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June 11th, 2014 at 5:54 pm

 

 

Vitamin K Intake Correlated with Lower Mortality Risk, from all causes.  Must read!

The Journal of Nutrition reported in March 2014 that dietary vitamin K intake is associated with a reduced risk of mortality in subjects with high cardiovascular risk. Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin and naturally occurs in multiple forms including vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) and vitamin K2 (menaquinone).

7,216 subjects from the PREDIMED study were evaluated all at high cardiovascular disease risk. The subjects completed food frequency questionnaires to evaluate energy and nutrient intake. The investigators calculated dietary vitamin K intake annually. The researchers followed the subjects for an average of 4.8 years to identify number and cause of deaths.

The investigators determined that higher dietary phylloquinone intake was associated with a 46 percent decreased risk of cancer death and a 36 percent decrease in the risk of death from any cause. Compared to subjects who decreased or did not change vitamin K intake, the subjects who increased vitamin K intake during the follow-up period showed a decrease in the risk of cancer death or all-cause mortality.

Specifically, increasing intake of phylloquinone was associated with a 36 percent lower risk of cancer death, a 43 percent decreased risk of death from any cause, and a 48 percent decreased risk of cardiovascular mortality. Increased menaquinone was associated with a 59 percent decreased risk of cancer death and a 45 percent decreased risk of death from any cause, but no association was found with cardiovascular mortality.

The investigators concluded:, “An increase in dietary intake of vitamin K is associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular, cancer or all-cause mortality in a Mediterranean population at high cardiovascular disease risk.”

Reference:
Juanola-Falgarona M, et al. J Nutr. 2014 Mar 19.   Image Courtesy:SheSkows.com

 Special Note:

Vitamin K is rich in green leafy vegetables such as arugula and kale and is synthesized in the gut.  Impaired gut ecology can lessen the gut's ability to synthesize Vitamin K.  Supplemental Vitamin K is also available, here, however, I recommend either eating alot of green leafy vegetables or using our GreensFirst product daily in order to reap these benefits!

 

Best of Health!

 

Visit our Natural Product Pharmacy for top prices and FREE SHIPPING on hundreds of natural products from professional brands like: Metagenics, Douglas Laboratories, Pure Encapsulations, Integrative Therapeutics, Thorne Research, and Carlson Labs!

 

Taryn DeCicco, ND, LAc, LDN

Naturopath

Acupuncturist

Clinical Nutritionist

Professional Vitamins and Supplements

Chinese Herbs

Natural Skin Products

Arlington Heights, IL

www.apple-a-day-clinic.com

 

We specialize in Acne, Skin, and Digestive disorders!  Please contact us for a free consultation!  I do work long distance.  Thank you from the bottom of our cart!  We truly appreciate your product purchases, visits, and referrals!  They enable us to give people the help they need and continue our valuable work.

Views:
10186
June 4th, 2014 at 5:13 pm

Is this cancer causing ingredient in your sunscreen?

 

 

image courtesy of mensjournal.com

 

 

Recently, the EWG, Environmental Working Group released its annual report regarding sunscreens and the results were electrifying!  Less than 8% of those studied-(approximately 500),  held up to their claims and could be recommended based on the

safety of their ingredients.  Since melanoma rates have been on the rise for decades could

Sunscreen be a culprit?

One controversial subject is the toxicity of their sun blocking ingredients.  Another new topic is the presence of retinol palmitate or other retinols, which are forms of vitamin A, think Retin A a prescription drug, which is known to accelerate photosensitivity.  In a recent animal study, 21% of mice pretreated with retinols experienced lesions compared to a control group.

The EWG is currently advising consumers to avoid sunscreens containing the substance.

 

An underappreciated dilemma with regard to sunscreen is that most consumers do not know how to use them properly.  SPF just refers to the fact that it extends the time one can spend in the sun without burning as opposed to those with unprotected skin.  Care must be taken to reapply every couple of hours.  Even with a high quality sun block care should be taken to avoid the most powerful rays, reflection in water etc…

 

Chemicals to avoid:

To make it onto EWG's safe list, sunscreens must:

  • Be free of oxybenzone
  • Be free of retinyl palmitate (a type of vitamin A)
  • Provide a maximum of SPF 50, and
  • Protect against both UVA and UVB sunrays

Are You Drowning your skin in Toxicity?

Oxybenzone is one of the most troublesome ingredients found in the majority of sunscreens. According to EWG's findings, 56 percent of sunscreens contain this harmful chemical. Its primary function is to absorb ultraviolet light. However, oxybenzone is also believed to cause hormone disruptions and the type of cell damage that can provoke cancer.  I also have major concerns with any chemicals that employ nano technology as these particles can leach into the systemic circulation.

 

My votes for sunscreens employ only physical mineral sunblocks such as: zinc oxide, titanium dioxide and some essential oils.

 

Climb On! Mineral sunscreen was voted a number one off the EWG website and is the only sunscreen that we have offered ever in our natural pharmacy store.  FREE shipping on all orders and 10-20% on freshest products and all orders over $99  We also have an AMAZING skin boutique with all natural products that I have carefully developed. Visit it here!

 

Wishing you safe sunbathing!

 

Best of Health!

 

Visit our Natural Product Pharmacy for top prices and FREE SHIPPING on hundreds of natural products from professional brands like: Metagenics, Douglas Laboratories, Pure Encapsulations, Integrative Therapeutics, Thorne Research, and Carlson Labs!

 

Taryn DeCicco, ND, LAc, LDN

Naturopath

Acupuncturist

Clinical Nutritionist

Professional Vitamins and Supplements

Chinese Herbs

Natural Skin Products

Arlington Heights, IL

www.apple-a-day-clinic.com

 

We specialize in Acne, Skin, and Digestive disorders!  Please contact us for a free consultation!  I do work long distance.  Thank you from the bottom of our cart!  We truly appreciate your product purchases, visits, and referrals!  They enable us to give people the help they need and continue our valuable work.

Views:
9855
May 28th, 2014 at 4:50 pm

 

 

 

 

 

 

Omega-3s Help to Manage BP

A major risk factor for heart disease and stroke, hypertension (high blood pressure) can be treated by many non-drug approaches. Back in March 2014,   Dominik D. Alexander, from the Center for Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Computational Biology at Exponent, Inc. (Illinois, USA), completed a large-scale meta-analysis involving 70 randomized  controlled trials (RCTs) of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) for blood pressure management.  The team found that consumption of EPA and DHA-Fish oils found in fatty fish such as salmon,  reduced systolic blood pressure by an average of 1.52 mmHg, and lowered diastolic blood pressure by 0.99 mmHg, as compared to subjects on placebo.   Noting that: “the strongest effects of EPA+DHA were observed among untreated hypertensive subjects,” the study authors conclude that: “available evidence  indicates that provision of  (EPA) and  (DHA)]  reduces systolic blood pressure, while provision of [more than] 2 grams reduces diastolic blood pressure.” My favorite fish oil product is right here….We offer 30% OFF Carlson Products and FREE shipping on any size order! Here Is another excellent product;

Coffee May Preserve Eyesight

The inside, back wall of the eye contains millions of light-sensitive cells and other nerve cells that receive and organize visual information. The retina is one of the most metabolically active tissues, demanding high levels of oxygen and making it prone to oxidative stress. The lack of oxygen and production of free radicals can contribute to tissue damage and loss of sight.  Chang Y. Lee, from Cornell University (New York, USA), and colleagues exposed the eyes of a group of laboratory mice to a compound that created oxidative stress and free radicals, with a second group of the animals first pretreated with chlorogenic acid, an antioxidant compound found abundantly in raw coffee.  Whereas the mice that were not pretreated developed retinal degeneration, the mice that received chlorogenic acid did not develop retinal damage.  The study authors submit that: “Our in vitro and in vivo studies demonstrated that coffee and its major component, [chlorogenic acid], significantly reduce apoptosis of retinal cells … and that coffee consumption may help in preventing retinal degeneration.” Coffee contains tons of antioxidants and polyphenols.  See my article Coffee Talk here for more information about coffee's controversial benefits.

Diabetes in Middle Age Linked to Brain Cell Loss in Later Years

A number of previous studies suggest that type-2 diabetes may precipitate other medical conditions.  It is well established that DMII can lead to other serious health complications. Rosebud O. Roberts, from the Mayo Clinic (Minnesota, USA), and colleagues studied 1,437 men and women, average age 80 years.  The participants had either no thinking or memory issues, or mild memory and thinking problems (mild cognitive impairment, MCI). Subjects underwent brain scans to look for markers of brain damage that can be a precursor to dementia. Participants' medical records were reviewed to determine whether they had been diagnosed with diabetes or high blood pressure in middle age or later.  Regarding diabetes, researchers observed that 72 people developed it in middle age, 142 in old age and 1,192 did not have diabetes. Compared to people who did not have diabetes, those subjects who developed diabetes in middle age had total brain volume an average of 2.9% smaller. In the hippocampus area of the brain, the volume was 4% smaller. They were also twice as likely to have thinking and memory problems. Conclusion?   The study authors report that: “Midlife onset of diabetes may affect late-life cognition through loss of brain volume.” See my article: Stop Diabetes in its tracks!

Walnuts are DRUGS declares the FDA

Seen any walnuts in your medicine cabinet lately? According to the Food and Drug Administration, that is exactly where you should find them. Because Diamond Foods made truthful claims about the health benefits of consuming walnuts that the FDA didn't approve, it sent the company a letter declaring, “Your walnut products are drugs” — and “new drugs” at that — and, therefore, “they may not legally be marketed … in the United States without an approved new drug application.” The agency even threatened Diamond with “seizure” if it failed to comply.

Foods that fight Inflammation

(NaturalNews) Inflammation is the body's natural way to fight infection and respond to harmful organisms, irritants, damaged tissue or toxic overload.This response should be temporary, however.  If it doesn't, you could be suffering from chronic inflammation, which is far from natural or healthy. If you're having persistent trouble with swelling, redness, pain, fever, loss of appetite or general malaise, try alleviating your symptoms with these 10 foods that fight inflammation. Better yet, contact us to get to the root cause of your inflammation….

1. Fatty Fish
Start your anti-inflammation journey by heading to the seafood counter for fresh cuts of tuna, salmon and mackerel, then bake or boil them to keep things healthy. Keep in mind that, while whitefish such as cod and sole are beneficial sources of lean protein, they do not provide the same inflammation-fighting properties as their oilier counterparts.

2. Avocado
In addition to being a great source of monounsaturated fats, avocado has the power to reduce inflammation. It's a much healthier source of fat than killer trans fats and goes well with many cuisines. Aim for five to seven servings of healthy fats per day, such as topping your salad with avocado, blending it into a dressing or just eating it plain.

3. Leafy Greens
Dark leafy greens such as kale, broccoli and collards can amp up your body's inflammation-reducing abilities without changing your kitchen routine.
4. Turmeric
This traditionally Indian spice is an anti-inflammatory superstar. Its historical use in Eastern medicine has proven its use in treating a variety of inflammatory conditions, such as toothache, bruises, rheumatoid arthritis and general joint swelling, according to The World's Healthiest Foods (1). Add a dash of it to your stir-fries or curries for an easy dose of its inflammation-fighting properties.

5. Walnuts
Like other tree nuts, walnuts impart a variety of health benefits to those who eat them regularly. They have anti-inflammatory as well as antioxidant properties and also possess important nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, copper, manganese, molybdenum and biotin. Shoot for an ounce, or about 14 walnuts halves, every day.

6. Peppers
Both bell peppers and hot peppers provide a whole, healthy, colorful addition to your anti-inflammatory regime. The chemical capsaicin, found in a variety of spicy peppers, is often used in topical ointments geared toward reducing pain and inflammation, says Health magazine (2). However, peppers may provoke an even greater immune response in some people. The best idea when adding them to your diet is to keep your other food choices static and watch for any changes: If you notice an increase in symptoms, speak with a nutritionist or cut out the peppers.

7. Olive Oil
Aside from its raft of other health benefits, including weight loss and lowering cholesterol, olive oil helps reduce inflammation. However, studies referenced by The World's Healthiest Foods show that only extra-virgin olive oil obtained from the first pressing of the olives delivers these benefits, so stick with the good stuff (3).

8. Ginger
Ginger not only fights inflammation but also works to stop it in its tracks by suppressing the formation of inflammatory compounds in the first place. Gingerols, the chemicals in ginger responsible for its anti-inflammatory properties, are reported to reduce pain and swelling in sufferers of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. For the culinarily adventurous, adding ginger requires nothing more than a fresh root and the will to do so; for the novice foodie, try adding a bit of ginger into your next smoothie.

9. Beets
Brightly colored and earthy-flavored, beets provide heart and cancer protection as well as vitamin C in addition to their power to reduce swelling. They taste fantastic roasted, boiled and grated raw on salads, and in summer are available in shades of red, orange, yellow and pink as well as multicolored varieties.

10. Holy Basil
Despite its highfalutin name, holy basil is actually an inexpensive and widely available herb. Look for it at specialty or Asian food stores, where it may also be labeled as tulsi or hot basil. Use it as you regularly would, but expect a kick.

Introducing foods that fight inflammation into your diet doesn't need to be difficult or stressful. Hopefully this list of whole foods will expand your grocery list and your health opportunities all at once.

 For more information on inflammation click here  We have a variety of excellent natural products that fight inflammation throughout the body, visit our store!

 

Best of Health!

 

Visit our Natural Product Pharmacy for top prices and FREE SHIPPING on hundreds of natural products from professional brands like: Metagenics, Douglas Laboratories, Pure Encapsulations, Integrative Therapeutics, Thorne Research, and Carlson Labs!

 

Taryn DeCicco, ND, LAc, LDN

Naturopath

Acupuncturist

Clinical Nutritionist

Professional Vitamins and Supplements

Chinese Herbs

Natural Skin Products

Arlington Heights, IL

www.apple-a-day-clinic.com

 

We specialize in Acne, Skin, and Digestive disorders!  Please contact us for a free consultation!  I do work long distance.  Thank you from the bottom of our cart!  We truly appreciate your product purchases, visits, and referrals!  They enable us to give people the help they need and continue our valuable work.

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9936
May 21st, 2014 at 4:47 pm

 

 

 

Image: Courtesy St. Louis Urgent Care

A difficult allergy season is now well underway.  My clients are increasingly looking for alternatives to anti-histamines, intranasal steroids etc.  Does naturopathy hold out any therapies for proven allergy relief?   In a word…YES!

 

First, let's take a look at the basic cell biology of allergy.  An allergy is thought to be an abnormal overreaction to specific environmental antigens known as allergens. This leads to B cells that produce too much immunoglobulin…IgE. IgE triggers the symptoms most people recognize such as watery eyes, sinus congestion, headache, fatigue etc…

 

Vitamins such as Vitamin C, B Vitamins, antioxidants like Quercitin, and many herbs can stabilize the activity of the cells that release histamine.  Histamine can also be reduced by eating these foods: Onions, Broccoli, cauliflower, apples, green tea, and berries.

 

 

Supplements that help contain allergy symptoms contain an array of vitamins, herbs, and antioxidants like Quercitin.  A couple of my favorites are Allihist by Biogenesis, and Ortho DHist.  You can also visit my allergy aisle to view all the herbs and formulas, including Chinese Medicines effective for allergies right here. FREE shipping on all orders and 10-20% Off major professional supplements on larger orders.

 

Still, one of the basic tenets of  Naturopathic and Chinese Medicine is to find and treat the root of illness.

 

Often a poorly functioning liver, weak adrenals, weak kidneys, underlying bacterial imbalance, high levels of inflammation, or high levels of heavy metals, food allergies or low energy levels are to blame. You can read up on testing for these right here.

 

Often, nutrition and herbs, or Acupuncture and Chinese Herbs can help people obtain not only relief from seasonal allergies but improve their health overall to boot.  Seek out a reputable Naturopath or Chinese Medicine doctor.   If you are in our vicinity, come in for a free consultation.

 

If you'd like to learn more about allergies please peruse my NEW Natural Health Library right here!

Just search under Allergy for a lot of great information.

 

 

Best of Health!

 

Visit our Natural Product Pharmacy for top prices and FREE SHIPPING on hundreds of natural products from professional brands like: Metagenics, Douglas Laboratories, Pure Encapsulations, Integrative Therapeutics, Thorne Research, and Carlson Labs!

 

Taryn DeCicco, ND, LAc, LDN

Naturopath

Acupuncturist

Clinical Nutritionist

Professional Vitamins and Supplements

Chinese Herbs

Natural Skin Products

Arlington Heights, IL

www.apple-a-day-clinic.com

 

We specialize in Acne, Skin, and Digestive disorders!  Please contact us for a free consultation!  I do work long distance.  Thank you from the bottom of our cart!  We truly appreciate your product purchases, visits, and referrals!  They enable us to give people the help they need and continue our valuable work.

Views:
9557
May 14th, 2014 at 6:01 pm

Photo: TLCgroomingbyDanielle.com

Does Your PET need a probiotic????

 

Most veterinarians are dismissive on this subject and state  that your dog or cat does not typically need a probiotic.  As an animal lover, owner, and nutrition and immune, GI/Skin specialist for over 15 years I will respectfully disagree.  I do not think however that all pets require a probiotic.  Also, there is a huge disparity in the products themselves.  Today

I will attempt to provide some guidance regarding this important subject.

I do believe that some pets require a probiotic… Dogs and cats with:

 

  • ·         Chronic allergies
  • ·         Low immunity
  • ·         Skin problems
  • ·         Yeast Infections
  • ·         Digestive problems chronic constipation-diarrhea
  • ·         Anal Itching
  • ·         Parasites

In my opinion, dogs and cats with any or all  of these conditions will benefit from a great quality probiotic.   There are other circumstances as well.  If your pet is a rescue and was malnourished, or feral or was weaned earlier than normal your pet will benefit as well in my opinion. Pets that have taken antibiotics will also require supplementation.

 

Which ONE?

So, if your pet falls into one of these categories which probiotic should you give them?  I am hearing some pet owners giving their pet Kefir or Yogurt.  I don't think this is advisable.  Here's why: dairy is unbelievably hard on people's systems and many pets do not thrive on these products.  They may also excaberate skin conditions and allergies.

While some products can be shared between people and animals, animals require a different blend.  Also, there is a HUGE disparity in the quality of probiotics and you definitely get what you PAY FOR.  Most products never live past the stomach and are killed by stomach acids or get absorbed by enzymes.  AMAZON and Ebay are terrible places to buy supplements of any kind since most of them are fraudulent, manufacturer's discards and have been shipped all over and are stored under terrible conditions making them worthless. Read about this HERE: You're Buying FAKE, Counterfeit Supplements!

 

Two products I have used and believe in are:

RX Vitamins RX Biotic….This is a convenient powder can be mixed easily in food and is appropriate for both dogs and cats.  A jar lasts awhile and is $24.00 FREE Shipping!!! 

Another is Vetri-Probiotic by Vetri Science for dogs.  It is in chewable form and 120 are $75.20

While these products may seem taxing to your budget, consider the cost of vet bills.

 

We have an excellent array of professional PET products. Visit our Pet Aisle right here! FREE shipping

 

Best of PET Health!

 

Visit our Natural Product Pharmacy for top prices and FREE SHIPPING on hundreds of natural products from professional brands like: Metagenics, Douglas Laboratories, Pure Encapsulations, Integrative Therapeutics, Thorne Research, and Carlson Labs!

 

Taryn DeCicco, ND, LAc, LDN

Naturopath

Acupuncturist

Clinical Nutritionist

Professional Vitamins and Supplements

Chinese Herbs

Natural Skin Products

Arlington Heights, IL

www.apple-a-day-clinic.com

 

We specialize in Acne, Skin, and Digestive disorders!  Please contact us for a free consultation!  I do work long distance.  Thank you from the bottom of our cart!  We truly appreciate your product purchases, visits, and referrals!  They enable us to give people the help they need and continue our valuable work.

Views:
9798
May 7th, 2014 at 7:28 pm

  This Vitamin Reverses CANCER CELLS!

 

 image from vegnews.com

 

Retinoic acid, a derivative of vitamin A found abundantly in sweet potato and carrots recently was shown to transform pre-cancerous breast cells back into their normal, healthy state!

 

 Sandra V. Fernandez, Ph.D., assistant research professor of medical oncology at Thomas Jefferson University, and colleagues, evaluated the effect of retinoic acid on 4 types of cells, each one representing a different stage of breast cancer: normal, pre-cancerous, cancerous, and a fully aggressive model. Her results showed that the retinoic acid had a marked effect upon the pre-cancerous cells, not only making them look like healthy cells again, but also reverting their genetic signature back to normal. It was also important that the cells that were considered fully cancerous did not respond at all to retinoic acid, thus suggesting that there may only be a small window of opportunity for retinoic acid to be helpful in preventing cancer progression.

 

A couple of our great products are based on this premise which is not a new research finding by any means.  They are available right in our store.

 

Our Vag Pack Healing Suppository has been studied for reversing cervical dysplasia IE abnormal cell changes in the cervix due to HPV infection**.  Read more about VAG PACK here.  And check our our blog articles on the topic here:

Adventures in Healing! One woman's recovery from HPV and Cervical Dysplasis NATURALLY!

Tales from the TRENCHES! Healing HPV and Cervical Dysplasis NATURALLY!

Great News about Reversing HPV, Cervical Dysplasia NATURALLY

 

Our FIX UP!  Retinoic acid facial rejuvenator contains high levels of retinoic acid to rejuvenate skin damaged by sun, or other environmental factors.  Retin A has long been a prescription drug for wrinkles and sun damage.**

 

**Note: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.  Our website, products and articles contain educational information only and make no claims to diagnose, treat, or ameliorate any medical condition.  Please consult with your medical advisor for appropriate medical care.

 

 

PS We just received dual awards for BEST Nutritionist and BEST Acupuncture Clinic in Arlington Heights for the third consecutive year!  Thank you for your referrals and great reviews!

 

 

Best of Health!

 

Visit our Natural Product Pharmacy for top prices and FREE SHIPPING on hundreds of natural products from professional brands like: Metagenics, Douglas Laboratories, Pure Encapsulations, Integrative Therapeutics, Thorne Research, and Carlson Labs!

 

Taryn DeCicco, ND, LAc, LDN

Naturopath

Acupuncturist

Clinical Nutritionist

Professional Vitamins and Supplements

Chinese Herbs

Natural Skin Products

Arlington Heights, IL

www.apple-a-day-clinic.com

 

We specialize in Acne, Skin, and Digestive disorders!  Please contact us for a free consultation!  I do work long distance.  Thank you from the bottom of our cart!  We truly appreciate your product purchases, visits, and referrals!  They enable us to give people the help they need and continue our valuable work.

Views:
10695
April 30th, 2014 at 5:54 pm

Healing Acne Scars Naturally!

 

 

photo acnepictures.org

 

Are you or someone you know troubled by red marks, ugly scars and pitting from acne breakouts?  Have you given up hope regarding healing these marks short of costly laser surgery orpainful dermabrasion?  Is there a safer and more natural way to heal these scars?  In a word….YES!  Read on to learn how to heal these marks naturally…

 

First…DO NOT attempt any of these interventions until your acne is fully healed.  If you do not know how to fix your acne…call us or email us for a FREE consultation or appointment to address your acne problems.  It is important to get to the root cause of the problem and to eliminate or dramatically reduce the attendant inflammation before even thinking about the scarring. 

 

Once that is accomplished, the damage from the skin being chronically inflamed can be addressed.  Healing the damaged skin is contingent upon two factors supplying nutrients to the dermal layers both internally and externally.

 

Internally: a very clean whole foods diet with specific nutrients that nourish the skin within these include: Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Vitamin C, B-Complex, amino acids and essential fatty acids. This is a diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, essential fats and lean protein. Proper hydration and avoidance of alcohol, caffeine, sugar, hydrogenated fats, and junk food are very important as well. 

 

Supplementing the above nutrients can be helpful for 3-12 months depending upon the severity of the scarring.  These can be taken in individual forms…link or in a formula like our DermaCare-FREE Shipping on all orders and Volume discounts from 10-20% on orders over $99.

 

The next step is exfoliating the damaged skin.  This can be accomplished many different ways.  Enzymes are one way to exfoliate mild to moderate acne scars.  Glisten Up!, our pineapple enzyme scrub can be used daily to help to debride the damaged tissue.  For more serious scarring  Shape Up! Our pumpkin enzyme peel will work wonders in exfoliating the damaged skin.  Very serious level pitting will require deeper peeling agents which require supervison for proper use.

The next step is providing nutrients topically to regenerate skin at the topical level.  Initially, professional levels of retinol (20%) this is a concentrated form of Vitamin A, and 20% of Vitamins C and E can be used to help skin regenerate.  Nourish Up!, and Fix Up! Are two of our products that provide these nutrients in high concentrations. Lastly, our Clear Up! Scar serum contains essential oils and herbs to help skin regenerate and smooth out. Visit our skin beauty aisle for our fabulous offerings here.

Please be advised that while you will see improvements in 30-45 days, it will take time, consistency and dedication to see perfect results.  Still the effort will be worth it and you will have glowing, scar free skin in seemingly no time.

 

Best of Skin Health!

 

 

Visit our Natural Product Pharmacy for top prices and FREE SHIPPING on hundreds of natural products from professional brands like: Metagenics, Douglas Laboratories, Pure Encapsulations, Integrative Therapeutics, Thorne Research, and Carlson Labs!

 

Taryn DeCicco, ND, LAc, LDN

Naturopath

Acupuncturist

Clinical Nutritionist

Professional Vitamins and Supplements

Chinese Herbs

Natural Skin Products

Arlington Heights, IL

www.apple-a-day-clinic.com

 

We specialize in Acne, Skin, and Digestive disorders!  Please contact us for a free consultation!  I do work long distance.  Thank you from the bottom of our cart!  We truly appreciate your product purchases, visits, and referrals!  They enable us to give people the help they need and continue our valuable work.

Views:
12435
April 23rd, 2014 at 5:51 pm

 

 

Sleep like a BABY! Top Tips for the BEST Sleep EVER!

 

 

  

Image Courtesy: DrFrankLipman.com

 

Sleep Like a Baby!  Top Sleeping Tips to Get You Through the Night!

 

Due to stress and the current 24/7 culture, relaxing ,  rejuvenative sleep may seem like a thing of the past but some simple steps may have you sleeping better than you ever imagined.  Read on….Adherence to this plan will have you on the road to great sleep in no time.

 

 

#1 Avoid chemicals.

 

Caffeinated products decrease a person's quality of sleep.  Read my article coffee talk for more about this.

As pretty much we all know caffeine is a stimulant that keeps you awake. So avoid caffeine (found in coffee, tea, chocolate, cola, and some pain relievers) for four to six hours before bedtime. Smokers and nicotine users, ( including the patch )should refrain from using tobacco products too close to bedtime.  Alcohol may lull one to sleep but the downside is that it messes with sleep quality causing a person to sleep less soundly and wake up more often.  Alcohol too should be avoided close to bedtime.  Limit the number of drinks and do not drink within a few hours of bedtime.

 

#2 Cave, anyone?

Quiet dark and cool environments  foster sound sleep. Animals create caves for this purpose. To develop this at home first, lower the volume of outside noise with earplugs or a "white noise" appliance if you are in an urban environment. Use heavy curtains, blackout shades, or an eye mask to block light, a powerful cue that tells the brain that it's time to wake up. Keep the temperature comfortably cool—between 60 and 70°F—and keep the room well ventilated either a fan or a partially open window is ideal. Also find a comfortable mattress and pillows and replace worn mattresses.

Pets are notorious for disturbing sleep so if your pet regularly wakes you during the night, you may want to consider keeping it out of your bedroom.

Keep electronics such as work and computers out of your bedroom, this includes phones.

 

#3 Relax before bedtime

 

Light reading, prayer or affirmations before bed are great ways to prepare yourself for sleep.

Ease the transition from wake time to sleep time with a period of relaxing activities an hour or two prior to going to bed. Take a bath (the rise, then fall in body temperature promotes drowsiness), do yoga poses,  read a book, watch television, or practice relaxation exercises. Avoid stressful, stimulating activities. If you feel overwhelmed, a journal or simple to do list may help.

 

#4 Go to Bed When You're Actually Tired

 

Struggling to fall sleep just leads to frustration and stress hormone surges. If you're not asleep after 20 minutes, get out of bed, go to another room, and do something relaxing, like reading or listening to music until you are tired enough to sleep. Try to avoid looking at a clock.  Try to stay in dim lights.

.

#5 Use Natural Light to set your clock

Natural light keeps your internal clock on a healthy sleep-wake cycle see last weeks article about getting in sync. So let in the light first thing in the daytime and get out of the office for a sun break during the day. Read more here:

 

#6 Keep Your Sleep Schedule Consistent

Having a regular sleep schedule helps to ensure better quality and consistent sleep.

Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day sets the body's "internal clock" to expect sleep at a certain time night after night. Try to stick as closely as possible to your routine on weekends to avoid a Monday morning sleep hangover. Waking up at the same time each day is the very best way to set your clock, and even if you did not sleep well the night before,  you will consolidate sleep the following night. Wake at the same time each day if possible.

 

 #7 Reconsider Napping

Many people make naps a regular part of their day. However, for those who find falling asleep or staying asleep through the night problematic, afternoon napping may be one of the culprits. 

 

#8  Eat Lighter and Earlier

Eating too heavily too late is a surefire recipe for insomnia. Try to eat by 7 PM and if you find yourself too hungry to sleep have a very light snack. Likewise do not overload fluids a few hours before bed.

 

#9 Exercise…but not too late.

Exercise helps promote restful sleep if it is done several hours before you go to bed.

Exercise will help you fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly—but it is best  three hours before bed or earlier otherwise it may overstimulate your cortisol levels and therefore you.

 

#10 Consistency is key

Allegiance to all the above takes some doing and practice. It may take from two to four weeks to implement all the above.  After doing so, if your sleep is still troubled after a week or two see your MD, a Naturopath or Acupuncturist for help.  Chronic sleep problems can indicate physical problems or disharmonies that you will want to address early and preferably naturally.

 

For occasional sleeplessness, herbal medicine may truly provide some balance.  Some of my favorites are:

Passiflora Combo

Melatonin

Anmien Pien

Sleep Factors

Check out our Sleep Aisle

 

 

Visit our STORE

 

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Best of Health and Best of SLEEP! Should you need help with your sleeping difficulty please schedule an appointment or FREE consultation.

 

 

Visit our Natural Product Pharmacy for top prices and FREE SHIPPING on hundreds of natural products from professional brands like: Metagenics, Douglas Laboratories, Pure Encapsulations, Integrative Therapeutics, Thorne Research, and Carlson Labs!

 

Taryn DeCicco, ND, LAc, LDN

Naturopath

Acupuncturist

Clinical Nutritionist

Professional Vitamins and Supplements

Chinese Herbs

Natural Skin Products

Arlington Heights, IL

www.apple-a-day-clinic.com

 

We specialize in Acne, Skin, and Digestive disorders!  Please contact us for a free consultation!  I do work long distance.  Thank you from the bottom of our cart!  We truly appreciate your product purchases, visits, and referrals!  They enable us to give people the help they need and continue our valuable work.

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April 16th, 2014 at 4:52 pm

 Getting in sync-

Master your bio rhythms naturally.

 Humans and all other animals are governed by cycles of darkness and light.  Brain Activity is triggered by signals set off by light letting nerve cells know which activities should be amplified or wound down.  You may be surprised to learn that even organ activity is governed by two hour cycles according to Chinese Meridian Theory.  For example, liver activity is greatest between 1 and 3 AM, and large intestine activity is greatest between 5 and 7 AM.

 

Our overall clock internally is designed to function in twenty four hour cycles known as a circadian rhythm.

Numerous studies demonstrate that we function best when our internal rhythm jives with the external world. When this order is disrupted, (as with many people today), sleep, mood, and mental processes take a nose dive.  Is it any coincidence that sleep is at an all time low and depression at an all time high?

 From here, physical health plummets.  The immune system gets suppressed, hormones go bonkers, digestive symptoms occur, and body temp as well as metabolism drop.  Later on, cardiovascular stress increases leading to disorders like high blood pressure.

 The simplest way to reset our circadian cycle is to get sunlight early in the AM and to avoid bright light at night.  All electronic usage should be discontinued in the evening.

 Cutting edge research shows that Seasonal Affective Disorder may be caused by disruption of melatonin secretion.  Over time this can lead to major problems and even tumor development.

 Checking for melatonin levels and adrenal function can be key here along with positive changes in lifestyle and light darkness exposure.

 For more information please contact us for a free consultation by appointment.  You may also want to see our testing options in our store.

 Next week we will continue this discussion with an article about sleeping like a baby.

 

 VISIT our store for amazing 10-20% discounts on professional brands like: Thorne, Douglas, Metagenics and more…

 

Until then:

 

Best of Health!

 

Taryn DeCicco, ND, LAc, LDN

Naturopath

Acupuncturist

Clinical Nutritionist

Professional Vitamins and Supplements

Chinese Herbs

Natural Skin Products

Arlington Heights, IL

www.apple-a-day-clinic.com

 

We specialize in Acne, Skin, and Digestive disorders!  Please contact us for a FREE consultation!  I do work long distance.  Thank you from the bottom of our cart!  We truly appreciate your product purchases, visits, and referrals!  They enable us to give people the help they need and continue our valuable work.

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10372
April 9th, 2014 at 5:59 pm

Coffee Talk, the REAL scoop on the Caffeine Controversy

 

 

 

 

The US is becoming an uber “yang” culture.  Everywhere it seems, people are loud, anxious, rushed, aggressive, and sometimes hostile.  Take the rise in horn blowing drivers as but one example.  Folks in the US also tend to brag about how much they get done and how little rest they get.

 

It is interesting to then note that 90% of Americans also consume caffeine everyday, including children.  Caffeine comes in many many forms, coffee, tea, chocolate, energy drinks and smoothies and herbs like Guarana, Kola Nut, and Yerba Mate. Some herbs contain even more caffeine than coffee.

 

Coffee and caffeine research is confusing to most consumers.  On its positive side, coffee and tea are major sources of antioxidants for some people.  In very small amounts caffeine may be helpful in mental and sports focus and performance. Conflicting research suggests negative effects on cardiac health, blood pressure, sleep, diabetes, digestive disorders and liver health.  Other research suggests it may be helpful in actual liver disease.

Fact is, most research on caffeine is observational that is: studies which attempt to establish relationships based on consumer surveys and disease tracking, not necessarily the best way to establish cause and effect.

 

Here's what I know for certain about it:

 

First, make no mistake, caffeine in any form is a DRUG.  It is an addictive central nervous stimulant that is typically detoxified in 3 to six hours, sometimes longer but more about that later.

As is the case with ANY DRUG, usage becomes habituated over time, that is more and more of the substance is required to get the same effect.  This impact is gradual and insidious for most people.  When the amount ingested increases its side effects rise as well: increased blood pressure, anxiety, irritability, heart palpitations and insomnia or disturbed sleep, and fatigue.

 

Second, over time caffeine ultimately wears the body out.  In Chinese medical theory caffeine is “false energy” as opposed to nutrition which is true energy.  Again over time, caffeine will cause depletion of real energy.

 

Thirdly, while most authorities including the FDA state that 2-300mgs of caffeine per day are safe for most people everyone is different.  I have also identified subsets of people in my practice who I believe are better off not consuming caffeine.  These people are:

 

Adrenal Deficient People.  People who have crashed and burnt after being under chronic stress for long periods will need to forgo the java in order to recover.

 

Gastro Intestinal Disorders.  CNS speeds up every process in the body if you suffer from IBS, GERD, heartburn, or inflammatory bowel disorders like Crohn's and Colitis, avoid caffeine as it will worsen symptoms.

 

 

People who are insulin sensitive or resistant.  Being a stimulant caffeine sets blood sugars and insulin on an aberrant ride.  Getting these conditions managed properly involves avoidance of caffeine and most sugars.

 

People with inflammatory disorders, like ACNE.  Unknown to most, caffeine is very heating to the body. While NOT the cause, it will accelerate inflammation in the body.

 

Anxious overwrought people should abstain from caffeine as it worsens this condition and perpetuates a negative cycle.

 

People who detoxify slowly due to other health problems like those above or due to a “sluggish” or slow liver or intestinal dysbiosis, an area I specialize in.  These people are going to experience many more detrimental effects from caffeine.  Also recognize that VERY few of you are using caffeine in the amounts recommended by health authorities.

 

A few months ago, my body began rejecting my AM espresso…it just didn't want it anymore and I heeded that.  While I had no withdrawal symptoms many people can experience some symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, irritability, anxiety and even depression.

 

For some real energy enhancers, and the best in natural products please visit our store-FREE shipping on all orders.  For assistance in regaining your health, please contact us for a free consultation.  I do work by phone with  distance clients as well.

 

 

Best of Health!

 

Visit our Natural Product Pharmacy for top prices and FREE SHIPPING on hundreds of natural products from professional brands like: Metagenics, Douglas Laboratories, Pure Encapsulations, Integrative Therapeutics, Thorne Research, and Carlson Labs!

 

Taryn DeCicco, ND, LAc, LDN

Naturopath

Acupuncturist

Clinical Nutritionist

Professional Vitamins and Supplements

Chinese Herbs

Natural Skin Products

Arlington Heights, IL

www.apple-a-day-clinic.com

 

We specialize in Acne, Skin, and Digestive disorders!  Please contact us for a free consultation!  I do work long distance.  Thank you from the bottom of our cart!  We truly appreciate your product purchases, visits, and referrals!  They enable us to give people the help they need and continue our valuable work.

Views:
10723