Why You Should Drink More Water!

Water is the elixir of life, but do we get enough of it? Many people think that substituting sodas, coffee and juice for water is enough to keep us hydrated and healthy, but nothing can beat the original and the best ñ water.
Our bodies are made up of 43-75% water, and it's an essential component of our health. The wide range in percentages comes from measuring different populations ranging from newborns (~75%) to obese people (~45%), with normal adult hydration at about 57-60%.
We can survive a month without food, but we'll die after a week without water. The body is able to absorb many nutrients and salts better thanks to water's ability to transport these nutrients and oxygen to our body's cells and organs. Detoxifying is vitally important to our health, since it cleans our bodies of impurities. The best way to excrete these impurities is through urine and sweat ñ both of which depend on our water intake. Upping your water intake may help to reduce the risk of kidney stone formation. The kidneys filter our waste products through the blood and out via urination. If the concentration of salt in our urine is high, and our water content low, this increases the risk of kidney stone formation. By drinking more water, this concentration of salts is reduced.
We are at risk of sunstroke if our bodies become dehydrated. When we sweat, this cools our body down. If dehydrated, the body cannot sweat and overheats, which can damage the bodyís internal organs.
If you suffer from high blood pressure, maybe itís your water intake that is the problem. When our bodies excrete and lose more than the optimal amount of liquid, our blood vessels constrict, which can cause our blood pressure to increase. If blood pressure is increased by a deficiency in water, this may also increase the risk of heart disease. Because the constricted blood vessels cause an increase in blood pressure, the heart works harder to compensate for the reduced volume of blood. Lower blood pressure and greater consumption of water help lower stress on the heart.
What's more, drinking more water can help you stay younger looking. Drinking a lot of water helps keep the skin clean and fresh-looking by removing impurities through sweating. Water also helps to keep the skin hydrated, which means younger looking skin ñ sagging and wrinkled skin is usually a sign of dehydration. Drinking water also cuts hunger pangs and acts as a good filler. Water has zero calories, so consider trading in your sugary drinks and juices to help control your weight.
If increasing your water intake seems like a chore, why not add lemon or mint to your bottle to make it taste better? Eat more fruits rich in water such as watermelon, and try to drink water more regularly over the course of the day. Having a glass of water or water bottle near you during the day has been shown to increase water consumption without effort.

References Used
[1] http://www.jbc.org/content/203/1/359.full.pdf Accessed October 2011
[2] http://thetaoofgoodhealth.com/10-health-reasons-why-you-should-drink-more-water-4/ Accessed October 2011
[3] http://www.uihealthcare.com/topics/generalhealth/ghea5288.html Accessed 2011

Childhood Concussions: What to Look For and What to Do as a Parent

Concussions arise from an injury to the tissues or blood vessels in the brain. These can occur when the soft tissues are pressed against the bone of the skull, resulting from an impact or blow to the head experienced during a fall or from sports injury. They can also occur from being forcefully shaken. Mild concussions in childhood are common and often are not a cause for serious health concern. However there are rare cases of childhood concussion that should not be taken lightly and itís important to know what symptoms need to be looked for.
The general symptoms of concussion are varied, and depend on the severity of the injury and the individual themselves. Possible symptoms include dizziness, loss of consciousness and seizures. The latter two symptoms indicate a severe case of concussion (although a loss of consciousness itself may not be dangerous if short lived [1]). However, symptoms that appear later could also be danger signs. A very common symptom experienced after a concussion is headache [2] that may be mild to moderate in intensity. A blow to your child's head could also cause changes in their mood [3], such as crankiness and loss of interest in favorite items [4]. The way a child plays or works at school may be affected. After a concussion, a child may forget things or have difficulties in thinking [1], with possible short-term memory loss. Drowsiness and reduced energy are also common.
Concussion may be dangerous, because some of the symptoms are so mild that they are difficult to notice in some children act normal, even if they don't feel normal. Concussion makes it difficult to detect the symptoms in your child, unless they tell you they're feeling strange. Ask your child if they have any of the symptoms, and make sure to observe them closely for a few weeks. Your child is at increased risk if they have experienced previous head injury, are taking a blood thinning medicine, suffer bleeding disorders, are under one year old, have other neurological problems, have difficulty walking or are active in high contact sports.
If your child is harder to wake up than normal, shows worsened symptoms, won't stop crying, doesn't eat well, has worsening headaches or symptoms that have lasted longer than six weeks, then contact your doctor or caregiver. If your child shows a change in personality, bleeds out of the ears or nose, has trouble recognizing people, or vomits repeatedly, go to the emergency room. For seizures, unequal pupil size and longer-term unconsciousness, dial 911 [5].
Irrespective of advice you get on the internet or by phone, if you have any doubt in your mind about your child's health after a head injury, seek the help of a professional. You know your child best!

References used:
[1] Cantu RC (2006). "An overview of concussion consensus statements since 2000" (PDF). Neurosurgical Focus 21 (4:E3): 1ñ6.
[2]Kushner D (1998). "Mild Traumatic brain injury: Toward understanding manifestations and treatment". Archives of Internal Medicine 158 (15): 1617ñ1624.
[3] Heegaard W, Biros M (2007). "Traumatic brain injury". Emergency Medicine Clinics of North America 25 (3): 655ñ678, viii.
[4] Mayo Clinic Staff (2007). "Concussion". Mayo Clinic. Retrieved 2008-01-10.
[5] http://www.drugs.com/cg/concussion-in-children.html Accessed October 2011

Fibromyalgia Suffers Choose Chiropractic over Traditional Medicine for Relief of Symptoms

Fibromyalgia is a condition with no known medical cure. It is characterized by chronic and debilitating pain all over the body, and heightened pain under pressure. Its symptoms can cause patients to suffer from widespread pain, poor sleep, chronic tiredness and even depression. The causes of Fibromyalgia are unknown. Some theories cite that the patient's low pain threshold may be attributed to increased sensitivity in the brain to pain signals. [1] Other possible causes could be a genetic predisposition [2]; stress; the disruption of normal dopamine related neurotransmission [3]; abnormal serotonin levels [4] and deficient growth hormone secretion [5]. While there is currently no cure for the condition, its symptoms can be alleviated by chiropractic treatment.
Chiropractic treatment uses manipulation, which is a technique involving short and quick thrusts to the vertebrae in the spine to shift vertebrae back into their correct position. The treatment found in chiropractic care is based on the idea that illnesses and pain in the body arise from misalignments in the body's skeletal structure. In order for the body to function healthily, the spine and the skeletal structure need to be set in the correct position - otherwise problems like chronic pain can arise.
Fibromyalgia causes numerous, tender points to occur all over the body, including back and neck pain and leg cramps. As a result of these symptoms, sufferers of fibromyalgia have sought treatment from chiropractors. Because the adjustments made during treatment help to restore the posture of the skeletal system, many sufferers find that treatment can help to reduce a significant amount of pain. Some fibromyalgia sufferers experience a condition known as cervical spinal stenosis, which results in compression of the spine's meninges, which are the coverings of the upper spine. This can result in debilitating pain all over the body. A chiropractor may be able to help with cervical spinal stenosis by adjusting the spine around the head and neck, releasing this compression and eliminating the symptoms attributed to it.[6]
The effectiveness of chiropractic care has been studied in sufferers of fibromyalgia [6], where patients were asked which method of treatment, medical or alternative, helped the best with their condition. The majority voted for chiropractic treatment. In addition, the effectiveness was tested by using spinal manipulation to relieve fibromyalgia symptoms, and after 15 treatments, results concluded that patients had reduced fatigue and pain as well as improved sleep quality.
While fibromyalgia sufferers continue to look for a cure, it is great to know that there are ways to alleviate the symptoms and live a more normal life. If you or someone you know suffers from undiagnosed chronic pain or fibromyalgia, please share this article with them and encourage them to get a chiropractic consultation.

References Used:
[1] http://edition.cnn.com/HEALTH/library/fibromyalgia/DS00079.html Accessed September 2011
[2] Buskila D, Sarzi-Puttini P (2006). "Biology and therapy of fibromyalgia. Genetic aspects of fibromyalgia syndrome". Arthritis Res Ther. 8 (5): 218. doi:10.1186/ar2005. PMC 1779444. PMID 16887010.
[3] Cervenka S, PÂlhagen SE, Comley RA et al. (August 2006). "Support for dopaminergic hypoactivity in restless legs syndrome: a PET study on D2-receptor binding". Brain 129 (Pt 8): 2017ñ28.doi:10.1093/brain/awl163. PMID 16816393. Retrieved 2008-05-21.
[4] Moldofsky H, Scarisbrick P, England R, Smythe H (1975)."Musculoskeletal symptoms and non-REM sleep disturbance in patients with "fibrositis syndrome" and healthy subjects". Psychosom Med 37(4): 341ñ51. PMID 169541. Retrieved 2008-05-21.
[5] Anderberg UM, Liu Z, Berglund L, Nyberg F (1999). "Elevated plasma levels of neuropeptide Y in female fibromyalgia patients". Eur J Pain 3 (1): 19ñ30.
[6] http://www.fibromyalgia-symptoms.org/fibromyalgia_chiropractic.html Accessed September 2011

What Training Do Chiropractors Have?

Becoming a chiropractor is no easy feat. The training to become a practicing chiropractor is akin to traditional medical doctors and involves years of academic training and hours of patient contact work. In order to work professionally, a chiropractor must undertake a long period of academic training and a certain number of hours of internship before they are offered a license to practice. In general, chiropractors get a first professional degree, otherwise known as a second entry, in chiropractic treatment. Ordinarily, the general route to become a chiropractor involves a four-year undergraduate degree as a pre-requisite to apply for the degree in chiropractic medicine.
There are three possible ways to become a qualified chiropractor according to the World Health Organization (WHO) [1]. The first path involves one to four years of prior training in basic sciences at university, then followed by a followed by a four-year full-time program in chiropractic medicine. One can also take an academic degree, called the Doctor in Chiropractic (DC) program, a five-year integrated bachelor degree and a first professional degree, if one wants to follow the path of directly becoming a chiropractor early in their academic career. There is also a more conventional route of completing a BSc in Chiropractic medicine and followed then by a two to three yearís masters, or MSc, in Chiropractic studies.
While the academic requirements above are the minimum, in countries where chiropractic practitioners are more established, the standards to practice are quite high. However, no matter what educational route is followed, a prospective chiropractor must meet the requirements of 4200 student and teacher contact hours, during the four years of their education, which includes 1000 hours of supervised clinical training [1].
Some health professionals with advanced clinical degrees, such as medical doctors or those who have studied medicine, wish to transition into chiropractic practice. They are only required to undertake 2200 hours of contact hours to meet both the educational and clinical requirements. Like other professionals in the medical professions, a practicing chiropractor must be licensed in the State they wish to practice in.
While the laws in different countries and various states may differ, in order to obtain a chiropractic license, all candidates must meet the above academic requirements. In addition, they must complete a 12-month clinical internship or a certain number of continuing education credits [2][3]. A license is granted following successful completion of all the State and National Board exams.
References:
[1] http://www.who.int/medicines/areas/traditional/Chiro-Guidelines.pdf Accessed October 2011
[2] http://www.californiachiropractic.com/doctor/chiropractor/14L/california-chiropractors/license-requirements.htm Accessed October 2011
[3] http://www.wichiro.org/Chiropractic_Examining_Board.htm Accessed October 2011

Choosing the Right Keyboard and Mouse Wrist Pad

Computer work has become the backbone of most of our daily lives. But with its rise in the workplace, there has been a concurrent increase in injuries associated with repetitive computer work, such as carpal tunnel syndrome and repetitive strain injury. Incorrect usage of a keyboard or a mouse can be the culprit, since unnatural keyboard positions exert stress on the muscles, tendons and ligaments in the hands and wrists. An unsupported wrist can be the cause of wrist fatigue, and if your wrist is resting in the incorrect position, extensive typing, can pose a threat.
Ergonomic equipment can help to minimize the risks of injury during extended computer work. If you are a frequent computer user, it might be worth investing in an ergonomic mouse pad or keyboard.
When looking for an ergonomic mouse pad, there are some key features to take into consideration. Look for a mouse pad that allows you to maintain your natural hand position. It needs to imitate the position the wrist has when at rest, by providing an angled surface. Also, make sure the mouse pad has a non-slip grip to ensure it remains in place under normal movement. Purchasing an ergonomic mouse pad and choosing one made from soft material or filled with a soft gel can help to remove the pressure from the tendons and nerves. Hard materials cause compression and pressure on the tendons and nerves in the wrist, and can lead to pain and discomfort. Most importantly, check that the pad is comfortable, offering a good position for your wrist at rest and good freedom of movement while working.
When it comes to keyboards, a wrist rest is a good investment, since it's designed to give your wrists a break after typing for long periods of time. If you're typing incorrectly, it helps to alleviate the pain associated with repetitive strain injury or carpal tunnel syndrome. A good wrist rest helps to keep your wrists off the edge of the hard desk and can also help to prevent incorrect posture during typing. Before buying a wrist rest, make sure you know the height and width of your keyboard. There are many styles available on the market, and it's important to find the wrist rest comfortable for you. It needs to be the same height and width of your keyboard and it's key to find a wrist rest that conforms to the shape of your wrist. When placing the wrist rest against the edge of the keyboard, there shouldn't be a gap between the two. Adjust the position so that the wrist rest is set at the edge of the desk.

References used:
[1] http://www.healthycomputing.com/office/setup/keyboard/ Accessed October 2011
[2] http://www.ehow.com/how_7260284_use-wrist-rest.html Accessed October 2011
[3] http://www.ehow.com/how_2216327_choose-ergonomic-mouse-pad.html Accessed October 2011
[4] http://www.wisegeek.com/do-i-need-a-wrist-rest-for-my-mouse-pad-and-keyboard.htm Accessed October 2011.

Do Thin People Need Exercise?

Many people believe that exercise is something only fat people should do, and a lot of people exercise with the sole goal of losing weight. So why should thin people exercise if they are already at the ideal dress size and optimal weight?
Even though exercise helps a great deal with weight loss, it also improves our health in many other ways such as reducing the risk of heart disease, lowering cholesterol levels and reducing high blood pressure. Even though these conditions are associated with obesity health risks, thin and sedentary people shouldn't assume they are risk-free. Lean exercisers have good levels of LDL cholesterol, the heart clogging variety, as youíd expect. However their thin but inactive counterparts were found to have the same levels of LDL seen in obese people! In fact, an overweight exerciser is actually more likely to be comparable to a thin exerciser rather than an inactive thin person in terms of cholesterol levels. Having high cholesterol and a risk of heart disease is more about how much exercise you get, rather than what your body mass index is. A study [1] found that lean exercisers were fitter and had a reduced chance of developing cardiovascular diseases compared to those who don't exercise. Exercise is essential for a healthy heart ñ no matter your weight.
Exercise is also helps protect against viruses and disease. In the short term, regular cardiovascular activity can help to boost the immune system, and in turn makes you less susceptible to viruses such as the common cold, influenza and helps to protect against any kind of infection. In the long term, regular exercise makes the body overall healthier, by lowering the risk of serious diseases such as strokes, heart disease, high blood pressure and cholesterol, diabetes and even cancer.
Being thin and being healthy and strong are not a given. Just as there are overweight people who are in good health (the type who exercise), there are many thin people who are far from healthy. Those who work out can run and walk faster and longer distances, and on the whole, have greater endurance.
Exercise is also a great energy boost. It can help to burn away fatigue and raise energy levels. People who work out more often find they sleep better and are more refreshed during the day. If you're suffering from mental disorders such as depression or anxiety, exercising allows you to disconnect and alleviate stress and relax the mind. Endorphins are released after exercise, which are helpful in battling depression.
Finally, physical activity does keep the pounds off. Most thin people who are sedentary have a fast metabolism, and in some cases this is for life, but for many of us as we age, our metabolisms will slow down and we will inevitably gain weight. So it is in everyone's best interest to get in the habit of working out and keep those pounds off!

References Used:
[1] O'Donovan G, Owen A, Kearney EM, Jones DW, Nevill AM, Woolf-May K, Bird SR., Int J Obes (Lond). 2005 Sep;29(9):1063-9.
[2] http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/4778274.stm Accessed October 2011
[3] http://www.fitday.com/fitness-articles/nutrition/vitamins-minerals/5-reasons-why-thin-people-have-to-exercise-too.html Accessed October 2011

Can Chiropractic Improve Golf Performance?

PGA golfers Tiger Woods and Padraig Harrington have used chiropractic services for years in order to improve and maintain their golfing performance. Their successes suggest a benefit of chiropractic care, but itís hard to know if itís because of the care or because they are world-class athletes. Can chiropractic care help the average golfer improve their performance as well?
The very nature of the game of golf suggests a good match for players with chiropractic care. Golfing can involve considerable strain on the spine. Golfers need to move from a standing position quickly to club head speeds, requiring good posture, balance, and the ability to rotate the spine properly. Poor posture can create exaggerated or flattened spinal curves that can seriously affect swing performance. In fact, Tom Ward, PGA Golf Instructor, says, ìOver 50% of all golfers will experience some sort of pain due to poor posture and the problems that arise from loss of proper curves in the spine.î[1]
By working with your spinal range of motion, chiropractic care can help correct golf injuries, maintain performance, and improve the posture needed to perform a good golf swing. When the chiropractor aligns all the vertebrae, the spine can move better. An individualized treatment plan including chiropractic adjustments, specific rehabilitation exercises and muscle techniques may make a significant difference in your overall performance and enjoyment of the sport.
Recent research confirms that chiropractic care can indeed lead to improved golf performance. A recent study published in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine demonstrated that the combination of chiropractic care and stretching are associated with greater improvements in golfers swing when compared to stretching alone.[2]
Two groups of golfers participated in the study. One group received a program of stretching only, and the second received both stretching and spinal manipulation. The stretching program was the same for both groups, and both groups had similar average ages, handicaps, and initial swings. All 43 participants initially performed three full swing maneuvers, and the average distances were recorded. Over a 4-week period, all participants hit 3 balls before and after treatment.
After 4 weeks, the stretching only group showed no improvement in swing performance. However the stretching and manipulation group did improve their swing performance and there was greater driving distance right after treatment each week. So it appears that yes, chiropractic care can help not only top golfers such as Woods and Harrington, but it can help you improve your golf game too.


References:

[1] Tom Ward, PGA Instructor. http://www.golflink.com/golf-tips/tips/ward032.aspx
[2] Journal of Chiropractic Medicine (2009) 8, 165-170.

C-Reactive Protein 101

With frequent news coverage of late, C-Reactive protein is a term that has been bandied about in the media ñ but what is it exactly? Produced in the liver, C-Reactive protein, or CRP, is a protein that is released into the bloodstream as a response to inflammation in the body. High levels of CRP are a cause for alarm, since its presence can be linked to inflammation possibly arising from infection, lupus, tuberculosis, heart attack risk, burns and even cancer [1].
CRP is believed to play a significant role in the bodyís early defense mechanism against infections [2], where its physiological role is to bind with a compound present on the surface of dead and dying cells, and even some bacteria, known as phosphocholine. It then activates the complement system, a part of the immune system called the ìinnate immune system,î via the C1Q complex [3].
The usefulness of the C-reactive protein is its ability to determine the progress of a disease, and it can also be used to assess whether a treatment for diseases associated with inflammation are working or not. In order to measure the levels of CRP in the blood, first a blood sample from the patient must be collected and analyzed. The levels of CRP in healthy individuals are negligible and will not show up in the test. For sufferers of diseases associated with inflammation, the test will show various levels of CRP in the blood. The measurement of CRP in the bloodstream not only can also help to determine whether someone is at risk of heart disease, but also assesses the severity of the risk [2].
Studies have found that patients who have raised basal levels of C-Reactive proteins are at an increased risk from diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular diseases [4][5]. There is also a strong correlation between the lipid responses to low fat and high-polyunsaturated fat diets and CRP levels [6].
Some organs in the body are at an increased risk from cancer when they become chronically inflamed, and such inflammation may be highlighted by the presence of CRP in the body. In one study [7] samples were collected from sufferers of colon cancer and a control group, the average levels of CRP in those with colon cancer measured 2.69mg/l, whereas those in the control group had a mean value of 1.97mg/l. With significant difference between the two groups, this supports previous studies that connect the intake of anti-inflammatory medication with the lowering of colon cancer risks [8].
While the measurement of CRP cannot pinpoint the exact location of the inflammation in the body, it can be used to monitor and detect the presence of diseases associated with inflammation, and can monitor whether medication is effective on inflammatory diseases being treated.

References
[1] Ridker PM, Libby P. Risk Factors for Atherothrombotic Disease. In: Libby P, Bonow RO, Mann DL, Zipes DP, eds. Braunwald's Heart Disease: A Textbook of Cardiovascular Medicine. 8th ed. Philadelphia, Pa; Saunders Elsevier; 2007: chap 39.
[2] http://www.creactiveprotein.org/ Accessed September 2011
[3] Thompson, D; Pepys, MB; Wood, SP (February 1999). "The physiological structure of human C-reactive protein and its complex with phosphocholine". Structure 7 (2): 169ñ77.
[4] Pradhan AD; Manson, JE; Rifai, N; Buring, JE; Ridker, PM (2001). "C-reactive protein, interleukin 6, and risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus". JAMA 286 (3): 327ñ34.
[5] Dehghan A; Kardys, I; de Maat, MP; Uitterlinden, AG; Sijbrands, EJ; Bootsma, AH; Stijnen, T; Hofman, A et al. (March 2007).
[6] St-Onge MP, Zhang S, Darnell B, Allison DB (April 2009). "Baseline serum C-reactive protein is associated with lipid responses to low-fat and high-polyunsaturated fat diets". J. Nutr. 139 (4): 680ñ3.
[7] Erlinger TP, Platz EA, Rifai N, Helzlsouer KJ (February 2004). "C-reactive protein and the risk of incident colorectal cancer". Journal of the American Medical Association 291 (5): 585ñ90.
[8] Baron JA, et al. (2003). "A randomized trial of aspirin to prevent colorectal adenomas". N Engl J Med 348 (10): 891ñ9.

Chiropractic Care for Triathlon Performance and Recovery

A triathlon is an athletic event incorporating back-to-back running, cycling and swimming. Triathlons exert great strain on the body, which may challenge athletes on both physical and mental levels. The extreme training a triathlete must endure can put the body under great cumulative stress, and itís not uncommon for the athletes to suffer from a broad range of injuries and overuse stresses.
There are numerous worldwide triathlon events, such as Ironman, Half-Ironman, Olympic and Spring. The majority of these events advocate the use of chiropractic care to aid not only in treating injuries, but also to improve performance. Chiropractic care offers the possibility of enhanced finishing times and a greater likelihood of triathletes finishing events.
Chiropractic treatment is a practice that focuses on the neuromuscular skeletal system and its use optimizes biomechanics. For these reasons, chiropractic care is ideal for athletes looking to treat or prevent injuries.
One type of chiropractic treatment used by many triathletes is the ìActive Release Technique,î which is a form of soft tissue treatment based on an advanced movement massage system. It is very effective in locating and treating the cause of soft tissue conditions. Active Release Techniques are used in most of the large name triathlons. Many triathletes suffer from injuries attributed to repetitive strain and stress, since excessive training can result in muscle restrictions due to adhesion formation. Before treatment takes place, a biomechanical analysis of the athlete is conducted to determine the exact location of restrictions in the body along the kinetic chain. Active Release Techniques focus on specific tissues that have become restricted physically, and are then manipulated back into their original texture, tension and position. Once the soft tissues are repositioned, specific exercises are then carried out in order to aid the recovery of damaged tissues. Unlike most treatments, treating the injured triathlete with chiropractic care does not require extended rest periods before improvements are seen. It is very common that injured athletes who receive the Active Release Technique show signs of improvement in just a few sessions. For those who are looking to invest only in preventive treatment, improvement in performance is also achieved in the span of a few sessions.
A possible reason that chiropractic care prior to an event can result in performance enhancement may be that spinal adjustments improve the bodyís maximal oxygen consumption ability. Since prevention is easier than treatment of an injury, many professional athletes invest in preventive and performance enhancing chiropractic treatment.

References:
[1] http://www.kinetichealth.ca/4-Triathalon.html Accessed September 2011
[2] http://www.bthconline.com/sport-injuriesperformance.html Accessed September 2011

Is High-Fructose Corn Syrup That Bad?

High fructose corn syrup is a popular ingredient in sodas, fruit flavored drinks and most processed foods. It has become a staple alternative to cane sugar in many foods and beverages, but is it safe? There has been much controversy and debate over the health effects from long-term usage of high-fructose corn syrup. So far, research has yielded mixed results about its adverse consequences.
High consumption of added sugar in any form can lead to numerous health problems, including weight gain, dental cavities, poor nutrition and increased risks of heart attacks. While the health concerns of excess sugar consumption may seem obvious, what about the specific case of high-fructose corn syrup? Should we go out of our way to exclude it from our diet, even in moderate consumption?
High-fructose corn syrup and cane sugar are not biochemically identical ñ cane sugar is a naturally occurring ingredient, whereas high-fructose corn syrup is an industrial product, and is processed differently by the body than naturally occurring sugar [1]. Sometimes high-fructose corn syrup is produced from genetically modified corn [2].
A study at Princeton University [3] found that rats from two test groups, one that consumed high-fructose corn syrup and another standard table sugar, yielded different results in the ratsí obesity -- even with the same caloric intake. The group of rats that consumed high-fructose corn syrup experienced abnormal weight gain ñ particularly in the abdominal region ñ and also elevated triglyceride levels. Along with high quantities of HDL, otherwise known as bad cholesterol, high triglyceride levels can cause arterial blockage and may increase the risk of heart disease, hypertension and even strokes.
Consumption of high-fructose corn syrup increases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes [4]. An increased risk of diabetes was observed from the metabolic profile in the study of rats that were given sugar-sweetened beverages, exhibiting impaired glucose and insulin homeostasis.
Long-term liver damage has been cited as a side effect to consuming high-fructose corn syrup [5]. This is particularly risky to individuals who live a sedentary lifestyle. Excess consumption can also result in a fatty liver [6].
One indirect health concern pertaining to high-fructose corn syrup is the contamination of mercury [7]. Mercury cell chlor-alkali products are used in the manufacturing of high-fructose corn syrup, which may leave a trace of the toxic heavy metal in its products, which can be up to 0.5micrograms/g of corn syrup. When you consider the average consumption of corn syrup as being around 50g per day, this could lead to a dangerous build up of the heavy metal in the bodyís system.

References:

[1] http://www.huffingtonpost.com/dr-mark-hyman/high-fructose-corn-syrup-dangers_b_861913.html Accessed September 2011
[2] http://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/high-fructose-corn-syrup-dangers/ Accessed September 2011
[3] Bocarsly ME, Powell ES, Avena NM, Hoebel BG., Pharmacol Biochem Behav. 2010 Nov;97(1):101-6. Epub 2010 Feb 26.
[4] Sheludiakova A, Rooney K, Boakes RA., Eur J Nutr. 2011 Jul 29. [Epub ahead of print]
[5] http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/03/100322204628.htm Accessed September 2011
[6] Kretowicz M, Johnson RJ, Ishimoto T, Nakagawa T, Manitius J., Int J Nephrol. 2011;2011:315879. Epub 2011 Jul 17.
[7] Dufault R, LeBlanc B, Schnoll R, Cornett C, Schweitzer L, Wallinga D, Hightower J, Patrick L, Lukiw WJ., Environ Health. 2009 Jan 26;8:2.

Chiropractic Care for Allergies

When most of us sneeze, we put it down to a cold or even allergies, and our first thoughts are to pop an antihistamine pill ñ not to call a chiropractor! But did you know that a chiropractor could help you overcome your allergy problems? Most people associate chiropractors with back and neck issues, and while itís true that chiropractors can help with such health conditions, they can also help the body achieve optimum health by ensuring the spine is correctly aligned.
A study from the University of California [1] found that signals from the nervous system may influence the function of the immune system. While our immune system is there to fight against viruses, disease and infection, and helps to keep the body performing at its peak, it also works to dispel foreign contaminants that enter the body. When we sneeze because of an allergy, itís because our body detects the presence of a foreign object in the system, such as dust, mites, pollen, etc. and it produces chemicals to neutralize and expel the allergens. These chemicals are known as histamines. In the case of allergies, the immune system overreacts to the presence of the allergens in the body.
A chiropractor may help by removing the nerve interference from compressions in the spine, and as a result the immune system is able to function optimally once more.
Most traditional treatments for allergies, such as antihistamines, only deal with managing the symptoms and donít eliminate the cause. The safety of anti-allergy medication is under debate, the long-term use of antihistamines or combined with other medication may cause cancer. A study conducted in lab rats with brand name anti-allergy medication found that cancerous tumors in the rats grew much father with the intake of antihistamines [2].
A chiropractor treats the patient by releasing the stresses on the patientís nervous system, which as a result causes the immune system to work more effectively and as a consequence allergies are thereby reduced. Patients with misaligned spinal vertebra may have pinched nerves, which apply pressure and stress the system. Once the trapped nerve is released, the nervous system in general is free from stress and the body can then work more effectively to neutralize the allergy-causing chemicals found in the body.
Spinal health is as beneficial to the body as is good nutrition. A chiropractor can help the body to achieve optimal health and can help to improve the quality of life.


[1] Goetzl EJ, Voice JK, Shen S, Dorsam G, Kong Y, West KM, Morrison CF, Harmar AJ., Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2001 Nov 20;98(24):13854-9. Epub 2001 Nov 6.
[2] Brandes LJ, Simons KJ, Bracken SP, Warrington RC., J Clin Oncol. 1994 Jun;12(6):1281-90.

Chiropractic Care for Runners and Running Performance

With more and more people taking up recreational running in the US, the number of running associated injuries have also increased. Commonly reported cases include: shin splints; patellofermoral pain syndromes; Achilles tendinitis; flat feet; and compartmental syndromes and stress fractures. All these injuries are a result of cumulative stress reactions to soft tissues and bones. While running, the musculoskeletal system may absorb up to 250-300% of the runnerís weight on the heel strike [1,2,3], and this exerts stress on the body.
Chiropractors are generally contracted to help alleviate pain and non-specific symptoms associated with running, usually from the gradual onset of regular stress on the soft tissues and bones. If these symptoms are caught early, they can then be effectively managed and reduced in a short period of time [4]. Chiropractic treatment can help excessive pronation [5], the inward rolling of the hind foot and the midfoot beyond the acceptable parameters of general walking and running; prolonged internal rotation of the internal extremity [6], the inward rotation of the femur, which transmits stress to the pelvic region; and excessive supination [7], and those with very high arches who are very sensitive to stress reactions and fractures.
While chiropractic treatment can help with pain and injuries, its biggest advantage to runners and athletes is preventive care. Many runners, athletes and non-athletes may ask ñ why pay for chiropractic treatment when there is no pain to treat? Itís much easier to maintain good health and prevent injury than to treat somebody already in pain. The danger with running injuries is that they are likely to be caused by repetitive stress and alignment problems that take time to develop, and an even longer time for the pain to start. If our bodies were designed with perfect alignment, then we would be able to cope with the regular stress running delivers. However, very few of us do have perfect alignment, and in many cases those with flat feet or high arches are at risk to extra cumulative stress to the body. [8]
In preventive cases, a chiropractor can give a good overall evaluation, teaching the patient how to prevent injuries and maintain good alignment ñ thereby reducing the chance of injury. For those looking for preventive treatment, your chiropractor can help assess and evaluate your condition by offering scans of your feet, testing for strength imbalances and an analysis of your posture. In addition, the chiropractor can also suggest a program suited to your needs to prevent injury in the future.
[1] Lutter LD. Foot-related knee problems in the long-distance runner Foot &Ankle 1980; 1:112-116.
[2] Robbin SF, Hanna AM. Running-related injury prevention through barefoot adaptations. Med Sci Sports Exerc 1987; 19.148-156.
[3] Cavanaugh PR, LaFortune.MA. Ground reaction forced in distance running. Biomech 1980; 13:397-406.
[4] Griffith., HJ et aZ Magnetic resonance spectrum of stress injury to bone and ib clinical relevance. (in press) Presented at Annual Symposium of Am Coll Chiro Radiol, 1992.
[5] Michaud TC. Recurrent lower tibial stress fracture in a long-distance runner. Chino Sports Med 1988; 2(3):78-87. 18. Cavanagh PA The shoe ground interface in running. Symposium on the foot and leg in running sports, n.d.
[6] Schafer RC. Clinical Biomechanics Musculoskeletal Actions and Reactions. Baltimore: Williams & Wilkins, 1983. 21. Greenawalt MH. Spinal Pelvic Stabilization (4th ed.). Roanoke: Foot Levelers, Inc., 1990.
[7] Subotnick SI. Sports Medicine of the Lower Extremity. New York: Churchill Livingstone, 1989:164.
[8] http://www.campanellahealthcenter.com/uncategorized/why-chiropractic-care-is-important-for-runners/ accessed September 2011

Attention Migraine Sufferers!

Migraine sufferers have to endure a pain that is recurring, severe and can last up to 72 hours. Warning signs such as an ìauraî, which is a type of visual disturbance, and nausea, sometimes accompany migraines. Many sufferers find that conventional medicine and prescription drugs offer little relief from their condition, and many are turning to alternatives methods of treatment in order to manage the pain. One such alternative is chiropractic treatment.
A holistic approach to pain relief, chiropractic treatment focuses on aiding numerous health issues through massage, spinal manipulation and adjustment of the bodyís soft tissues and joints, predominantly in the back. But is it effective against migraines?
In February 2000, a study published by Dr. Tuchin et al. [1] cited the possible benefits of chiropractic treatment in alleviating or easing both the pain and frequency of recurring migraines. The study used a sample of 127 migraine patients, all of whom suffered from at least one migraine per month; this sample was divided into two groups ñ one control group who received inactive treatment, while the other group received chiropractic treatment, focusing on aligning and treating specific areas of vertebral swelling and misalignment. The study concluded that those who received chiropractic treatment experienced subsequent improvement in the duration of the study, showing reduced pain and frequency of their migraines within two months of treatment. The latter group also reported a decline in the need of migraine medications. Further results from the same study found that one in five sufferers from the chiropractic treatment group had a 90% reduction of migraine frequency, while 50% found significant improvement in the severity of their migraines.
Recent studies conducted by R. Bryans et al. published in 2011 [2], concluded that chiropractic care, including spinal manipulation, were found to improve both cerviocogenic headaches as well as migraines. A systematic literature search on controlled clinical trials on the topic of migraines and headaches involving chiropractic treatment, published through August 2009, was conducted using a selection of medical and alternative therapy databases. Research found that chiropractic treatments such as spinal manipulation and massage could significantly help patients who suffer from chronic or episodic migraines, whereas sufferers of tension-type headaches did not respond to such treatment.
While using alternative methods of treatment such as chiropractic care can help sufferers to gain more control over their migraines, it should be treated as another form of support or extra help, instead of completely overlooking conventional medical care.


[1] P.J. Tuchin, H. Pollard, R. Bonello, A randomized controlled trial of chiropractic spinal manipulative therapy for Migraine. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, Feb. 2000: Vol. 23, No. 2, pp91-95.
[2]R. Bryans et al., J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2011 Jun;34(5):274-89. doi: 10.1016/j.jmpt.2011.04.008.

What the Average Consumer Needs to Know About Artificial Sweeteners

In light of the obesity epidemic of recent decades, it is clear our sugar intake has increased drastically, including our intake of artificial sweeteners. There are many who believe that artificial sweeteners are the solution to our obesity epidemic, but are they really a lesser evil?
Did you know that aspartame was initially developed as a medical treatment for stomach ulcers? [1] This means your tabletop sweetener or that can of diet coke youíve just consumed was originally intended to be a prescription drug.
Aspartame and saccharine are the most common artificial sweeteners encountered on a daily basis, and they can usually be found in your breakfast cereal, diet sodas, tabletop sweeteners and more. While they may well be low in calories, what is the price you pay for the alternative? Medical studies have indicated a possible connection between aspartame and migraines [2], and headaches [3]. Sucralose, an active compound in many commercial sweeteners on the market, has also recently been found to trigger migraines [4].
Depression can also manifest from the consumption of artificial sweeteners. Regular dosages of aspartame have been found to decrease serotonin levels, which is the main cause of depression in the brains of mice [5]. Individuals suffering from mood disorders, such as bipolar disorder, are advised against the regular consumption of artificial sweeteners, since they are more sensitive to the adverse effects of aspartame [6].
There have been numerous studies and discussions about the carcinogenic properties of artificial sweeteners. Whether aspartame or saccharine causes cancer is the subject of much debate, with numerous studies yielding inconclusive results. One Argentinean study [7] cites aspartame usage as the main cause of urinary tract tumors. Others suggest the FDA re-evaluate their position on the safety of aspartame in light of recent studies on animals, linking cancer risks to artificial sweetener consumption [8].
Additional health risks may be caused by the consumption of artificial sweeteners. One possibility is that the long-term intake of aspartame may impair the liverís antioxidant status and could lead to liver injury [9]. Those suffering from fibromyalgia should also be cautious with their aspartame intake, since it may induce a curable but chronic pain [10].
Many switch over to artificial sweeteners for weight loss purposes. However it may be the sweeteners themselves that contribute to obesity. With the rise of the obesity epidemic correlating with the use of artificial sweeteners, studies have been conducted to ascertain whether there is a link. Some theories postulate that sweeteners such as aspartame induce hunger cravings, causing us eat more and therefore gain weight, but results thus far have been contradictory and inconclusive [11].

References

[1] R.G. Bianchi, E.T. Muir, D.L. Cook, E.F. Nutting, J Environ Pathol Toxicol. 1980 Jun-Jul;3(5-6):355-62.
[2] R.B. Lipton, L.C. Newman, J.S. Cohen & S. Solomon, Headache. 1989
[3] S.K. Van den Eeden et al, Neurology. 1994 Oct;44(10):1787-93.
[4] M.E. Bigal & A.V. Krymchantowski, Headache. 2006 Mar;46(3):515-7.
[5] R.P. Sharma & R.A. Coulombe Jr., Food Chem Toxicol. 1987 Aug;25(8):565-8.
[6] R.G. Walton, R. Hudak & R.J. Green-Waite, Biol Psychiatry. 1993 Jul 1-15;34(1-2):13-7.
[7] M.M. Andreatta, S.E. MuÒoz, M.J. Lantieri, A.R. Eynard, A. Navarro, Prev Med. 2008 Jul;47(1):136-9. Epub 2008 Apr 8
[8] J. Huff & J. LaDou, Int J Occup Environ Health. 2007 Oct-Dec;13(4):446-8.
[9] M. Abhilash, M.V. Paul, M.V. Varghese, R.H. Nair, Clin Exp Rheumatol. 2010 Nov-Dec;28(6 Suppl 63):S131-3. Epub 2010 Dec 22.
[10] R. Ciappuccini et al., Clin Exp Rheumatol. 2010 Nov-Dec;28(6 Suppl 63):S131-3. Epub 2010 Dec 22.
[11] F. Bellisie & A. Drewnowski, Eur J Clin Nutr. 2007 Jun;61(6):691-700. Epub 2007 Feb 7.

The Symptoms of Heavy Metal Poisoning and What to Do About It

The risks of heavy metal poisoning are a frequently discussed health concern. Some definitions cite the atomic weight or a specific gravity greater than 4.0 or 5.0, but generally it refers to a group of metals and semi-metals posing a potential risk to humans and the environment ñ such as lead, mercury and cadmium. A danger of heavy metal toxicity is that its symptoms are commonly misdiagnosed, often as incurable chronic conditions, but if unrecognized and untreated they can lead to severe health problems and even death.
In our daily lives, it is hard to avoid heavy metals entirely. Contaminated food, mostly fish, can contain traces of heavy metals, as can working environments, direct and passive smoking, mercury fillings and old homes that have used lead-based paint. Poisoning occurs after an excessive build up of heavy metals in the body. Usually these are flushed out via urine or fecal waste, but some people, such those suffering from chronic conditions, cannot excrete them and this results in an accumulation over time. Toxicity also depends on individual factors such as the dose absorbed, exposure, age and route of exposure. There have also been studies that indicate a possible genetic predisposition to heavy metal toxicity [1].
The usual symptoms associated with heavy metal poisoning can manifest as chronic pain throughout muscles, in the tendons and soft tissues; chronic malaise; ëbrain fogí, meaning when one's thoughts become clouded; Candida and other chronic infections; gastrointestinal complaints; food allergies; headaches and migraines; dizziness; mood disorders, such as depression and anxiety; and malfunctions in the nervous system, which may result in numbness, tingling, paralysis and/or electric shocks in the body. Recent studies have found that a link may exist between heavy metal poisoning and cardiovascular disease [2].
Conventional treatment for detoxifying the body can take a long time ñ up to years in some cases and many have experienced side effects resulting from heavy metals being stirred up in the body before excretion. Chelation therapy is the most common form of treatment, in which agents bind to heavy metals in the body and are expelled via urine or fecal waste. Medicines commonly used for detoxification include DMSA, prescribed to patients suffering from lead poisoning. DMSA binds with the lead in the body before excretion via urine [3]; Calcium EDTA is a chelating agent predominantly used against lead, but it can also treat for mild effects against mercury, arsenic and gold poisoning [4]. Finally, DMPS is a strong chelating agent treating mercury poisoning, with ten times the strength of DMSA.
Maintaining a healthy diet can also help prevent and alleviate the symptoms of heavy metal poisoning. This means eating foods high in anti-oxidants; probiotics; cilantro, as anecdotal studies have shown that they may mobilize mercury and other toxic metals [5], making it easier for chelating agents to expel them from the body. It is also a good idea to avoid consuming deep-sea fish and shellfish, which may be high in mercury. Exercise can help aid in the release of toxins, since sweating is a natural way to detoxify.

[1] ìMercury on the Mind,î Miller, Donald Jr. Dr. http://www.lewrockwell.com/miller/miller14.html Accessed September 18, 2011
[2] E.M. Alissa and G.A. Ferns , J Toxicol. 2011;2011:870125. Epub 2011 Sep 8.
[3] ìLead and Your Healthî,http://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/assets/docs_f_o/lead-fs.pdf Accessed September 18 2011
[4] ìEdetate Calcium Disodium Advanced Consumer Drug Informationî http://www.drugs.com/MMX/Edetate_Calcium_Disodium.html Accessed September 18, 2011
[5] ìCilantro: A Common Spice/Herb That Can Save Your Lifeî
http://www.mnwelldir.org/docs/detox/cilantro.htm Accessed September 18 2011