Diet

The Best Diet For Fibromyalgia?

~ Dr. Robert Speirs DC ~ Leave a comment

Anti-Inflam

​Fibromyalgia (FM) and its cause remains a mystery, but most studies suggest that FM is NOT the result of a single event but rather a combination of many physical, chemical, and emotional stressors.

The question of the month regarding the BEST FM diet is intriguing since one might assume that the many causes should mean that there isn’t one dietary solution. But is that true? Could there be a “best diet” to help ease the symptoms from such a multi-faceted disorder?

Certainly, healthy eating is VERY important for ALL of us regardless of our current ailment(s). Obesity is rampant largely due to the fact that 60% of the calories consumed by the “typical” American center around eating highly inflaming food that include those rich in Sugar, Omega-6 oil, Flour, and Trans fats (“SOFT” foods, if you will!). Obesity has been cited as “an epidemic” largely due to kids and adults becoming too sedentary (watching TV, playing on electronic devices, etc.) and eating poorly.

Perhaps the BEST way to manage the pain associated with FM and to maintain a healthy BMI (Body Mass Index, or ratio between height and weight) is to substitute ANTI-INFLAMING foods for those that inflame (or SOFT foods).

You can simplify your diet by substituting OUT “fast foods” for fruits, vegetables, and lean meats. So there you have it. It’s that simple. The problem is making up your mind to change and then actually doing it. Once these two things take place, most everyone can easily “recalibrate” their caloric intake and easily adapt.

Not only have studies shown that chronic illnesses like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes significantly benefit by following this simple dietary shift, but so does pain arising from the musculoskeletal system! This is because the human body is made up largely of chemicals, and chemical shifts are constantly taking place when it moves. If you reach for an anti-inflammatory drug like ibuprofen or naproxen and it helps, it’s because you ARE inflamed and the drug reduces the pain associated with that inflammation. This is an indication that an anti-inflammatory diet WILL HELP as well (but without the negative side effects)!

The list of chronic conditions that result in muscle pain not only includes FM but also obesity, metabolic syndrome, and type II diabetes. Conditions like tension-type and migraine headaches, neck and back pain, disk herniation, and tendonopathies and MANY more ALL respond WELL to making this SIMPLE change in the diet. For more information on how to “DEFLAME,” visit http://www.deflame.com! It could be a potential “lifesaver!”

Yoga’s Surging Popularity in the United States: A Holistic Wellness Revolution

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Exercise: Yoga Gaining in Popularity in the United States.

Over the past decade, yoga has experienced a notable surge in popularity, with a remarkable uptick in participation observed across diverse age groups. According to data compiled by the National Center for Health Statistics in February 2015, the percentage of adults engaging in yoga has more than doubled, soaring from just under 6% in 2002 to over 10% in 2012. This trend is mirrored among children and seniors, reflecting a widespread recognition of yoga’s myriad benefits for physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

At its core, yoga is far more than a mere physical exercise regimen; it embodies an ancient tradition rooted in the harmonization of body, mind, and spirit. Through a synthesis of mindful movement, controlled breathing, and meditation, yoga fosters a profound sense of inner peace, serenity, and interconnectedness with the world around us. Its holistic approach to health and wellness transcends the confines of conventional fitness routines, offering practitioners a pathway to holistic flourishing and self-discovery.

For adults, yoga serves as a sanctuary from the stresses of modern life, providing a sanctuary where they can reconnect with themselves and cultivate resilience in the face of adversity. Meanwhile, children benefit from the developmental advantages conferred by yoga, including improved concentration, enhanced flexibility, and heightened emotional intelligence. For seniors, yoga offers a gentle yet effective means of maintaining mobility, alleviating chronic pain, and fostering a sense of vitality and vitality in their golden years.

As yoga continues to captivate hearts and minds worldwide, its transformative potential as a catalyst for personal growth and well-being remains undeniable. By embracing yoga as a holistic lifestyle practice, individuals of all ages can embark on a journey of self-discovery, healing, and empowerment, enriching their lives immeasurably in the process.

TV Screen Time Linked to 30% Higher Child Hypertension Risk

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Health Alert: Watching Two or More Hours of TV a Day Increases Hypertension Risk in Children.

A groundbreaking study published in the International Journal of Cardiology in February 2015 has unveiled alarming correlations between sedentary behaviors and childhood hypertension. Delving into the intricate relationship between screen time and physical activity, researchers discovered unsettling statistics: spending more than two hours daily in front of a TV screen elevates a child’s risk of high blood pressure by a staggering 30%. Equally concerning is the revelation that engaging in less than one hour of physical activity per day amplifies the risk of hypertension by a staggering 50%.

These findings underscore the profound impact of lifestyle choices on cardiovascular health, particularly during the formative years of childhood. The authors of the study emphasize the pervasiveness of sedentary behaviors in infancy and their persistence into later stages of life, sounding a clarion call for urgent intervention.

The implications of these findings reverberate far beyond the realm of childhood health, permeating societal norms and public health agendas. As sedentary habits become increasingly pervasive in modern lifestyles, addressing the root causes of inactivity assumes paramount importance in mitigating the burgeoning epidemic of hypertension among children.

Armed with this knowledge, healthcare practitioners, policymakers, and parents alike are tasked with orchestrating concerted efforts to promote physical activity and limit sedentary behaviors among children. By fostering environments conducive to active living and instilling healthy habits from an early age, we can stem the tide of childhood hypertension and cultivate a generation primed for lifelong cardiovascular wellness.

Consequences of Vitamin D Deficiency: Insight from Dr. Peter Horvath

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In regions characterized by snowy winters and high latitudes, such as Buffalo, New York, residents face a heightened risk of vitamin D deficiency, according to the insights of esteemed nutrition researcher, Dr. Peter Horvath. His research reveals a stark reality: during the winter months, nearly half of Buffalo’s population grapples with insufficient vitamin D levels, with a quarter classified as deficient.

The consequences of such deficiencies extend far beyond mere inconvenience. They encompass a spectrum of health concerns, from compromised bone density and weakened immunity to an elevated susceptibility to type 2 diabetes, certain cancers, cardiovascular ailments, and cognitive decline in older individuals.

Vitamin D plays a crucial role in maintaining bone health by facilitating the absorption of calcium and phosphorus. Inadequate levels of this vital nutrient can lead to decreased bone density, increasing the risk of fractures and osteoporosis, particularly in older adults. Furthermore, vitamin D deficiency has been linked to immune system dysfunction, making individuals more susceptible to infections and illnesses.

Dr. Horvath’s findings also shed light on the connection between vitamin D and chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes and certain cancers. Insufficient vitamin D levels have been associated with insulin resistance and impaired glucose metabolism, contributing to the development of diabetes. Additionally, studies suggest that vitamin D may play a role in regulating cell growth and preventing the proliferation of cancer cells, highlighting its importance in cancer prevention.

Moreover, emerging research indicates a correlation between vitamin D deficiency and cardiovascular disease. Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to an increased risk of hypertension, heart failure, and stroke, underscoring the need to address this deficiency to safeguard cardiovascular health.

In the realm of cognitive function, vitamin D deficiency has been implicated in age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Adequate levels of vitamin D are thought to support cognitive health by reducing inflammation and promoting neuronal growth and function.

In light of these findings, Dr. Horvath advocates for proactive measures to address vitamin D deficiency. He recommends increasing sun exposure during the warmer months, as sunlight is a primary source of vitamin D synthesis in the skin. Additionally, dietary supplements or fortified foods can help individuals maintain optimal vitamin D levels, especially during the winter season when sunlight exposure is limited.

By heeding Dr. Horvath’s advice and taking steps to ensure adequate vitamin D intake, individuals can mitigate the risks associated with deficiency and promote overall health and well-being. As Markus Zusak’s poignant quote suggests, perhaps with the right interventions, everyone can surpass their perceived limitations and thrive in the face of adversity.

Cervicogenic Headaches: Impact of Abnormal Neck Posture Revealed

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Chiropractic: Abnormal Neck Posture Associated with Headache Risk.

In a groundbreaking study published in the February 2015 issue of Physical Therapy, researchers delved into the intricate relationship between cervicogenic headaches and cervical lordosis. By meticulously analyzing neck x-rays from individuals suffering from cervicogenic headaches and contrasting them with those from healthy controls, the researchers unearthed a striking correlation. Even a subtle 3-4° variance in cervical lordosis was discovered to be intimately linked with an 8% escalation in the likelihood of developing this debilitating type of headache. This finding not only underscores the profound impact of cervical curvature on health outcomes but also accentuates the pivotal role of physical therapy in managing such conditions. With such revelations, healthcare practitioners gain invaluable insights into the nuanced mechanisms underlying cervicogenic headaches, paving the way for more targeted and effective interventions to alleviate patient suffering and enhance overall well-being.

Diet: Are Fruits and Vegetables Good for Your Lungs?

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Diet: Are Fruits and Vegetables Good for Your Lungs?

A meta-analysis of 38 studies indicates that eating fruits and vegetables can have a protective effect on the lungs. After reviewing data concerning nearly five million individuals, researchers conclude that consuming up to two servings of fruit and two servings of vegetables per day is associated with as much as a 16% reduced risk for developing lung cancer. Lung Cancer, February 2015

Gut Bacteria Diversity: Key to Healthy Immune System Development

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Health Alert: Immune System Development Influenced Early in Life.

New research shows that exposure to a variety of bacteria during gestation and infancy can promote a more diverse population of bacteria in the gut. A healthy population of gut bacteria can aid in the development of the immune system and reduce a child’s risk for allergies and asthma. Research leader Dr. Christine Cole Johnson comments, “For years now, we’ve always thought that a sterile environment was not good for babies. Our research shows why. Exposure to these micro-organisms, or bacteria, in the first few months after birth actually help stimulate the immune system. The immune system is designed to be exposed to bacteria on a grand scale. If you minimize those exposures, the immune system won’t develop optimally.” Henry Ford Health System, February 2015

The Allure of Playfulness: Insights into Adult Partner Preferences

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Mental Attitude: What Do Adults Prefer in a Partner?

In a revealing survey encompassing 327 adults, researchers unearthed intriguing insights into the qualities deemed most desirable in prospective long-term relationship partners. Among the myriad traits evaluated, friendliness, intelligence, humor, and a sense of fun emerged as the pinnacle of allure. However, gender disparities in preferences added a nuanced layer to these findings. Notably, women accorded greater significance to a partner’s sense of humor, while men prioritized an exciting personality.

Delving deeper, the study shed light on the correlation between self-perception and partner preferences. Individuals who self-identified as playful exhibited a predilection for partners who embodied traits congruent with their own disposition. Playfulness, humor, a laid-back demeanor, a sense of fun, and creativity emerged as coveted attributes among this cohort.

Dr. René Proyer, the architect behind this illuminating study, offered thought-provoking commentary on its implications. He proposed that the magnetism of playful individuals might stem from their perceived attractiveness as partners or, intriguingly, from the potential for playfulness to burgeon within the confines of a relationship.

This research, published in the American Journal of Play in February 2015, not only offers tantalizing insights into the dynamics of romantic attraction but also underscores the multifaceted nature of human connection. As individuals navigate the labyrinth of relationships, understanding the interplay of personality traits can foster deeper connections and pave the path to enduring companionship.

Health Alert: Cancer Survival Rates Have Improved Since the 1990s, But…

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Health Alert: Cancer Survival Rates Have Improved Since the 1990s, But…

A new study finds that while survival rates have increased for individuals with breast, prostate, lung, liver, and colon cancers over the past 20 years, the improvements have been less remarkable among elderly cancer patients. Lead researcher Dr. Wei Zheng advises that further research is needed to identify reasons for the slower improvement in cancer survival among older adults in hopes of further reducing cancer mortality rates in the senior population. JAMA Oncology, February 2015

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Wellness/Prevention: Eat More Carrots to Reduce Diabetes Risk!

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Wellness/Prevention: Eat More Carrots to Reduce Diabetes Risk!

A diet rich in alpha-carotene and beta-carotene can reduce a person’s risk for developing type 2 diabetes by as much as 22%. The most common source of carotenes in the American diet is carrots; however, pumpkin, winter squash, sweet potato, spinach, and broccoli are also great food sources of alpha-carotene and/or beta-carotene. Nutrition, Metabolism, and Cardiovascular Diseases, December 2014

Quote: “And in the end it is not the years in your life that count, it’s the life in your years.” ~ Abraham Lincoln

#BackHealth #ChiropracticCare #SpineHealth #PostureTips #PainRelief #HealthySpine #ChiropracticAdjustment #BackPainRelief #WellnessJourney #HolisticHealth