Detoxification for joint pain relief and to look younger!

August 28, 2014 by

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What is Detoxification?
For many of us, when we hear the “detoxification” it can conjure up images of people sitting in infrared saunas ‘sweating it out’, drinking only natural freshly juiced vegetables and fruits, colonics therapy, and even fasting. While all of these methods can certainly help us detoxify our tissues, there are additional tools that we need when detoxifying our body at the level of our cells, where all chemical reactions take place.

The primary way that our body detoxifies, or eliminates toxic debris from our tissues, is via the skin (via sweat), the bowels, urine, tears, and earwax. During acute phases of toxicity, we can eliminate toxins via our mucous membranes such as when we have a runny nose (think allergies).

Body functions that help us to detoxify
Many of us have been taught that the primary way to detoxify is to “sweat it out” via exercise. Although our skin is one of the largest organs in our body covering a large surface area, by itself it cannot handle today’s heavy toxic burden brought about by the typical American diet and lifestyle. It is our bowels that are best equipped to quickly eliminate our heavy toxic burden with the greatest efficiency.  While exercising is still good for us, before we are able to eliminate toxins from our body, it must go through two phases of detoxification.

Phase I detoxification
This is the first line of defense that removes environmental toxins, including pesticides, pollutants, solvents, pharmaceuticals, heavy metals, and many of our body’s own waste products including steroid hormones and excess hormones.   Phase I can be thought of as the process where a toxin is plucked from a tissue, and sent off for further ‘packaging’ to be expelled from the body.

Phase II detoxification
This involves many enzymes, commonly located in the liver and kidney, that transforms and packages these harmful chemicals that have been removed from our tissues into more neutral, water-soluble chemicals, ready for elimination. The enzymes involved in this process are the Cytochrome P-450 series enzymes, COMT enzymes, Glutathione S-Transferase enzymes, and Superoxide Dismutase enzymes to name a few. These enzymes can only do their job in the presence of adequate amounts of key nutrients.

What happens when the body can’t detoxify properly?
We can experience a number of problems. These can include hormone imbalance and mood swings caused by inadequate neurotransmitters that help our brain feel sharp and free of depression. We also open ourselves up to many opportunistic gut infections such as parasitic bacterial overgrowth and candida yeast.

Energy Poverty
The inability to adequately detoxify not only creates immune system deficiencies, but hinders our ability to have adequate amounts of energy. “Energy poverty” is an epidemic today in America, and we see the effects as many Americans require poorly made, and woefully non-nutritious quick energy drinks such as 5-Hour energy, Monster, Rock-Star, or a dependency on a morning cup of coffee “just to get going”.

We age faster and  gain weight and get “fatter”
We also age more quickly as a result of toxic buildup in our body. When toxins store in our body, they accelerate aging on many levels, which also shows up in the quality of our skin. Premature wrinkles, skin tags, moles, and the appearance of being overly red (a “ruddy complexion”), or appearing overly pale (due to inadequate blood building nutrients and antioxidants) are all indicators of toxic buildups. Inflamed red capillaries build up in our skin as a result of toxic exposure. Toxic buildup also congests our joints, speeding up their degeneration which is felt as joint pain and stiffness. Because fat has the ability to store toxins, it also accumulates in our body as a result of toxic buildup.

We use a simple, yet highly comprehensive and specific test that you can perform in the comfort of your home by Genova Diagnostics that measures your body’s overall ability to detoxify itself and run efficiently. It is called the TRIAD Blood spot, and it is used to help identify this, and other functions essential to good health: determining parasitic bacteria and yeast overgrowth, leaky gut, neurotransmitter status, food sensitivities, energy production, nutrient status and more.

Call us today to find out how well your body is detoxifying, and how we can help you today.

References
The EPA’s National Human Adipose Tissue Survey (NHATS), established by the U.S. Public Health Service in 1967, measured human adipose (fat) tissue for the presence of toxic chemicals. In 1982 and 1987 it analyzed the fat samples from human cadavers looking at the types of toxins that accumulate in fat tissue.
http://cfpub.epa.gov/ncea/cfm/recordisplay.cfm?deid=55204.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1614818/?pageindex=1#page

 

Filed Under: anti-aging, feeling old, joint pain, low energy Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Are you feeling a lot older than your biological age?

June 23, 2014 by

???????????????????????????????????????????????????????In a 2008 article from the Linus Pauling Institute, “While overall caloric needs tend to decrease with age, the requirements for individual micronutrients (vitamins and nutritionally-essential minerals) do not decrease. In fact, the needs for some micronutrients, such as calcium and vitamin D, actually increase with age: adults older than 50 years require higher intakes of these two micronutrients. Older adults may also need more dietary antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, as well as certain B vitamins, including vitamin B6, folate, and vitamin B12. Micronutrient deficiencies are quite common in the U.S. and other countries, and older adults are especially vulnerable. Since physical activity levels generally decline with increasing age, older adults have lower energy requirements than younger adults. Therefore, it is particularly important for older adults to choose nutrient-rich foods and take a daily multivitamin-mineral supplement. Adequate intake of micronutrients not only ensures that current metabolic needs are met but also may reduce one’s risk for chronic diseases, including heart disease, cancer, and osteoporosis, that are more common in older adults.”

Micronutrient deficiencies in older adults can be caused by a combination of factors, including:
• Physical injuries
• Emotional Stress
• Chronic health issues
• Drug (prescription and other) usage

As we age, bones, joints and cartilage deterioration can remind us that “something isn’t right.” Micronutrients are important to bone, intestinal absorption, skin, your metabolism, etc. For good bone health, it is important to have adequate nutritional amounts of calcium, vitamin D, and magnesium, and for the prevention of bone-related diseases in older adults.

We all know that we need Calcium. According to the Linus Pauling Institute, Calcium is the most common mineral in the human body, with about 99% of total body calcium residing in bones and teeth. Without the dietary intake being properly met, the body can demineralize bone in order to maintain blood levels of calcium within a narrow range, necessary for normal physiological function. This bone demineralization can lead to bone fragility, osteoporosis, and bone fracture.
Vitamin D is also a key vitamin for marinating bone density and muscle strength.

Older adults often have a reduced capacity to synthesize vitamin D in the skin upon exposure to ultraviolet-B radiation. Older adults can also have an impaired conversion of vitamin D to its active form in the kidneys. Vitamin D synthesis in the body requires cholesterol, and because of the widespread use of Statin medications today, many Americans have markedly inadequate levels of Vitamin D. Therefore, supplemental vitamin D is especially important for older adults.

Magnesium is a mineral where most US Adults do not meet the RDA, and elderly adults are especially at risk due to low dietary intakes, reduced intestinal absorption, and increased urinary losses of the mineral. Additionally, the RDA for Magnesium is far too low. Because Magnesium is integral to diverse roles in the body, Magnesium deficiency can result in serious health issues. It is a cofactor for more than 300 metabolic reactions, including those required for energy production, nerve function and muscle function, making neurotransmitters in our brain that alleviate depression, as well as bone health. Magnesium deficiency is one of the most widespread deficiencies in America today because it is the “stress mineral” and is rapidly depleted during times of emotional stress which most Americans experience on a daily basis, and physical stress such as during exercise and trauma from injuries. Magnesium deficiency can impair calcium and vitamin D metabolism, leading to bone loss.

There are also micronutrients that function as antioxidants, including Vitamins C and E. Vitamin C and other antioxidants protect various molecules in the body, including proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids (DNA and RNA), from oxidative damage by free radicals. Vitamin E is credited with helping to protect against oxidative stress, which can impact or help prevent neurodegenerative diseases as well as cardiac related issues.

How we detect nutritional and health related issues?
Even if you take the RDA (Recommended Daily Amount) of micro-nutrients, how can you be sure you are absorbing them? Our practice uses the TRIAD Blood Spot test. This is a simple test that our patients perform in the comfort of their home. It requires obtaining a blood spot/smear, and a urine collection, all contained within the kit performed by the individual and does not require a lab. This test, which is billable to insurance, collects a large amount of data, more than most lab tests used today, that tells us what nutrient deficiencies you are experiencing, how well your body is healing and repairing itself, neurotransmitter status required for optimal brain function, gut health, any hidden infections, food sensitivities which can hinder your energy and fatigue levels, energy production and maintenance.

This test can provide answers for many people who feel as if they are aging faster than they should, or for those who are approaching their senior years but who want to maintain an active and vital life.

Call or contact us now for more information on how we can help you slow down the aging process and feel good again. Getting older does not mean you have to slow down, or “feel old.”

Filed Under: age reversal, feeling old, increase energy, joint pain, low energy Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Liquid Biocell is an Anti-Aging nutritional blend

February 24, 2014 by

jusuru flexible jointsMany of our Patients have had excellent changes to their pain levels and overall sense of well-being, after they begin a nutritional regimen of Jusuru, which is an anti-aging nutritional blend. This nutritional blend has not only been effective in reducing joint pain issues related to worn down cartilage, but tendon issues which are often also related to cartilage and tissue degeneration, and/or injury. We’ve looked at several blends that attempt to provide similar results, but our Patients seem to have the best results with Liquid Biocell (Jusuru).

As we age, many of our cells become more oxidized and less effective in sustaining and repairing their structure, even releasing enzymes which degrade collagen.

What Is Biocell Collagen?
BioCell Collagen is a multi-patented joint and skin health nutraceutical that contains a naturally occurring matrix of hyalauronic acid, chondroitin sulfate, and hydrolyzed collagen type II. BioCell Collagen is a breakthrough ingredient that has been the subject of several clinical studies in which safety and efficacy have been demonstrated, and has not yet been duplicated. BioCell Collagen is made from a single naturally occurring source, and utilizes a multi-patented Bio-Optimized process which ensures rapid and proven absorption. Liquid Biocell (Jusuru) is the only product of its kind in the world that contains the liquid form of Biocell Collagen.

Hydrolyzed Collagen Type II
This is the most abundant protein found in joint cartilage and the dermis of the skin, and provides the structural framework of your connective tissues to keep your skin firm and resilient and your joints active and fluid. Collagen structurally holds your cells together, providing you with tensile strength in your connective tissues, skin and joints.  Only Hydrolyzed Collagen has been proven to regenerate cartilage in clinical studies. This process is unique to hydrolyzed collagen, and hypothesized to occur via increased activity of the cartilage producing cells in our body, called chondrocytes.

Chondroitin Sulfate
Chondroitin Sulfate is a naturally occurring element in joint cartilage that gives cartilage its shock absorbing properties.

Hyaluronic Acid (HA)
Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is the molecule that helps provide hydration for your skin, lubrication for your joints and is the gel-like substance that holds your cells together. HA holds moisture and can retain up to 400 times its weight in water, which is why taking HA reduces wrinkles as the moisture to previously wrinkled skin is often filled out. H.A. is used medically to treat joint pain and used to decrease skin wrinkles.

We are born with an abundance of HA, as we age levels of HA synthesis decreases. Low levels of HA are associated with wrinkling of skin, sagging dehydrated skin, immobility and joint degradation. Hyaluronidase, the enzyme which breaks down HA in the body, increases activity with age. Only the low molecular weight formulation of Hyaluronic Acid found in Jusuru has been shown to inhibit the actions of the enzyme hyaluronidase, thereby decreasing the breakdown of HA in skin and joints. The HA found in BioCell Collagen is highly bioavailable due to its patented processing method. Double blind placebo trials demonstrated a 6000% increase in blood levels of HA after 28 days of consecutive use.

Resveratrol
Resveratrol is commonly considered akin to the “French Paradox”; demonstrates why the French people have the lowest incident of cardiovascular disease and obesity in Europe while demonstrating graceful aging despite having a diet high in calories and saturated fats. Resveratrol has been shown to prevent skin related UV-B damage and abnormal cell growth in certain studies. Resveratrol has also been shown to activate the SIRT-1 gene, which is a gene associated with health and longevity. Additionally, certain studies have shown resveratrol to protect our brain from amyloid plaque formation, which is a type of plaque that accrues in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients who demonstrate a high rate of cognitive decline. Jusuru contains more Resveratrol in 1 ounce than 2 bottles of red wine.

Liquid Biocell (Jusuru) and your skin health
Healthy aging requires an effective measure against oxidative stress in the body and skin. Insufficient removal of reactive oxygen species (ROS), also called free radicals, initiates or accelerates aging processes. Antioxidants remove these damaging free radicals and protect our cells from harm. Our body can produce a few antioxidants such as the enzymes superoxide dismutase, catalase and peroxidase.

Certain studies show phytonutrients in Liquid Biocell restored these enzymatic defense systems and may explain the improvement upon UV-A damages, and protection from UV-B damages from sunlight. As one ages, these defense mechanisms weaken while the load of oxidative stress increases, therefore accelerates skin and body aging. Thus, an additional and constant supply of antioxidants is essential.

BioCell Collagen helps to rebuild healthy skin. Collagen, hyaluronic acid, and chondroitin sulfate are essential for healthy skin. As one ages, the amounts of these components decrease which leads to the collapse of the skin dermis, which is a structural layer in the skin. Supplementing with Biocell collagen can effectively improves skin health: Hydrolyzed collagen has been shown to support the skin’s collagen mesh-like network into which hyaluronic acid is interwoven. Hyaluronic acid helps to hold collagen together, and together they increase skin resiliency. An additional benefit is that it increases the density of dermal fibroblasts, a skin cell responsible for healing and regenerating the skin, which contributes to a youthful appearance.

Side Benefit – less wrinkles
Liquid Biocell (Jusuru) contains the liquid form of Biocell- a highly absorbable form of collagen, which is the only clinically proven nutritional product which reduces wrinkles, creases, fine lines, and increases skin hydration. The effects occur throughout the entire body, are long lasting, and have no side effects. The ingredients in Liquid Biocell have been shown to neutralize the effects of sun exposure and associated aging process. Hydrolyzed collagen is also thought to protect the skin from UV damages, dehydration, and type I collagen loss.


ABC News – Connie Chung: The Youthful Miracle of Hyaluronic Acid
Biocell Collagen in Jusuru (Liquid Biocell) contains the only proven absorbable form of Hyaluronic Acid

Filed Under: age reversal, anti-aging, Austin, Austin TX, cartilage regeneration, healthy aging, increase energy, inflammation, joint pain, pain, weight gain, wrinkles Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Nutrition and Pain

February 3, 2014 by

????????????????????Both Blood Ph balance and nutritional deficiencies can contribute to pain. Looking at a patient’s blood also tells us about the pH balance of the blood. When we see solids such as plaque in the blood, this can indicate a less than healthy pH balance, and that there may be oxidative stress. In humans, oxidative stress is thought to be involved in the development of many diseases or may exacerbate their symptoms.

Many people needlessly suffer from pain as a result of insufficient levels of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients. Even when a person takes supplements at what appear to be the correct levels, if your body is not absorbing them, the result can be nutritional deficiencies. In some cases, the body needs to metabolize other nutrients, or that the supplements a person is taking is not bio-available.

For example:
Vitamin B12
This vitamin is found in many animal products, and it is required for proper red blood cell formation, neurological function and DNA synthesis. Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency include megaloblastic anemia, fatigue, weakness, constipation, loss of appetite and weight loss. Neurological problems like numbness and tingling in the hands and feet can also occur. Other symptoms include difficulty maintaining balance, depression, confusion, dementia, poor memory and soreness of the mouth or tongue. Vitamin B12 has also been linked to Alzheimer’s disease.

Vitamin C
Humans need to get vitamin C from food, and this is where citrus fruits, and tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C. Other sources include broccoli, green and red peppers, kiwi and strawberries. The body needs vitamin C for the biosynthesis of collagen, L-carnitine and certain neurotransmitters, and for protein metabolism. Deficiencies in Vitamin C can contribute to fatigue, inflammation of the gums, loosening or loss of teeth, joint pain, and poor wound healing.

Vitamin D
The best natural food sources from Vitamin D include fatty fish like salmon, tuna, mackerel, and fish liver oils. Vitamin D regulates calcium in the body and helps it to maintain strong bones. It is required for healthy muscle movement, your nervous system needs Vitamin D, and it improves immune function as well as helping to reduce inflammation.

Iron
According to the World Health Organization, iron deficiency is the number one nutritional disorder in the world. Dietary iron comes in two forms, heme and nonheme. Red meats, fish and poultry are good sources of heme iron, which is absorbed better than non-heme iron; nonheme iron is found in plants, like lentils and beans. Iron is an essential nutrient;  it aids in blood cell creation, helps to transport oxygen to cells, and other important functions.

Symptoms of iron deficiency can include fatigue and weakness, cognitive issues, difficulty maintaining body temperature, decreased immune function, and other wellness issues. Additionally, because iron is largely responsible for the transport of oxygen to our tissues, a lack of oxygen, as with iron deficiency and anemias, can contribute to “ischemic pain”, which is pain that results from a lack of oxygen to our tissues. An analogy for ischemic pain would occur if we wrapped a rubber band tightly around the end of our finger. Our finger would eventually turn purple and begin to hurt due to lack of adequate blood supply carrying oxygen; this is an example of ischemic pain.

Magnesium
Magnesium is found in legumes, nuts, whole grains and vegetables, but American magnesium levels have dropped by half in the last century due to changes in agriculture and diet. Magnesium helps the body regulate more than 325 enzymes and plays an important role in organizing many bodily functions like muscle control, electrical impulses, energy production and the elimination of harmful toxins. Early signs of magnesium deficiency can include loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, fatigue and weakness. As magnesium deficiency worsens, numbness, tingling, muscle contractions and cramps, seizures, personality changes, abnormal heart rhythms and coronary spasms can occur. One prominent study revealed that a magnesium-rich diet may lower stroke risk.

We use a number of diagnostic tools to help us identify deficiencies in the blood as well as indicators of oxidative stress and blood pH issues. When we see solids such as plaque or uric acid (and to what degree they form), this indicates that the blood’s pH isn’t where it needs to be.  While ideally we would like patients to come into our office, we also work with long distance patients.

Using our Blood Cell Microscopy Analysis (Darkfield Phase Contrast Microscope) we can provide you with immediate results that can be performed in our office. We also enjoy using the TRIAD Blood spot nutritional assessment and metabolic profile lab test for both patients who can, and cannot come into our office. The TRIAD Blood Spot test by Metametrix labs can be ordered by a doctor, mailed to you so you can perform this test at home using only a small sample of blood. An additional packet is used to collect a urine sample. For specifics on insurance reimbursements, please contact our office.

Filed Under: blood ph, functional medicine austin, hydrolized collagen, joint pain, nutritional deficiencies, pain Tagged With: , , , , , ,