Looking for ways to address your chronic inflammation and pain without resorting to medication? Let me show you how.
Join me for an informative lecture “Reducing Chronic Pain and Inflammation – Naturally” this Saturday, March 20, 2010 from 2:00-4:00 pm at New York College of Health Professions, Continuing Education Department, Syosset campus.
Recent scientific evidence has shown that chronic inflammation is the driving force behind everything from arthritis, heart disease, Alzheimer’s and many other well known diseases. In my lecture, I will discuss how chronic inflammation can mask itself as normal aging and how diet can actually fuel inflammation. Attendees will learn how simple and realistic lifestyle and nutritional changes can significantly reduce their chronic pain naturally.
For more information or to make a reservation, contact Jasmine Yaghoobzar, Administrative Manager Continuing Education, New York College of Health Professions at 516 364 0808, ex. 332. Tuition fee is $45. Pre-registration is required. Class code is CE 102.
Hope to see you this Saturday!
Dr. W. Brent Reynolds DC, DACNB
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New York College of Health Professions has been a leader in holistic education and care for over 25 year. The campus is located at 6801 Jericho Tpk., Syosset, NY 11791; (800) 922-7337; http://www.nycollege.edu/continuing_education.
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Thursday, March 18, 2010
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
What Happens When There "Ain't No Sunshine"
The Importance of Vitamin D
Feeling a little blah this winter? Could be your level of vitamin D is low. Known as the “sunshine vitamin” vitamin D is derived not only through diet and supplementation but also through sun exposure. Skin exposed to the sun’s UV rays helps produce vitamin D naturally. However winter sunlight in northern regions like NY does not contain enough UV radiation; during harsh winter months, most people don't produce enough vitamin D naturally. Chronic fatigue, lack of energy, and even feelings of sadness can oftentimes be traced to low levels of vitamin D.
Vitamin D Deficiency Factors
Winter’s lack of strong UV sunlight is not the only cause of low levels of vitamin D. A fat-soluble vitamin, vitamin D requires fat for absorption; those with fat malabsorption conditions such as Crohn’s disease, liver disease, cystic fibrosis can be vitamin D deficient. Obesity and poor nutrition can also place a person at risk for vitamin D insufficiencies. Increases in cardiovascular disease, cancer, inflammation, severe asthma in children, and Osteoporosis are associated with vitamin D deficiencies; it is also thought to contribute to a variety of autoimmune diseases.
Benefits of Vitamin D
While it has been known for years that vitamin D helps the bones absorb calcium, aiding bone growth in children and protecting older adults from bone loss, studies have brought to light other important benefits. Proper levels of vitamin D help reduce inflammation and bolster the immune system, and regulate blood pressure. Studies have shown that vitamin D may even help decrease the risk of type 1 and type 2 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Diet & Supplements
Despite bone-chilling weather, it’s still possible to get an adequate daily intake of vitamin D. A daily diet of fortified milk, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, beans, lean meats, and oily fish such as salmon and tuna can ensure that proper levels are maintained. Vitamin D supplements are also a good source, however it is important to have your levels checked before supplementing. The 25-hydroxyvitamin D test is the most accurate way of assessing Vitamin D in the body. Normal range is above 50 ng/ml (nanograms per milliter) year round for both children and adults. Lower results signify a deficiency; higher values indicate excessive levels which can trigger kidney stones, bone loss, and calcification of the heart and kidneys if left untreated. Discuss your concerns about vitamin D with your health practitioner and ask for the 25-hydroxyvitamin D testing prior to commencing a supplement regimen.
Feeling a little blah this winter? Could be your level of vitamin D is low. Known as the “sunshine vitamin” vitamin D is derived not only through diet and supplementation but also through sun exposure. Skin exposed to the sun’s UV rays helps produce vitamin D naturally. However winter sunlight in northern regions like NY does not contain enough UV radiation; during harsh winter months, most people don't produce enough vitamin D naturally. Chronic fatigue, lack of energy, and even feelings of sadness can oftentimes be traced to low levels of vitamin D.
Vitamin D Deficiency Factors
Winter’s lack of strong UV sunlight is not the only cause of low levels of vitamin D. A fat-soluble vitamin, vitamin D requires fat for absorption; those with fat malabsorption conditions such as Crohn’s disease, liver disease, cystic fibrosis can be vitamin D deficient. Obesity and poor nutrition can also place a person at risk for vitamin D insufficiencies. Increases in cardiovascular disease, cancer, inflammation, severe asthma in children, and Osteoporosis are associated with vitamin D deficiencies; it is also thought to contribute to a variety of autoimmune diseases.
Benefits of Vitamin D
While it has been known for years that vitamin D helps the bones absorb calcium, aiding bone growth in children and protecting older adults from bone loss, studies have brought to light other important benefits. Proper levels of vitamin D help reduce inflammation and bolster the immune system, and regulate blood pressure. Studies have shown that vitamin D may even help decrease the risk of type 1 and type 2 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Diet & Supplements
Despite bone-chilling weather, it’s still possible to get an adequate daily intake of vitamin D. A daily diet of fortified milk, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, beans, lean meats, and oily fish such as salmon and tuna can ensure that proper levels are maintained. Vitamin D supplements are also a good source, however it is important to have your levels checked before supplementing. The 25-hydroxyvitamin D test is the most accurate way of assessing Vitamin D in the body. Normal range is above 50 ng/ml (nanograms per milliter) year round for both children and adults. Lower results signify a deficiency; higher values indicate excessive levels which can trigger kidney stones, bone loss, and calcification of the heart and kidneys if left untreated. Discuss your concerns about vitamin D with your health practitioner and ask for the 25-hydroxyvitamin D testing prior to commencing a supplement regimen.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Understanding Food Allergies: Immediate vs. Delayed
The words “food allergy” often conjures up images of tongue swelling, hives, wheezing, or even the throat closing. These immediate symptoms can be life-threatening; in fact, those with severe food allergies typically carry epinephrine injector pens in case they accidentally eat foods they are allergic to. Highly allergenic foods include peanuts, shellfish, tree nuts, and dairy products.
While immediate reactions typically indicate a food sensitivity, other allergic reactions are not always so obvious. These are called “delayed onset” food allergies as they tend to appear 36-72 hours after eating. These reactions are usually not as severe, but can trigger joint pain, fatigue, brain fog, abdominal bloating, and mood changes. Delayed onset food allergies are also behind baffling long-term health issues like Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, and chronic pain. Multiple Sclerosis, Osteoporosis and other severe diseases are also thought to be triggered by delayed food sensitivities.
It’s estimated that 12 million Americans suffer from food allergies and the number is growing for children. A study published in the December 2009 issue of Pediatrics reports the incidence of food allergy in children rose by 18% during 1997-2007. Topping the list of most common allergy triggers are wheat, barley, rye (gluten), dairy products (casein), corn, and soy. However, any food can cause sensitivity if a person’s immune system becomes activated to fight the “foreign invader.”
How Is Food Allergy Testing Done?
Blood tests are done to measure the level of antibodies, or immunoglobulin in the blood. For those suffering from severe, immediate allergic reactions such as asthma or throat swelling, allergen-specific immunoglobulin IgE antibodies testing is performed for certain foods or environmental triggers like pet dander or pollen. To test for delayed onset sensitivities to certain foods, a more involved test would check IgG antibody levels to identify antigens that contribute to chronic diseases. Results from immunoglobulin testing help allergy sufferers and their health practitioners form an effective wellness plan.
Lifestyle Changes
Once the culprit is identified, all necessary precautions must be taken to avoid the allergen food. It is critical to read all ingredient labels before purchasing packaged foods at the market; when dining out, be certain that the foods you order are allergen-free as well as prepared separately from other foods. At dinner parties, bring your own food to ensure there is no cross contamination that can trigger an attack. Most importantly, if you suffer severe allergic reactions, make sure to have all your medications with you at all times.
Lifestyle changes don’t occur overnight. Diligence and careful planning ahead can help reduce allergy anxiety and keep flare ups at bay. Food allergy support groups can offer guidance, friendship and resources to help manage your lifestyle. Check out http://www.foodallergy.org/section/support-groups%20to%20locate%20a%20local%20group.
While immediate reactions typically indicate a food sensitivity, other allergic reactions are not always so obvious. These are called “delayed onset” food allergies as they tend to appear 36-72 hours after eating. These reactions are usually not as severe, but can trigger joint pain, fatigue, brain fog, abdominal bloating, and mood changes. Delayed onset food allergies are also behind baffling long-term health issues like Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, and chronic pain. Multiple Sclerosis, Osteoporosis and other severe diseases are also thought to be triggered by delayed food sensitivities.
It’s estimated that 12 million Americans suffer from food allergies and the number is growing for children. A study published in the December 2009 issue of Pediatrics reports the incidence of food allergy in children rose by 18% during 1997-2007. Topping the list of most common allergy triggers are wheat, barley, rye (gluten), dairy products (casein), corn, and soy. However, any food can cause sensitivity if a person’s immune system becomes activated to fight the “foreign invader.”
How Is Food Allergy Testing Done?
Blood tests are done to measure the level of antibodies, or immunoglobulin in the blood. For those suffering from severe, immediate allergic reactions such as asthma or throat swelling, allergen-specific immunoglobulin IgE antibodies testing is performed for certain foods or environmental triggers like pet dander or pollen. To test for delayed onset sensitivities to certain foods, a more involved test would check IgG antibody levels to identify antigens that contribute to chronic diseases. Results from immunoglobulin testing help allergy sufferers and their health practitioners form an effective wellness plan.
Lifestyle Changes
Once the culprit is identified, all necessary precautions must be taken to avoid the allergen food. It is critical to read all ingredient labels before purchasing packaged foods at the market; when dining out, be certain that the foods you order are allergen-free as well as prepared separately from other foods. At dinner parties, bring your own food to ensure there is no cross contamination that can trigger an attack. Most importantly, if you suffer severe allergic reactions, make sure to have all your medications with you at all times.
Lifestyle changes don’t occur overnight. Diligence and careful planning ahead can help reduce allergy anxiety and keep flare ups at bay. Food allergy support groups can offer guidance, friendship and resources to help manage your lifestyle. Check out http://www.foodallergy.org/section/support-groups%20to%20locate%20a%20local%20group.
Monday, January 18, 2010
Digestive Disorders in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders Acknowledged by Mainstream Medicine
The New Year ushered in promising news for children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) as the first step were taken for guideline recommendations for treatment of gastric intestinal disorders (GI) commonly experience by those on the spectrum. The news validated what parents and we practitioners who care for children with ASD have known all along: GI disorders are a valid ailment of children on the spectrum and as such require evaluation and treatment.
The consensus recommendations were derived from a 2008 meeting sponsored by Autism Forum and were written by a multidisciplinary panel of pediatric and GI experts. They call for more scientific studies to be conducted on GI disorders in children with autism, acknowledging that GI distress oftentimes present atypical, self injurious behavior and disturbed sleep. The study further recommends that children with ASD who show signs of abdominal pain, chronic diarrhea, chronic constipation or other symptoms of gastric distress be evaluated and treated just as their typical counterparts would be. In addition, trials are recommended to build an evidence base for developing diagnostic and treatment strategies for GI disorders.
For many children with autism, communication is an issue; limitations in speech often make it impossible to specifically communicate the pain that they are experiencing, culminating in behavioral issues that are often viewed as the face of autism. Digestive disorders up until now were often dismissed as a symptom of autism and further investigation often was not taken to treat the problem. According to Autism Research Institute’s Director Dr. Steve Edelson, “This is truly a human rights issue; every child deserves proper medical attention--whether or not they have autism.”
In my own ASD patients, I have found that GI distress is a common complaint. Diet is one of the first areas that I evaluate. While the recent report advises that more studies need to be undertaken to develop dietary guidelines, I have found time and time again that specialized diets such as the Gluten-Free, Casein-Free (GFCF) diet have been extremely effective in those who present signs or demonstrate allergies (on blood work) to gluten or dairy products. Feedback from parents regularly shows that children with GI disorders make significant improvements in such areas as speech, bowel habits, language acquisition, behavior and sensory issues when eliminating gluten and dairy foods. In fact, in a trial noted by the panel, more than half the participants elected to continue the GFCF diet after the trial, reporting positive changes in their child. While each child is unique, it’s been my experience that diet in conjunction with other supplementation continually proves to be an effective means of helping children with ASD reach their maximum potential.
For more information, see the January issue of Pediatrics, the official journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics. (http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/cgi/content/full/125/Supplement_1/S1).
The consensus recommendations were derived from a 2008 meeting sponsored by Autism Forum and were written by a multidisciplinary panel of pediatric and GI experts. They call for more scientific studies to be conducted on GI disorders in children with autism, acknowledging that GI distress oftentimes present atypical, self injurious behavior and disturbed sleep. The study further recommends that children with ASD who show signs of abdominal pain, chronic diarrhea, chronic constipation or other symptoms of gastric distress be evaluated and treated just as their typical counterparts would be. In addition, trials are recommended to build an evidence base for developing diagnostic and treatment strategies for GI disorders.
For many children with autism, communication is an issue; limitations in speech often make it impossible to specifically communicate the pain that they are experiencing, culminating in behavioral issues that are often viewed as the face of autism. Digestive disorders up until now were often dismissed as a symptom of autism and further investigation often was not taken to treat the problem. According to Autism Research Institute’s Director Dr. Steve Edelson, “This is truly a human rights issue; every child deserves proper medical attention--whether or not they have autism.”
In my own ASD patients, I have found that GI distress is a common complaint. Diet is one of the first areas that I evaluate. While the recent report advises that more studies need to be undertaken to develop dietary guidelines, I have found time and time again that specialized diets such as the Gluten-Free, Casein-Free (GFCF) diet have been extremely effective in those who present signs or demonstrate allergies (on blood work) to gluten or dairy products. Feedback from parents regularly shows that children with GI disorders make significant improvements in such areas as speech, bowel habits, language acquisition, behavior and sensory issues when eliminating gluten and dairy foods. In fact, in a trial noted by the panel, more than half the participants elected to continue the GFCF diet after the trial, reporting positive changes in their child. While each child is unique, it’s been my experience that diet in conjunction with other supplementation continually proves to be an effective means of helping children with ASD reach their maximum potential.
For more information, see the January issue of Pediatrics, the official journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics. (http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/cgi/content/full/125/Supplement_1/S1).
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