I don't know about you, but when it comes time to retire, most want to be healthy... because literally we could live 20-30 years beyond the time we decide to slow down or do something different, and like others in retirement, you can still be very productive. Think about this, in the early 1800s the average life expectancy of an American man was 36- years of age... that made someone middle aged by the time they were just 18. These days, life expectancy for an American man is 76- which means for someone who's in their mid 40s, they easily have half the rest of their life still in front of them to enjoy.
But it takes making sure you're taking care of your health today, and every single day... the best way you know how. By now I hope you've had the chance to listen to Drs. Knitting and Carter from the previous two posts, and the perspective they offer concerning customized nutrition. What could be simpler... than to make sure you're taking supplements custom designed to your own needs based on a take-home metabolic test called the PrivaTest and then re-tested 6- months later to make sure they're effective. Ruth Clark is a Registered Dietitian in New Hampshire, and this is what she has to say about the ease and simplicity of using Custom Essentials: Click Here
It's really very simple, first get tested in the privacy of your own home, then get on the right program with a product that's right for you. It doesn't get any easier than this, the test kit is picked-up by FedEx, and your supplements conveniently delivered to your door each month. Just think, pharmaceutical grade vitamin supplements without the cost of an office visit, and a series of metabolic tests you can purchase for less than it costs the doctor to order.
-- Make it a good day...
Chiropractic Orthopedic Group
Lewis Meltz, DC, FACO. We're at Renaissance Creek, (Sierra College at Douglas) 8680 Sierra College Blvd. Ste. 190 Roseville, CA 95661 (916) 233-0909 #4. Next to Home Goods, Safeway, and Western Feed and Pet Supply. So take 5-minutes and get adjusted. Just five minutes a week can help you maintain proper alignment, feel your best, and... Wake Up Feeling GOOD Again! The obvious choice for your family's preventative and wellness lifestyle goals.
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Friday, July 17, 2009
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Last month I posted a video where Dr. Knittiig spoke about the importance of a pharmaceutical grade vitamin supplement, utilizing the take-home PrivaTest. A unique metabolic test that measures your body's cellular function to determine which vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients that you need to achieve optimal health... and the PrivaTest is less expensive for you to purchase through Ideal Health than it is costly for me to order from the same laboratory. H'm? Tailor made supplements for... how about, more youthful vitality, increased energy, enhanced memory, more restful sleep, daily toxin removal and better health to manage the way you're aging. Everyone should use customized vitamin supplements, there's simply no reason not to... Just face up it. You can either choose to improve your overall health, and this is just one part of doing so... among other modifiable risk factors for your health and other disease processes. But if you choose not to do this, and ignore the facts, you're basically going down the path choosing to be unhealthy.
Megan Carter is an E.R. Physician who has this to say about customized nutritional supplements: Click Here. It makes sense you would need something specific for what your body needs. You wear a different sized shoe than others in your family don't you? So why would you consume the same vitamin? With this customized supplement you can give your body the proper building blocks to help your body heal itself by looking at 3- biomarkers tied to over 100- disease processes. Call me, and get started today. It's really very simple, first get tested in the privacy of your own home, then get on the right program with a product that's right for you, based on your own lab. results, and your supplements are conveniently delivered to your door each month.
-- Make it a good day...
Chiropractic Orthopedic Group
Megan Carter is an E.R. Physician who has this to say about customized nutritional supplements: Click Here. It makes sense you would need something specific for what your body needs. You wear a different sized shoe than others in your family don't you? So why would you consume the same vitamin? With this customized supplement you can give your body the proper building blocks to help your body heal itself by looking at 3- biomarkers tied to over 100- disease processes. Call me, and get started today. It's really very simple, first get tested in the privacy of your own home, then get on the right program with a product that's right for you, based on your own lab. results, and your supplements are conveniently delivered to your door each month.
-- Make it a good day...
Chiropractic Orthopedic Group
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
You're either moving towards health or away from it. Metabolic testing and customized supplements are no longer luxuries for the rich. They're a necessity for anyone who wants to stay healthy... This customized multi-vitamin supplement from Ideal Health is an extremely beneficial and affordable addition to a person's overall self directed wellness and health, and it's a critical component of a healthy lifestyle for just $60 a month. All based on a functional metabolic test, called the PrivaTest - Click Here which identifies your current customized nutritional needs. Living a healthy lifestyle and living your life with wellness in mind, is extremely important for maintaining your health, and preventing chronic diseases. Not only does living a healthy lifestyle also mean exercising, eating well, and resting as much as you can... these days it also means taking not just a food grade, but a high quality pharmaceutical grade vitamin supplement. One that's customized, tailor-made, and affordable for each person's individual biochemical profile, and what a wonderful development we now have. We know keeping things easy and simple increases compliance so why resort to opening a half dozen bottles twice a day? We're exposed to more stress, and toxins than ever before with the increased need of adequate nutrients than in any other time in history.... something lacking these days in our abundant food supply.
As a chiropractic doctor, its comforting to know that a company has finally addressed the public's need at large... rather than being reserved for professional athletes, physicians or only the wealthy... who once before were the only ones able to afford the testing and these formulations in the past. Here is what one physician, Somer Knittiig, MD a hospitalist and Board Certified in Internal Medicine has to say about Ideal Health: Click Here
-- Make it a good day...
Chiropractic Orthopedic Group
As a chiropractic doctor, its comforting to know that a company has finally addressed the public's need at large... rather than being reserved for professional athletes, physicians or only the wealthy... who once before were the only ones able to afford the testing and these formulations in the past. Here is what one physician, Somer Knittiig, MD a hospitalist and Board Certified in Internal Medicine has to say about Ideal Health: Click Here
-- Make it a good day...
Chiropractic Orthopedic Group
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Getting [What You Want] Most Out of Life
“Getting [What You Want] Most Out of Life”
Congratulations, you're one step closer to getting everything you want out of life. The only reason I say that is because all of the top motivational speakers say in order to get what you want out of life, you must organize and execute around your priorities. If getting what you want out of life is a priority for you, then this week's post is a great way to begin the execution of your plan....
First, let's take a minute here to really think about exactly what you want. After reading this paragraph, close your eyes for a minute... because I want you to take just a minute to seriously consider this. Close your eyes, and if you can, picture what you want most out of life, in as much detail as you possibly can. Try to see how you would look, and whom you would be with. What would you be doing? Where would you be? How would it feel, and smell, and sound? Really fill in the picture, and color in as much detail as you can. Good, now close your eyes and experience what it is that you want.
Congratulations, you're one step closer to getting everything you want out of life. The only reason I say that is because all of the top motivational speakers say in order to get what you want out of life, you must organize and execute around your priorities. If getting what you want out of life is a priority for you, then this week's post is a great way to begin the execution of your plan....
First, let's take a minute here to really think about exactly what you want. After reading this paragraph, close your eyes for a minute... because I want you to take just a minute to seriously consider this. Close your eyes, and if you can, picture what you want most out of life, in as much detail as you possibly can. Try to see how you would look, and whom you would be with. What would you be doing? Where would you be? How would it feel, and smell, and sound? Really fill in the picture, and color in as much detail as you can. Good, now close your eyes and experience what it is that you want.
Now, my job in the next few minutes is to show you a way, a way maybe you've never considered before... to help you get that very thing you just pictured in your mind. I believe I can do that despite the fact that no two people reading this are the same. I'm truly amazed how artists can make their hands do what their imagination can create. But just as Napoleon Hill once said,
"What the mind can conceive and believe, the man can achieve with a positive mental attitude."
Let me start by telling you that numerous surveys have shown that no matter who they ask, all people pretty much want the same things in life. So no matter what you just pictured, whether you were enjoying a tropical sunset with a loved one, swinging a golf club for the best score of your life, or bouncing a baby on your lap, you probably were thinking of one of just a few things. Surveys show that the four things people consistently want the most out of life are (1) To be happy; (2) To be healthy; (3) To have family harmony; (4) To not worry about finances.
Let me start by telling you that numerous surveys have shown that no matter who they ask, all people pretty much want the same things in life. So no matter what you just pictured, whether you were enjoying a tropical sunset with a loved one, swinging a golf club for the best score of your life, or bouncing a baby on your lap, you probably were thinking of one of just a few things. Surveys show that the four things people consistently want the most out of life are (1) To be happy; (2) To be healthy; (3) To have family harmony; (4) To not worry about finances.
Since all behavior is adaptive, which simply means that everything you do is to bring about something you desire or to meet one or more of your needs, then if I can show you something you could do for yourself to help bring about any of these four things, I would, in essence, be helping you get the most out of your life. That's precisely what the rest of this week's entry is about. And it's not my idea at all, these concepts have been said many different ways, and have been applied successfully for decades.
Think back again about the vision you made for yourself. Did you find yourself thinking about how the hundred million receptors that are in your eye actually translate the beauty of a beach sunset into the majesty of the brilliant colors that you perceive? Probably not. Did you find yourself thinking about how your heart rhythmically pulsates beat after beat, 36 million times per year, whether you are golfing the game of your life or whether you are asleep in your bed at night, pumping blood through more than 60 thousands miles of veins, arteries and tubing? Again, probably not. Or did you find yourself thinking about how two tiny little molecules, one each from two completely different people, came together to make the miraculous little creature that you bounce on your knee? No, probably not that either. Did you think about how the three pound sphere of tissue that we call your brain, with its 13 billion nerve cells, (that's more than three times the number of people on our planet) did you think about how that allowed you to conjure up the image that you did by accessing every perception, every sound, every taste, every smell, every action you've experienced since the day of your birth?
That three pound sphere, along with your spinal cord, continues to direct and animate every moment of your life. Virtually every one of your 25 to 30 quadrillion cells (that's 30,000 trillion of them) is connected in an enormously vast network known as the nervous system. I say virtually, because your blood cells are not directly connected to your nervous system. That's because every second two million of your blood cells die, and are replaced by two million more new ones in a revolving resurrection that has continued since the day of your birth. No, you didn't... because you don't have to. The incredible organization of the body is not left up to you or to chance. It's directed and orchestrated by an intelligence far greater than any educated mind, an inborn wisdom that separates us from the people at the morgue, who, with all of their nerve tissue and organs and parts, including the three pound sphere we know as our brain, cannot express the miraculous organization that we know as life. They cannot enjoy the beauty of a sunset, the rush of euphoria that comes with an outstanding performance, the joy of a child’s laugh, or the feeling of love.
More important than the nerves or any and all of the parts is the intelligence that is transmitted over those nerve pathways. In fact, the transmission of this intelligence is so important to your expression of life that the nerve system itself is entirely protected by bone. The brain is covered by the skull and the spinal cord is covered by the bones of the spine in an intimate relationship unlike any other in the body. Knowing how vital this expression is, do you think having interference in this system would be good or bad? I certainly hope you said, "Bad," because it absolutely would be bad. Your body simply cannot fully express the life within it when interference is present in the nerve system and consequently you lessen your ability to get whatever you want most out of life. You may be thinking,
Think back again about the vision you made for yourself. Did you find yourself thinking about how the hundred million receptors that are in your eye actually translate the beauty of a beach sunset into the majesty of the brilliant colors that you perceive? Probably not. Did you find yourself thinking about how your heart rhythmically pulsates beat after beat, 36 million times per year, whether you are golfing the game of your life or whether you are asleep in your bed at night, pumping blood through more than 60 thousands miles of veins, arteries and tubing? Again, probably not. Or did you find yourself thinking about how two tiny little molecules, one each from two completely different people, came together to make the miraculous little creature that you bounce on your knee? No, probably not that either. Did you think about how the three pound sphere of tissue that we call your brain, with its 13 billion nerve cells, (that's more than three times the number of people on our planet) did you think about how that allowed you to conjure up the image that you did by accessing every perception, every sound, every taste, every smell, every action you've experienced since the day of your birth?
That three pound sphere, along with your spinal cord, continues to direct and animate every moment of your life. Virtually every one of your 25 to 30 quadrillion cells (that's 30,000 trillion of them) is connected in an enormously vast network known as the nervous system. I say virtually, because your blood cells are not directly connected to your nervous system. That's because every second two million of your blood cells die, and are replaced by two million more new ones in a revolving resurrection that has continued since the day of your birth. No, you didn't... because you don't have to. The incredible organization of the body is not left up to you or to chance. It's directed and orchestrated by an intelligence far greater than any educated mind, an inborn wisdom that separates us from the people at the morgue, who, with all of their nerve tissue and organs and parts, including the three pound sphere we know as our brain, cannot express the miraculous organization that we know as life. They cannot enjoy the beauty of a sunset, the rush of euphoria that comes with an outstanding performance, the joy of a child’s laugh, or the feeling of love.
More important than the nerves or any and all of the parts is the intelligence that is transmitted over those nerve pathways. In fact, the transmission of this intelligence is so important to your expression of life that the nerve system itself is entirely protected by bone. The brain is covered by the skull and the spinal cord is covered by the bones of the spine in an intimate relationship unlike any other in the body. Knowing how vital this expression is, do you think having interference in this system would be good or bad? I certainly hope you said, "Bad," because it absolutely would be bad. Your body simply cannot fully express the life within it when interference is present in the nerve system and consequently you lessen your ability to get whatever you want most out of life. You may be thinking,
“Well, that makes sense... If I ever get interference in my nervous system, I'll be quick to do something about it.”
But let me ask you, how would you know if, and when you have it? Studies have shown that the weight of a fly on the nerve can reduce the function of the nerve down to 60 percent. With that slight of weight, would you really wait until you felt something? What’s more, other studies have shown that the damage done by pressure, even as slight as this, is irreversible within a two week period. So waiting until you feel pain or waiting until you reach a magic age or something is completely out of the question. Remember, we're talking about your dreams here.
The truth is, people develop interferences in their nerve system all the time. They give absolutely no indication that they are present whatsoever. Because the bones of the spine can move, they can also misalign in such a way that they create interference in the nerve system. Let me ask you, would you know right now if your perception of color was completely accurate? Would you know if your golf swing was all it could be? Would you know if your feelings of love or of any other emotion were absolutely what they should or could be? The answer to all of these questions is a resounding no. You simply cannot know. That's the stuff that is left up to the inborn intelligence of your body. Remember?
The truth is, people develop interferences in their nerve system all the time. They give absolutely no indication that they are present whatsoever. Because the bones of the spine can move, they can also misalign in such a way that they create interference in the nerve system. Let me ask you, would you know right now if your perception of color was completely accurate? Would you know if your golf swing was all it could be? Would you know if your feelings of love or of any other emotion were absolutely what they should or could be? The answer to all of these questions is a resounding no. You simply cannot know. That's the stuff that is left up to the inborn intelligence of your body. Remember?
The best thing you can do for yourself is to insure that there's no interference in your nervous system.
Let’s go back a minute and think about some of the things that might cause this interference in your nerve system. Do you think the stress of lugging around heavy baggage through the airport might be enough to affect the spine sufficiently to misalign a bone even ever so slightly and cause this interference in the nerve system? Of course. It absolutely could. How about sitting for long periods of time, whether it's on a plane, driving or at your desk at work? How about sleeping in a strange bed? Might these things affect your spine? How about a slip and fall, a car accident, a sports injury from running or cycling? Of course. How about swinging that golf club or any repetitive one-sided motion? How about bouncing that child around or giving piggyback rides or the stress that comes from worrying about what is best for your children?
Well, I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but any of these things can misalign one or more of the bones in your spine directly or indirectly because of muscle tension, and create that interference in your nerve system. What's worse is that the list goes on and on. It can start from the very trauma of being born, when you're twisted and pulled out of the birth canal, and continues through all your falling down on your rear while you're learning to walk, and through falling off your bike, rollerskating, and fighting with your brothers and sisters when you're growing up and through all of your worrying about schools and pimples and dates, right up to wherever you are today.
Let’s go back a minute and think about some of the things that might cause this interference in your nerve system. Do you think the stress of lugging around heavy baggage through the airport might be enough to affect the spine sufficiently to misalign a bone even ever so slightly and cause this interference in the nerve system? Of course. It absolutely could. How about sitting for long periods of time, whether it's on a plane, driving or at your desk at work? How about sleeping in a strange bed? Might these things affect your spine? How about a slip and fall, a car accident, a sports injury from running or cycling? Of course. How about swinging that golf club or any repetitive one-sided motion? How about bouncing that child around or giving piggyback rides or the stress that comes from worrying about what is best for your children?
Well, I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but any of these things can misalign one or more of the bones in your spine directly or indirectly because of muscle tension, and create that interference in your nerve system. What's worse is that the list goes on and on. It can start from the very trauma of being born, when you're twisted and pulled out of the birth canal, and continues through all your falling down on your rear while you're learning to walk, and through falling off your bike, rollerskating, and fighting with your brothers and sisters when you're growing up and through all of your worrying about schools and pimples and dates, right up to wherever you are today.
What have you done this very day that might have created interference in your nervous system?
Interference that's keeping you from getting the most out of your life. How long are you going to be willing to leave it there, compromising your dreams? By the way, if this is true for you, it's also true for everyone you know and love. Are you willing to sacrifice their dreams and their lives because of even a little interference in their nervous systems?
I know that you want good things for yourself and for the people you love. You know what you want out of life. All you need to do now is to do something about it. Why don’t you look into having your spine checked for vertebral subluxations? These are small misalignments in the bones of the spine that create interference in the nerve system, and keep the body from expressing its fullest potential in life, exactly what we've been discussing in these last few minutes.
Just call or E-mail me, with your request today, and find out more about this simple and effective way of helping you get the most out of your life.
Wishing you a life filled with your dreams that do come true.
I know that you want good things for yourself and for the people you love. You know what you want out of life. All you need to do now is to do something about it. Why don’t you look into having your spine checked for vertebral subluxations? These are small misalignments in the bones of the spine that create interference in the nerve system, and keep the body from expressing its fullest potential in life, exactly what we've been discussing in these last few minutes.
Just call or E-mail me, with your request today, and find out more about this simple and effective way of helping you get the most out of your life.
Wishing you a life filled with your dreams that do come true.
Sunday, March 22, 2009
CAN CHIROPRACTIC ADJUSTMENTS IMPROVE WELL-BEING?
Something I discuss with patients routinely is the intrinsic and inseparable connection between the body, the mind and the spirit. For the 85% of the population who have never seen a chiropractor, the skilled care of manual orthopedic therapy goes way beyond merely optimizing spinal function, or treating headache, neck, and back pain complaints... whether they are recent or longstanding. Research suggests that chiropractic care may also improve emotional health, including psychological well-being.
Ever Feel Like Going Up the Down Staircase?
According to new research, a common problem known as the vertebral subluxation may affect the psyche in a slow and unsuspected manner. These segmental restrictions of individual vertebra is linked to a wide range of physiological, and physical health issues as well.
These spinal fixations sometimes referred to as vertebral subluxations is a condition in which spinal bones, (vertebrae) have restricted mobility. It occurs when vertebrae are slightly out of place, and are not functioning properly. We use specialized maneuvers by hand, or by instrument, called chiropractic adjustments, to correct these fixations by restoring normal motion, resiliency and spinal alignment. Sometimes it takes only a few, and other times depending upon the problem, several over a number of months time.
These Fixations Hamper Well-Being
Multiple studies indicate that well-being may be directly tied to vertebral subluxations. In one report, researchers used two different assessments to measure well-being in an individual with chronic low back pain. The 26-year-old female patient had multiple vertebral subluxations and low scores on to quality-of-life outcome measurements.
After nine months of chiropractic care, her vertebral subluxations were significantly reduced. Simultaneously, her well-being also improved. An evaluation called "the quality of well-being scale" her score jumped from 1.1 to 8.2 after chiropractic care. Another well-being survey, which initially indicated low scores, exceeded normal for well-being on five subscales. The mental health composite score on this assessment improved dramatically from 25.3 to 62.8.
"The patient appeared two experience improvement in quality-of-life while showing signs suggestive of improved spinal function. The relationship between indicators of vertebral subluxation and quality of life deserves further investigation using a research design that allows for exploration of possible causal relationships," summarized the researchers (J Manipulative Physiol Ther 2005;28:136-42).
A Balanced Lifestyle with Desired Benefits
Well-being is a key aspect of the chiropractic lifestyle: a conscious mode of living which encourages patients to embrace not only simple lifestyle changes, but also regular exercise, adequate nutritious food, plenty of clean water and adequate hydration, along with fresh air —all part of what we call a daily First-Line Therapy program, and a small puzzle piece to Functional Diagnostic Medicine. In addition, this encompasses other healthy choices for body and mind, including stress reduction, and regular chiropractic care. Unlike medication with a limited effect, this lifestyle is proven positive long-term effects on well-being — and all without unwanted side effects, but instead desired benefits.
When 205 volunteers attended a four-day health program, which mirrored principles of the chiropractic lifestyle, they enjoyed prolonged emotional benefit. The health retreat was designed to reduce vertebral subluxations, restore balance to the nervous system and provide lifestyle and nutritional education. Patients completed a health survey and the global well-being scale just prior to the program, and at its end —and then again eight weeks later. At the program's completion, all attendees showed "significant improvement" in the well-being assessment —and in six of eight scales on the health survey. Two months later, participants’ scores for both tests remained higher than before the program (J Vert Sublux Res 2008;3:1-8).
There’s Confidence in Complete Well-Being…
Research shows us that chiropractic care affects all aspects of emotional well-being. For instance, there were 10 volunteers recently who participated in a 5 1/2 month study. All participants held stressful positions as public safety personnel at a fire in emergency service department — jobs that tax their emotional health. As part of the experiment, the participants received weekly chiropractic care.
Participants completed a thorough quality-of-life survey at the studies onset and at its completion. The comprehensive evaluation concluded assessment of physical and emotional well-being, mental and emotional state, stress management, life enjoyment and overall quality of life.
At the end of the study, subjects enjoyed remarkable spine related improvements, such as improved range of motion, spinal balance, tendon reflexes and posture. Concurrently, participants noted dramatic increases in all aspects of well-being (J Vert Sublux Res 2007;1-8).
Depression, Sadness, & Despair
Vertebral subluxations may also be related to depression, speculate other researchers.
In one report, a 46 year old man sought chiropractic care during a third bout of depression. His depression medication caused multiple side effects, such as dizziness, muscle weakness and insomnia. He suffered from neck and low back pain, anxiety, fatigue and diminished appetite. His initial chiropractic exam revealed multiple vertebral subluxations. The patient’s chiropractic doctor performed "specific" chiropractic adjustments for the correction of vertebral subluxations. Throughout care, the patient routinely completed well-being assessments. As his care progressed, he enjoyed a "significant increase" in three well-respected quality-of-life scientific indicators. The researchers concluded: "the progress that has been documented with this man's suggests a connection between the correction of vertebral subluxations and increased wellness in quality-of-life.” (J Vert Sublux Res 2008;4:1-7).
Anxiety, Worry, & Nervousness
Analysis shows that anxiety may also be linked to vertebral subluxations. In one report, a 19-year-old woman was diagnosed with general anxiety disorder, (GAD). For two years, she suffered from symptoms such as dizziness, trembling, sweating, heart palpitations, sleep deprivation, poor concentration, the personalization and headaches. She was taking medication, but her symptoms continue to escalate, resulting in multiple emergency room visits.
The chiropractic evaluation revealed multiple, chronic vertebral subluxations and altered spinal curves in her neck, and mid back. Her chiropractor focused on eliminating vertebral subluxations to restore proper nerve function. “Subjective improvement was noted after the first adjustment, with 50% reduction in anxiety, 30% reduction of headache symptoms, and increased mobility in the neck."
Over a four-month course of care, the patient experienced a remarkable change in well-being and quality-of-life. She successfully discontinued medication, and her anxiety level remained reduced by 80%. The study authors conclude that "these improvements suggest positive changes in mental health function [and] may be associated with subluxation correction from the application of chiropractic care." (J Vert Sublux Res 2004;1).
Sometimes It's Not Such a Quick Fix
Unlike anti-depressants and anti-anxiety drugs, chiropractic care and the chiropractic lifestyle is a long-term, all natural approach to well-being. Although medication may appear to be a "quick fix," drugs have potential side effects. On the other hand, chiropractic care is a natural highly effective of solution to many health issues related to anxiety and depression, such as chronic pain. However, the chiropractic lifestyle is a lifelong commitment, and sometimes spark drastic changes.
At the New Zealand School of Chiropractic training clinic, 89 patients rated their emotional health status initially, and then every eight weeks for five months after regular chiropractic care. Volunteers assessed health across four domains: emotional and mental state, stress, life enjoyment and physical health. A second survey ascertained quality-of-life. Participants noted changes in both areas after consistent chiropractic care. The authors conclude that the chiropractic care provided "significant benefits" in well-being, not instantly, but over time. "Study data suggested that health and wellness may accrue with time under care." (J Vert Sublux Res 2008;3:1-9).

We Remain Your Best Reliable Resource
All the best,
Lewis Meltz, DC
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Chiropractic Orthopedic Group
Something I discuss with patients routinely is the intrinsic and inseparable connection between the body, the mind and the spirit. For the 85% of the population who have never seen a chiropractor, the skilled care of manual orthopedic therapy goes way beyond merely optimizing spinal function, or treating headache, neck, and back pain complaints... whether they are recent or longstanding. Research suggests that chiropractic care may also improve emotional health, including psychological well-being.

According to new research, a common problem known as the vertebral subluxation may affect the psyche in a slow and unsuspected manner. These segmental restrictions of individual vertebra is linked to a wide range of physiological, and physical health issues as well.
These spinal fixations sometimes referred to as vertebral subluxations is a condition in which spinal bones, (vertebrae) have restricted mobility. It occurs when vertebrae are slightly out of place, and are not functioning properly. We use specialized maneuvers by hand, or by instrument, called chiropractic adjustments, to correct these fixations by restoring normal motion, resiliency and spinal alignment. Sometimes it takes only a few, and other times depending upon the problem, several over a number of months time.
These Fixations Hamper Well-Being
Multiple studies indicate that well-being may be directly tied to vertebral subluxations. In one report, researchers used two different assessments to measure well-being in an individual with chronic low back pain. The 26-year-old female patient had multiple vertebral subluxations and low scores on to quality-of-life outcome measurements.
After nine months of chiropractic care, her vertebral subluxations were significantly reduced. Simultaneously, her well-being also improved. An evaluation called "the quality of well-being scale" her score jumped from 1.1 to 8.2 after chiropractic care. Another well-being survey, which initially indicated low scores, exceeded normal for well-being on five subscales. The mental health composite score on this assessment improved dramatically from 25.3 to 62.8.
"The patient appeared two experience improvement in quality-of-life while showing signs suggestive of improved spinal function. The relationship between indicators of vertebral subluxation and quality of life deserves further investigation using a research design that allows for exploration of possible causal relationships," summarized the researchers (J Manipulative Physiol Ther 2005;28:136-42).
A Balanced Lifestyle with Desired Benefits
Well-being is a key aspect of the chiropractic lifestyle: a conscious mode of living which encourages patients to embrace not only simple lifestyle changes, but also regular exercise, adequate nutritious food, plenty of clean water and adequate hydration, along with fresh air —all part of what we call a daily First-Line Therapy program, and a small puzzle piece to Functional Diagnostic Medicine. In addition, this encompasses other healthy choices for body and mind, including stress reduction, and regular chiropractic care. Unlike medication with a limited effect, this lifestyle is proven positive long-term effects on well-being — and all without unwanted side effects, but instead desired benefits.
When 205 volunteers attended a four-day health program, which mirrored principles of the chiropractic lifestyle, they enjoyed prolonged emotional benefit. The health retreat was designed to reduce vertebral subluxations, restore balance to the nervous system and provide lifestyle and nutritional education. Patients completed a health survey and the global well-being scale just prior to the program, and at its end —and then again eight weeks later. At the program's completion, all attendees showed "significant improvement" in the well-being assessment —and in six of eight scales on the health survey. Two months later, participants’ scores for both tests remained higher than before the program (J Vert Sublux Res 2008;3:1-8).
There’s Confidence in Complete Well-Being…
Research shows us that chiropractic care affects all aspects of emotional well-being. For instance, there were 10 volunteers recently who participated in a 5 1/2 month study. All participants held stressful positions as public safety personnel at a fire in emergency service department — jobs that tax their emotional health. As part of the experiment, the participants received weekly chiropractic care.
Participants completed a thorough quality-of-life survey at the studies onset and at its completion. The comprehensive evaluation concluded assessment of physical and emotional well-being, mental and emotional state, stress management, life enjoyment and overall quality of life.
At the end of the study, subjects enjoyed remarkable spine related improvements, such as improved range of motion, spinal balance, tendon reflexes and posture. Concurrently, participants noted dramatic increases in all aspects of well-being (J Vert Sublux Res 2007;1-8).
Depression, Sadness, & Despair

Vertebral subluxations may also be related to depression, speculate other researchers.
In one report, a 46 year old man sought chiropractic care during a third bout of depression. His depression medication caused multiple side effects, such as dizziness, muscle weakness and insomnia. He suffered from neck and low back pain, anxiety, fatigue and diminished appetite. His initial chiropractic exam revealed multiple vertebral subluxations. The patient’s chiropractic doctor performed "specific" chiropractic adjustments for the correction of vertebral subluxations. Throughout care, the patient routinely completed well-being assessments. As his care progressed, he enjoyed a "significant increase" in three well-respected quality-of-life scientific indicators. The researchers concluded: "the progress that has been documented with this man's suggests a connection between the correction of vertebral subluxations and increased wellness in quality-of-life.” (J Vert Sublux Res 2008;4:1-7).
Anxiety, Worry, & Nervousness
Analysis shows that anxiety may also be linked to vertebral subluxations. In one report, a 19-year-old woman was diagnosed with general anxiety disorder, (GAD). For two years, she suffered from symptoms such as dizziness, trembling, sweating, heart palpitations, sleep deprivation, poor concentration, the personalization and headaches. She was taking medication, but her symptoms continue to escalate, resulting in multiple emergency room visits.
The chiropractic evaluation revealed multiple, chronic vertebral subluxations and altered spinal curves in her neck, and mid back. Her chiropractor focused on eliminating vertebral subluxations to restore proper nerve function. “Subjective improvement was noted after the first adjustment, with 50% reduction in anxiety, 30% reduction of headache symptoms, and increased mobility in the neck."
Over a four-month course of care, the patient experienced a remarkable change in well-being and quality-of-life. She successfully discontinued medication, and her anxiety level remained reduced by 80%. The study authors conclude that "these improvements suggest positive changes in mental health function [and] may be associated with subluxation correction from the application of chiropractic care." (J Vert Sublux Res 2004;1).
?rel=author”>Lewis Meltz, D.C.
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Unlike anti-depressants and anti-anxiety drugs, chiropractic care and the chiropractic lifestyle is a long-term, all natural approach to well-being. Although medication may appear to be a "quick fix," drugs have potential side effects. On the other hand, chiropractic care is a natural highly effective of solution to many health issues related to anxiety and depression, such as chronic pain. However, the chiropractic lifestyle is a lifelong commitment, and sometimes spark drastic changes.
At the New Zealand School of Chiropractic training clinic, 89 patients rated their emotional health status initially, and then every eight weeks for five months after regular chiropractic care. Volunteers assessed health across four domains: emotional and mental state, stress, life enjoyment and physical health. A second survey ascertained quality-of-life. Participants noted changes in both areas after consistent chiropractic care. The authors conclude that the chiropractic care provided "significant benefits" in well-being, not instantly, but over time. "Study data suggested that health and wellness may accrue with time under care." (J Vert Sublux Res 2008;3:1-9).

We Remain Your Best Reliable Resource
Maintaining a positive sense of well-being is essential for physical and emotional health. However with today's frenzied pace of life, that's more challenging than ever before. Let us help you achieve emotional and physical wellness. We're here to listen and were here to help... so call for an appointment today.
All the best,
Lewis Meltz, DC
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?rel=author”>Lewis Meltz, D.C.
Chiropractic Orthopedic Group
THE POWER OF POTASSIUM
In years before, our diet once contained an abundance of potassium, but as our diets began including more processed foods, and fewer fresh fruits and vegetables, potassium intake levels plummeted. Scientists now suspect this may be a reason behind the recent rise in chronic diseases like heart disease and osteoporosis.
These days I'm becoming more and more concerned about this nutritional shift because prevention is the cornerstone of the chiropractic lifestyle. Most Americans fail to consume even their daily “nutritional minimum wage” resulting in scores of preventable conditions. This lifestyle includes regular chiropractic care which includes manual orthopedic therapy, exercise, nutrition and other preventative measures such as smoking cessation, and weight management. At every opportunity we encourage your patients to focus on preventing disease and illness, and be aware of the latest research.
What Is Potassium?
Potassium is an element (and an electrolyte) that's essential for the body's growth and maintenance. It's necessary to ensure:
· Normal water balance between cells and body fluids
· The response of nerves to stimulation
· The contraction of muscles
Potassium works closely with sodium, through a mechanism known as the sodium-potassium pump, to perform all of the above tasks.
Potassium occurs naturally in a wide variety of foods. As a result, a severe dietary deficiency of potassium is uncommon. However, you may be at risk of potassium deficiency a condition called hypokalemia, if you experience excessive fluid loss, through vomiting, diarrhea or sweating, or if you take certain medications such as diuretics, it's common in alcoholics, with the routine use of laxatives, and found in numerous types of eating disorders.
If a little bit is good, then a whole lot more isn't necessarily better —because abnormally elevated serum potassium concentrations are referred to as hyperkalemia. This condition occurs when potassium intake exceeds the capacity of the kidneys to eliminate it. The most serious complication of hyperkalemia is the development of an abnormal heart rhythm, which can lead to cardiac arrest and death. Additional information can be found at this link at the OSU Linus Pauling Institute, Micronutrient Research for Optimum Health: http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/infocenter/minerals/potassium/
New research revealing how the typical American diet, which is high in sodium, and contains a widespread amount of processed foods low in fresh fruits and vegetables, leaving many, although not severely deficient, lacking in potassium. In other words, the modern diet is upsetting the delicate balance between potassium and sodium in the body. And this imbalance may be setting up many only to look forward to causing chronic health problems to occur as we age.
A study in the scientific journal Physiologia Plantarum explains: "until recently, humans consumed a diet high in potassium. However with the increasing consumption of processed food, in which potassium is for the most part removed, combined with a reduction in the consumption of fruits and vegetables, there’s been a large decrease in potassium intake… much evidence shows that increasing potassium intake has beneficial effects on human health."
The study goes on to explain that the positive effects of increased potassium intake include lowering blood pressure, slowing the progress of kidney disease, and decreasing the risk of kidney stones and osteoporosis. The researchers conclude that the "the best way to increase potassium intake is to increase the consumption of fruits and vegetables." (Physiol Plant 2008;133:725-35).
Potassium is One Way to Lower Blood Pressure
Exciting research presented at the American Society of Nephrology's 41st Annual Meeting and Scientific Exposition November 2008 in Philadelphia, PA found that low levels of potassium in the diet may be equally as important to monitor as are high levels of sodium.
"There's been a lot of publicity about lowering salt or sodium in the diet in order to lower blood pressure, but not enough on increasing dietary potassium," comments lead author Susan Hedayati, MD, of the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, Texas, and the Dallas VA Medical Center.
The researchers analyzed data on approximately 3,300 subjects and discovered a strong relationship between potassium levels and blood pressure. "The lower the potassium in the urine, hence the lower the potassium in the diet, the higher the blood pressure," says Dr. Hedayati. "This effect was even stronger than the effect of sodium and blood pressure."
The relationship between low potassium and high blood pressure remained significant even when age, race and other cardiovascular risk factors, including high cholesterol, diabetes and smoking, were taken into account. The researchers "urge efforts to increase the amount of potassium in the diet, as well as lowering sodium."
"High potassium foods include fruits such as bananas and citrus fruits and vegetables," says Dr. Hedayati. "Consuming a larger amount of these foods in the diet may lower blood pressure."
The Relationship between Potassium & Osteoporosis
Potassium also plays an important role in maintaining bone health. Researchers have long established that potassium prevents the excretion of calcium from the body. For instance, a 1993 study called "Potassium Causes Calcium Retention in Healthy Adults" in the Journal of Nutrition found that administering potassium to healthy adults reduced their urinary calcium excretion (J Nutr 1993;123:1623-6).
And the effects of potassium on calcium retention are not just short term. A report published in the journal Osteoporosis Int'l looked at the long-term effects of potassium intake on bone mineral density (BMG) among 266 elderly women. The study found that women with higher levels of potassium had significantly higher BMG after one year and after five years.
The researchers conclude: "potassium intake shows positive association with bone density in elderly women, suggesting that increasing consumption of food rich in potassium may play a role in osteoporosis prevention" (Osteoporos Int 2008; Epub.)
Beyond the Jungle & the Bananas —a Good Source Of Potassium
Most fresh fruits and vegetables are good sources of potassium. To increase your potassium intake, cut down on processed food and eat lots of fresh produce. To get the most potassium benefit out of your produce, cook it as little as possible, blanching or steaming is best, and a raw is even better. Baking will also maintain many nutrients usually lost in the water with simmering or heavy steaming. White meats, fish, dried fruits and nuts are what are referred to as other potassium rich ‘money’ foods.
We all think of bananas as a good source of potassium, there are actually many other fruits and vegetables packed with even more potassium. For example, while one banana contains 467.28 mg of potassium (13.4% daily value) 1 c. of steamed Swiss chard contains 960.7 mg (27.4% daily value). Other excellent, and perhaps surprising, sources of potassium include Crimini mushrooms, spinach, baked winter squash, broccoli, celery, molasses, tomato, raisins, carrots, papaya, avocado and beans.
So what would you say is the adequate daily intake for potassium?
According to the Food and Nutrition Board of the Institute of Medicine report infants up to 6 months should have 400 mg and 7-12 months about 700 mg for boys and girls. Children ages 1 to 3 should have 3,000 mg and ages 4 to 8 3,800 mg and ages 9 to 13 about 4,500 mg daily. Adolescents ages 14 to 18 and all adults should have 4,700 mg daily between both genders. If pregnant, similar daily requirements are suggested of 4,700 mg and if breast-feeding 5,100 mg of daily potassium in the diet.
All the best,
Lewis Meltz, DC
In years before, our diet once contained an abundance of potassium, but as our diets began including more processed foods, and fewer fresh fruits and vegetables, potassium intake levels plummeted. Scientists now suspect this may be a reason behind the recent rise in chronic diseases like heart disease and osteoporosis.
These days I'm becoming more and more concerned about this nutritional shift because prevention is the cornerstone of the chiropractic lifestyle. Most Americans fail to consume even their daily “nutritional minimum wage” resulting in scores of preventable conditions. This lifestyle includes regular chiropractic care which includes manual orthopedic therapy, exercise, nutrition and other preventative measures such as smoking cessation, and weight management. At every opportunity we encourage your patients to focus on preventing disease and illness, and be aware of the latest research.
What Is Potassium?
Potassium is an element (and an electrolyte) that's essential for the body's growth and maintenance. It's necessary to ensure:
· Normal water balance between cells and body fluids
· The response of nerves to stimulation
· The contraction of muscles
Potassium works closely with sodium, through a mechanism known as the sodium-potassium pump, to perform all of the above tasks.
Potassium occurs naturally in a wide variety of foods. As a result, a severe dietary deficiency of potassium is uncommon. However, you may be at risk of potassium deficiency a condition called hypokalemia, if you experience excessive fluid loss, through vomiting, diarrhea or sweating, or if you take certain medications such as diuretics, it's common in alcoholics, with the routine use of laxatives, and found in numerous types of eating disorders.
If a little bit is good, then a whole lot more isn't necessarily better —because abnormally elevated serum potassium concentrations are referred to as hyperkalemia. This condition occurs when potassium intake exceeds the capacity of the kidneys to eliminate it. The most serious complication of hyperkalemia is the development of an abnormal heart rhythm, which can lead to cardiac arrest and death. Additional information can be found at this link at the OSU Linus Pauling Institute, Micronutrient Research for Optimum Health: http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/infocenter/minerals/potassium/
New research revealing how the typical American diet, which is high in sodium, and contains a widespread amount of processed foods low in fresh fruits and vegetables, leaving many, although not severely deficient, lacking in potassium. In other words, the modern diet is upsetting the delicate balance between potassium and sodium in the body. And this imbalance may be setting up many only to look forward to causing chronic health problems to occur as we age.
A study in the scientific journal Physiologia Plantarum explains: "until recently, humans consumed a diet high in potassium. However with the increasing consumption of processed food, in which potassium is for the most part removed, combined with a reduction in the consumption of fruits and vegetables, there’s been a large decrease in potassium intake… much evidence shows that increasing potassium intake has beneficial effects on human health."
The study goes on to explain that the positive effects of increased potassium intake include lowering blood pressure, slowing the progress of kidney disease, and decreasing the risk of kidney stones and osteoporosis. The researchers conclude that the "the best way to increase potassium intake is to increase the consumption of fruits and vegetables." (Physiol Plant 2008;133:725-35).
Potassium is One Way to Lower Blood Pressure
Exciting research presented at the American Society of Nephrology's 41st Annual Meeting and Scientific Exposition November 2008 in Philadelphia, PA found that low levels of potassium in the diet may be equally as important to monitor as are high levels of sodium.
"There's been a lot of publicity about lowering salt or sodium in the diet in order to lower blood pressure, but not enough on increasing dietary potassium," comments lead author Susan Hedayati, MD, of the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, Texas, and the Dallas VA Medical Center.
The researchers analyzed data on approximately 3,300 subjects and discovered a strong relationship between potassium levels and blood pressure. "The lower the potassium in the urine, hence the lower the potassium in the diet, the higher the blood pressure," says Dr. Hedayati. "This effect was even stronger than the effect of sodium and blood pressure."
The relationship between low potassium and high blood pressure remained significant even when age, race and other cardiovascular risk factors, including high cholesterol, diabetes and smoking, were taken into account. The researchers "urge efforts to increase the amount of potassium in the diet, as well as lowering sodium."
"High potassium foods include fruits such as bananas and citrus fruits and vegetables," says Dr. Hedayati. "Consuming a larger amount of these foods in the diet may lower blood pressure."
The Relationship between Potassium & Osteoporosis
Potassium also plays an important role in maintaining bone health. Researchers have long established that potassium prevents the excretion of calcium from the body. For instance, a 1993 study called "Potassium Causes Calcium Retention in Healthy Adults" in the Journal of Nutrition found that administering potassium to healthy adults reduced their urinary calcium excretion (J Nutr 1993;123:1623-6).
And the effects of potassium on calcium retention are not just short term. A report published in the journal Osteoporosis Int'l looked at the long-term effects of potassium intake on bone mineral density (BMG) among 266 elderly women. The study found that women with higher levels of potassium had significantly higher BMG after one year and after five years.
The researchers conclude: "potassium intake shows positive association with bone density in elderly women, suggesting that increasing consumption of food rich in potassium may play a role in osteoporosis prevention" (Osteoporos Int 2008; Epub.)
Beyond the Jungle & the Bananas —a Good Source Of Potassium
Most fresh fruits and vegetables are good sources of potassium. To increase your potassium intake, cut down on processed food and eat lots of fresh produce. To get the most potassium benefit out of your produce, cook it as little as possible, blanching or steaming is best, and a raw is even better. Baking will also maintain many nutrients usually lost in the water with simmering or heavy steaming. White meats, fish, dried fruits and nuts are what are referred to as other potassium rich ‘money’ foods.
We all think of bananas as a good source of potassium, there are actually many other fruits and vegetables packed with even more potassium. For example, while one banana contains 467.28 mg of potassium (13.4% daily value) 1 c. of steamed Swiss chard contains 960.7 mg (27.4% daily value). Other excellent, and perhaps surprising, sources of potassium include Crimini mushrooms, spinach, baked winter squash, broccoli, celery, molasses, tomato, raisins, carrots, papaya, avocado and beans.
So what would you say is the adequate daily intake for potassium?
According to the Food and Nutrition Board of the Institute of Medicine report infants up to 6 months should have 400 mg and 7-12 months about 700 mg for boys and girls. Children ages 1 to 3 should have 3,000 mg and ages 4 to 8 3,800 mg and ages 9 to 13 about 4,500 mg daily. Adolescents ages 14 to 18 and all adults should have 4,700 mg daily between both genders. If pregnant, similar daily requirements are suggested of 4,700 mg and if breast-feeding 5,100 mg of daily potassium in the diet.
All the best,
Lewis Meltz, DC
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