by admin | Jul 24, 2018 | Health Awareness, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's Disease, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Stem Cell Therapy
In a recent edition of JAMA, the results of a 30-year study examining the possible connection between stress and autoimmune disease were revealed. The findings don’t simply demonstrate a link; instead, they reveal that stress-related disorders are significantly associated with risks of developing the subsequent autoimmune disease. In the study of over 100,000 subjects, the correlation showed that individuals with a diagnosed stress-related disorder were 30-40% more likely to later be diagnosed with one of many possible autoimmune diseases.
What is a Stress-Related Disorder?
The type of stress study subjects encountered is not to be confused with the stressors we encounter during everyday life. Sitting in traffic or worrying about being late for a meeting, for example, are examples of acute stress. These forms of short-term stress generally come and go but fail to create the sort of long-term damage produced by chronic stress, or stress-related disorders.
Stress-related disorders are mental health conditions resulting from short- and long-term anxiety from mental, physical, or emotional stress. Examples of these include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder, acute stress reaction, and adjustment disorder.
Which Types of Autoimmune Disorders Are Linked to Stress?
According to the study’s findings, individuals with stress-related disorders were more inclined to be diagnosed with one of 41 autoimmune disorders. Among the many autoimmune diseases observed by the research were psoriasis, Crohn’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and celiac disease.
Interestingly, additional variables seemed to further increase – or decrease – one’s risks of developing an autoimmune disease. Being diagnosed with PTSD at a young age, for instance, increased risks, while receiving antidepressant treatment shortly after being diagnosed with PTSD lowered rates of subsequent autoimmune disease diagnosis. Thus, it could be inferred that receiving treatment for a stress-related disorder may help to treat not only the stress itself but also minimize the lasting implications caused by it, including increased risks of disease.
What Causes the Connection?
Further research must still be conducted to pinpoint the precise long-term effects stress has on the body, and more specifically, on the immune system. Experts speculate that factors such as changes in cortisol levels and pro-inflammatory cytokine levels may need to be examined. Another hypothesis set forth by researchers is that individuals living with conditions such as PTSD might be more inclined towards unhealthy behaviors such as drinking more alcohol or sleeping less.
Although further research into this connection has yet to be conducted, one important takeaway from the findings is the fact that seeking treatment for stress-related disorders should now be considered more critical than ever. By consulting mental health professionals, individuals living with these conditions can pursue a tailored treatment approach to support short- and long-term improvements in overall wellness. For those with an auto-immune condition, see how stem cell therapy may help your symptoms and improve quality of life.
by admin | Jul 17, 2018 | Health Awareness
High blood pressure or hypertension can be very dangerous especially since you may not have any specific signs or symptoms. High blood pressure results in almost 1000 deaths daily with the first symptom sometimes being a heart attack or a stroke.
Blood pressure is measured in units called millimeters of mercury, written as (mm Hg). The top number represents the highest pressure of the blood when the heart contracts while the bottom number represents the lowest pressure of the blood when the heart is in a state of expansion. Hypertension is a condition when the measured blood pressure is 140/30 or higher. If the blood pressure rises above this given range it can result in serious complications like a stroke, heart disease, kidney damage and even loss of vision.
Here we have helpful tips on how to manage your blood pressure?
How to Measure Blood Pressure Correctly:
If you have tried testing your own blood pressure at home, you may have noticed it is never an accurate number and keeps fluctuating and changing at various times of the day. Below are some tips to help you measure your blood pressure as accurately as when you visit your physician office.
- Empty your bladder before you measure your blood pressure
- Do not consume alcohol, caffeine or tobacco at least half an hour prior to measuring your blood pressure
- Sit in a comfortable position and make sure your back is supported
- Rest for five minutes before measuring and avoid talking during the test
- Wrap the cuff so that it is snug but have enough room to insert one finger under the cuff
- Place the left arm on something that it is almost at level with your heart like on a desk or a table
How You Can Lower Blood Pressure
Making a few lifestyle changes can play a big role in controlling blood pressure. This can include cutting down the salt intake in food, eating plant-based diets, not smoking, managing stress, implementing exercise and maintaining a healthy weight. Some suggestions are:
Eat Fish:
Fish like mackerel, sardines, and salmon that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids are helpful in reducing blood pressure.
Eat Apples
The peels of apples are rich in cholesterol lowering fiber which is linked to inhibit the growth of the angiotensin-converting enzyme. This enzyme is mainly responsible for the constriction of blood vessels causing high blood pressure.
Be Mindful:
Remain mindful, regular meditation can help deal with hypertension which has been proven by conducted studies. Being mindful includes focusing in the present moment to feeling the sensations of touch, sound and smell and not be anxious about the future or wavering over the past.
by admin | Jul 11, 2018 | Health Awareness
Mild nausea can be experienced by many for different reasons but there are some foods and drinks that may be beneficial in relieving that nauseous feeling. Sometimes nausea can be a symptom of something serious especially if you notice other signs like fainting, cramps, severe pain in the chest etc. It is very important to find out the cause of the discomforts as sometimes inflammation due to medication can also be the cause. Everyday Health suggests the following foods and drinks below:
Crackers
Foods that are rich in starch like bread, toast, or crackers help in the absorption of the gastric juice settling down the queasiness of the stomach. Since crackers are bland in nature, they not only help in satisfying the hunger but also not having a strong smell or taste decreases the symptoms of nausea. Starchy foods also absorb the acids present in the stomach.
Apples
Eating apples can help relieve nausea as they are rich in fiber. Fiber helps in slowing down the digestion. Too much fiber can cause nausea so be sure to eat in moderation. You can also try apple juice and applesauce if you face trouble digesting foods that are solid.
Water
Taking small sips of water can keep you hydrated and keep the headaches at bay that is accompanied by nausea. Start by slowly drinking small amounts until you feel you can take in larger amounts. Drinking too much water can make the symptoms worse so it is best to drink water with occasional sips throughout the day.
Ginger
Ginger is highly effective in relieving nausea. It can be consumed in a powder or in a cup of ginger ale. It has also been observed that ginger is commonly used to reduce nausea during pregnancy. You may also try ginger candy, cookies or even pickled ginger, to broaden your choices.
Chicken Broth
Eat chicken broth instead of chicken soup when feeling nauseated. The broth is less in fat, rich in potassium, and keeps you hydrated if vomiting is experienced.
Nuts
Deficiency of protein can make nausea worse. Try snacking on protein-rich foods such as nuts that are easy to digest. Nausea can be caused due to low sugar levels, so consuming protein foods may help. However, doctors warn that if you are sick and fighting off a virus then nuts may do the opposite.
Bananas
If you are suffering from dehydration along with nausea, then eating bananas can help restore the potassium level which is usually decreased due to diarrhea and vomiting.
Sports Drinks
Sports drinks are rich in potassium and sodium which help restore the levels of nutrients. Taking small sips of such beverages occasionally promotes hydration and can help restore the levels of lost electrolytes due to vomiting.
Mint
Mint has a very refreshing aroma that can make nausea go away, chewing on fresh mint leaves can or drinking a cup of mint tea can be highly effective in relieving nausea symptoms
by admin | Jul 9, 2018 | Health Awareness, Parkinson's Disease, Stem Cell Research, Studies
Parkinson’s disease is known to be a slowly progressing neurological disorder that can cause issues with the motor movement of the body. Signs of Parkinson’s disease can include severe stiffness, loss of balance, and lethargy. Although there are no cures for the condition, symptoms can be slowed down. However, most of the prescribed drugs for Parkinson’s disease can decrease in effectiveness over the course of time. This led to some investigation from researchers to consider the role of exercise as a treatment option. Initial studies revealed that exercise does reduce the symptoms and slowed the progression of the condition.
According to a recent phase 2 study, intense treadmill exercise can potentially reduce the progression symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. In this study, researchers treated exercise as a treatment and tracked the safety and effectiveness of different levels of exercise. The study consisted of 128 people that had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and were not taking any medications nor exercised. The aerobic capacity, heartbeats and the severity of the disease were tested for a baseline.
The patients were divided into three groups. Group 1 was asked to continue living their life in a normal manner. Group 2 was asked to implement exercise in which they would walk on the treadmill daily for 30 minutes, four times a week. The speed of the treadmill was manipulated to maintain the heart rate of the participants between 60 to 65 percent of their maximum heart rate. Group 3 was asked to also implement exercise for the same amount of time but their heart rate was maintained in the range of 80 to 85 percent of their maximum rates. The patients were under supervision for the initial month and then asked to continue exercising on their own.
At the end of the six-month study, Group 1 showed their symptoms progressed further. Group 2 showed their symptoms progressed but not as much as Group 1. Group 3 showed almost no progression in their symptoms after following a heavier exercise regimen as the other groups. This study concluded that higher intensity exercise helped in decreasing the symptoms by improving the neuronal blood supply. Improved blood flow helps with the overall health of the brain and slows down the deterioration of the body.
The findings from the study are quite encouraging for patients who are recently diagnosed or early in their symptoms to have great benefits from the heavy exercise program. However, it is advised to consult with your physician prior to starting an exercise plan to avoid injuries and ensure your safety.
by admin | Jul 3, 2018 | Health Awareness, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Stem Cell Therapy
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is a powerful treatment used to aid in the healing of many conditions and illnesses. Individuals who undergo this unique form of therapy sit in a controlled environment, called a chamber, with higher levels of oxygen and increased atmospheric pressure. Together, the pressure and high oxygen concentration help to oxygenate the blood, which can facilitate cellular regeneration, healing of wounds, and decreases in inflammation levels. The therapy can treat burns and sores, concussions, sports injuries, and decompression syndrome, among other ailments.
In fact, the benefits of HBOT span so far and wide that some individuals have even sought to bring the treatment into their own homes. This is done using soft HBOT chambers, which are different from the hard medical-grade chambers that are operated by professionals in treatment centers. Here, we walk you through the key differences between hard and soft chambers to help you make informed decisions about your treatment options.
Hard HBOT Chambers
To understand the most critical differences among hard and soft chambers, it’s important to revisit the two key principles of HBOT: oxygen and pressure. Combining these two factors to facilitate an environment in which expedited healing can take place is what makes this form of therapy so effective. In hard chambers, the air features 100% medical-grade oxygen and is commonly pressurized to a maximum atmospheric absolute (ATA) of up to 3.0, or a depth of 66 feet. They are specifically built to achieve pressures for therapeutic purposes, and some can go to 6.0 ATA.
The immense level of healing achieved through these systems is backed by thousands of clinical studies and has even been shown to aid in bone and tissue regrowth. Conditions that have shown benefit with HBOT in conjunction with stem cell therapy are Multiple Sclerosis, Traumatic Brain Injury, Post-Stroke, and Sports Injuries to name a few. This is because hard chamber HBOT can mobilize stem cells (CD34+ pluripotent cells) responsible for the regrowth of significantly wounded areas. Hard HBOT chambers can also kill harmful bacteria.
Because these hard-sided chambers are found only in medical or therapy centers and controlled by trained professionals, the risks of breathing contaminated or polluted air are mitigated. In addition, hard chambers meet the American Society of Mechanical Engineers Pressure Vessels for Human Occupancy (ASME-PVHO-1) standard. However, because it is illegal to purchase medical-grade oxygen without a prescription, this form of therapy can only be received under the care of specialists.
Soft-Sided HBOT Chambers
Unlike hard-sided chambers, soft-sided HBOT chambers are portable and can be purchased for home use. They typically feature a steel frame with a zipped inflatable chamber. Oftentimes, they are used as a temporary treatment for divers and mountain climbers suffering from decompression syndrome and altitude sickness when they are already in route to receive HBOT in a hard chamber. On the surface, soft HBOT chambers might seem like a convenient alternative to receiving therapy at a treatment center. Yet, research shows that these solutions are ineffective for achieving the same level of benefits provided by hard chambers, and in fact, using them can put patients at risk.
Let’s return to the two components needed for effective HBOT: oxygen and pressure. While the air in hard chambers is 100% medical-grade oxygen, soft chambers used at home feature regular ambient air, with just 21% oxygen. Plus, they can only be pressurized to 1.3 ATA, or a depth of roughly eight feet. This lower pressure level is simply not enough to facilitate healing. Used in conjunction with 100% oxygen (which again, can only be administered by medical professionals), it can be used as a temporary treatment for altitude sickness and decompression syndrome – but that is all the FDA approves soft-sided HBOT chambers for. Therefore, they serve little purpose in the home setting. In fact, it isn’t recommended for soft chambers to be used for any type of healing outside of treating the two conditions described above. Not only are the oxygen and pressure levels too low to achieve treatment, but the environment can promote the growth of undesirable aerobic bacteria. Soft chambers do not meet the ASME PVHO-1, have not been proven to promote healing through clinical research, and may even pose risks of breathing in polluted or contaminated air.
Ultimately, soft chambers may provide medical benefits in very specific circumstances, but hard chambers are the only vessel for HBOT that can support all types of healing by oxygenating the blood and stimulating stem cells. When practiced under the care of trained professionals, hard chamber HBOT poses few minimal risks and can make a significant difference in improving an individual’s quality of life.
by admin | Jun 27, 2018 | Health Awareness
Magnesium plays an important role in bodily functions. It is required for more than 300 enzyme systems, including nerve function and blood glucose control. While the mineral is abundant in the body, many adults need more of it. Research shows that 68% of U.S. adults consume less than the recommended daily amount of magnesium, with nearly one-fifth of the population taking in less than half than necessary amounts.
Why Is Magnesium So Important?
In recent years, researchers have established a link between magnesium levels and inflammation. Research shows that at the cellular level, magnesium is responsible for reducing inflammation. When magnesium intake is increased in subjects with high chronic inflammation, the inflammatory response decreases.
Because many medical experts and scientific researchers believe that many chronic illnesses share the common root cause of inflammation, controlling the body’s inflammatory response is critical to staying disease-free and ensuring long-term wellness. Cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes are just a few of the illnesses commonly attributed to chronic inflammation. Moreover, individuals who already have chronic diseases could achieve better symptom control by reducing inflammation levels through added magnesium intake.
Additional Magnesium Benefits
Beyond controlling inflammation, magnesium contributes to heart health, bone strength, and energy creation. It also helps to create and repair RNA, supports muscle movement, and aids in mood regulation. In fact, individuals with the lowest magnesium intake levels have been found to be more at risk of developing depression.
How Can I Increase My Magnesium Intake?
First, it’s important to understand that your magnesium levels could be fine. Some common reasons for low magnesium levels include alcoholism, low dietary intake, and poor kidney functionality. Unless you have one of these or another preexisting condition which causes magnesium intake, you may not need to increase your levels.
Magnesium is found naturally in spinach, black beans, avocado, certain types of nuts, and enriched cereals. It is also found in many dairy products and whole grain foods. Thus, if you are already following healthy eating habits, you may be getting enough magnesium through your diet alone.
Nonetheless, deficiencies are possible. People with type 2 diabetes, gastrointestinal diseases, and older adults are more at risk for deficiencies. Early signs of deficiencies include nausea, diarrhea, confusion, weakness, vomiting, and fatigue. As the condition progresses, seizures, muscle cramps, numbness, tingling, and abnormal heartbeats can occur.
If you’re wondering whether your magnesium levels should be higher, talk to your doctor. They may recommend a serum magnesium test to assess your levels. If you are too low in the mineral, they may recommend taking a daily supplement to increase your levels and potentially improve your overall health.
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