Author: joe

  • The Importance of Understanding Your Nutrition Blood Work

     

    Did you know that ninety-two percent of the United States has a vitamin deficiency of some sort? Many people with vitamin deficiencies don’t even realize it – you could easily be one of them.

    Even if your diet is full of nutritious foods, you may be missing out on certain essential micro-nutrients. Do you want to see what your nutritional deficiencies are?

    If the answer to this is yes, you should consider having nutrition blood work done. If you’ve never heard of it, then don’t worry. We’ll tell you everything you need to know about blood work for nutrition and your next steps.

    What Is Nutrition Blood Work?

    Ideally, you can get all of your necessary nutrients from food. However, that can be harder to do than you would think. Some foods have more nutrients than others, and some have very little nutritional value.

    Having blood work for nutritional deficiencies can help you find the gaps in your nutrition. The testing is quick and easy, often only takes about twenty minutes from start to finish. Then all you need to do is wait for your results.

    Nutritional blood work provides a comprehensive look at your metabolic functions – specifically in your organ systems. It examines a variety of chemicals in the body to see how your nutrition levels are affecting your overall health.

    Finally, it tests for various nutrients, chemicals, and minerals to assess if you have the proper levels. 

    Knowing where you are nutritionally deficient is vital to your health. If you have a Vitamin C deficiency, that can make your immune functions break down. Likewise, Vitamin D is essential to teeth and bone health.

    Many people don’t recognize the symptoms of nutritional deficiency. Having your blood work done can ensure you aren’t deficient, and if you are, it can indicate how best to get you back to health. 

    Why Is Blood Work for Nutrition Important?

    As stated before, many people don’t recognize the symptoms of nutritional deficiency. Even if you eat what you think is a nutritionally balanced diet, you may be missing things.

    Whether you have a chronic illness, food allergies, or are looking for a better picture of how your diet affects your body, blood work for nutritional deficiencies is the answer.

    Once you find out where your nutrition levels are, you can adjust your diet accordingly. The most minor changes in your diet can significantly benefit your mental and physical health.

    Often, you don’t even need to change your diet a lot. You might just need more milk, citrus, or lean meat. Knowing how to change your diet will improve your quality of life by a great deal.

    One of the biggest signs of nutritional deficiency is fatigue. Adjusting your diet will give you more energy back so you can do all the things you love.

    If you don’t get blood work done so you can fix your diet, you’ll notice worse health problems. These can vary from depression to catching colds easier, and even to more breakable bones.

    Understanding Blood Work for Nutritional Deficiencies 

    There are hundreds of different types of nutritional blood tests you can get that can be used to diagnose nutritional deficiencies or conditions. Some of the most common tests are for vitamins, calcium, magnesium, and iron. These come in vitamin panel testing, mineral panel testing, and anemia testing.

    You don’t need to worry about making sense of the blood work after it’s done. Your doctor will explain the results, what you’re doing well, and what you need to change.

    What to Do After Your Blood Work Results

    Once you’ve gotten your blood work results, you should probably talk to a doctor. They can tell you exactly how to change your diet. Some doctors can even help you develop a meal plan to fit this new diet.

    Other doctors may recommend the use of functional nutrition. Functional nutrition is a holistic way of checking your body’s needs. Instead of looking at the symptoms of a health problem, functional nutrition attempts to correct the root cause.

    There are many benefits of functional nutrition, all of which you can find out by scheduling an appointment. Functional nutrition, like non-holistic approaches, looks at your blood work to determine what you need.

    The best thing about functional nutrition is that it prevents you from lacking key vitamins and minerals. This keeps you happy, healthy, and full of energy. It also makes your body stronger than it was before.

    Another benefit of functional nutrition is that it can protect your body from certain diseases. Your immune system is directly tied to the kinds of food you eat. Introducing more Vitamin C to your diet can make cold and flu season easier for you.

    Schedule a Free Consultation

    Now that you know the importance of having nutrition blood work done, you’re ready to get your blood work done. Once you’re done with that, you should consider making an appointment to discuss functional nutrition with us.

    There are many benefits to improving your functional nutrition. Doing so will improve your overall health. 

    If you’re ready to get started on your journey toward better nutrition, you can schedule an appointment with us for a free consultation. Whether you come to us to improve your functional health or for one of our other services, you won’t regret it!

     

  • 5 Amazing Red Light Therapy Benefits to Improve Your Well Being

    Red Light Therapy Blog BannerAccording to the National Center for Atmospheric Research, red light exists in wavelengths between 620 and 750 nanometers. Most light in our atmosphere is blue, which is why the sky appears blue to our eyes. We all know that ultraviolet (UV) light can cause significant damage to the skin with too much exposure. According to the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery, these different light wavelengths trigger cellular changes

    Specific wavelengths can trigger positive changes that allow cells to function better. This is where red light therapy comes in. 

    But what are the red light therapy benefits, and how does it work? 

    Continue reading to learn what red light therapy is and the five key benefits you can expect. 

    What is Red Light Therapy?

    Photomedicine is a wellness approach that uses lights of varying wavelengths to treat health conditions. Red light therapy, or RLT, is a type of photomedicine. RLT is usually used alongside conventional healthcare methods to see the most significant results.

    For example, let’s say you have fine lines and wrinkles. Besides using red light therapy devices, your overall treatment plan may include topical retinol treatments and in-office injections. In addition, if you use red light therapy for chronic pain and inflammation, your treatment plan may include medications and physical therapy. 

    The use of red light therapy provides many benefits in the treatment of various issues. Continue reading below to learn of five key benefits you can expect from RLT. 

    1. Treat and Prevent Fine Lines and Wrinkles

    If you’re looking for a way to prevent fine lines and wrinkles from forming, RLT may be an excellent addition to your prevention skincare routine. If you already have lines on your face, red light therapy may help make them less noticeable.

    Collagen is the primary build block for your body’s skin, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and bones. It makes up 30% of the proteins found in your body. Research suggests that red light therapy could help stimulate collagen, although the best results were in slight to moderate wrinkles.

    Collagen plays a significant role in skin elasticity and overall health. RLT could help turn back the clock a few years by stimulating greater collagen production by promoting more youthful, healthier skin. 

    2. Decrease Acne

    Although we associate acne mostly with teenagers, getting older doesn’t guarantee that acne goes away. In fact, hormones are generally to blame for teen acne. Hormones can also cause acne around a woman’s menstrual cycle, during menopause, and in pregnancy. 

    Hormones aren’t the only culprit, either. Greasy foods, nutritional imbalances, infections, poor sleep, and various other things can also cause adult acne. Thankfully, red light therapy shows promise in decreasing acne so you can feel confident about your skin.

    A randomized controlled study saw that RLT decreased skin lesions (including acne blemishes) by an average of 36%. It’s been suggested that red light can assist in killing bacteria and easing inflammation, two necessary things in eradicating acne. 

    3. Improve Brain Health

    Although research hasn’t yet been conclusive, promising recent studies show that red light therapy could potentially improve brain health. An article published in the Journal of Neuroscience Research in 2018 states that RLT could improve blood flow and oxygen to the brain in those who have suffered strokes or brain injuries. 

    The anti-inflammatory effects of red light therapy can also help improve brain health. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) often cause inflammation in the brain or the head surrounding it. 

    If some of the damage from TBIs could be reversed, it could vastly improve the short and long-term outlook for those suffering from them. More research still has to be done to verify this benefit further. However, promising current studies show that RLT could be responsible for significant medical breakthroughs in the near future. 

    4. Promote Hair Growth

    A study published in 2020 noted that red light therapy could be a promising new treatment for thinning hair and balding. The study indicated that low-level laser therapy, which employs low levels of red light, seems to increase hair thickness and density. Minor side effects, like scalp itching, were noted but steadily faded over time. 

    This is promising news for the 35 million men and 21 million women battling thinning hair or baldness. A chance to promote hair growth and reverse thinning along the scalp could improve confidence and quality of life in this group. 

    5. Reduce Pain and Inflammation

    Red light therapy could be beneficial if you battle with chronic pain or recently suffered a sports injury. Using the correct dose could ease pain and reduce inflammation. Of course, if you’re using RLT for pain or inflammation, it’s most beneficial when combined with treatments like physical therapy, pain medications, and chiropractic care

    Chronic or severe pain can significantly decrease a person’s quality of life and make it challenging to complete even the most basic daily tasks. But, RLT targets a specific protein found on the neuron’s surface that reduces the cell’s ability when it absorbs light. For this reason, red light therapy may be especially useful in managing conditions like neuropathy. 

    Reap Red Light Therapy Benefits For Yourself Today

    As you can see above, you could reap many red light therapy benefits. The benefits above are only a sample of what RLT may be used for and is not an exhaustive list by any means. 

    The DNA Vibe, a pioneer in Intelligent Light Therapy, is the device we recommend at our Littleton, CO, wellness center. There are specific reasons why we like this device. 

    First, DNA Vibe wearable devices use red light therapy, near-infrared light, and specific magnetic frequency to maximize the benefits. All of these therapies perform different health tasks in the body.

    Second, the intelligent processing of the frequencies in this device helps optimize the healing and repair processes. This intelligent processing also supports the power plants in the cells to create more energy for all the activities the cells need to do.

    Are you ready to reap the numerous benefits of red light therapy for yourself? Check out DNA Vibe’s website to learn more about how to start this therapy today. 

    You can also message us using our online contact form if you prefer, and someone will contact you as soon as possible. 

    Click here to shop for DNA Vibe intelligent red light therapy

  • When To Start a Functional Medicine Diet: A Guide

    When To Start a Functional Medicine Diet A Guide to a Healthier You! Did you know that the best foods for functional nutrition are minimally processed and contain plenty of vitamins and nutrients? To prevent yourself from being misled about what it takes to have a healthy diet, it is essential to understand helpful tips and tricks for starting a functional medicine diet.

    Unfortunately, it is common for media sources to promote ineffective fad diets by using buzzwords that have recently emerged in the health food industry. Should you do a paleo, keto, vegan, or carnivore diet? Do you need to intermittent fast? When should I start changing what I eat?

    We’ve written a guide to make things easier for you. Keep reading if you want to find out more.

    What Is Functional Nutrition?

    If you’ve heard people say the phrase, “let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food,” then you’ll have a basic understanding of what functional nutrition is all about.

    This phrase was coined by the famous physician Hippocrates many thousands of years ago. It summarizes what functional nutrition is all about.

    Food is an essential component of health. Therefore, if you don’t eat well, you will put yourself at risk of developing many mental and physical problems.

    On the other hand, you will become healthier if you start eating a more balanced diet.

    Understand the Best Days to Start a Diet

    There are several things that you’ll need to know to figure out when is the best time to start a healthy diet.

    You might have a gut feeling that it is the right time to start a functional medicine diet. People often have wake-up calls that tell them it is time to embrace healthy eating.

    This wake-up call could come after you visit a doctor who warns you that you’ll need to start taking medication if you don’t do something to start lowering your cholesterol.

    Many people also start focusing on their best nutrition after having a heart-to-heart conversation with a friend or family member. 

    It is a good idea to set a clear goal if you feel that it is time to start a functional medicine diet. 

    Here are some of the best days for beginning a new diet:

    After Your Birthday

    People often refer to this as the “fresh start effect.” This is because people are more likely to take action to achieve their important goals after landmark occasions.

    It is a good idea to start your functional nutrition diet on your birthday or right afterward. This decision will make you less likely to meditate on your past mistakes.

    You will also be more likely to take a big-picture perspective on your life on your birthday.

    The Start of the Week

    The first day of the week is also a great day for new beginnings. You can take advantage of this by choosing to make the commitment to make lifestyle changes on a Monday.

    Another reason it is wise to start dieting is a Monday is because people tend to indulge themselves by eating unhealthy foods on the weekend. It is easy to press the “reset” button on Mondays.

    Any Day in the Fall

    Once the holidays approach, people are more tempted to eat sugary foods that are not usually healthy. Most people need to spend several months losing weight that they’ve put on during this time of the year. You won’t have to worry about eating unhealthy foods during the holiday season if you make a resolution in October to start making the best possible nutrition choices.

    After You Make an Important Life Change

    It is a great time to focus on functional nutrition if you’re about to start a new routine. This might require you to make small changes to accomplish your most important dietary goals.

    This could involve starting every morning by eating a healthy breakfast. You can also reduce the amount of sugar and creamer you add to your morning coffee.

    Tips for Following a Functional Medicine Diet

    There is no single meal or diet plan that will encompass a functional nutrition eating style. Don’t just follow the fad diets. It will involve committing yourself to consuming many different kinds of foods that are not processed. Find out what your body needs. 

    Here are some of the most important principles to focus on:

    Look For Quality Nutrients

    There are many different kinds of foods that you can buy at the supermarket that are highly processed. Even though these foods can be tasty, you should avoid eating them.

    Instead, focus on consuming nutrient-dense foods that are not processed.

    Help Your Body Detoxify

    Toxins can cause disease. You can eliminate toxins from your body by consuming whole foods. For example, colorful produce, like red cabbage and rainbow carrots, are loaded with antioxidants.

    Antioxidants help the body to detoxify. You can also get rid of toxins by eating a fiber-rich diet. And don’t forget to consume plenty of probiotics such as yogurt, kombucha, and kimchi.

    Focusing on detoxifying your body will make it easier for you to overcome mental illnesses such as depression.

    Use Supplements If You Need Them

    If you want to fill in a nutrient gap in your diet, you should start using supplements. It would be best if you visited a healthcare professional to find out what types of supplements will be most helpful for you.

    A qualified health professional will do the blood tests needed to determine precisely what you are missing in your diet. Knowing what is going on in your body via testing will fill in the gaps from what you may not be getting in your healthy whole-food diet.

    Start a Functional Medicine Diet Today

    If you’ve been wondering when is the best day to start a functional medicine diet, remember that every day is the right day to start eating healthy foods.

    Are you looking for support to improve your diet? If so, our team of experts is here to help you. Don’t hesitate to find out more about the functional nutrition services that we offer.

     

  • What Is the Best Chiropractic Technique? A Closer Look

    What Is the Best Chiropractic Technique (1980 × 800 px)Do you know how many different styles of chiropractic adjustments or techniques there are? Some sources state that there are over 200. There are seven primary manual adjustment styles, six styles using adjustment instruments, and four upper cervical adjustment techniques taught in chiropractic colleges. With so many different chiropractic techniques, which ones are best for you?

    It can take time to decide, especially if you’re new to chiropractic care. Keep reading to take a closer look at which chiropractic technique might be best for you.

    What Is a Chiropractor?

    A chiropractor is a healthcare professional focusing on the nervous system and body health conditions. They use adjustments of the spine to accomplish this. These adjustments are effective for many common complaints, including:

    • Headaches
    • Neck pain
    • Back pain
    • Joint pain
    • Arthritis pain

    Other health conditions that respond well to chiropractic adjustments include:

    • Asthma
    • Blood pressure irregularities
    • Digestive issues
    • Fatigue
    • Fibromyalgia

    Pregnant women often seek chiropractic care to ease back pain and other discomforts.

    Where Can I Find a Chiropractor?

    Chiropractors often work in collaborative practices. These may include private practice, interprofessional clinics, family health teams, and hospitals. They can also work in the home for some patients and even onsite for large corporations.

    What Happens During a Chiropractic Visit?

    A chiropractor evaluates patients through a thorough physical examination and may order tests. Then, the practitioner develops a treatment plan based on the spine’s condition, the extent of an injury, and the patient’s long-term goals.

    The chiropractor may also order tests to determine if the patient is deficient in specific vitamins or minerals. As a result, they may recommend supplements.

    Why You Need a Chiropractor?

    Chiropractors use a combination of manual and non-invasive techniques to treat various ailments. Their treatments address unique patient situations. For example, chiropractic adjustments improve blood circulation to the affected muscles and joints, helping you avoid further pain and stiffness. They can also help you maintain a healthier lifestyle by preventing future injury and illness.

    Popular Chiropractic Techniques

    The most popular techniques that you will encounter in clinics are:

    Every technique uses different ways to address spinal subluxations or misalignments. But they all help remove nerve system interference to help the body function better.

    Chiropractic care also reduces the need for pain medications. Let’s take a look at how a chiropractor can help achieve relief.

    Spinal Manipulation

    During spinal manipulation, a doctor applies a gentle thrust to the spine with his hands, specially-designed instruments, or a combination of both. This technique has many benefits, including reduced pain and stiffness and less risk of complications. A chiropractor may use specific or general spinal adjustments depending on the issue.

    Direct Thrust Technique

    The direct thrust technique is the most commonly used technique in chiropractic care. It is a specialized method for realigning the spine, restoring normal joint range of motion, and relieving pain. A chiropractor performs a direct thrust by applying high to moderate amplitude forces at low velocity to a restricted joint.

    The direct thrust technique engages the restrictive barrier repeatedly before relaxing it. In addition, it is one of the most effective methods for releasing pectoral muscles and correcting rounded shoulders.

    The direct thrust technique also helps improve circulation and reduce pressure on spinal nerves. It can treat various spinal ailments, including leg pain and herniated discs. It is easy to use and is considered to be very comfortable. It is often used to relieve back pain in patients who have recently sustained an injury or have extra sensitivity to pressure.

    This technique is not one size fits all, and the chiropractor will work with you to determine the appropriate amount of pressure to use. The chiropractor may use their hands or a small instrument to apply thrusting pressure. However, direct thrust is not recommended for patients with osteoporosis.

    Gonstead Method

    The Gonstead method of chiropractic treatment is an effective and safe method for adjusting the spine. It is based on a thorough examination that evaluates the entire health status of a patient.

    The Gonstead method allows the chiropractor to focus on specific areas of the spine that are causing problems. During the initial visit, the chiropractor will take x-rays to examine the overall back health, spinal posture, and minor tissues.

    The Gonstead method also uses biomechanical analysis and recognizes that certain spinal problems originate from foundation issues. For example, a misalignment of the lower spine can lead to a misalignment in the upper spine.

    Because of this, the Gonstead method focuses on correcting the misalignment of the lower spine before addressing the upper spine. This allows for permanent adjustments to the spine.

    Thompson Technique

    A chiropractor who uses the Thompson technique can achieve numerous health benefits for patients. The method is gentle and requires little force, which allows it to be used on a wider range of patients. It can also help relieve pain in the nervous system, which is vital to a healthy body.

    The Thompson technique involves the use of a drop table. This specialized table is used to perform adjustments. It has padded platforms that drop slightly when the doctor makes an adjustment. The gentle dropping motion is felt by the patient as a vibration. This technique can be used on the spine and the extremities.

    Activator Chiropractic Technique

    The activator technique is a non-manipulative chiropractic technique. It does not leverage bones to manipulate joints. This allows chiropractors to apply controlled force at a specific angle.

    Dr. Arlan Fuhr introduced the technique in 1967. It is clinically researched, and chiropractors use it to treat back pain, neck pain, and extremity pain.

    The activator technique is often used for patients with acute disc herniations or scoliosis. It’s preferred over other chiropractic techniques for these patients because it is much less traumatic to the soft tissues. This technique also provides faster recovery.

    Since the activator technique is gentle on the spine and joints, it’s often used on children and pregnant women. It is also helpful for those who have osteoporosis or arthritis. It can target specific areas and reduce inflammation.

    Koren Specific Technique

    This new and exciting chiropractic technique was developed in 2003 by Dr. Tedd Koren. He created this improved form of chiropractic care from research and clinical experimentation.

    The gentle but very effective technique uses a three-step process of challenging the area of the body, checking to see if that area is in the proper position, and correcting with a specific adjustment with the Arthostim adjusting instrument.

    This style addresses the deep stresses a patient has experienced over the years without twisting, turning, or “cracking” the spine. The feedback people most often report after a KST adjustment is a sense of balance and ease in their bodies. 

    To learn more about this technique, check out this article- What Are the Benefits of the Koren Specific Technique Chiropractic Method?

    Feel Like Your Best Self

    Chiropractors are specialists in spine health and wellness and can help get your body back into balance. The chiropractic techniques used during an appointment vary depending on the condition being treated and your personal needs.

    If you’re curious about chiropractic care and whether it could be right for you, schedule an appointment with us! We’ll work with you to find the chiropractic technique that provides the most relief so you can feel your best

     

  • 9 Bodily Tissues That Can Be Regenerated Through Functional Nutrition

    9 Bodily Tissues That Can Be Regenerated Through Functional NutritionBelieve it or not, your body’s default state is normally in constant regeneration mode. However, in times of illness, your body may lose its natural state of health. When the body is not in a natural state of health causes degeneration or the breakdown of cells. The potential to get your body back on track lies in healthy nutrition, herbs, fasting, and other healing modalities. Did you know that humans have the ability to regenerate their tissues if they have the right tools? Functional nutrition can help you heal your body. Continue reading for some valuable tips toward a healthier life.

    What Is Functional Nutrition?

    If you haven’t been gaining the benefits of functional nutrition, then your body is missing out. There are so many ways to help your cells and organs rejuvenate and regenerate through nutritious foods and fasting.

    Functional nutrition takes into account your body’s specific needs. Rather than following a generic diet, functional nutrition focuses on your personal genetics, lab values, and lifestyle.

    A healthy, nutritious diet and fasting can slow down the aging process and renew your health. Regular exercise and caloric restriction can increase the bone marrow’s stem cell content and reduce stress and inflammation in your body.

    Nutritional evaluation

    How Can Fasting Help?

    Fasting causes your body to turn on sirtuins. These genes can actually help to repair DNA and keep other genes that cause aging silent. Studies with mice have shown that fasting causes cells to break down fatty acids instead of glucose. This caused stem cells to become more regenerative.

    The results also showed regenerative effects in the intestines, making it possible to treat infections or cancers that affect this area. They even found that stem cells in mice that had fasted for 24 hours had doubled their regenerative capacity!

    This study goes to show that the value of nutrition for tissue regeneration not only includes what you eat but when you eat as well.

    What Can Tissues Functional Nutrition Help?

    1. Nerve Regeneration

    Did you know that functional nutrition can help you to regenerate your nerves? Studies have shown that blueberry, green tea, and carnosine are able to aid in stem-cell regeneration in animals with neurodegenerative diseases. Some examples are Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, Huntington’s disease, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and motor neuron disease.

    In addition, herbs such as ashwagandha, red sage, ginseng, coffee, theanine, lion’s mane mushroom, and curcumin were all found to have neurogenic effects.

    2. Liver Regeneration

    Your liver can also regenerate using a compound known as glycyrrhizin, found in licorice. Other substances include oregano, curcumin, Korean ginseng, Vitamin E, and rooibos. 

    Eating healthy foods such as broccoli promotes liver function and reduces your blood’s inflammation. Mushrooms are another great detoxifier for your liver cells.

    Moringa extract is another one to try if your liver needs protection from drugs and chemicals. 

    3. Skin Tissue

    The largest organ of the body is the skin, and it is one tissue that easily regenerates. Normal skin healing happens every two weeks unless the tissue is damaged; then, it happens more quickly. We also see skin restored when we get a cut or scrape, and the body heals itself sometimes with scar tissue leftover.

    The skin responds well to vitamins E, A, B, K, D, selenium, and zinc. It also responds well to foods that contain healthy fats. Foods that contain healthy fats include avocados, fish, coconut oil, nuts, and seed. These can help your skin stay firm, supple, and moisturized.

    Another supplement that has been show to create healthier skin is collagen. It increases skins elasticity and hydration by enhancing the natural production of collagen proteins and amino acids.

    4. Cardiac Cell Regeneration

    New research is finally showing that the body can regenerate cardiac cells. Heart-tissue regenerating compounds are known as neocardiogenic substances. Some of these can regrow heart cells, which then restore healthy heart tissue. 

    Resveratrol, Siberian ginseng, red wine extract, Geum Japonicum, and N-acetyl-cysteine are just a few of these regenerative heart substances. 

    Other new studies show that stem cells can regenerate heart cells through the placenta.

    You can also try moringa extra to prevent heart damage and also increase stem cell production.

    5. Insulin-Producing Beta Cells

    Although not often used in the medical community, research has shown that some natural compounds can regenerate insulin-producing beta cells. Healthy beta cells are essential in reversing diabetes. 

    Beta cells get destroyed in insulin-dependent diabetes. In theory, restoring the beta cells can improve a diabetic’s health to the point where they no longer need insulin. Vitamin D, turmeric, avocado, chard, stevia, goldenseal, bitter melon, and arginine are some substances that can help regenerate beta cells.

    6. Hormone Regeneration

    Hormones are a vital part of our body’s daily function. It is possible to regenerate hormones by increasing the endocrine glands’ ability to secrete more hormones. Vitamin C, as a supplement, as well as foods rich in vitamin C, has been shown to help in place of hormone replacement therapy.

    Vitamin C is a potent electron donator. What this means is that it can give electrons to restore function in hormones such as testosterone, estradiol, estrogen, and progesterone. This vitamin can also support the liver and ovaries, both of which help produce active hormones in the body.

    7. Cartilage Regeneration

    For those suffering from osteoarthritis, there is hope. Herbs and supplements such as Boswellia, fish oil, nettle, glucosamine, chondroitin, and vitamin E, are just a few that can improve joint tissue and regeneration.

    Supplements like collagen hydrolysate keep joints moving more comfortably. Collagen is the connective fiber matrix that is the basis for your ligaments, cartilage and bones.

    8. Spine Regeneration

    Similar to cartilage and joint regeneration, many supplements show promise in helping with the recovery of a spinal cord injury. They include vitamins C and E, cannabis extracts, and curcumin. 

    9. Neural Stem Cell Regeneration

    Spirulina is a cyanobacterium that is full of nutrients. It can help with stem cell creation and prolong healthy brain function. The coffeeberry fruit extract is another supplement that can help improve brain activity. It can even slow down the aging process that causes stress.

    Like regeneration in other areas of your body, curcumin present in turmeric can help your body make new brain cells. It is also well known for reducing inflammation in your body. 

    Ready For Your Functional Nutrition Plan?

    If you enjoyed learning about how you can restore your body to its natural health but aren’t sure where to start, then we can help. There’s a lot to think about when it comes to your health and maintaining a proper diet.

    Luckily our team of professionals can help you find the best nutritional plan for you. There’s never a better time to put your health first. Get started on your functional nutritional plan today. Click here to learn more.

    Nutritional evaluation

     

  • Neurofeedback Training at Home: What You Need to Know

    Neurofeedback Training at Home (1980 × 800 px)Have you ever looked for ways to improve conditions like anxiety or ADHD without using pills? Or would you like a way to enhance your focus and improve concentration?

    If so, neurofeedback training could be the perfect treatment solution! This training works with your brain’s electricity to measure your brain waves in real time. Then, it provides a feedback signal through visual readings.

    In other words, it translates your brainwaves into quantifiable and measurable data. These days, you can even get neurofeedback equipment at home.

    However, neurofeedback training at home requires additional work. If you need help with how to use your neurofeedback device, keep reading! We’ll explore how this training works in this guide. 

    How to Start Neurofeedback Training at Home

    The first step in neurofeedback training is to find a neurofeedback device you can wear. There are many devices sold for neurofeedback training. For example, you can find a consumer-grade, dry-sensor EEG headband that can provide the necessary information for your training. There are several brands available online.

    However, in most cases, the direct-to-consumer devices are limited in the neurofeedback training they can do. They won’t have specific protocols to deal with specific clinical symptoms you may have. These devices can only do more generic protocols.

    To get the correct protocol for your specific symptoms, you need to have a qEEG brain map. In many medical facilities, doctors and therapists outfit you with an EEG cap with wires and gel to measure your brain wave activities. 

    The brain map information can customize the neurofeedback training for you. This customization will help make the training more effective.

    While you can choose between different home training products, there is an option that can give you the best of both. Some clinics that can do the brain map also have home training units for the convenience of training at home.

    Find an App to Translate Your Brainwave Data

    EEG headbands can help you record your brainwaves. However, you can only convert these waves into readable data with an app. 

    Several apps and software solutions can help you translate these waves into data. Search for the program that will help you read this data and make sense of it. 

    If you are using home units from a clinic, the training hardware and software are included in the cost of training. Since the protocols are specific to you, the doctor will set the training parameters for you.

    Find a Way to Measure Your Progress

    Mental fitness has many similarities to physical fitness. Just as people take pictures of themselves before and after a physical fitness regimen, you may do the same in a mental fitness regimen. 

    What does this look like with most home neurofeedback training? When you first start, most devices will provide your baseline brainwave measurements. Those measurements will be unique to your body. 

    Record this measurement and treat it as your “before” picture. This baseline is a snapshot of your brain’s electrical activity before changing it. Most consumer-grade home training devices will only look at one brain area.

    The big difference with clinical-based home training is the brain map shows brainwave activity across the entire brain. This way, you see how your brain is operating as a whole.

    You can improve your baseline measurements as you proceed with your training at home. As this occurs, you’ll improve your sense of focus and calm. 

    The Benefits of Neurofeedback Training

    As you can see, it’s easy enough to master neurofeedback training at home. However, you may wonder if it’s worthwhile. If so, check out some of the benefits of this training:

    You can find these benefits when you begin your neurofeedback training. So, start your regimen today!

    Start Your Neurofeedback Training Today

    As you can see, you can practice neurofeedback training from the comfort of your home. However, you may wonder how to get started.

    If so, check out our services! We offer home neurofeedback training at our facilities. Schedule a free consultation with our expert clinicians. So, start your training today! 

  • How to Treat Whiplash With Chiropractic Care

    How to Treat Whiplash With Chiropractic Care (1980 × 800 px)Did you know that people who suffer from whiplash also often experience blurred vision, ringing in the ears, and difficulty concentrating? It can be scary to suffer from whiplash if you don’t know how to go about getting relief for your symptoms. If you choose to do nothing, it’s possible that your condition will not improve. Symptoms getting worse is why it is such a good idea to reach out to a chiropractic clinic to find out about their treatment options.

    We’ve written a guide that explains the benefits of working with the best chiropractor if you have whiplash. Read on if you want to find out more.

    How Your Chiropractor Will Diagnose Whiplash

    When you make a visit to a chiropractor for pain management, they will perform an evaluation on your entire spine. This is because it is common for your whole body to be affected if you have whiplash.

    Your chiropractor will look for areas in your body that have restricted movement. They will also find out whether or not you have an intervertebral disk injury or a ligament injury.

    They will want to watch how you walk. Assessing your gait will help the doctor better understand how your condition influences your posture and spinal alignment.

    If you are unsure whether or not it is a good idea to visit a chiropractor for your neck pain, keep in mind that it is a good thing to do if your injury negatively impacts your quality of life.

    How to Treat Whiplash

    During the acute phase of whiplash, your chiropractor will focus on reducing inflammation in the neck. They might use manual therapy techniques and gentle stretching to do this. They also might use the flexion-distraction method, which is a type of spinal manipulation that helps treat herniated disks.

    It is also possible that they will use an instrument-assisted manipulation technique which involves using a handheld instrument. Instrument adjusting is an effective therapeutic technique for degenerative joint syndrome patients.

    At our Littleton, CO chiropractic clinic, the doctor uses Koren Specific Technique or KST. This technique uses an instrument called an Arthrostim to adjust. This style of chiropractic care is very gentle but also very powerful. To learn more, check out this article, “What Is Koren Specific Technique? The Ultimate Guide.”

    Once the inflammation starts to go down, your chiropractor may offer trigger-point therapy, which involves treating painful muscles using their hands and fingers to apply direct pressure.

    Visiting Your Chiropractor: What You Need to Know for Pain Management

    In an acute injury, pain and symptoms are immediate. However, pain is not the only goal of treatment. Knowing that the best chiropractors focus on treating the entire person is essential.

    The nerves that sense pain in the neck also have many other bodily functions. These nerves go to your eyes, ears, sinuses, and even your brain. You may suffer from headaches, brain fog, dizziness, eye fatigue, general fatigue, and whiplash pain. 

    They understand that every patient’s needs are unique. They will also offer you tips and advice for preventing injuries in the future.

    Visit a Chiropractic Clinic for Whiplash Today

    If you are suffering from whiplash, it is a good idea to search for a “chiropractor near me” to get treatment for your condition.

    If you are looking for the best chiropractic clinic in Littleton, CO, don’t hesitate to contact us today for more information. We offer quality services that make a difference. 

  • 5 Questions to Ask During a Chiropractic Adjustment

    5 Questions to Ask During a Chiropractic AdjustmentThere are over 1 million chiropractic adjustments performed every day in the US. The country has over 70,000 registered chiropractors who treat over 35 million patients daily.

    The most common reason for seeking this treatment is lower back pain. It’s a leading cause of disability, and 80% of the population will experience it during their lives. When it comes to back pain treatments, chiropractic is more effective than medications, massage, yoga, pilates, and OTC drugs, according to the American College of Physicians.

    A chiropractic adjustment also helps with other conditions that start in the spine. These include headaches, stiff muscles, and neck pain.

    If you’ve been looking for relief from these conditions, read on to learn five critical questions to ask before you get a chiropractic adjustment.

    1. What Techniques Do You Practice and Will They Help Me?

    There are many reasons to see a chiropractor and a wide range of chiropractic techniques. They may need to be more familiar with a few or a specialist in another. 

    Speak to them about your symptoms to help them determine which technique is best for your situation. They should be able to tell you if a chiropractic adjustment will provide relief or if you need a different treatment. 

    2. Can You Provide References?

    Look at written or video testimonials online from past patients. Ask for references once you get inside the chiropractor’s office to get an even better picture of their reputation.

    3. Do You Take X-Rays or Nerve System Scans?

    Chiropractic care involves more than a single adjustment. Ask about what to expect throughout the entire process, including whether or not you’ll need imaging studies or other objective tests. Here at our clinic, we use state-of-the-art nerve system scans. They help your chiropractor know if you have any serious spinal issues before you begin.

    How Many Appointments Will I Need?

    Take the time during your first chiropractic appointment to determine how many times you’ll have to visit the office. You may not get a definitive answer, but they should be able to provide an estimate.

    At our Littleton, CO chiropractic clinic, we will answer four frequently asked questions after your exam.

    1. What is going on with you and your health?
    2. Can we help with your problem?
    3. How long will it take?
    4. What will it cost?

    Let’s talk a little more about the cost.

    How Much Will It Cost?

    Seeing a chiropractor can reduce your pharmaceutical costs by 85%. It’s an investment in your overall wellness, but you need to know what you’re getting into before you begin.

    Factors such as x-rays and the number of appointments you need help determine how much a chiropractor costs. It ranges from $30-$200 per appointment with an average of $65.

    Find out whether or not the initial consultation is free. Ask your chiropractor for a comprehensive bill and how much of it your insurance covers. Find out if they offer payment plans. See if you can bundle several chiropractic services together to save money. 

    Where Should I Get a Chiropractic Adjustment?

    A chiropractic adjustment can treat a wide range of painful conditions. It’s grown from a niche area of the medical world into a popular treatment option with plenty of practitioners. 

    Finding the best chiropractor for you means asking several important questions. 

    • Do they have experience with the proper techniques to help me? 
    • Can they provide references? 
    • Do they perform scans or x-rays? 
    • How much will it all cost?

    The Dody Chiropractic Center for Wholeness focuses on improving the health of your mind and body with Neurotherapy, chiropractic care, and functional nutrition. Contact us for a chiropractic adjustment today.

  • 5 Major Benefits of Functional Nutrition

    5 Major Benefits of Functional NutritionNo matter where we’re at in life, we deserve to look and feel our best. Investing in our health habits can ensure we’re able to make the most of our overall quality of life. That’s why you should consider implementing functional nutrition in your health routine.

    Functional nutrition is a holistic, comprehensive way of evaluating your body’s needs. Instead of looking at various symptoms of any health-related issues, this kind of treatment targets the root causes. 

    There are many potential associated benefits of functional nutrition. Fortunately, we’ve outlined five of the most essential ones below. Keep reading to learn how functional nutrition might be just what you need. 

    1. Protect Your Body from Potential Diseases

    Your diet directly affects your immune system. With functional nutrition guided by a well-trained specialist, you can promote your immunity in a variety of ways. 

    For instance, consuming more citrus foods could be an excellent place to start. Your nutrition specialist, though, will have even more advice as to how to use the foods you eat to keep you safe from potential diseases. 

    2. Prevent the Lack of Key Vitamins and Minerals

    There are so many ways that the most common modern dietary habits lack what we need to support our body’s overall health. Essential vitamins and minerals are not a part of most processed foods or meals at local restaurants. 

    The consequences can be severe when we lack those critical molecules in our bodily systems. Functional nutrition helps to ensure that outcome. Natural, organic, and nutritionally packed foods do a much better job of keeping us happy, healthy, and high-energy. 

    3. Support Your Mental Health, Too

    Probiotics can play a large part in easing both depression and anxiety. Your mental health will benefit when you learn to consume the most functional foods to boost nutrition. In particular, a more nutritious diet will likely include more probiotics. 

    The microbes in your gut have a direct connection to your body’s central nervous system. In other words, your tummy is always in close contact with your brain. When you invest in the health and vitality of the gut, the improvement of the brain’s function and positivity will follow.

    4. Stay Focused and Energized Throughout Your Day

    A lot of processed foods aggravate our system and gut biome. This discomfort can lead to lower energy levels and a lack of motivation. For instance, we might be more inclined to sit on the couch and binge-watch movies. 

    Instead, a more intentional and nutritious diet can refocus our attention on the things that matter most to us. Fruits, nuts, and soybeans, in particular, are known to aid in energy levels. Your functional nutrition specialist can help you decide which foods might be ideal for helping you avoid sluggish or low-energy tendencies. 

    5. Meet Your Body’s Unique, Specific Needs

    Healthy eating should look different for everyone. That’s because specific bodily needs are different for everyone. 

    A comprehensive health consciousness, with the aid of a nutrition specialist, will improve your entire quality of life. Your functional nutritionist will specifically work with you on how your eating habits have affected your health in the past and how they can improve your health throughout the future. 

    Invest in Reputable Functional Nutrition Today

    If you’re ready to optimize your healthy living habits, functional nutrition is the key for you.

    That’s why our team of experts specializes in this form of highly trained guidance and treatment. We hope you take the time to learn more about our functional nutrition services available today.  

  • 3 Ayurvedic Tips For The Fall

    3 AYURVEDIC TIPS FOR THE FALL bannerFall is right around the corner. These ayurvedic tips will help you function better this year. In the Ayurvedic tradition, there are only three seasons in a year – late winter/spring, the summer months, and late fall/winter.

    With each passing season, nature begins to exhibit some telltale signs that change is coming. But did you know that the cycles of nature reflect what is happening in your physical body?

    The body’s reaction to the changes of seasons can be subtle, showing up mentally or emotionally, but these shifts can also affect your digestion, circulation, and overall energy levels.

    In a previous post, we talked about ways to combat the summer heat or Pitta season as it’s called. Now, as autumn begins to peek its head – the nights growing cooler, the sun setting earlier – it’s time to prepare for the next phase.

    Keep reading to learn three excellent Ayurvedic practices that will promote healthy digestion, maintain your energy levels, and keep you feeling grounded through the fall/winter months with ease.

    Ayurveda – A Quick Recap

    Ayurveda directly translates to the “Knowledge of Life.” It’s the oldest healing science in the world, originating in India over 5,000 years ago. Based on nature, it’s a system comprised of five elements – ether, air, fire, water, and earth.

    These elements are divided into three constitutions, or doshas, that govern nature and the human experience. The late fall and winter months are attributed to the dosha called Vata.

    How Does Vata Season Affect the Body?

    The elements that rule Vata are air and ether, which embody the qualities of cold, light, dry, rough, and moving. Now think about how these qualities manifest in nature. Dry leaves are blowing across the ground, cold air, light winds, etc.

    These same qualities are at play in your body, manifesting rough hands and feet, arthritis, or constipation (an imbalance of the cold, dry qualities in the intestines). In the mental and emotional centers, an imbalance of Vata is linked to anxiety and depression.

    However, Ayurveda is about finding ways to counterbalance what is happening outside, so your body maintains a balanced state.

    Below are three easy things you can do to combat the Vata season’s cold, dry effects.

    Three Ayurvedic Tips for Autumn

    1. Consume Warm Foods/Drinks

    To pacify Vata’s naturally cold and drying effects, it is better to eat warm foods during this season. Try to avoid raw, uncooked fruits and vegetables, as well as salads and sushi. Drinking lots of warm water (or herbal tea) will keep your intestines and skin hydrated.

    Some wonderful foods to incorporate during this season are avocados and bananas (okay to eat raw) and seasonal produce like pumpkins, peaches, carrots, and asparagus. Try substituting ghee for butter for an added benefit.

    Ginger is a great fall/winter herb. It is warming and has anti-microbial/anti-bacterial properties that help fend off pesky germs and sicknesses. Add it to hot water with a bit of lemon and honey for a fresh, homemade tea.

    2. Abhyanga Massage

    ayurvedic massageThis ancient technique of massaging warm oil into the skin is grounding and relaxing. Not only does it moisturize the skin, but it also calms the nervous system.

    It is best to use a heavier oil like sesame or coconut during the Vata season. Start with the top of your head and finish with the souls of your feet. Rub the oil into your skin. Let it sit for 5-15 minutes before enjoying a warm bath or shower. The oils will naturally pull toxins from the body, so allow the water to wash away the excess without scrubbing too hard. Then pat your skin dry with a towel.

    You might be surprised how much oil your skin absorbs the first couple of times you try this.

    There are many additional benefits to Abhyanga:

    • Lubricates the joints
    • Reduces wrinkles, anti-aging
    • Increases circulation
    • Aids in detoxification
    • Reduces stress/anxiety
    • Heals the nervous system
    • Improves sleep

    3. Create a Routine

    Vata is defined by being light, airy, and moving, so it’s not uncommon to feel ungrounded during these months.

    Create a routine to help combat the more unpredictable elements of data. Get up and go to bed at the same time every day, eat meals at predictable times, and schedule time for both exercise and rest.

    A simple daily routine will help you feel more centered and energized throughout the day.

    Conclusion

    Ayurvedic practices have been around for thousands of years. It follows the seasonal cycles and believes that your body is a mere reflection, a microcosm, of what is happening in the natural world around you.

    When nature moves from summer’s hot, oily qualities into autumn’s cool, dry qualities, your body follows suit. By utilizing these three practices, you can help your body and mind combat the effects of Vata season.

    If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact our Littleton, CO wellness center.