Clear Point Wellness

The Anti-Diet

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Gibson, DC) — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 17:50:00 +0000

Buddhist monks have been practicing this art for centuries and in our fast-paced lifestyle, we could stand to learn a few ancient secrets. Mindful eating is the new trend that puts us back in touch with the gratitude we have for our food sources and thankfulness for the nourishing properties of our food. It goes something like this: prepare delicious and healthy food, maybe even "raw" food, mindfully put it on your plate, take a bite and put the fork down. As you chew slowly, think of the texture, flavor, and thoughts that emerge from connecting with your taste buds. Chew 20-30 times before swallowing and taking another bite. Sit in silence, turn off the TV, and connect with your "soul food". Continue this way through the course of your meal and you'll experience "third-eye opening pleasures and frustrations of a practice known as mindful eating." This is just what the monasteries teach the monks to do and encourage normal people to do the same. At Blue Cliff Monastery in New York, you can enjoy two full days a week of "Mindfulness" with the monks, sharing meals and mediation. Most people walk away from meals feeling fuller on less, more satisfied, and more connected with their source. Probably the best place to practice mindful eating in Austin is at Casa de Luz, a macrobiotic sanctuary in South Austin.
Check out the full article in The New York Times.
Happy Eating! Amanda Gibson, DC

Foam Roller Exercises

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Gibson, DC) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 20:34:00 +0000

Foam roller exercises are excellent for myofascial release, mobility and circulation in your body. You can target many muscles, like your hamstrings, IT band, calves and more with a simple piece of equipment . Excellent for pre or post-workout, the foam roller is a great addition to a home gym.

I have explained the foam roller exercises to many of my clients but I think it is best to watch the exercises performed correctly. If you are an endurance athlete or moderate exerciser, you might benefit from watching the video Foam Roller Flexibility and Recovery. For an educational video, watch Complete Foam Roller Workout, 13 Exercises. The foam roller can be used 3-15 minutes per day to lengthen, strengthen, improve flexibility of muscles and overall blood and lymph circulation. You will probably find trigger points in the muscles; here you'll want to hold and gently roll over the spot for 15-30 seconds, rest for 10 seconds then repeat if necessary. If you would like to purchase a foam roller, we sell them for about $30 at Clear Point Wellness.

If you do happen to purchase one yourself, you'll find they come in many sizes. I prefer the 12" x 36" white foam roller. The black ones are high-density and offer more resistance to those seeking it. If you have questions, please ask. In Health, Amanda Gibson, DC

Clean Your Cells Through Exercise

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Gibson, DC) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 19:40:00 +0000

A recent study published in The New York Times and Nature linked physical activity to intracellular "housecleaning" suggesting that exercise speeds the removal of garbage inside of the body's cells. The wear and tear of everyday living creates cellular waste like broken proteins and aged components that appear to be more efficiently removed through aerobic exercise. In healthy systems, specialized cells commit "autophagy", a process designed to sweep and clear debris away, break it apart and reuse the trash for energy. Without this system, cellular waste chokes the cell causing it to malfunction or die. These faulty mechanisms contribute to a range of diseases, including diabetes, muscular dystrophy, Alzheimer's and cancer. Autophagy slows as we age and affects our metabolism. Exercise is the great buffer and, as Dr. Beth Levine, a Howard Hughes Medical Institute investigator at U.T. Southwestern is concerned, there is considerable overlap between the health benefits of exercise and autophagy. An increase in autophagy, prompted by exercise, seems to be a critical step in achieving maximal health benefits. Humans may be impacted by slowed or inefficient autophagy due to diet and other lifestyle factors. This study emphasizes the importance of staying active as we age. In Health, Amanda Gibson, DC

Is Sugar a Toxin?

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Gibson, DC) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 19:39:00 +0000

A lengthy article posted in The New York Times April 13, 2011 gives compelling evidence that sugar, specifically fructose (high fructose corn syrup) increases the likelihood of obesity, diabetes, metabolic syndrome and cancers in humans. In a viral YouTube Video Robert Lustig presents his case for chronic diseases and their link to overt sugar consumption in the United States and elsewhere. Dr. Lustig is a pediatric specialist and makes a persuasive case that sugar, specifically high-fructose corn syrup found in soda and fruit juice is a "toxin" or "poison". The number of American diabetic or obese --termed "diabesity"--has skyrocketed in the last 30 years and, if Lustig is right, it would mean under-exercising, overeating of all foods, and overt consumption of sugar is the likely dietary cause of several chronic ailments namely: heart disease, hypertension and many common cancers. 100 calories of glucose (from potato or bread or other starch) is metabolized differently than 100 calories of sugar (half glucose half fructose). The fructose component of sugar and high fructose corn syrup are metabolized primarily by the liver and glucose from sugar and starches is metabolized by every cell in the body. Consuming sugar (glucose and fructose) means more work for the liver than if you consumed the same number of calories of starch (glucose). In laboratory studies, it's clear that if fructose hits the liver at sufficient speed and quantity, the liver will convert much of it to fat, inducing a condition known as insulin resistance, considered to be a fundamental problem in diabetes, and may also be the underlying defect in many cancers. The Department of Agriculture analysts and the USDA estimates that consumption of these 'added sugars' has increased from 40 pounds per person per year (that's a can and a half of coca-cola per day of sugar) to 90 pounds per person per year. That's a lot of sugar! The consumption happens to coincide with current epidemics of obesity and diabetes. Maybe this is circumstantial evidence, but it's compelling nonetheless. Read the rest of the article for a complete explanation and many thought provoking arguments. In Health, Amanda Gibson, DC

First Well-Net Speaking Experience

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Gibson, DC) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 18:05:00 +0000

This is a follow-up to a speaking engagement I did last week that I wanted to reflect upon. The first Austin Well-Net meeting of 2012 was a huge success. We met at Beets Café and had over 20 attendees. We began by introducing ourselves to the crowd and found a diverse group in the audience: chiropractors, massage therapists, nutritionists, pilates instructors, chefs, naturopaths, etc. I gave a speech on the journey that led me to chiropractic and how that ties in with what we do at Clear Point Wellness. It was important to distinguish ourselves from the rest by emphasizing that we are gentle, non-force. We see lots of clients here from sports injuries to pregnant moms. Everybody enters the practice with different needs. The second half of my talk focused on networking and how we should approach it. This is primarily done by creating value in your own life and the lives of others by continually improving on your skills, focusing on the client's wants and needs, and having an attitude of abundance. I was so blessed to give a talk to a crowd like this and I am excited to see how the Well-Net morphs in the future to create an even better referral network for our clientele. Find out more about Austin Wellspring Well-Net at Clear Point Wellness. In Health, Dr. Amanda Gibson

Hyperbaric Oxygen Improves Symptoms of PTSD

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Gibson, DC) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 21:11:00 +0000

Hyperbaric Oxygen shown to improve PTSD Nearly 20% of servicemen and women returning from war-zones have been affected with symptoms of Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or traumatic brain injury/post-concussive syndrome (TBI/PCS). A study performed in November of 2011 and available in the Journal of Neurotrama found that treatment with hyperbaric oxygen nearly three years after injury significantly improved veteran's quality of life. Post-treatment testing revealed improvements in cognitive testing, physical exam findings and quality of life measurements, along with a decrease in short-term memory problems, cognitive deficits and depression. Improvements were seen in irritability, balance, motor function, IQ, and blood flow to the brain. Dr. Paul Harch, the Medical Director of the LSU Hyperbaric Medicine and Wound Care Department concludes that "the study strongly suggests that both post-traumatic stress disorder and the post-concussion syndrome of mild traumatic brain injury are treatable nearly three years after injury. [And] the magnitude of improvements in memory, executive function, function brain imaging, and quality of life, as well as reduction in concussion and PTSD symptoms cannot be explained with a placebo effect." With our troops returning home, many will come back with PTSD, TBI/PCS or major depression, some with all three. Hyperbaric Oxygen therapy may be a reliable treatment instead of a prescription that to date has had minimal effectiveness for the diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder and post-concussive syndrome. Source: Medical News Today

Resolutions

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Gibson, DC) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 20:21:00 +0000

Achieving your 2012 Resolutions may be easier than you think. A great website to help boost your know-how and keep you on track is livestrong.com. They supply a calorie counter, body fat calculator, exercise ideas, healthy recipe ideas, articles and a quit smoking challenge. Set your goals and use the tools available to make them happen.

2012 Goals

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Gibson, DC) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 17:13:00 +0000

As human beings, we were designed for many things. Movement, change, growth, love. Energy flows where our mind goes - where are you going in this New Year of 2012? What goals if made could transform your experience? You are never too young or too old to step up to your destiny. Try something new that inspires you and expands your consciousness. Small goals of clear intention each day set you on your path. Check out Create the Life you Love in 8 Steps by Dr. Demartini and Success Tips from an Advice Guru by Dr. Wayne Dyer to keep you centered on your path.

Chi Workout Part III

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Gibson, DC) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 21:39:00 +0000

There are four basic skills of ChiRunning or ChiWalking: focusing, body sensing, breathing and relaxing. Whether you want to run a 5k, 50k or longer, use these skills to maximize your performance while minimizing physical effort. These skills will actually help you achieve any goal in life with greater ease. Focus your mind and thoughts to instruct your muscles to work together and relax. Your mind coordinates the perfect run, perfect tempo and engages the beauty of chi, allowing you to finish relaxed, empowered and full of energy for the day ahead. Use full body/mind focus to improve efficiency, speed, and decrease injury. Align your body, vision, forward movement, mind and your heart so eventually your ChiRunning form becomes second nature and your mind and body become one effortlessly. Body sensing is the skill of having your mind and body work together as a team. Constant communication between mind and body works without judgment of whether information is good or bad. Any negative or judgmental thought breakdown in communication creates static in the line. There are three steps to body sensing: listening carefully to little nuances of how your body moves, assessing the information to discern if the adjustment made is working, and adjusting incrementally. Relaxation begins with the breath and in this type of exercise, expect at first to be out of breath and work up to proper oxygen supply with long, slow distance running to increase your aerobic capacity. Belly breathing stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system which has a calming effect on your body. Try to breathe in an out through your nose, as this is a great self-regulating mechanism as you won’t be able to do it if you’re running too fast or inefficiently. Use relaxation to create a focused spaciousness without unnecessary effort. Using these skills correctly can dramatically improve your exercise capacity and purpose on and off the track. For information on the cousin of Chi Running, Pose, visit posetech.com

Chi Workouts Part II

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Gibson, DC) — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 15:52:00 +0000

Last week’s blog was all about how to use gravity to your advantage in your Chirunning or Chiwalking exercise. This week we focus on the principles of chi. Chi is also known as many other things: Qi, vim, ki, energy, vitality, innate, spirit, or life-force. Two thousand years ago, Chinese masters wisely studied nature and its properties taking notice of how universal laws create a balanced system. The laws of the universe work on four basic levels: physical, emotional, mental and spiritual. So we use motion to create momentum, seek fulfillment in our lives, study and discover truth, and connect to our own spirituality. Breaking universal laws can result in a stressed system and eventual breakdown. In Tai Chi and in ChiRunning, all movement originates from your center, so body alignment is crucial, while your arms and legs are soft as cotton and hold no tension. Free, flexible, and relaxed motion in your spine allows your center to work efficiently. Do you have this flexibility and adaptive quality in your own spine? Our spines house our nervous system, the master-system that controls all actions of the body. Health in the spine translates to better health throughout the whole body. Be patient with yourself and be sure to read more about ChiRunning and ChiWalking, or try an instructional video. This is a gradual process and should be started slowly so your body has opportunity to adapt to movement. Balance is two-fold in effort and physical movement with the purpose to create symmetry and harmony. For those who wish to learn more about Tai Chi principles and its many health benefits, click here.

Chi-Workouts Part I

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Gibson, DC) — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 15:29:00 +0000

If you exercise then you probably try to avoid injury. About two years ago I discovered a new way to run or walk called ChiRunning or ChiWalking. Developed by Danny Dreyer based on principles of TaiChi, ChiRunning and ChiWalking represent a “way to move your body using mental focus and relaxation instead of muscle power” so that you build presence instead of power. Chi moves through your body whether you believe it or not, and directing the movement from points along your spine allows your energy to originate from the centerline of your body. Basically, you need to be very relaxed, letting your movements flow through conscious action so we become masters of our ourselves. Some of the benefits of using this method are: great posture, relaxed limbs, loose joints, engaged core muscles, focused mind, good breathing and more energy. The process actually is the goal. How to do this begins with physics. Stand up straight, back of your neck long, and pretend you are a column, now relax shoulders and legs and lean forward slightly from your ankles. Allow yourself to cooperate with the pull of gravity by letting your body become a forward falling object, instead of running vertically and your feet landing in front of you—which opposes forward motion—your feet now land at or behind your center of gravity. Check out the video here for tips and a basic understanding of the technique.

Why Chiropractic?

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Gibson, DC) — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 19:27:00 +0000

As an active young woman, I've suffered from ankle sprains, shin splints, ACL repair, pelvic instability, low back pain, posture pains, neck aches, headaches and sickness. Most of the time when I had one of these conditions, I'd see my chiropractor and walk away feeling more stable, relaxed, and at ease. For a long time, I didn't think much of the improvements because I took my health for granted. As I age, I realize that health is precious and easier to keep than get back.

When I decided to go to Chiropractic School, I found out there was a reason I felt better after those chiropractic adjustments, and it wasn't due to any symptom or pain. The American Chiropractic Association says the Chiropractic profession focuses on neuro-musculoskeletal disorders and their effects on general health. Their broad diagnostic skills and hands-on approach therapeutically through the "adjustment", restore mobility, decreases pain and muscle tightness due to tissue injury allowing tissues to heal.

I have often said that "the body heals itself", indeed it does, when given proper motion, circulation and nutrition. Since becoming a Chiropractor, I see health as something to be restored and maintained, not a quick-fix pill or procedure. It's time for us to utilize preventive therapies to get well and stay healthy.

Osteoporosis

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Gibson, DC) — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 20:23:00 +0000

Summary:

Increasing animal protein increases rate of osteoporosis.
No correlation between calcium intake and bone loss
Increased dairy consumption is linked to high incidence of fracture due to increased amounts of animal protein
Men and women who eat more vegetables and fruit have stronger bones than those who eat less vegetables and fruit.
Weight bearing exercise strengthens bone

Text:
According to the Merk Manual:

· In osteoporosis, the overall amount of bone is reduced, but the “ratio of mineral to organic elements is unchanged in the remaining morphologically normal bone”. Meaning, no demineralization is occuring.

A British study of calcium supplementation showed that calcium supplementation over 500mg for 2 years had no decrease in bone loss. In Bantu women, who average 400mg calcium/day (less than U.S. Average) had stronger bones attributed to a diet lower in protein than the Standard American Diet.

In China (See China Study), calcium consumption is lower but bones are stronger due to eating less total protein and less animal protein (7% compared to U.S 70%). The Dairy Counsel Study research has indicated that extra low fat milk each day did nothing to decrease bone loss. In fact, researchers said that the continued bone loss was probably due to the 30% increase in protein from milk. A Harvard Nurses Study showed that women drinking 3+ glasses of milk had a 45% increase risk of fracture.

Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease states that "Ingestion of larger amounts of calcium and consuming large amounts of milk and antacid products (chiefly containing calcium carbonate) may result in excess calcium in blood (hypercalcemia) and rapid deterioration of renal function. Calcium may also inhibit magnesium absorption. This text also stated that a "diet rich in animal protein results in "progressive decrease of bone mass due to stimulation of parathyroid."

Here are the proper amounts of protein:

0.5g/kg body weight

5% of calories

A diet rich in animal protein results in “progressive decrease of bone mass” due to stimulation of the parathyroid. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition noted that elderly women with a high dietary ratio of animal to vegetable protein intake have more rapid femoral neck bone loss and a greater risk of hip fracture than those with a low ratio. Women getting the same amount of calcium from non-dairy sources did not have an increased risk of fracture. The women who ate the most animal protein had a 3.7 times greater risk of hip fracture compared to those who ate the most vegetable protein. These association were unaffected by adjustments for age, weight, estrogen use, tobacco use, exercise, total calcium intake, and total protein intake. There was no association between milk consumption as teenagers and fracture risk. Osteoporosis appears to be the result of osteoclast dominance. Bone loss begins in mid-thirties at about 1%/year. There is considerable evidence that osteoporotic bone loss occurs in women with progesterone deficiency despite adequate estrogen levels. Progesterone stimulates osteoblast mediated formation of new bone. No correlation between calcium intake and bone loss.

Avoid: High animal protein diets (Low fiber, low vitamins, minerals, low Ca:Ph ratio, too much protein, too much fat, too much cholesterol, residual toxins in body from hormones, antibiotics, pesticides)

Add: diet high in vegetables/plants (Plenty of plant protein, more fiber, less fat, less cholesterol, more vitamins and minerals, more phytochemicals, healthier Ca:Ph ratio, fewer hormones, antibiotics and pesticides.)

By age 65, meat eaters have 5-6x more bone loss than vegetarians

Men and women who eat more vegetables and fruit have stronger bones than those who eat less vegetables and fruit.
Estrogens should not be expected to increase bone mass
Exercise

Weight bearing exercise strengthens bone

Adrenals

Adrenalin dissolves bone, therefore prolonged stress, caffeine, and other stressors may contribute to bone loss

Thyroid

excess thyroxin increases metabolism which increases calcium excretion
if thyroid medication is needed, use minimum effective dose.

Recommendations:

Exercise: weight bearing exercises 20-60min 3x/week
Stop Smoking
Avoid Caffeine
Avoid Alcohol
Protein intake should be moderate
Eat a plant-centered diet with lots of vegetables and fruit

Autumn Harvest

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Gibson, DC) — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 17:57:00 +0000

Change is possibly the only 'truth' in the universe and adapting yourself to the changing seasons enables you to maintain your health. Seasonal change requires adaptation within the body. Autumnal balance occurs when you gain control of your internal and external climates. As Elson Haas, MD states in his book,Staying Healthy With The Seasons,"a daily discipline of inner attention and physical exercise, allows you to create a more open, resilient and supple body; a mentally and physically relaxed state; and a stronger resistance to disease." This autumn, introduce your body to a new exercise like tai-chi or yoga, focusing on deep breathing to gain relaxation and fluidity for whatever the day brings.

Autumn also brings with it a plentiful harvest of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and grains. Habitual dietary indulgence can create problems, leading to a buildup of toxins. Focus on a diet high in natural foods-fresh fruits and lightly steamed veggies. A low-fat, high-fiber diet of roughage will ensure proper elimination and help. Autumn is an excellent time for hearty soups, stews and baked dishes. For local produce, we recommend,Farmhouse Delivery. They deliver fresh fruits and vegetables to your door for a low monthly price.

While the days may be shorter, use the time for turning inward, completing projects and spending time with your family. The season of autumn, in the Chinese Five Element theory, is associated with metal, representing the function of structure and communication. Like the metal wires that establish connection and conduct electricity, the brain and nervous system communicate as a two-way system, sending and receiving messages. Do you know if your body has interference? The metal element is also associated with the lungs and large intestine. If you have a history of digestive weakness or colds and lung problems, this is the time to prepare yourself for the upcoming season of winter. At Clear Point Wellness we assist the body to heal itself through regular adjustments and chiropractic care. If you have digestive issues or are prone to colds in this season, consider making an appointment with one of our experienced chiropractors.

Vitalism

noreply@blogger.com (Amanda Gibson, DC) — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 20:18:00 +0000

At Clear Point Wellness we encourage you to take a different perspective on life and your own health potential. Getting proactive wellness care and choosing a healthy lifestyle ensures that you are able to tap into your potential and experience life fully. Our staff are guided by a philosophy of vitalism, which simply means that we believe your body can self-heal when functioning normally. We try our best to apply that philosophy in our work with you, by helping you take control of your health decisions. We provide guidance on fundamental principles of well-being during our sessions, in addition to our hands-on work with you.

Our staff believe we are facilitators of the natural healing process, encouraging your own vitality to repair, organize, and coordinate all parts of your body. Viewed in this way, your health is simply waiting to be expressed. A session with our doctors can help you release stored energy and make it possible for your body to reorganize and reconnect. Focusing on your well-spring of vitality is what separates our care from the more traditional medical approach which too often targets symptoms with external remedies. Our ultimate goal is to provide an exceptional chiropractic experience in a holistic environment, so you can lead a vital life!

Vitalism on Youtube: Bruce Lipton

Amanda Gibson, DC

Dangerous Marker of Bad Cholesterol: LDL Particle Size

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. John Jacobson) — Thu, 19 May 2011 17:09:00 +0000

When you are routinely tested for Cholesterol levels the results of LDL, HDL, and Triglycerides are calculated to form a Total Cholesterol count. HDL is considered to be the Good cholesterol, LDL is the Bad Cholesterol, and Triglycerides sit in between.

Modern research has determined that not all LDL cholesterol is bad for us. In fact there are several subgroups within LDL based on particle size. The Large LDL is not able to easily penetrate into the lining of the blood vessel and accumulate to create the plaque we all fear. However, the Small-Dense LDL can penetrate into the lining and create damage to the vessel lining.

What is small-dense LDL?
There are five major subgroups of Low Density Lipoproteins (LDL): IDL (intermediate density lipoprotein), I, II, III and IV. LDLI is the largest, least dense and most buoyant, while LDLIV is the smallest and most dense. LDL particles that are small are also dense and these terms are often used interchangeably. The smaller the LDL particle, the more dangerous it is. In fact, small-dense LDL (LDLIII and LDLIV) is three times more atherogenic than buoyant LDL.

Why measure LDL subgroups?
According to the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP), only about half of the variability in coronary heart disease risk can be attributed to conventional risk factors (i.e. LDL, HDL and triglyceride levels). Other, more specific risk factors, enhance predictive power of cardiovascular disease in individuals. Small - dense LDL is one of these specific risk factors that may be independent of other lipid-related risk factors.

Lipoproteins transport cholesterol throughout the body. But it is the actual lipoprotein particle, not the cholesterol within them, that penetrates the arterial wall and causes heart disease. That is why it is necessary to know the number of small LDL particles.

Why is small-dense LDL so harmful?
Smaller particles of LDL can more easily penetrate the arterial wall than large LDL particles simply due to their size. Therefore, the smaller the LDL particle, the more likely it is to enter the arterial endothelium, where it becomes oxidized, is taken up by a macrophage cell which then becomes a foam cell, which eventually stick together to build plaque within the arteries. Evidence also suggests that small-dense LDL is associated with vascular dementia. It is also important to know how many LDL particles are present, in addition to their size. Just as small LDL particles can fit through the arterial lining more easily than large LDL particles, the more LDL particles there are, the more likely they will enter the arterial intima, regardless of size. It is therefore imperative to measure both the size (density) and number of LDL particles.

How is small-dense LDL treated?
Therapeutic treatment for small-dense LDL includes the use of niacin and fibrates. Lifestyle changes (diet and exercise) show beneficial effects as well.

We have the ability to test Lipoprotein Particle Siz e to determine if you are at risk.
Contact Dr. John Jacobson @ (512) 416-7700 for more information.
Start living a Healthier Tomorrow!!!

The Obesity Epidemic

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. John Jacobson) — Mon, 09 May 2011 21:00:00 +0000

The obesity problem in the United States has reached epidemic proportions, and it's only getting worse. Among adults, obesity prevalence increased from 13 percent to 32 percent between the 1960s and 2004. In 1991, only four states had obesity rates of 15 percent or higher, while in 1998, 37 states had exceeded this level. Currently, 66 percent of adults in the United States are overweight or obese.

Obesity is a risk factor for a variety of the following diseases and has been demonstrated to increase mortality and morbidity:

1. Type 2 diabetes
2. Hypertension
3. Gallbladder Disease
4. Cancer
5. Osteoarthritis

At the current rate, by 2015, 75 percent of U.S. adults will be overweight and 41 percent will be obese. Obesity has increased at an alarming rate in the United States over the past three decades. The causes are multifactorial, but environmental, behavioral and genetic factors all have been shown to contribute.

Several risk factors for obesity are known, including a sedentary lifestyle, increasing age, and low socioeconomic status. These factors can help doctors to identify which patients are obese or at risk for developing obesity. Elevated BMI and abdominal obesity are associated with a number of diseases that have a high morbidity and mortality. It is important that patients at risk be educated as to the risks and encouraged to change their lifestyle to reduce the risk.

The full article can be found at: http://www.dynamicchiropractic.com/mpacms/dc/article.php?id=55308

Contact Dr. Jacobson @ Clear Point Wellness today to schedule a Nutritional Consult and get started on the right path to better health.

Kinesiology Tape

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. John Jacobson) — Thu, 05 May 2011 19:23:00 +0000

If you have been a client of mine, at some point in your care you have gone home with a cool tape job to your area of complaint. So... What is the tape, and What does it do?

The tape I use is called Rocktape:

http://rocktape.com/

It is a brand of Kinesiology Tape designed to do the following:
1. Stabilize or Strengthen a weak/unstable joint or muscle.
2. Reduce Pain by providing proprioceptive stimulation on the skin surface, which can block the pain stimuli from the deeper structures beneath the skin.
3. Reduce edema
4. Promotes correct motion in a joint during activity.

The tape is constructed from a special type of elastic to allow it to move as you move. This gives you much more freedom in movement than the standard white sports tape. The adhesive surface is designed to increase its hold when it comes in contact with heat, so as you heat up the tape doesn't lose its ability to work.

The standard protocol I use involves:
1. Soft tissue work to the area of complaint
2. Application of Bio-Freeze to promote tissue healing (and it helps the tape stick)
3. Rocktape application to area of complaint (can be left on for up to 72hrs)

I am certified in Kinesiotape I, II, and III so if you have any questions about this type of therapy, please contact Dr. John today at Clear Point Wellness.

Is Sugar Toxic?

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. John Jacobson) — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 16:26:00 +0000

I recently read this article on the effects of Sugar and found it to be extremely accurate and informative.

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/04/17/magazine/mag-17Sugar-t.html?pagewanted=2&_r=1

The article provides an excellent explanation of the toxic effects that sugar has on our biochemical pathways that lead to inflammation. Chronic inflammation leads to a weakened immune system and eventually a disease state. Know the facts about sugar, and look for healthier alternatives to this toxic substance.

Boost Your Immune System

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. John Jacobson) — Tue, 22 Mar 2011 16:57:00 +0000

Our nervous system works together with our immune system to create optimal responses for our body to adapt and heal. Neural dysfunctions due to chemical, environmental, physical, or emotional stress cause abnormal changes that lead to a poorly coordinated immune response. Re-Engaging the nervous system with Chiropractic adjustments has been shown to boost the coordinated responses of the nervous system and immune system.

Our nervous system has branches that lead directly to our spleen, thymus, lymph nodes, and bone marrow... essentially all the organs providing defense against harmful effects on the body. According to researchers, stressful conditions lead to altered measures of immune function & increased susceptibility to a variety of diseases.

Inflammatory based disease is influenced by both the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems. Nerve stimulation directly affects the growth and function of inflammatory cells. Researchers found that dysfunction in this pathway results in the development of various inflammatory syndromes such as rheumatoid arthritis and behavioral syndromes such as depression. Additionally, this dysfunctional neuro-endo-immune response plays a significant role in immune-compromised conditions such as chronic infections and cancer.

At Clear Point Wellness we focus each session on re-engaging the nervous system where it is least active. This allows the body to work at its optimum level and improve the quality of life you deserve. Schedule an appointment today.

Dr. John Jacobson

Learn more: http://www.naturalnews.com/031206_chiropractic_immunity.html#ixzz1HLnP7F00

National Nutrition Month 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. John Jacobson) — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 21:23:00 +0000

The theme for March 2011 is "Eat Right with Color."

National Nutrition Month is a nutrition education and information campaign created annually in March by the American Dietetic Association. The campaign focuses attention on the importance of making informed food choices and developing sound eating and physical activity habits.

log on today to find great information about Nutrition.

http://www.eatright.org/nnm/

Vitamin D for Treatment of Chronic Low Back Pain

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. John Jacobson) — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 18:48:00 +0000

Chronic low back pain is one of the most common complaints that enter a Chiropractic office and is a complex condition to treat. An estimated 50 billion dollars are spent annually on low back pain solutions in North America alone. Restoration of proper biomechanics through chiropractic adjusting, decompression, myofascial release, core strengthening, anti-inflammatory drugs + muscle relaxers, are just a few of the techniques that are most often prescribed. A study of patients who had suffered chronic low back pain found that a majority of the patients were not getting adequate amounts of Vitamin D in their diets. Low back pain and proximal myopathy (loss of proper nerve transmission at the root level leaving the spinal cord) are common symptoms experienced in people with vitamin D insufficiency.

There are various risk factors for vitamin D insufficiency including: lack of sun exposure, inadequate dietary intake, darker skin color, age, obesity, and the use of various medications. At Clear Point Wellness we review your history and lifestyle to discover a risk factor that might contribute to vitamin D insufficiency, or we order a precise micronutrient lab test to obtain the exact level of vitamins and minerals in your body.

So you have symptoms of back pain or myelopathy and discover you are at risk for insufficiency...now what?

Vitamin D comes in different forms; which one is best to take and how much? The goal is to find the form that can be readily used by the body without having to convert it multiple times, which leads to poor absorption. Vitamin D3 is the form that we convert from sun exposure and is the best form to increase levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D. The amount required as a daily dose to replenish levels and decrease symptoms varies per patient. The range that is considered a therapeutic dose is 2000 - 5000mg daily depending on the severity of your condition. While treating your back pain you will get the added benefits of improving bone density, improving depression, improving memory, and reducing your risk of cancer.

Call (512) 416-7700 to schedule an appointment with Dr. John Jacobson today to see if you can benefit from vitamin D therapy.

Things are Getting Fishy

noreply@blogger.com (Dr. John Jacobson) — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 18:25:00 +0000

The Facts about Omega 3 Fish Oil Supplements
EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) are the two principal fatty acids found in fish. They belong to a family of essential nutrients known as omega-3 fatty acids. EPA and DHA are polyunsaturated fats ("good" fats, as opposed to saturated fats which are thought to increase the risk of heart disease). Omega-3 fatty acids have been most widely studied regarding their effects on cardiovascular health. Increased consumption of fish oil may help slow the progression of atherosclerosis, thereby preventing heart attacks, and reduce the risk of sudden death due to cardiac arrhythmias. The omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA have a number of heart-healthy effects, including reducing triglyceride levels, raising levels of HDL ("good") cholesterol and, possibly, "thinning" the blood, reducing levels of homocysteine and reducing blood pressure. Fish oils also appear to enhance the effectiveness of statin drugs used to improve cholesterol profiles. Increased intake of fish oil can reduce forms of inflammation (especially in the early stages). Other notable uses are: treatment of age-related eye disease, reduction in risk of cancer of the prostate, colon/rectum, and breast, help with treatment of depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, important for normal development and functioning of the brain and retina in the fetus and in infants, and even your pets can benefit by helping to maintain their coats and skin. For help finding the right fish oil supplement to fit your needs and for specific dosage information to help treat your condition, contact me via email, or stop in for a visit.

Thanks, Dr. John Jacobson

Arthritis and Chiropractic

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Mendoza, DC) — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 18:00:00 +0000

For many Americans, arthritis is an everyday struggle. Aches and pains are experienced sometimes while just moving around or walking. While most Americans already know that arthritis is a condition that they will have to live with for the rest of their lives, medicating the pain might not be the only answer.

Arthritis is an inflammation of a joint in the body that can be caused by a degenerative disease or even an allergen such as milk or red meat. The inflammation can be triggered at any point of the day and this condition can become a chronic problem where the pain becomes the focus of maintenance care.

Although pain meds will ease the pain, there are other alternative treatments that can help fight the inflammation and pain. Chiropractic treatment is a great way to help the body stay flexible and it allows the joints to stay mobile and not become so frozen. There are several different chiropractic techniques that are helpful, but the best results come from very subtle and gentle approaches towards the body.

Exercising and stretches can help the body stay flexible as well. Recent reports have shown that yoga and Tai Chi can also help the degenerative process that occurs in our joints.

Vitamin supplements such as antioxidants can help fight inflammation and glucosamine can possibly help regrow cartilage in the body. Also limiting red meat, dairy products and eating plenty of fruits and vegetables can decrease inflammation triggers and keep your immune system healthy.

Having arthritis doesn't mean you can not live a full active life. Every year we are finding new and helpful ways to help fight arthritis that can include anything from chiropractic to acupuncture. Ask an alternative medical practitioner which one is right for you.

Natural Face Lift

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa Hastings, DC) — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 21:00:00 +0000

Muscles in the face appear to weaken with age and begin to sag. Why is this? We smile, we talk and chew and use our muscles every day. We may however not be using all of our muscles.

Muscles throughout our body have two functions one is active to move bones or blood or food, the other is static to change pressures and balance forces in the body. Our muscles get strong when active, and weak when they stay static for too long - notice how your muscles weaken if you stop working out for 3 weeks.

Tone can be restored to your facial muscles by changing their function from static to active, thereby enabling the muscles to regain strength and flexibility. Clear Point Wellness can bring tone back to your face by relieving pressures that require muscles to stay in a static phase, and by restoring flexibility to the underlying fascia and lymphatic systems. When there are fascial tensions around the lymphatic system, fluids build up and create a puffy appearance in the skin.

After muscles, fascia, and the lymphatic system are more flexible and dynamic exercises will continue to increase tone in your face.

Links to Face Lift Exercise Books under Anti-Aging