of force due to the high speed impact, causing the head and neck to jolt abruptly back-and-forth as the rest of the body remains in place. This often results in the damage or injury of the cervical spine and its surrounding tissues, leading to neck pain and other common symptoms associated with whiplash-related disorders.
Neuropathy means damage to the nerves, which transmit messages from the spinal cord to the brain. Neuropathy often causes numbness and tingling in the hands and feet, called peripheral neuropathy. Physical injury or trauma to nerves most often causes neuropathy; between 60 to 70 percent of diabetics also have neuropathy, ranging from mild to severe, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. A number of diseases, acute infections and toxins can also cause neuropathy. Many people turn to herbs for relief — but do not take herbs for neuropathy without your doctor�s approval.
Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper contains capsaicin, a topical pain reliever that can help reduce discomfort from neuropathy. Capsaicin works by depleting substance P, a pain-causing chemical, from nerve receptors. Applying cayenne pepper in a topical solution initially stimulates the release of substance P but then depletes it, which decreases pain. Several over-the-counter topical pain relievers containing cayenne pepper approved for use by United States Food and Drug Administration are available. They appear to help at least some people with neuropathies from shingles; trigeminal neuralgia, which causes facial neuropathy; and diabetic retinopathy, the Diabetes Self-Management website reports. In some cases, topical application of this herb can worsen pain. Wright State University pharmacy suggests starting with the weakest concentration of the herb and increasing over time. It can take one to two months to work up to the strongest dose.
A systematic review of studies conducted by the University of Oxford reported on study findings in the April 24, 2004 issue of the �British Medical Journal.� L. Mason and colleagues, of the Pain Research and Nuffield Department of Anaesthetics, reported that capsaicin had poor to moderate effectiveness overall in six separate studies.
Evening Primrose Oil
Evening primrose oil, also called EPO, contains an omega-6 essential fatty acid, gamma-linolenic acid. In some studies, EPO showed benefit for use in diabetic retinopathy. A 2003 article published in �The Journal of the American Board of Family Practice� by Kathleen M. Halat and pharmacist Cathi E. Dennehy of the University of California�San Francisco reviewed studies done on the effectiveness of EPO in treating diabetic neuropathy without causing adverse effects on blood glucose levels. The authors concluded that EPO may have benefit in treating mild diabetic neuropathy, but that patient compliance with the number of pills required, 8 to 12 per day, might be problematic.
St. John’s Wort
Antidepressants are often used as treatment for polyneuropathy, neuropathy that affects number of areas rather than just one. St. John�s wort, an herb that has antidepressant properties, is also used to treat neuropathy in some patients. A 2001 study reported in �Pain� by Soren Sindrup, M.D., of the University of Southern Denmark found no improvement of polyneuropathy in patients given St. John�s wort compared to placebo.
Ginkgo Biloba
In an animal study reported by Yee Suk Kim, M.D., and colleagues of the Catholic University of Seoul and published in the June 2009 issue of �Anesthesia and Analgesia,� ginkgo biloba was found to decrease neuropathic pain in rats. Ginkgo may also prove valuable for use in humans, the study concluded.
Characterized by pain, tingling sensations and numbness, damage or injury to the nerves can alter the function of the nervous system. Neuropathy can interrupt the communication of the nerves between the brain, spinal cord and the central nervous system. Several treatments have been found to improve the symptoms of neuropathy and a herbal treatment containing several specific herbs can help improve the condition.
Trending Topic: Vaccines Revealed Episode 6
Dr. Gentempo and others are bringing great awareness to our community regarding vaccinations and their dangers.
Vaccines Revealed and Exposed on Episode #6
As a healthcare provider, Dr. Patrick Gentempo has been searching for the truth behind the effects of vaccines on the general population. When making critical decisions about you and your children�s health, it�s essential to have the correct knowledge of all medical procedures you�re being involved in, including the administration of mandatory vaccines, among others.
If you are concerned that you may have, or could develop, a leaky gut, then changing your diet to one that protects the gut is a natural next step for you.� If you are already battling health conditions related to having a leaky gut, then you will have to be more strict with your dietary choices and also address other lifestyle factors like getting good quality sleep, managing stress, finding time for low-strain exercise, and getting outside.
The first and most important thing to do to heal a leaky gut is to stop eating foods that damage and inflame the gut lining!� It can take six months or more for the gut to fully heal depending on the extent of the damage, the health of the gut microflora and your individual genetics (for people with Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth, recovery can take up to two years!).� Until the gut is completely healthy, it is important to abstain from all grains, all legumes, and all dairy products (some people may tolerate ghee and/or butter from grass-fed sources, but I recommend leaving it out for at least a month before trying it).� It is also important to avoid additives in processed foods (many of which irritate the gut) and refined sugars (which promote inflammation).� Some people will also need to eliminate vegetables from the nightshade family (tomatoes, eggplants, peppers of all kinds, and especially potatoes), eliminate egg whites (I actually rinse my egg yolks before eating them), and limit nut consumption (other than coconut and macadamias).� Changing your diet to avoid gut-irritating foods is critical.� But, it is also important to include foods that can reduce inflammation and help heal the damaged gut.
Eat foods that reduce inflammation.� It�s very important to be mindful of both your omega-6 and your omega-3 polyunsaturatedfatty acid intake.� Omega-6 polyunsaturated fats, which are found in large quantities in modern vegetable oils, meat from grain-fed animals, and many nuts and seeds, increase inflammation.� Omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in large quantities in wild-caught fish, pastured/free-range eggs, and meat from pastured animals, decrease inflammation.� To help reduce overall inflammation and heal the gut, aim for a 1:1 ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acid intake in your diet.� There are several ways of doing this:� you can make sure that all of the meat in your diet is exclusively from grass-fed animals (beef, bison, goat or lamb); you can eat plenty of wild-caught seafood; and/or you can supplement with a good quality fish oil.
Vegetables are rich in anti-oxidants, vitamins and minerals which help control inflammation (and help with just about every other normal function of the body!).� Eating a variety of differently colored vegetables, a variety of dark green leafy vegetables, and a variety cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, turnip greens, kale, Brussels sprouts, etc.) every day will provide all of the essential vitamins and minerals in a way that is easy for the body to absorb (no more need for a multivitamin!).� Fruits, especially berries, are also a good source of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals.� However, most people will need to exercise some portion control with fruits due to the high sugar content.� I recommend eating vegetables at every meal (it can be a bit strange getting used to eating vegetables at breakfast, but it�s amazing what a difference it makes to how you feel for the whole rest of the day!).
It is also important to make sure you are getting enough Vitamin D.� You can achieve this by simply spending some time outside in the sun every day, or from eating liver once or twice per week, or from supplementing with Cod Liver Oil or Vitamin D3 supplements.
Eat foods that restore gut microflora.� If you have a leaky and inflamed gut, chances are very good that your resident good bacteria are having trouble too.� To help restore their numbers and their diversity, eat as many different good sources of probiotics as possible.� You can do this by taking Probiotic supplements and changing brands every time you buy a bottle (the different brands all have different proprietary strains, which helps with increasing your gut microflora diversity).� Even better, you can consume probiotic rich foods, like unpasteurized Sauerkraut and other unpasteurized fermented vegetables, Kombucha Tea (my personal favorite), and coconut milk Yogurt or Kefir (which can be a little harder to find in stores but very easy to make at home).� All of these can be found at alternative grocery stores (like Whole Foods), and some can be found online, but all can also be made easily and inexpensively at home.
Eat foods that promote healing:� As the body tries to heal itself, it�s important to provide it with plenty of good quality protein (needed to make all those new cells and connective tissues) as well as vitamins, minerals and good fats.� In this way, the best way to promote healing is to eat a paleo diet that includes wild-caught fish, meat from grass-fed sources, organ meat (preferably from pastured sources), and plenty of vegetables.� There are two other healing foods that are very important to include: coconut�and bone broth.� Antimicrobial short- and medium-chain saturated fats, like those found in coconut oil�and other coconut products, help to reduce overgrowth of bad yeast, fungus and bacteria in the small intestine.� Medium chain saturated fats are very gentle on the cells that line the gut since they can be passively absorbed without being broken down by digestive enzymes and used for energy without any modification.� This source of easy energy is very helpful for healing the lining of the gut.�Broth made from the bones of chicken, turkey, duck, beef, lamb pork and/or fish are anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and contain nutrients which help rebuild the integrity of the digestive tract.� Most importantly, broth is rich in the amino acids proline and glycine, which help regulate digestion, reduce inflammation, and promote healing in every part of the body.
While these dietary changes may seem overwhelming, it is important to remember that making them will keep you healthy, put many diseases into remission, and prevent dozens of other diseases from developing.� For the vast majority of people, using diet to prioritize gut health will mean a lifetime of good health.
Bloating, gas and inflammation are some of the most common symptoms signaling the presence of leaky gut syndrome and it could have been caused due to improper nutritional habits. Digestive health is essential towards the overall health of the body. When a balanced diet is not being followed, the gut can struggle to absorb nutrients and water from food. For people with a leaky gut, a proper diet can help heal them from the disorder.
Trending Topic: Vaccines Revealed Episode 2
Dr. Gentempo and others are bringing great awareness to our community regarding vaccinations and their dangers.
Posted: 01-12-2017
Vaccines Revealed and Exposed on Episode #2
As a healthcare provider, Dr. Patrick Gentempo has been searching for the truth behind the effects of vaccines on the general population. When making critical decisions about you and your children�s health, it�s essential to have the correct knowledge of all medical procedures you�re being involved in, including the administration of mandatory vaccines, among others.
For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .�
Inflammation is generally identified as a symptoms accompanied by pain and discomfort, however, this symptom is often necessary for�for preventing illnesses, treating injuries, and healing wounds. To a larger extent, inflammation is necessary to keep us healthy. However, occasionally, an individual’s own immune system can cause inflammation when there’s no apparent cause for it. From an improper diet to increased levels of stress and even environmental factors, inflammation can develop without any of the previously mention complications.
Fortunately, if this is the case, following a properly balanced diet, focusing on a variety of anti-inflammatory foods, an individual can reduce their inflammation and experience relief once more. The following 10 foods are some of the top, recommended anti-inflammatory foods which can help fight the symptoms.
1. Leafy green vegetables
Dark, leafy greens like kale, spinach, bok choy, and Swiss chard are rich in flavonoids (powerful, plant-based antioxidants) that restore cellular health, which is essential to stopping inflammation.
In addition, they provide vitamins A, C, and K, which protect your brain against the oxidative stress caused by free-radical damage � the same process that causes aging and disease development.
A very large portion of your immune system actually lives within your gut and is run by bacterial organisms � what you can think of as �your gut�s bugs.�
Microbial imbalances (when the bad bacteria outnumber the good) have been associated with heightened inflammation and increased risk of various diseases, but probiotic foods like sauerkraut and kimchi can help rebalance and heal your gut.
Probiotics are also linked to improvements in immune, cognitive, digestive, and endocrine system functions, and taking probiotics can even cheer you up!
3. Bone broth
Bone broth � the rich liquid that results from boiling the bones of organic, grass-fed beef or poultry for hours � comes packed with a number of nutrients, including collagen. Collagen and the amino acids proline and glycine work in unison to heal the lining of an inflamed gut, which quickly stops your immune system from acting on overdrive and attacking the body�s healthy tissues, from the skin to the brain.
Bone broth is also a great natural source of chondroitin sulphates and glucosamine � the same compounds sold as expensive over-the-counter supplements used to limit arthritis and joint pain caused by inflammation.
4. Walnuts
As a great source of omega-3s and trace minerals, walnuts are known for being a �brain food� because they supply special phytonutrients that help protect against cognitive decline.
An imbalance between oxidants (bad) and antioxidants (good) can eventually lead to oxidative stress, but walnuts help to calm an overactive immune system and reduce widespread inflammation.
5. Coconut oil
Coconut oil is a special kind of saturated fat that has built-in antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. Benefits of this miracle oil include being both easy to digest and helpful in restoring gut health, thanks to its ability to cause a thermic, warming response in the body.
Because coconut oil contains essential fatty acids that can fight bacteria, yeast, and infections within the digestive tract � where most illness and disease begins � it�s beneficial for both preventing and treating inflammation.
6. Beets
As their deep pigment suggests, beets contain the antioxidant betalain, which works to repair cellular damage caused by inflammation. Beets can also help improve blood flow and supply high levels of inflammation-fighting potassium and magnesium, two important nutrients many people are deficient in.
7. Broccoli (and other cruciferous veggies)
Broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts are packed with antioxidants, flavonoids, carotenoids, and key vitamins like vitamin C. These nutrients work together to lower oxidative stress in the body and help battle chronic inflammation and reduce the risk of developing cancer.
8. Berries
The stars of the fruit world, berries stand out because of their high content of both fiber and antioxidants like quercetin, a flavonoid compound that supports healthy bacterial growth in the gut and prevents colon damage.
Berries have also been shown to slow cognitive decline and improve memory and motor function.
9. Salmon
Consuming the ideal ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 essential fatty acids is one of the keys to fighting inflammation. Omega-6es are �pro-inflammatory� while omega-3s are considered potent anti-inflammatory substances.
Wild-caught salmon and other oily fish (including mackerel and sardines) are the best food sources of omega-3s. They naturally lower the risk for developing many inflammatory diseases, especially heart disease, arthritis, depression, and cognitive disorders.
10. Super seeds (chia, flax and hemp)
Super seeds like chia, flax, and hemp offer both omega-3 (in the form of plant-based alpha-linolenic acid) and omega-6 fatty acids, which help stop our immune system from overproducing cytokines and oxidant molecules that can lead to inflammation.
They�re also full of fiber, antioxidants, protein, and numerous trace minerals that help regulate cholesterol and lower blood pressure levels before they cause further damage.
Inflammatory symptoms can create feelings of discomfort among those affected. Inflammation is a natural response to a harmful stimulation in the body, where even certain foods can cause it. Fortunately, several types of foods can have wonderful anti-inflammatory effects on the body as well as disease-fighting benefits.
For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
Your immune system attacks anything in your body that it recognizes as foreign�such as an invading microbe, plant pollen, or chemical. The process is called inflammation. Intermittent bouts of inflammation directed at truly threatening invaders protect your health.Foods that fight inflammation
However, sometimes inflammation persists, day in and day out, even when you are not threatened by a foreign invader. That’s when inflammation can become your enemy. Many major diseases that plague us�including cancer, heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, depression, and Alzheimer’s�have been linked to chronic inflammation.
One of the most powerful tools to combat inflammation comes not from the pharmacy, but from the grocery store. “Many experimental studies have shown that components of foods or beverages may have anti-inflammatory effects,” says Dr. Frank Hu, professor of nutrition and epidemiology in the Department of Nutrition at the Harvard School of Public Health.
Choose the right foods, and you may be able to reduce your risk of illness. Consistently pick the wrong ones, and you could accelerate the inflammatory disease process.
Foods that Cause Inflammation
Try to avoid or limit these foods as much as possible:
refined carbohydrates, such as white bread and pastries
French fries and other fried foods
soda and other sugar-sweetened beverages
red meat (burgers, steaks) and processed meat (hot dogs, sausage)
margarine, shortening, and lard
Inflammation-promoting Foods
Not surprisingly, the same foods that contribute to inflammation are generally considered bad for our health, including sodas and refined carbohydrates, as well as red meat and processed meats.
“Some of the foods that have been associated with an increased risk for chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease are also associated with excess inflammation,” Dr. Hu says. “It’s not surprising, since inflammation is an important underlying mechanism for the development of these diseases.”
Unhealthy foods also contribute to weight gain, which is itself a risk factor for inflammation. Yet in several studies, even after researchers took obesity into account, the link between foods and inflammation remained, which suggests weight gain isn’t the sole driver. “Some of the food components or ingredients may have independent effects on inflammation over and above increased caloric intake,” Dr. Hu says.
Foods that Combat Inflammation
Include plenty of these anti-inflammatory foods in your diet:
tomatoes
olive oil
green leafy vegetables, such as spinach, kale, and collards
nuts like almonds and walnuts
fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, tuna, and sardines
fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, cherries, and oranges
Anti-inflammation Foods
On the flip side are foods and beverages that have been found to reduce the risk of inflammation, and with it, chronic disease, says Dr. Hu. He notes in particular fruits and vegetables such as blueberries, apples, and leafy greens that are high in natural antioxidants and polyphenols�protective compounds found in plants.
Studies have also associated nuts with reduced markers of inflammation and a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Coffee, which contains polyphenols and other anti-inflammatory compounds, may protect against inflammation, as well.
Anti-inflammatory Eating
To reduce levels of inflammation, aim for an overall healthy diet. If you’re looking for an eating plan that closely follows the tenets of anti-inflammatory eating, consider the Mediterranean diet, which is high in fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains, fish, and healthy oils.
In addition to lowering inflammation, a more natural, less processed diet can have noticeable effects on your physical and emotional health. “A healthy diet is beneficial not only for reducing the risk of chronic diseases, but also for improving mood and overall quality of life,” Dr. Hu says.
Inflammation is the body’s natural response to a specific, often general, harmful stimulation. While there are many things which can cause the body to experience symptoms of inflammation, the foods people consume can also lead to these type of symptoms. Therefore, a proper nutrition is essential for the body’s overall health and wellness, and various types of foods can even help reduce inflammation in the body.
For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
As the body ages, changes in the gastrointestinal tract occur, reducing the absorption of nutrients and slowing down intestinal motility. As a result, malabsorption, nutrient deficiency and constipation are relatively common health problems that affect elderly people of both genders.
A high-fiber diet helps to stimulate intestinal motility and prevent constipation. There is also evidence dietary fiber helps to lower cholesterol levels and regulate blood glucose levels. Ask your doctor about the benefits of adding more fiber to your diet.
Dietary fiber is common in plant foods such as fruits, vegetable and legumes. Although dietary fiber cannot be digested or absorbed, it still contributes to health in a variety of ways. Dietary fiber comes in two types: soluble and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber dissolves in water and becomes gel-like, causing it to stick to bile, toxins and other debris and drag them from your body. Insoluble fiber attracts water like a sponge and acts to clean your intestines, increase intestinal motility and stimulate regular bowel movements. Constipation is more common in the elderly due to reduced intestinal peristalsis or rhythmic contractions, inactive lifestyles and diets low in fiber.
The Institute of Medicine of the National Academies recommends that total fiber intake for adults older than 50 should be at least 30 grams per day for men and 21 grams for women. Because insoluble fiber absorbs water, you need to drink plenty of water, too, or a high-fiber diet can lead to constipation and compound existing problems with bowel movements. Elderly people sometimes have difficulty regulating fluid levels because their thirst mechanism may be suppressed, so a conscious effort to drink a total of eight to 10 glasses of water is a good idea. Purified water, fresh juice, herbal tea and other non-caffeinated liquids are best.
Most whole grains, vegetables, fruits and legumes are sources of insoluble and soluble fiber. For example, multi-grain bread, wheat germ, brown rice, broccoli, spinach, celery, carrots, zucchini, apples, pears, most berries, chickpeas, lentils and virtually all beans are especially good sources of dietary fiber. Furthermore, psyllium is a high-fiber compound you can mix into water or fruit juice. Nut and seeds contain fiber also, but you may find it difficult to properly chew them if you have dental problems or dentures. Consequently, softer sources of fiber, such as beans and whole-grain bread, are not only easier to chew, but are usually much more affordable.
In addition to combating constipation, dietary fiber may help reduce high cholesterol and regulate blood sugar levels, thus lowering your risk of heart disease and type-2 diabetes, according to the book �Human Metabolism: Functional Diversity and Integration.� High-fiber diets also make you feel full for longer periods of time, which may help you reduce your calorie consumption and lose excess weight.
As previously discussed, with age, the body begins to change, especially the digestive system, where it’s normal function slows down, requiring additional care to optimize health. Fiber is an essential part of our diet, and for seniors, an intake of the proper amount of fiber can ensure the digestive system is functioning to its fullest.
For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .�
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or Vitamin D3
supplements.
supplements and changing brands every time you buy a bottle (the different brands all have different proprietary strains, which helps with increasing your gut microflora diversity).� Even better, you can consume probiotic rich foods, like unpasteurized Sauerkraut
and other unpasteurized fermented vegetables, Kombucha Tea
(my personal favorite), and coconut milk Yogurt
or Kefir
(which can be a little harder to find in stores but very easy to make at home).� All of these can be found at alternative grocery stores (like Whole Foods), and some can be found online, but all can also be made easily and inexpensively at home.
