Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Feel Better in Body and Mind......


Gregory Sawyer, D. C.

With the economic downturn, the growth of depression and anxiety, as well as the intensity, duration, and frequency of the worry in general are getting disproportionate to the issue, and it is often to a degree that disrupts or impairs normal physical and psychological functioning. Anxiety is often accompanied by mild to moderate depression as well as a number of physical symptoms including muscle tension, increased blood pressure, GI discomfort, fatigue, insomnia, and irritability. Anxiety is believed to affect about 15% of the adults in the United States (an estimated 19 million adult Americans), thus making it more common than any other category of mental health disorders.
In the field of psychology, anxiety is broken down into five categories of disorders:
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
Panic Disorder
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Phobias – either Social or Specific1
Many conditions (symptoms, syndromes and diseases) are direct result and a consequence of a general neurotransmitters’ imbalance. Inadequate or imbalanced neurotransmitter levels can result in disrupted or distorted signals between neurons. In recent years, research has shown that lowered levels of serotonin may be responsible for depression, insomnia, addiction, obsessive or compulsive disorders, PMS, obesity, and anxiety. Multiple literature trials are publishing data on the probability that neurotransmitter imbalances can trigger ADHD, ADD, Chronic muscle/joint pain, Depression, Anxiety, Obsessive/ compulsive behaviors, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (Recurrent diarrhea/constipation or mixture), Migraines, Obesity, Insomnia, Hypertension, Fibromyalgia Many apparently dissimilar conditions can have a common underlying neurotransmitter imbalance[s].
The Nervous System is considered the main body’s information processor and without it, our body is unable to function properly. The Central Nervous System (CNS) is the body’s main info-headquarter, ultimately regulating nearly all body functions. The Brain – is the main processor of all incoming information from within and outside the body, through sensory nerves of sight, touch, smell, sound, and taste. Is where thinking and decision-making takes place, and where language, emotions, memories, and thoughts are stored. The Spinal Cord – is a tube that extends about 18 inches down the body spinal column and the main pathway for connecting the brain and the peripheral nervous system. By means of electrical impulses it allows the brain to communicate with the rest of the body.
The Peripheral Nervous System includes cranial nerves (nerves emerging from the brain), spinal nerves (nerves emerging from the spinal cord) and all the major sense organs. It responses to the reminder of human reactions and includes: The Somatic Nervous System (SNS) – Responsible for all muscular activities that we consider voluntary or that are within our conscious control. The Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) – Responsible for all activities that occur automatically and involuntarily, such as breathing, muscle contractions within the digestive system, and heartbeat. The components of the ANS work together to create a balanced response to outside stimuli. The ANS includes: A) The Sympathetic System – Stimulates all cells and organs’ function Once initiated, it speeds up the “flight or fight” reaction by speeding heart rate, increases the activity of the sweat and adrenal glands, slows down the digestive system and sends blood to the skin and muscles. B) The Parasympathetic System – Inhibits cell and organ function, it slows down heart rate, resumes digestion, and increases relaxation throughout the body. This parasympathetic “rest and digest” response counteracts the sympathetic “fight or flight” response and helps the body recuperate after a crisis is over. A person's normal resting heart rate is determined by the parasympathetic system. If blood pressure is too high or blood carbon dioxide levels are too low, this system slows the heart down and lowers its output.
What Causes an Unhealthy Neurological System?
Poor Diet – Malnutrition, bad digestion and low absorption can cause vitamin, mineral and amino acid deficiencies affect the neurological system’s ability to function effectively. This may lead to certain levels of neurological impairment such as mental confusion, loss of concentration, ADD, ADHD, depression anxiety etc.
Stress – Chronic elevated stress with constant negative thinking can wreak havoc on the neurological system. Over time, chronic stress can trigger mental disorders such as anxiety, depression, and obsessive compulsive disorder leading to various serious degenerative diseases as a consequence.
Toxicity- Heavy metals such as aluminum, lead, and mercury accumulate in the brain. Multiple studies are examining possible link between high levels of toxic metals and severe neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease (due to aluminum and mercury exposure), autism (due to mercury exposure); antisocial and behavioral disorders (due to lead exposure) and many others. It is already proven that a chronic low level but long-term exposure to pesticides has measurable effects on cognition.
Chronic and Acute Infections- Infections caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites and fungi are mainly responsible for serious neurologic symptoms. Candida overgrowth can impair neurological functions and it may lead to brain fog, depression, obesity, ADD and many others. Other illnesses that affect neurological function include bacterial and viral meningitis (inflammation of the tissues surrounding the spinal cord and the brain). Untreated infection with Treponema pallidum in the past could cause neurological impairment and stroke-like symptoms.
What can you do to restore the Nervous System’s equilibrium?
Eat organic foods and practice organic gardening to avoid pesticide exposure.
Follow a well balanced diet. There are many things you can do to support the healthy functioning of your neurological system.
Add whole foods – Fill your diet with nutrient-rich whole foods such as organic nuts and seeds, bright berries, and dark green leafy vegetables such as kale, spinach, parsley, cilantro, and oregano.
Saturated fats – Although saturated fats have a bad reputation, they are actually essential for fat-soluble vitamin delivery to the body, and a host of other body processes. In fact, 60% of the brain is made up of saturated fat. A good source of saturated fat to add to your diet is organic virgin coconut oil.
Include more omega-3 essential fatty acids – Studies have shown that countries (like Japan) that eat a diet rich in omega 3 have lower rates of major depression. Obtain your omega-3 from different sources: wallnuts, flax seeds and flax oil, fish and fish oil.
Consume Tryptophan rich foods – This essential amino acid can be obtained from the diet or through supplementing with tryptophan. 5-HTP, an advanced form of tryptophan, helps the body produce serotonin and melatonin which play a role in mood regulation and quality sleep. Consider adding foods to your diet that contain tryptophan: Turkey; Beans; Whole grain rice; Hummus; Lentils; Hazelnuts; Sesame and sunflower seeds
Use light therapy to regulate Seasonal Depression and to restore mood and circadian rhythms
Exercise. Following a daily physical exercise program that really makes you sweat. Sweat helps the body release toxins from its system.
Incorporate “brain fitness” activities into your daily routine by challenging your mind. Some examples include crossword puzzles, hobbies, reading, socializing with friends, etc.
Consider chelation therapy for heavy metals removal. It is approved for lead and other heavy metals intoxication.
Eliminate the mercury amalgam feelings as mercury easily accumulates in brain cells. Also, mercury in the body damages immune cells, which then lose their ability to ward off invaders like Candida.
Reduce your exposure to aluminum. Drink filtered or purified water. Switch to stainless steel cookware instead of aluminum pots and pans. Switch to aluminum-free deodorant. Breastfeed your baby. Avoid soy formula as it contains the most aluminum.
Try to avoid as much as possible: a) Alcohol, caffeinated beverages such as coffee, tea, and energy drinks that contain extra caffeine and sugary foods; b) Refined sugars may contribute to Candida albicans (yeast) overgrowth; c) Artificial sweeteners are known as neuro (brain) excitotoxins; d) Nitrites found in processed foods such as hot dogs, lunch meats, and bacon; e) Partially hydrogenated oils found in many processed baked goods and snack foods; f) Deep-fried food, fast food, and junk food, which contain trans-fats.
In order to help you to achieve neurotransmitters’ equilibrium the Natural Health & Wellness Center protocols are assuring:
Energy Boost
- Supports the health of your mitochondria, the little energy factories in every one of your cells, to reduce fatigue, boost your energy and quicken your mental functioning.
Improved Mood & Behavior - Helps to stabilize your mood, promote happiness and reduce irritability, anxiousness, stress and fatigue.
Sounder Sleep - Supporting proper hormone levels and neurotransmitters may lead to experience peaceful nights of deep, uninterrupted, pleasant sleep. Sleep is a critical part of your body's internal repair process and without proper sleep, your health may suffer.
Faster Thinking Speed - Promotes optimal levels of hormones and neurotransmitters to sharpen your thinking speed and improve your focus, memory, concentration and motivation.
Immune System Support - The immune support kit consists of powerful phytonutrients that help regulate your immune response and support immune function. This appears to play a crucial role in cardiovascular, neurological, joint, and connective tissue health.
Optimized Digestion - To have a healthy brain, you must have a healthy gut. Less that optimal gut function and improper digestion of food may lead to a host of problems. This kit offers the additional support you need to optimize your digestion, thus enhancing your mood, behavior, and cognition.
Enhanced Detoxification - Supports your detoxification pathways to eliminate many of the toxins that are a result of toxic exposures that can have an extremely detrimental effect on your brain, mood, memory and behavior.
Calm Mind - Supports proper adrenal function, which can lead to a calm, relaxed, vibrantly awake state of mind.
If you would like to learn more on the above topic, please call and require a personal consultation:
(715) 392-7591; (218) 213-6167; or (218) 213-7087
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The material in this newsletter is provided for informational purposes only. Thus our intentions are not to diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat or prevent any disease. If you use the information in this newsletter without the approval of your health professional, the authors of this letter do not assume any responsibility. Copyright @ 2009, Natural Health-Wellness LLC. All rights reserved.

Saturday, November 21, 2009

Few Important Powerhouses for Prostate Support


Greg Sawyer, D. C.

African Pygeum (Prunus africana), also known as Pygeum africanum, or just Pygeum, is an evergreen African plum tree native to higher elevations of southern Africa. It has been found statistically beneficial in benign prostate hyperplasia (BHP). BPH implies two major prostate changes: increased size and increase tissue density of the gland, what causes symptoms of frequent urge to urinate with incomplete emptying, reduced prostatic secretions, edema, inflammation, chronic infection of the bladder and even, prostatic cancer. The herb was imported centuries ago from Africa to Europe since the 1700s. Since 1960s, it has been extracted and standardized as herbal extract in Europe. The use of this herb in US is relatively new phenomena.
Pygeum is primarily used to treat benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH), a condition which affects men as early as their 40s, but increasingly with age: 30% of fifty year olds; 50% of sixty year olds; and nearly 80% of men 70 and older. The tree's bark contains pharmaceutically active oils, waxes, fatty acids, and other less active and familiar compounds.
Pygeum’s principal biological activity is traced to a compound known as a phytosterol - beta-sitosterol. Phytosterols are almost structurally similar to cholesterol, but less efficiently absorbed from the diet. The biological action and strength of Phytosterols are similar to that of hormones- therefore, a very small amount seems sufficient to initiate a response.
Main mechanism of action consists:
· Anti-inflammatory: thus reducing prostate edema (the swelling caused by an excess of fluids).
· Improving and normalizing prostatic secretion.
· Normalizing and reducing hyper-prolactin production.
· Lowers and reduces cholesterol production and activity within the prostate.
· Regulating insulin activity and glucose intolerance
· Up regulating or improving the immune system.
Due to missing direct anti-inflammatory effect the herb is not found active in cases of acute or chronic prostatitis that are mainly caused by Staphylococcus aureus, Neiseria Gonorrhea, or Chlamydia. Thus, it can be used with random success in cases of sexual dysfunction (erection problems), infertility etc. At the same time the herb can help while taken with antibiotics as it produces an improved urine flow, as well as sexual function.
Saw palmetto: also known as (Serenoa repens, Serenoa serrulata, and Sabal). It is another botanical used for centuries in Europe, for initial and moderate form of BHP. Nowadays, Saw palmetto is under constant research. It helps decreasing the prostate benign hypertrophy. A team of authors found out that prostatic volume was significantly decreased during a trial with the herb (Blumenthal et al., 1998). No serious side effects were ever reported.
In a study by Braeckman (July 1994) named The Extract of Serenoa Repens in the Treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: A Multicenter Open Study,238 patients were using the herb for a month, and only 3% admitted limited gastrointestinal symptoms or any side effects at all. As the author states- the effect of saw palmetto begins after 30 to 45 days what is an obvious advantage over the most currently available drugs as Finasteride, for which delays may be as high as six to 12 months.
Another team of authors conclusions, reviewed in the Cochrane issue 2 (Ishani & MacDonald, 2003) provides mild to moderate improvement in urinary symptoms and flow measures. Serenoa repens produced similar improvement in urinary symptoms and flow compared to finasteride and is associated with fewer adverse treatment events. The long term effectiveness, safety and ability to prevent BPH complications are not known."
Zinc. Zinc may help your body heal faster as it promotes a strong and healthy immune system. New emerging evidence is also starting to show zinc's benefits in prostate health. As shown in a study, zinc is required for normal testosterone and sperm production, what is also essential to a healthy sex life. It is also shown that the helated form of zinc can be absorbed easier by the body.
Vitamin E and Selenium.All natural vitamin E (alpha, beta, and gamma) seems to be a powerful ally for complete prostate health. And selenium works in synergism with vitamin E to protect not only all body cells, but also prostate as they are also potent antioxidants.
Lycopene. Antioxidants are chemicals that fight free radicals, which are suspected to start all kinds of acute and chronic degenerative diseases. While all antioxidants are helpful for prevention and healing, lycopene has been shown to have direct tropism for a good prostate health and prevention.
Pumpkin Seed Oil. Pumpkin seed oil is a natural holistic prostate powerhouse used by European countries like Bulgaria, Romania and Ukraine to support prostate health and promote urinary flow. Pumpkin seeds are a powerful antioxidant with strong anti-inflammatory properties. They contain zinc, free fatty acids, vit E and Phytosterols that might be the reason for their general prostate health benefits.
Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica). It is a key nutrient for good prostate health, because it can reduce the amount of free (active) testosterone circulating in the blood that is able to convert in DHT and estrogen. In the human body there is an enzyme called - aromatase that helps the above not beneficial conversion. Nettle helps to inhibit aromatase, one of the enzymes responsible for testosterone conversion to estrogens. It’s leafs and also the roots contain certain vital Phytosterols (betasitosterol, stigmasterol, and campesterol) and multiple lignans.
All of the above botanicals seem to work in synergism. Synergistic supplements may facilitate benefits. One report advised dietary adjustments to enhance beneficial result. No unfavorable interactions were noted.

If you would like to learn more on the above topic, please call and require a personal consultation: (715) 392-7591; (218) 213-6167; or (218) 213-7087
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The material in this newsletter is provided for informational purposes only. Thus our intentions are not to diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat or prevent any disease. If you use the information in this newsletter without the approval of your health professional, the authors of this letter do not assume any responsibility. Copyright @ 2009, Natural Health-Wellness LLC. All rights reserved.

Friday, November 20, 2009

Holistic Recommendations for Sexual Dysfunction


Greg Sawyer, D. C.

As we approach our 30's and 40's, profound hormonal changes begin to take place in our bodies. Testosterone levels for both- men and women as well as levels of progesterone and estrogens in women tend to begin diminishing with age. We take it as a part of the normal aging process. A clinical study (1986) proved that it's not actually the total testosterone production that decreases but rather, the amount of free circulating testosterone ratio in blood that decreases. The explanation behind this is the following: as we age more and more of this free testosterone gets linked to albumin and becomes unavailable in the blood circulation for proper body's use. These changes happen in connection with a natural substance called "sex-hormone-binding-globulin" (SHBG).
Hormones are our body chemical messengers. They connect with receptors in cells and send them information. Adrenaline and noradrenalin known as the hormones of stress, are produced by the adrenals and tell the heart to speed up and blood vessels to narrow (in time of elevated stress) - the so called "fight or flight" pattern. Testosterone and estrogens, on the other hand, promote specific secondary (phenotypic) sexual characteristics that divide us to females and males.
Hormones influence and enhance our immune system also. Anyone can face that most of the chronic degenerative diseases happen to be diagnosed when women are premenstrual or menopausal and when men are in their andropause. A clinical study (1986) proved that it's not actually the total testosterone production that decreases with aging but rather, the amount of free circulating testosterone ratio that goes down. The explanation behind this is the following: as we age big part of our free testosterone gets bound to albumin and becomes unavailable in the blood circulation for proper body's use. These changes happen in connection with a natural substance called "sex-hormone-binding-globulin" (SHBG).
The hormonal relationship and obesity is shown also in HERS study published in JAMA (2000). The hyperinsulinemia in women has been shown to stimulate the release of testosterone from the ovaries (HERS study). It is a well known fact that people who are obese are suffering from this disorder regardless of whether they eat normally, excessively, or less than normal. At the same moment it is quite obvious that there are people who are constantly overeating but are free of the above disorder. It is easy to conclude that obesity in all its multiple forms is due to an abnormal damage in the hypothalamic area of the brain- a center that is the main regulatory mechanism of a hunger, thirst and the sexual desire.
The main reason for erectile dysfunction is the low level of testosterone production and mainly the low level of free testosterone in the blood. There are many different reasons, including obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure (all parts of the metabolic syndrome pattern), or having antihypertensive drugs to cope with the above problem, general depression combined with fear of failure in sexual performance, chronic use of antidepressive drugs, diminished nerve sensitivity, poor blood circulation with diminished blood flow due to a slowed heart rate and many others that are responsible for significant problems in that area. Whether physical or emotional, organic or psychosomatic your reasons might be you may start working with your doctor and to find exactly where the problems occurs and how you can cope with it.
If hormonal imbalance is not properly or timely addressed, the hormonal changes can lead to:
Depression and Anxiety
Decreased vital energy or zest for life
Loss of muscle tone and increased fat
Circulatory problems
Decreased libido
Dry skin and preliminary aging
Testosterone is a hormone produced in both-- males and females and it is responsible for:
The sexual desire in both females and males
Maintaining our energy levels high
Emotions including anger
For the level of sexual satisfaction
Building muscles
Burning off fat
Holistic Recommendations for Sexual Dysfunction
In case you are hormonally in disbalance, botanicals as Saw Palmetto, Wild Oats, Tribulus Terrestris, Muira puama, Wild oats, Nettles, Eleutherococcus, Saw palmetto, Sarsaparilla, Catuaba, Damiana, Kola nut, Ginger and Nettles may reverse this process naturally by increasing free testosterone levels.Again, you must remember that only the free available in the circulation testosterone will execute the above effects and functions while the total testosterone will offer partial and even mistaken information. A new research had shown increases in sex hormone-binding globulin levels with oral contraceptive use to be associated with a concomitant 40% to 60% decrease in free testosterone levels in women. Lowered levels of bioavailable or free testosterone are believed to play a major role in women's sexual health also and could place women at risk for decreased sexual desire, decreased arousal, decreased lubrication and increased sexual pain.
Saw Palmetto has been proven to help men in two ways: (1) Saw palmetto has been proven to inhibit the 5-alpha-reductase enzyme, which causes testosterone to be converted into a substance called "dihydrotestosterone" (DHT), which stimulates the growth of prostate tissue, being also responsible for male alopecia also, and (2) Saw palmetto has been proven to exert an anti-inflammatory effect on the prostate tissue. We must remember that SHBG binds not only testosterone, but also all of the sex hormones including estradiol (one of the "active" estrogens found in both men and women). Normally, this binding serves as a warehouse (storage) system for excess hormones, but in men there is an additional problem. SHBG also has an affinity for the prostate tissue (it can bind the estrogen to the cell membranes in the prostate). This causes an increase in PSA secretion-a prime test-marker for future prostate problems, including cancer. It has been found that the wild oats and nettles found in a herbal testosterone balancing formula work together to reverse this binding process, thereby reducing the likelihood of future prostate problems.
Astonishingly enough, women seem far more vulnerable to testosterone level changes than men. The reason is simple: women have less testosterone production and too many other hormones to balance (estrogens and progesterone). When even a small amount of their available testosterone gets bound to SHBG, the results are the following:
Loss of energy and stamina
General depression and loss of desire to do whatever
Loss of motivation or interest in sexual relation
Complete loss of libido or fulfillment from sex
Loss of muscle and significant increase in body fat -- the main reason women who used to be slim and who start gaining weight after their 40's. The decline of testosterone in women is considered as one of the reasons for metabolic syndrome appearance in advanced age. And in fact most of the women who were slim while being young face metabolic syndrome in their premenstrual and postmenopausal ages.
A significant increase in the risk of breast cancer- since bound SHBG is not longer available to lock up excessive amount of estrogens. It was been proven that regular use of a women's herbal testosterone formula may help balancing and even reversing the above condition.
As a final conclusion: testosterone balancing herbal formulas work naturally in both men and women to enhance sexual desire, sensation, and performance. Both men and women may experience an increase in sexual desire while taking wild oats & nettles. Both men and women have been reported to have good level of satisfection while taking the wild oats and nettles combination.
Adrenal Hormones
Also by the time we are 30, most of us have seriously depleted our adrenals correlated with the body's ability to respond to stress. Stress is normal to be sure, but the continual stress of modern living -- from high pressure jobs, fighting traffic, worrying about world events, etc. -- keeps us in a constant state of "heightened response" that eventually wipes out our adrenal reserves. The net result ranges from high blood pressure and impaired immune function to chronic fatigue and digestive problems. The standard response is to increase consumption of artificial stimulants such as caffeine or nicotine or alcohol -- and even overeating. These "solutions" are, in fact, no solution at all. Although they may temporarily mask the symptoms of adrenal exhaustion by providing an artificial "boost," they serve to further exhaust the adrenals leading to irrevocable harm to the body. Fortunately, there is a class of herbs known as adaptogens that naturally helps to rebuild adrenal function and restore hormonal balance.
Foremost among the adaptogens isginseng. Ginseng has been shown to:
Increase stamina
Revitalize your body
Increase your life span
Counteract chronic fatigue
Improve resistance to stress
Improve sexual function
Enhance immune function
The Bottom Line is that: We Need to Balance our Hormones with Age. Every single man and women over 30 who suffers of sexual dysfunction should seriously consider hormonal replacing or hormonal balancing program. In addition to using progesterone crème to help balance progesterone and estrogen levels, both men and women should rebalance their testosterone by a formula, which must contain:
Men’s Formula should contain the following botanicals: Ginseng, Tribulus Terrestris, Muira puama, Wild oats, Nettles, Eleutherococcus, Saw palmetto, Sarsaparilla, Catuaba, Damiana, Kola nut, and Ginger. In addition to all of the empowering sexual libido benefits, Saw palmetto and Muira puama have both been proven to inhibit -- and in some cases even reverse male pattern baldness.
Women’s Formula should offer the herbs: AmericanGinseng,Damiana, Muira puama, Mucuna pruriens Siberian ginseng, Saw palmetto, Wild oats, Nettles, Kola nut, Ginger, Wild yam, Licorice, Sarsaparilla, and Puncture Weed. For women, in addition to all of the other benefits that have been mentioned, some of the herbs in this formula have also been proven to help alleviate the symptoms of PMS and menopause and to inhibit the incidence of breast cancer.
If you are interested to learn more about our prostate formula you may check our supplement chart or call (715) 392-7591 for further information.
If you would like to learn more on the above topic, please call and require a personal consultation: (715) 392-7591; (218) 213-6167; or (218) 213-7087
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The material in this newsletter is provided for informational purposes only. Thus our intentions are not to diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat or prevent any disease. If you use the information in this newsletter without the approval of your health professional, the authors of this letter do not assume any responsibility. Copyright @ 2009, Natural Health-Wellness LLC. All rights reserved.

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

How to Prepare for the Upcoming Winter?



Gregory Sawyer, D. C.
Cooler weather is already at hand, and with it, we must be prepaired for all its negative surprises: fall allergies, colds, flu, weight gain (due to immobilization) and many others. A great way for our bodies to become prepaired is by performing light detoxing. Balance our GI tract, while empowering our immune system to handle all the upcoming fall challenges. Most people will feel a little drained of energy because of the body's getting adapted to the another winter season. You may also review the Dietary Guidelines of the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Department of Health and Human Services (created in 1980) for people to promote good health and prevent disease.
Here are few holistic ideas for your consideration:
1. Do light detoxing
2. Eat for health and prevention by eating a plentiful variety of foods
3. Maintain healthy weight and take a sensible approach to weight loss
4. Choose a diet low in: fat, saturated fat, cholesterol and simple carbs
5. Avoid all artificial sweeteners
6. Select the Rainbow Diet or the Mediterranean diet as your main options
7. Choose a diet rich of vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Add fiber to your diet
8. Restrict sugar and eat sugary foods in moderation
9. Use salt and sodium in moderation
10. Drink alcohol in moderation, if you drink
11. Learn to manage stress. Educate yourself to relax and to elicit relaxation responses
12. Develop an active lifestyle that includes a variety of activities. Exercise and keep body awareness
13. Learn to cope with life challenges and educate yourself on problem solving. Try cognitive restructuring
14. Apply the power of pleasure and humor
15. Improve your sleep habits
16. Add a good multivitamin/multimineral to reassure your natural immune defense and/or to avoid common nutritional deficiencies
17. Add a good Probiotic/Prebiotic formula (to reassure natural support for a healthy GI tract and for proper immune system function)
If you would like to learn more on the above topic, please call and require a personal consultation: (715) 392-7591; (218) 213-6167; or (218) 213-7087
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The material in this newsletter is provided for informational purposes only. Thus our intentions are not to diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat or prevent any disease. If you use the information in this newsletter without the approval of your health professional, the authors of this letter do not assume any responsibility. Copyright @ 2009, Natural Health-Wellness LLC. All rights reserved.

Friday, November 13, 2009

Addressing the Hyperventilation Syndrome



Gregory Sawyer, D. C.



"Hyperventilation syndrome" is not a respiratory disease but a psychological or emotional disorder. The term hyperventilation simply means to breathe more than necessary. It is caused by anxiety or a panic attack due to major traumatic event- catastrophe, loss of a relative, posttraumatic disorder due to operation, war and others. Although is not life-threatening, it can lead to a significant secondary anxiety and fear while decreasing the oxygenation to the brain, heart and other important organs. Despite not frequent, the hyperventilation syndrome is quite scary and staying calm is the most important approach to control it.
Common symptoms:
1. Numbness and tingling in the fingers and lips.
2. Spasms in the hands and feet are.
3. Cold chills or hot ways.
4. Erratic or even dangerous behavior.
5. Chest pains.
What one can do?
1. Try to calm down. You already recognize the syndrome and staying calm is the best way to manage it to its best.
2. Try to breath slowly and deeply while try to keep your breath as longer as possible- then exhale and hold another breath.
3. If you have someone around you inform him/her on your problem. His calming voice will reflect your proper serenity and calmness.
4. Go outside and take a fresh air. Staying safe or not working around sharp or electrical objects is the best way to reassure you.
5. Do not follow the frequently seen on line advice to breathe in a paper bag as it is shown on our pictures as it may increase dangerously the CO2 levels.
If you would like to learn more on the above topic, please call and require a personal consultation: (715) 392-7591; (218) 213-6167; or (218) 213-7087
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The material in this newsletter is provided for informational purposes only. Thus our intentions are not to diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat or prevent any disease. If you use the information in this newsletter without the approval of your health professional, the authors of this letter do not assume any responsibility. Copyright @ 2009, Natural Health-Wellness LLC. All rights reserved.

Holistic Ideas for CFS Improvement




Greg Sawyer, D. C.

Nutritional support. Avoid sugar and increase water because the hormone that holds on to water is low. Most people find a high-protein diet feels better than a high-carb diet, but everybody is different with that. Except for sugar, it is most important that people eat what makes them feel good, because there’s no one diet that’s right for everybody. Vitamins, minerals and antioxidants daily.
Adrenal support: Assure 8-9 h night sleep. You body produces hormones when you sleep. Americans are fat, as they do not sleep enough. Seven hours are not enough for our overtired bodies, as they are extremely overstressed and malnourished.
Hormonal support: Hormonal support is very important and you should know that blood tests are hopelessly unreliable. With the ages thyroid is getting low (hypothyroid) and if people are tired and achy, constantly depressed, cold and hot intolerant, or suffer from unreasonable weight gain they have low thyroid (hypothyroidism). Most of the people with CFS are suffering from low thyroid, without even knowing or being diagnosed.
Generally, it’s better to use the natural hormones than the synthetic ones because they’re the same thing that the body makes and recognizes. Then you need adrenal support. The adrenals are the major stress handler organ in the human body. Whereas the thyroid gland is like the conductor or body’s barometer that informs how much energy you’re making. With the daily stress we exhaust our adrenal glands, and some of the main reasons are that we are depressed, stressed, eating without nourishment, not sleeping well, under constant hypoglycemic events. Fortunately, there are natural adrenal hormones and glandular available for a CFS help. One can use natural (bioavailable) hormones safely and without limits. Sexual hormone deficiency needs to be treated in both women and men.
Reduce the extreme stress on your body and mind. Never forget to relax, to laugh or to enjoy life. Learn meditation, Tai-Bo, Tai-Chi, relaxing techniques, biofeedback, positive imagery.
Exercise. Walking on a daily basis is what each one of us needs to be healthy and that is a vital minimum to help our lymph to cleanse and the blood circulation to run throughout our body. This is what can heal your metabolic disturbances.....
If you would like to learn more on the above topic, please call and require a personal consultation:
(715) 392-7591; (218) 213-6167; or (218) 213-7087
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The material in this newsletter is provided for informational purposes only. Thus our intentions are not to diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat or prevent any disease. If you use the information in this newsletter without the approval of your health professional, the authors of this letter do not assume any responsibility. Copyright @ 2009, Natural Health-Wellness LLC. All rights reserved.

Chiropractic vs. Osteopathic Therapy


Greg Sawyer, D. C.

Most of our patients have trouble understanding the similarities and the differences between Chiropractic and Osteopractic practice and therapy.
Chiropractic therapy centers on the philosophy that the body is capable of restoring its proper balance by the structure of the spinal column and joints, in order to restore the proper working order to the nervous system from the spinal cord to the organs and the tissues of the body. When the vertebrae are properly aligned, the spine is flexible; nerve impulses from the brain can travel freely along the spinal cord and to the all organs and tissues of the human body. The Father of Chiropractic, Dr. D.D. Palmer’s philosophy is centered on the innate ability of the body to heal itself, an ability controlled by the central nervous system. If the spine becomes misaligned, the body can’t longer restore the balance on its one to any other part of the body, including its proper joints, organs or soft tissues. It focuses on the way of living, the diet, how we exercise and it is holistic by its nature and methods.
Osteopathic therapy is based on the postulate that the body can function properly only if blood and nerve impulses are allowed to flow throughout the body unimpeded. If the spine or any other joint comes out of alignment and blocks the blood and the nerve flow, disease and pain may appear. As the musculoskeletal system is the body largest energy user, any tension of restriction in this system can deplete the body of its energy and thus results in illness. Osteopathy treats the whole person instead of the set of symptoms or separate health concerns. Osteopathy centers on restoring the balance in the musculoskeletal system- and thus inside the entire body throughout spinal manipulation. It centers to the whole diet, life standard, habits, and way of living and exercising. It is the bridge between the orthodox medicine and the holistic medicine.

If you would like to learn more on the above topic, please call and require a personal consultation: (715) 392-7591; (218) 213-6167; or (218) 213-7087
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The material in this newsletter is provided for informational purposes only. Thus our intentions are not to diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat or prevent any disease. If you use the information in this newsletter without the approval of your health professional, the authors of this letter do not assume any responsibility. Copyright @ 2009, Natural Health-Wellness LLC. All rights reserved.

Saturday, November 7, 2009

Rheumatoid Arthritis vs. Osteoarthritis





Greg Sawyer, D. C.


Osteoarthritis (OA) appears in 2 main forms: Primary and Secondary one.
Primary OA
· The most common form
· A slow and progressive condition
· Starts after the age of 45
· Affects the most weight-bearing joints-knees and hips, lower back, neck, large toe and fingers joints
· The exact cause is not known yet
· Family history and obesity are well known risk factors
· Appears when excessive loads are placed on normal joint tissues or a reasonable load is applied on inferior joint tissues.
Secondary OA:
· Less common form
· A quick and acute condition
· Can develop after injury to a joint-sometimes many years later
· Appears as a result of a known condition-acute or chronic (repetitive) trauma or injury, joint laxity, poor bone alignment, infection, metabolic imbalances (gout, thyroid diseases, after chronic use of certain medications, iron overload, calcium deposits) etc.
· Starts before the age of 45
OA is not an autoimmune disease. It is a condition of wear and tear associated with aging or acute and chronic injury. The immune system is not affected.
· OA stiffness tends to get worse with use throughout the day.
· OA usually occurs when the person ages, whose joints have become worn down by excessive use.
· OA symptoms include joint stiffness, pain, and inflamed enlarged joints.
· OA is associated with asymmetrical swelling in individual joints that are not part of a pair e.g., one knee and an elbow, instead of both knees.
· Inflammation generally occurs at the joint closest to the fingernail.
· OA tends to cause pain and swelling in bigger joints such as the hips and knees.
· OA is much more common than RA
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is not a condition of wear and tear like the OA. It is a disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue, causing inflammation that damages the joints.
· RA usually causes pain or stiffness lasting for more than 30 minutes in the morning or after long rest and lack of activity.
· RA can occur at any age. It often begins in middle age and tends to get worse over time.
· RA can worsen very quickly in its early stages and can cause serious damage to the joints in just the first 24 months.
· RA is associated with symmetrical swelling (e.g., both hands, both elbows, etc.)
· RA symptoms include joint pain, swelling, tenderness, redness of the joints, prolonged morning stiffness, less range of a movement, fever, weight loss, fatigue, and/or anemia.
· RA tends to cause swelling and pain in smaller joints such as the hands and ankles. Arthritis impairs significantly the life of old adults by:
· Reduced muscle efficiency and a range of motion in the affected joints
· Loss of physical conditioning, a major risk factor for obesity and life-threatening diseases
· Partial or total physical disability
· Growing reliance on others
· A sense of being handicapped and a loss of emotional well-being
· Reluctance to get out and socialize
· Lost workdays and productivity
· High risk for cardiovascular diseases, stroke, cancer
As reported in “Arthritis Care and Research” (1995)
· 25% could not leave their residence or could leave only with help
· 45% had some level of physical dependence
· 18% were not participating in social activities
· 51% of those under 65y were not in the labor force
· 76% never went to events such as sports or movies
· 42% had out-of-pocket due to disability
Factors to consider when choosing top quality glucosamine/ chondroitin and ASU supplements are:
1/ Dose:
· Glucosamine: 1500 mg Glucosamine HCL or 1884 mg Glucosamine Sulfate/ taken once daily or divided in two equal doses
· Chondroitin: 800 –1200 mg taken once daily, or divided in two equal doses
· ASU: 300 mg once daily
2/ Safety of the Supplements- USP-DSVP; NSF, NNFA, Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval, Consumer Labs
3/ The best form is the “ long- acting”, “ time- released “, “ with controlled delivery”. Topical and liquid form should be avoided.
4/ The products should be tested and recommended by 2 or 3 independent laboratories
5/ They should be manufactured according Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP)
Holistic Formulas to consider:
1. Glucosamine and Chondroitin sulfate are substances found naturally in the body that contribute to key proteins that bind water in cartilage tissue. They work in synergism, being able to reduce pain of arthritis, with benefit for joint injuries also. Glucosamine is a form of amino sugar that is believed to play a role in cartilage formation and repair. Chondroitin sulfate is part of a large protein molecule (proteoglycan) that gives cartilage elasticity. They are extracted from animal tissue: glucosamine from crab, lobster or shrimp shells; and chondroitin sulfate from animal cartilage, such as tracheas or shark cartilage and are able to reduce the pain of arthritis with particular benefit for joint injuries. Multiple studies show that people with osteoarthritis (OA) taking either glucosamine or chondroitin sulfate reported pain relief at a level similar to that of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin and ibuprofen. Recent research indicates that the supplements might also slow cartilage damage in people with OA.
2. MSM- (Methylsulfonylmethane) is another supplement on the market that helps for a range of ailments including pain and/or inflammation from rheumatoid arthritis (RA), osteoarthritis (OA), fibromyalgia and gout. It is a sulfur compound plentiful in fresh fruits and vegetables, milk, fish and grains. There have been conducted human studies that show MSM relieves the pain of OA and other conditions. One should start with a low dosage of 500 milligrams (mg) or less twice a day and gradually increase the amount until reaching the pain relief effect. A dose of 1,000 mg (1 gram) twice a day is proven beneficial in capsules or in a liquid.
3. Dehydration is one of the reasons of multiple sets of symptoms, as: headache, heartburn, rheumatoid joint pain, back pain, migraine, colitis, fibromyalgia, angina etc. When there is not enough water to be evenly distributed and certain parts of the body are working but not receiving enough water to deal with its toxic waste and metabolism, thus the toxic waste builds up that area, while the nerve endings in that area register the chemical environmental change with the brain. The brain translates this information for the conscious mind in the form of pain.
David Brownstein M.D. had an incredible experience, that when water intake is improved most of the symptoms dissipate. We know that our body is mainly water- 75% water, and our brain- is 85% of water. We lose nearly 6 pints of water a day for: perspiration- 1 pint, breathing- 2pints, and urine- 3 pints.
Coffee, tea or sodas are not water, but at the same time they work as diuretics. The explanation of why dehydration can provoke pain and mainly osteoarthritis pain is the next: We know that the cartilage surfaces of the bones in a joint contain water that allows them to glide and to work together, thus, prolonged dehydration that leaves the cartilage short of water will produce a greater friction and stress at the cartilage contact points in the joint. This friction force will produce an inflammatory process that destroys the bone surfaces. Thus osteoarthritis of the joint will establish - a vicious circle of dehydration that will finally destroy the cartilage surfaces. As more blood circulation is brought to the area, it is the swelling in the joint capsule that causes stiffness and pain. This joint pain is an indicator of local dehydration and the inability of the joints to cope with the extra demands for its movement.
The environment of cartilage is alkaline, while in case of chronic dehydration it becomes acid. The acidity will also register consequent pain. The dying tissue is broken up from inside the cells and the broken fragments are ingested and then again recycled. There is an associated protein breakdown and more amino acids are mobilized, as they may be needed for the repair of the damage. In the inflammatory media inside the joint, the white cells begin to manufacture hydrogen peroxide and ozone to keep the joint space sterilized and to prevent bacteria from infecting the cavity and to supply with adequate oxygen to the cells that are engaged in the repair process. There is a local RGF "remodeling growth factor" that promotes the growth of abnormal tissue that can explain the changes in the arthritic deviated joints.
4. Acupuncture is based on the concept of Qi (chee) energy. It is a holistic and gentle medical system. Many symptoms, syndromes or diseases can be treated with it as for example: Infertility, Shingles, Allergies, Headache, Anxiety, Arthritis, Backache, Depression, Digestive Symptoms, Flu, Smoking, Insomnia, Gynecological Conditions, Irritable Bowel, etc. In the human body, inserting a small needle into the blocked meridian will liberate the excess of Qi, or will eliminate the disease away from the body, as the East medicine believed. Instead of discussing acupuncture in terms of letting something out of the body, West healers began describing it in terms of regulating the flow of Qi within the body. The flow of Qi through the meridians could be blocked off by an obstruction. If the Qi in the meridian becomes blocked, the condition of the body becomes disordered, and if one could remove the blockage from the flow of Qi within a meridian, the natural flow could be restored.
The process is quite simple and can be explain in 3 steps:
· Locate the areas of disturbance
· Isolate the main blockage points
· Clear the blockage: The needless stimulation sends impulses up through the spinal cord to different areas of the brain- local and central effects. By stimulation of these points, acupuncture tries to restore the normal flow of Qi, and to stimulate the body to heal. Blood vessels dilate, nerve supply improves, and muscle spasms relax. All the above means more oxygen, nutrients, better nerve stimulation, reduced irregular pressure on the joint. In case of pain the patient experiences relief. Acupunctures should be done once, two or three times in the month
References:
“ Your Body's Many Cries for Water”, by Dr. Batmanghelidj
“ Water For Health, For Healing, For Life”, by Dr. Batmanghelidj
“ Natural Medicine for Arthritis”, by Glenn S. Rothfeld, M.D. and Suzanne Le Vert
“ The arthritis cure”, by Jason Theodosakis, M.D., M.S., M.P.H.,
“ Preventing arthritis”, by byRonald M. Lawrence, M.D., Ph.D. and Martin Zucker
If you would like to learn more on the above topic, please call and require a personal consultation: (715) 392-7591; (218) 213-6167; or (218) 213-7087
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The material in this newsletter is provided for informational purposes only. Thus our intentions are not to diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat or prevent any disease. If you use the information in this newsletter without the approval of your health professional, the authors of this letter do not assume any responsibility. Copyright @ 2009, Natural Health-Wellness LLC. All rights reserved.

Friday, November 6, 2009

Most Vital Nutrients We Must Acknowledge



Gregory Sawyer, D. C.

Our diet is simply depleted by true nutrition, due to artificial pollution, overload of toxicity, huge amount of antibiotics and corticosteroids, chicken and beef hormones that are simply our foes. Hence, we must supplement in order to reassure we are not nutritionally deficient.

WATER SOLUBLE VITAMINS.
Vit C and B-complex vitamins are not stored in the body and must be replaced each day. These vitamins are easily destroyed or washed out during food storage and preparation. The B-complex group is found in a variety of foods: cereal grains, meat, poultry, eggs, fish, milk, legumes and fresh vegetables. Citrus fruits are good sources of vitamin C.
Vitamins are essential nutrients found in foods. The requirements are A full spectrum of B vitamins in the most bio-available in coenzyme forms including B-1, B-2, B-3, B-5, B-6, B-12, choline and inositol. Note* Use of mega doses of vitamins is not recommended.
FAT SOLUBLE VITAMINS.
All of the most absorbable and usable forms of the fat-soluble vitamin group including: Vitamin A (as Beta-carotene), Vitamin E (as d-alpha tocopherol succinate, high-gamma mixed tocopherols, and tocotrienols), Vitamin D-3 and Vitamin K (as phylloquinone).
NATURAL HERBS.
Curcuma longa/Turmeric, Milk Thistle, Ginger, caffeine-free Green Tea, Saw palmetto extract, Pau d'Arco etc.
SUPER FOODS.
Broccoli, Sprouts, Organic Kelp, Organic Beet Root, Chicory Root (inulin), Kojak Root, Chlorella, Spirulina, Acai, Noni and Coji berries.
PROBIOTICS. Containing billion live organisms per serving including microencapsulated B. Longum, L. Casei, L. Rhamnosus, L. Bulgaricus, L. Acidophilus (to support healthy intestinal and immune system function). The probiotics must be microencapsulated to ensure maximum absorption and potency. Note * L. bulgaricus is intended to help the GI tract be more suitable for the survival and growth of L. acidophilus and B. bifidum and to balance them. L. acidophilus is the primary bacteria of the small intestine while bifidus is the major bacteria of the large intestine. The strains of L. acidophilus and L. bifidus used in this product have been the subject of in-vitro tests to help ensure they are more likely to be implantable, attaching themselves to the intestinal wall and becoming part of the naturally occurring flora.
PREBIOTICS. Inulin, beet root, xylitol (needed to enhance probiotics growth)
MINERALS. Minerals are quite confusing topic. You have heard about inorganic, chelated, elemental, ionic, colloidal, essential, trace minerals, etc. They are divided on: free and chelated. The best for absorption are the chelated minerals. Although trace minerals are no longer as common in the foods we eat, they exist plentifully in their proper proportions in the mineral-rich waters of the earth's oceans and seas. Thus is of a huge importance to provide your body with important metabolic substrates and trace minerals.
MACROMINERALS. Well known macrominerals are Calcium; Chlorine; Sodium; Potassium; Phosphorus; Magnesium; and Sulfur. All of the known essential minerals should be taken in forms readily absorbed and recognized by the body including calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc, copper, manganese, silica, boron, copper, chromium, molybdenum, vanadium, and selenium and trace minerals from natural organic sources
TRACE MINERALS. Selenium; Cobalt; Chromium; Tin; Zinc; Vanadium; Copper; Silicon; Manganese; Nickel; Iron; Molybdenum; Fluorine; Iodine
ANTIOXIDANTS. N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine (NAC), Reduced Glutathione, R-Lipoic Acid, Alpha-Lipoic Acid; Glutathione, N-acetyl L-carnitine; L-Carnitine fumarate (to support the body’s antioxidant and detoxification systems), Coenzyme Q10 (to support energy production).
POLICOSANOL. Policosanol is needed in order to promote healthy lipid and glucose levels in the body
3- OMEGA EFA. Cod liver oil, Flax seed’s oil, fish oil are important in order to balance the ratio of FFA in your body and to benefit the heart of healthy people, and those at high risk of, or who have cardiovascular disease." as per AHA(American Heart Association)
If you would like to learn more on the above topic, please call and require a personal consultation: (715) 392-7591; (218) 213-6167; or (218) 213-7087
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The material in this newsletter is provided for informational purposes only. Thus our intentions are not to diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat or prevent any disease. If you use the information in this newsletter without the approval of your health professional, the authors of this letter do not assume any responsibility. Copyright @ 2009, Natural Health-Wellness LLC. All rights reserved.

General Wellness Essentials


Greg Sawyer, D. C.


Despite that there is no unified treatment or a disease cure that works for every person, correct diet with ballanced nutritional and herbal supplementation, and lifestyle changes can help supporting health and wellness by maintaining healthy blood sugar levels.

General Wellness Strategies that we must learn and implement:

1.Learn to manage stress and do not let the stress to manage you.
2.Educate yourself to relax and to elicit relaxation response.
3. Develop an active lifestyle that includes a variety of activities.
4. Eat for health and prevention.
5. Exercise and learn about body awareness.
6. Try the cognitive restructuring
7. Learn to cope with problem solving.
8. Take a sensible approach to weight loss.
9. Do not forget that Mind/Body/Feelings/Moods/Attitudes are constantly interrelated and can affect your health.
10. Educate yourself about the power of pleasure and humor.
11. Improve your sleep.

If you would like to learn more on our wellness program, please call and require a personal consultation: (715) 392-7591; (218) 213-6167; or (218) 213-7087
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The material in this newsletter is provided for informational purposes only. Thus our intentions are not to diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat or prevent any disease. If you use the information in this newsletter without the approval of your health professional, the authors of this letter do not assume any responsibility. Copyright @ 2009, Natural Health-Wellness LLC. All rights reserved.

Dietary Guidelines


Greg Sawyer, D.C.



Dietary Guidelines according to the U. S. Department of Agriculture and the Department of Health and Human Services in 1980.
The above guidelines are for healthy people to promote health and to prevent disease.
1. Eat of a variety of foods.
2. Maintain healthy weight.
3. Choose a diet low in fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol.
4. Choose a diet with plenty of vegetables, fruits and grains.
5. Use sugars only in moderation.
6. Use salt and sodium only in moderation.
7. Drink in moderation if you drink .

If you would like to learn more about correct nutrition, please call and require a personal consultation: (715) 392-7591; (218) 213-6167; or (218) 213-7087
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The material in this newsletter is provided for informational purposes only. Thus our intentions are not to diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat or prevent any disease. If you use the information in this newsletter without the approval of your health professional, the authors of this letter do not assume any responsibility. Copyright @ 2009, Natural Health-Wellness LLC. All rights reserved.

Meditation



Greg Sawyer, D. C.

Meditation is one of the techniques for eliciting the relaxation response. It is natural and familiar process of focusing our mind on an object or activity. We turn the attention inward, concentrating on a repetitive focus such as breathing or a word or a prayer. Our mind and body begin to calm down in the state of physiological and mental rest. During the process there are general guidelines that should be known and followed: 2 basic components are involved: 1/ A passive attitude towards distracting thoughts and 2/ A mental focusing device, such as watching once breath, while repeating a word or phrase, using repetitive muscular activity to help shift once mind away of daily thoughts or worries.
Step 1: Pick your word or phrase (prayer)
Step 2: Sit quietly in a comfortable position
Step 3: Close your eyes
Step 4: Relax your muscles
Step 5: Breath slowly and naturally while repeating your selected focus word or phrase, as you exhale.
Step 6: Assume a positive attitude. When other thoughts intrude, simply say “ Oh well” and return to the repetition
Step 7: Continue for 10-20 minutes
Step 8: Practice the technique once or twice daily.
Basic guidelines:
Choosing a word or a phrase: One can select a focus word, corresponding to his belief system or the so called “faith factor”.What next: the world or phrase should be repeated silently to ourselves, coordinating it with our breathing. If other thoughts will intrude, one should still stay at his level of breathing, repeating his word or phrase, and focusing his thoughts
When? We should select a regular time for our meditation( before breakfast) as usual and to develop a routine.
Where? In a quiet place, where nobody can be disturbed by a telephone or by people coming in and out. That place should be safe and cozy.
Position: Any comfortable position is appropriate
How long? 10 – 20 minutes once or twice a day but it should be done daily and faithfully
How to focus? Our breathing should correlate with our focus of thoughts. Despite difficult at first it is matter of training and repetition till will become a second nature.
Type of breathing: diaphragmatic breathing is the key of a good meditation in the state of gentle relaxation.
Affirmation is a positive thought, a short phrase or saying that has meaning for you. It can be the phrase: “ One day at a time” something more specific like “ I accept myself as I am”, “ I am lovable”, “ I am becoming healthy and strong” , “ Let it be”, “ I am doing the best I can”. Using affirmation is an effective tool for reframing negative self-talk into a positive message, thus reducing the stress from undermining thoughts and beliefs. In a short time they become a second nature.
Guidelines to create affirmations.
1/ Select un aspect of your life that is causing your stress.
2/ Decide what you want to have happen or how you world like to feel in a situation.
3/ Articulate this goal as a first-person statement- “ I am confident in my work”
4/ Always state affirmations in present tense.
5/ Always phrase affirmations in the positive.
6/ Repeat the affirmations to yourself and notice how it feels.
7/ Repeat your affirmations often during the day, perhaps before or after eliciting the relaxation response, or as a part of a breathing exercise.
There are 2 basic ways of breathing- diaphragmatic (abdominal) and chest (thoracic) breathing. Normally breathing is the combination of the two.
Diaphragmatic breathing: Breathing provides oxygen to the blood stream and thereby to the entire cellular structure of the body. A healthy balance of oxygen (in-breath) and carbon dioxide (out-breath) is central to physical health. The diaphragm is a sheet-like muscle that separates the abdominal and chest cavities. When you inhale, the diaphragm lowers and expands the abdomen. Expanding the abdomen when you inhale drops the diaphragm and expands the size of the chest cavity. This increases the space that the lungs can expand into and increases the amount of air and oxygen that is inhaled. As we age, however, most of us start breathing shallower and use the upper parts of our chest. Whereas breathing from the chest delivers approximately a teacup of air to the lungs (about 500 ml), breathing from the abdomen delivers 4-6 liters of air to the lungs. Abdominal breathing can significantly increase the amount of air we take into the lungs and this makes a huge difference in the oxygenation of tissues throughout the body. How we breathe also has an impact on our nervous system.
Chest breathing stimulates the shorter, more restless “beta waves in the brain while abdominal breathing stimulate the longer, slower “ alpha” waves associated with relaxation and calmness. For this reason abdominal breathing is often helpful in eliciting relaxation and protecting the body from harmful effects of stress, it calms our mind and therefore is very useful when we need a quick calming effect.
If you would like to learn more on the above topic, please call and require a personal consultation: (715) 392-7591; (218) 213-6167; or (218) 213-7087
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The material in this newsletter is provided for informational purposes only. Thus our intentions are not to diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat or prevent any disease. If you use the information in this newsletter without the approval of your health professional, the authors of this letter do not assume any responsibility. Copyright @ 2009, Natural Health-Wellness LLC. All rights reserved.

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

How to Manage Low Self Esteem?



Gregory Sawyer, D. C.
Ask yourself the following questions and try to answer them completely honestly:

o Do you feel vulnerable and easily exploited by the others?
o Do you have the frequent sense that you are inferior with a lack of confidence?
o Are you depressed or angry?
o Do you face the urge of frequent hesitation in starting of doing something?
o Do you have the constant feeling of guilt and unworthiness?
o Do you have the tendency to blame or undervalue yourself on a frequent basis?
o Do you lack the confidence being hesitant to do something?
o Are you asking others for their opinion while never trusting yourself?
o Do you admire others without any belief in your proper ability to accomplish exactly similar achievements?
If you answer YES to 4 or more of the above questions- you are obviously the syndrome of the Low Self Esteem and you are not in control of a proper balance (both hormonal and nutritional), not knowing of how to do the things right.
Our Natural Wellness & Healing Center is applying a holistic program using formulas specifically formulated and aimed to provide a boost in self-esteem and self-confidence when it is needed the most. We are using herbal and homeopathic combinations that work in synergism to help you learn about your creativity and abilities as well as to feel the confidence and self-esteem to match other people pattern of success. Do not let people, group or a society to break your spirit down and remember you can have and show their results too. We also use a combination of aromatherapy and homeopathy to help you both rejuvenate and recycle your self esteem above the level of your dreams.
We are using holistic energetic remedies that are known to capture the essence and power of the Mother Nature: Flowers, Botanicals and Herbs that work on a quantum level, as per the low of homeopathy and Hahnemann (the father of this science). As Hahnemann claimed “the medicine of his time did as much harm as good”. In his proper words: “My sense of duty would not easily allow me to treat the unknown pathological state of my suffering breather with these unknown medicines. The thought of becoming in this way a murderer or malefactor towards the life of my fellow human beings was most terrible to be, so terrible and disturbing that I wholly gave up my practice in the first years of my married life and occupied myself solely with chemistry and writing.”
Similarly to Samuel Hahnemann, we do not use traditional medicine and in fact the last doesn’t seem to offer results without the side effects. Yes, chemicals work as a ‘quick fix’ on times and can build a feeling of momentary success and happiness. But we prefer to assure you in a success that is not temporary, but a constant and permanent. By balancing your proper energy levels- you will return your proper life back to normal.
We promise that you will feel more balanced, calm and confident in your abilities. At the same moment there have never been, nor will there ever be, any side effects, contraindications or allergies from the combination that we use. Our holistic combination will start showing results as soon as you will start implementing it. However, we must inform you that we had few cases that this individual feeling may not be always well apparent to you but to your proper family and friends. The feeling of “being better” will make your family and friends aware that something is improving in your life and the relationship with the surrounding world will be completely different.
If you would like to learn more on the above topic, please call and require a personal consultation: (715) 392-7591; (218) 213-6167; or (218) 213-7087
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The material in this newsletter is provided for informational purposes only. Thus our intentions are not to diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat or prevent any disease. If you use the information in this newsletter without the approval of your health professional, the authors of this letter do not assume any responsibility. Copyright @ 2009, Natural Health-Wellness LLC. All rights reserved.

How to Prepare for the Upcoming Winter?




Gregory Sawyer, D. C.

Cooler weather is already at hand, and with it, we must be prepaired for all its negative surprises: fall allergies, colds, flu, weight gain (due to immobilization) and many others. A great way for our bodies to become prepaired is by performing light detoxing. Balance our GI tract, while empowering our immune system to handle all the upcoming fall challenges. Most people will feel a little drained of energy because of the body's getting adapted to the another winter season. You may also review the Dietary Guidelines of the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Department of Health and Human Services (created in 1980) for people to promote good health and prevent disease.

Here are few holistic ideas for you to consider:

1. Do light detoxing
2. Eat for health and prevention by eating a plentiful variety of foods
3. Maintain healthy weight and take a sensible approach to weight loss
4. Choose a diet low in: fat, saturated fat, cholesterol and simple carbs
5. Avoid all artificial sweeteners
6. Select the Rainbow Diet or the Mediterranean diet as your main options
7. Choose a diet rich of vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Add fiber to your diet
8. Restrict sugar and eat sugary foods in moderation
9. Use salt and sodium in moderation
10. Drink alcohol in moderation, if you drink
11. Learn to manage stress. Educate yourself to relax and to elicit relaxation responses
12. Develop an active lifestyle that includes a variety of activities. Exercise and keep body awareness
13. Learn to cope with life challenges and educate yourself on problem solving. Try cognitive restructuring
14. Apply the power of pleasure and humor
15. Improve your sleep habits
16. Add a good multivitamin/multimineral to reassure your natural immune defense and/or to avoid common nutritional deficiencies
17. Add a good Probiotics / Probiotics formula (to reassure natural support for a healthy GI tract and for proper immune system function)
If you would like to learn more on the above topic, please call and require a personal consultation: (715) 392-7591; (218) 213-6167; or (218) 213-7087

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The material in this newsletter is provided for informational purposes only. Thus our intentions are not to diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat or prevent any disease. If you use the information in this newsletter without the approval of your health professional, the authors of this letter do not assume any responsibility. Copyright @ 2009, Natural Health-Wellness LLC. All rights reserved.

Holistic Help for GERD


Greg Sawyer, D. C.

Yesterday when reading the new PubMed publications a new trial results caught my attention. It was another proof that drugs side effects can be omitted while holistic modalities and approaches may be selected. Here is in short what this study discovered. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most common esophageal disorders.
Accumulating clinical evidence by conventional medicine has confirmed the efficacy and safety of proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy in patients with all grades of GERD, making these agents the allopathic mainstay of treatment. However, the possible impact of changes in body weight (BW) or body mass index (BMI) in reflux patients while on long-term PPI therapy proved the possible weight gain from long-term treatment with PPI (Yoshikawa, Nagato, Yamasaki, Kume & Otsuki, 2009). The clinical research team from Japan elucidated the effect on nutritional parameters such as body weight and BMI in patients receiving long-term PPI therapy. Their study was published on October 14, 2009 in the World Journal of Gastroenterology. The subjects were 52 patients with GERD and 58 healthy controls. GERD patients were treated with PPI for a mean of 2.2 years (range, 0.8-5.7 years), and also advised on lifestyle modifications (e.g. selective diet, weight management). BW, BMI and other parameters were measured at baseline and end of study. Their results showed there were no differences in BW and BMI between reflux patients and controls at baseline. Patients with GERD showed increases in BW, but no such changes were noted in the control group. Mean BW increased by 3.5 kg (6.2% of baseline) in 37 (71%) reflux patients but decreased in only 6 (12%) patients during treatment.
They concluded that reflux patients treated with a daily maintenance therapy of PPI should be strongly encouraged to manage their body weight through lifestyle modifications such as proper diet and avoidance of overeating. This measure may reduce the overall medical costs associated with obesity-related illness as well as GERD. Lifestyle modification must therefore remain the backbone of treatment for all patients with GERD, even in the PPI era. If you suffer from occasional indigestion, constipation, gas, irritable bowel syndrome or other digestive complaints, simple changes to your diet and how you manage stress can help. In addition, prudent supplementation can also be effective - the following have been found to help promote healthy digestion:
1. Add probiotics. These products contain "friendly" bacteria that can stabilize the digestive tract and aid indigestion.
2. Take plant-derived digestive enzymes. For example, bromelain, derived from pineapples, and papain from papaya when taken with food can help digest specific nutrients.
3. Consider artichoke-leaf extract. It may help relieve indigestion by increasing bile flow needed to digest fats.
4. Try a deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL). This herbal extract can soothe and protect the lining of the esophagus and stomach.
5. Slippery elm comes from the inner bark of the red elm tree. It is soothing and protective for inflamed mucosal tissue.
6. Chamomile can be used as a tea or an extract and is known to be calming for the stomach.
7. Keep a food and beverage journal.
8. Eat small, but frequent meals.
9. Wear loose clothing.
10. Maintain a healthy weight.
11. Avoid lying down immediately after eating.
12. Practice relaxation techniques such as breathing exercises.
13. Try sleeping on your left side. This may help move acid away from the entrance of the esophagus.
Reference:
Yoshikawa I, Nagato M, Yamasaki M, Kume K, Otsuki M. Long-term treatment with proton pump inhibitor is associated with undesired weight gain. World J Gastroenterol 2009; 15, 4794-4798 Retrieved on line, 26 October, 2009, from:
http://www.wjgnet.com/1007-9327/15/4794.asp
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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The material in this newsletter is provided for informational purposes only. Thus our intentions are not to diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat or prevent any disease. If you use the information in this newsletter without the approval of your health professional, the authors of this letter do not assume any responsibility. Copyright @ 2009, Natural Health-Wellness LLC. All rights reserved.