Shopping Cart

847-477-5442

Top Stories!

 

Steroid Injections May Lead To More Harm Than Good

 

Fall Winter Immune Support for The Entire Family

 

What Parkinson's, ALS, and MS have in common

 

Visit our health library for many other educational articles beneficial to your health!

Top Stories By Month:

blog page image
March 21st, 2012 at 4:39 pm

I have postponed our detox article for this week in order to address concerns stemming from a Dateline program which aired this week:

March 19, 2011
Are Dietary Supplements Safe?
Dateline NBC Tonight — March 18, 2012
 
Story Overview
Chris Hansen of Dateline aired a 30 minute story on March 18th, 2012 that detailed poor quality and dangerous dietary supplement manufacturing and testing practices. The story featured a dietary supplement, Total Body Formula (a liquid multivitamin weight loss product). Several consumers were interviewed who suffered harm (dramatically illustrated by complete hair loss). Chris Hansen's investigation determined that the product contained dangerous levels of selenium due to an error in how the product was manufactured. Additionally, the story showed tape from court proceedings in which a manufacturing employee recounted unacceptable manufacturing processes, such as the use of panty hose to strain out unidentified black particulate from the supplement mixture. Further, to compound the situation, this product was not tested accurately. Specifically, the lab (Atlas Bioscience) that ‘tested' this product produced a certificate of analysis that failed to find the high selenium.  This lab was investigated by Chris Hansen posing as a supplement manufacturer. In this investigation, the lab produced a certificate of analysis without any findings, despite the fact that the sample provided by Dateline had been purposefully adulterated with arsenic (toxic heavy metal) and sibutramine (an appetite suppressant drug). When labs provide certificate of analyses that are not based on testing, the practice is known in the industry as ‘dry-labbing'. Dateline interviewed Dan Fabricant, Director of the Division of Dietary Supplement Programs at the FDA, who spoke to the FDA's current and continued efforts to crack down on these practices.
Strengths of the story
  • The investigation highlighted a serious issue which the dietary supplement industry itself is concerned about.
  • The investigation did not characterize the poorly made and tested supplement as indicative of the state of the industry as whole. At the outset of the story, Chris Hansen noted that the majority of dietary supplement manufacturers and laboratories are responsible and produce safe supplements.
  • Dateline stressed the importance of using licensed or otherwise qualified laboratories to test dietary supplements.

Limitations of this story
  • While this investigation revealed a significant problem, it did not include context in terms of the many reputable and responsible dietary supplement manufacturers and laboratories. The result was a report that could be interpreted to mean that the relatively few ‘bad actors' in the industry represent the industry as a whole – which they do not.
  • This report did not present the integrative healthcare provider as a viable solution – a knowledgeable guide for the public in their use of dietary supplements.
  • There was no mention of the many industry self-policing activities including third party certification of manufacturing (NSF, NPA, etc.), acceptable laboratory qualification and certification practices (ISO certification, split sample testing, etc.) and additional industry self-initiated quality efforts such as our distributor: (Emerson Quality Program, Natural Products Foundation TruLabel Program, etc.)
 
Suggested actions based on this story
  • Practitioners, like myself,  have a responsibility to provide their patients with recommendations based upon reliably high quality dietary supplements.
 
  • Emerson Quality ProgramSM(EQP):
  • Emerson Quality Program (emersonecologics.com/quality) provides a thorough summary of the specific quality specifications and practices of each participating brand. [Logged in practitioners can click on the seal of any EQP Partner brand and then view their detailed Quality Summary for a full view into their manufacturing and testing practices.]
  • EQP Partners have been assessed by:
    - A rigorous review of their standard operating procedures, ingredient and product specifications, supplier and laboratory qualification program
    - Independent product testing by one of Emerson's qualified laboratories (each one qualified by an on-site audit, document review and blind split sample testing)

    -     On-site audit of all EQP Gold Partners and any other EQP Partner who has not been audited by a third party certifier (NSF, NPA, etc.) within the last year

  • One of the most important benefits for patients who seek guidance from healthcare professionals is that they obtain individualized supplement recommendations and are then monitored for response. Regular monitoring by a trained healthcare practitioner will help to identify adverse reactions in a timely manner and thus minimize the potential for harm from supplements.
  • We agree with the call of the dietary supplement industry to the FDA to take strong enforcement action against unscrupulous dietary supplement brands, manufacturers and testing companies.
  • We actively support the use of safe and high quality dietary supplements in the optimization of health.

 

 

Join our weekly health blog for FREE Natural Health tips!

 

Interested in saving a TON on awesome, professional products with FREE shipping and Volume discounts??? Then:

 

Visit our Natural Product Pharmacy for the best 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

Dietitian

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:
14638
March 14th, 2012 at 5:12 pm

Educating yourself about your candida infection is the first and
most important step in curing this painful, annoying and
relatively dangerous chronic condition and taking
responsibility for your health and well-being.

Although yeast infection (known by the names of Candida, Monilia or
Thrush) is in fact a very common condition, (as three out
of four women develop it at some point in their lifetimes),
it is little discussed. Most people regard candida
infection as a 'on the surface' problem that should be
treated with creams and antibiotics whereas few are aware of its
potentially risky and longterm complications.

Yeast Infection is first and foremost an internal problem. Like
most chronic conditions, there is never one cause for this
fungal problem and thus yeast infection cannot be
permanently eliminated using medications or creams that
work superficially to mask symptoms and fail to tackle the root factors
that trigger the formation of candida infection in the
first place.

The problem is that the majority of yeast infection sufferers
choose to leave it in the hands of others: Doctors,
pharmacists, drugs and over the counter products and cleanses. They
willingly choose NOT to take responsibility for their
candida condition, for their health and for their own body, and restore a functioning ecosystem in their bodies.

If you suffer from yeast infection then you must have experienced
the confusion stemmed from conflicting advice and from
information overload. Honest information about vaginal yeast infection
or any other type of candida infection is harder to come by than
ever before, and nearly everyone has been misled at one
time or another. I know I have seen hundrededs of people waste literally thousands
of dollars on candida treatment programs that didn't
"work " and anti-yeast infection products that didn't do
anything except postpone their getting qualified help.

Furthermore, to successfully navigate through today's jungle of
misleading, dishonest and conflicting information, you're
going to have to become a very shrewd and discriminating consumer.

There are in fact, alternative, cheap, safe, natural and holistic
health practices and methods necessary to permanently
eliminate the symptoms of this disease and cure the root
internal cause of yeast infection regardless of its type,
location, or level of severity.

To effectively overcome candida infection, you need to be aware of
the real cause of yeast infection and be able to identify
its symptoms. You need to know how to self-test and  get a proper assessment of your actual  " candida" condition, learn about the dietary principals
needed to maintain a candida free environment and
about the complementary treatments that will help you battle
against the negative effects and complications of your yeast infection, and restore your immune system and digestion.

 

We also offer a wonderful suppository for a yeast-free vagina.

By coming in and then, educating yourself and implementing 

the steps you need to take in order to address
deal with your condition and help your
body heal itself you will control the fungal overgrowth from the
inside out and you can and will eliminate the pain, annoyance,
humiliation and frustration associated with this condition
and feel more in control. Additionally, as wonderful side benefits
you'll feel more energized, healthier and vibrant. You will also
enjoy improved digestion, enhanced vision, and healthier hair,
skin and nails.
 

I have helped hundreds of clients with this and other forms of intestinal dysbiosis and I am sure that I can help you.  Please do not hesitate to schedule an appointment and remember I do offer a short FREE consult which answers general questions with respect towards what to expect....Really what do you have to LOSE?

 

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.

Share the HEALTH!

FREE Shipping and

Save 10-20%

on over 500 TOP

Professional Products

Like US?

Join us on FB!

We LOVE to Tweet!

Join us on Twitter!

Visit our Natural Health Library for many GREAT Articles!

Don't Miss a thing! Subscribe now to get our new articles via email.

 

Send this article to a friend!
Views:
10877
March 7th, 2012 at 7:04 pm

Many reputatable sources are predicting a horrible allergy season here's some HOPE!Often referred to as "hay fever," allergic rhinitis can be caused by a variety of relatively harmless substances, ranging from pollen and dust to animal dander. The most common form of allergic rhinitis is seasonal allergic rhinitis, which typically occurs at the same time each year when certain plants are in bloom.

Other people can be afflicted with perennial allergic rhinitis (which may occur at any given time of the year) or occupational allergic rhinitis (which is caused by an allergic reaction to substances in the workplace, such as chemicals or grains). All told, between 10 percent and 20 percent of the general population is believed to have some form of allergic rhinitis, with direct and indirect health care costs totaling between $4.5 and $7.7 billion per year in the U.S. alone.1

 

In China, acupuncture and herbal remedies have been used to combat symptoms similar to allergic rhinitis successfully for centuries. Previous research has shown, for instance, that Chinese herbal medicine can treat atopic dermatitis, while acupuncture has been proven effective in relieving the symptoms a number of allergic conditions. However, few studies have examined the combined use of acupuncture and Chinese herbal remedies in the treatment of allergic rhinitis.  One popular remedy is Bi Yan Pian.

A study in the September 2004 issue of Allergy has concluded that a combination of Chinese herbs and weekly acupuncture sessions may be more effective than a placebo at relieving the symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis. The authors of the study also suggest that future research be conducted to investigate the effectiveness of an acupuncture-herb combination in the treatment of other conditions.2

In the study, a total of 52 patients between the ages of 20 and 58, all diagnosed with seasonal allergic rhinitis, were randomly assigned to a traditional Chinese medicine group or a control group. In the TCM group, patients received a standardized 20-minute acupuncture treatment once a week for six weeks, with points on the Large Intestine, Gallbladder, Lung and Liver meridians stimulated. Additional points were selected based on each patient's individual symptoms. All of the patients were treated while in a supine position. After the needles were inserted, they were manipulated to obtain de qi. The needles were manipulated again 10 minutes after the start of treatment.

Along with acupuncture, TCM patients received a basic herbal formula (consisting of schizonepeta, chrysanthemum, cassia seed, plantago seed and tribulus), which they were instructed to take as a decoction three times per day, parallel to acupuncture treatment. In addition to the basic formula, every patient received a second formula tailored to the patient's individual TCM diagnosis.

In the control group, patients were given acupuncture at standardized non-acupuncture points distant from meridians, and were treated superficially with needles smaller than those used on the TCM patients. The needles were not manipulated, and the same points were needled at each acupuncture session. Control patients also received a non-specific herbal formula comprised of coix seed, licorice, poria, hops, oryza, barley, hawthorn fruit, and medicated leaven.

To measure the effect of each therapy, patients used a visual analogue scale to rate the severity of hay fever suffered during the previous week on a 10-point scale, and an assessment-of-change scale to measure any changes in symptoms. Patients also filled out an allergic rhinitis questionnaire to rate the severity of symptoms, and a pair of quality-of-life surveys. In addition, patients were asked to document the number of anti-allergy drugs taken for one week.

Patient Surveys Find Favorable Results for Acupuncture/Herb Combination

At the start of the study, visual analogue scores for each group were nearly identical (4.1 for the TCM group, 4.2 for the control group). By the end of the study period, however, the severity of hay fever was "significantly less pronounced in the TCM group" than in the control patients, and instances of remission (represented by a 0 or 1 on the visual analogue scale) occurred twice as often in TCM patients compared to patients in the control group.

Similar results were seen in the assessment-of-change scores and the rhinitis questionnaire. Improvement on the assessment-of-change score was observed in 85 percent of the TCM patients versus only 40 percent of control patients. An analysis of the rhinitis questionnaire, meanwhile, found that TCM patients experienced improvements in allergy symptoms in the eyes and nose, higher levels of physical activity, and an improved psychological condition compared to patients in the control group.

Intake of anti-allergy drugs also dropped dramatically among TCM patients. According to the researchers, "the permitted drug intake for allergic rhinitis symptoms decreased substantially, from 7.7 to 3.4 points in the TCM group, whereas we found only a slight decrease in the control group (7.7-6.0)."

The acupuncture-herb combination appeared to be well-tolerated by patients in both groups. Two patients in the TCM group complained of pain due to needle insertion, as did one patient in the control group. A second control patient complained of hematoma, while a third suffered from paresthesia in one arm, which persisted for 7 days. Five patients (two TCM, three control) complained that the herbal decoction either tasted bitter or made them feel nauseous. However, none of the patients experienced "severe or serious adverse events" that would have caused them to leave the trial.

Limitations and Conclusions

The scientists noted that their study methods contained some restrictions that might have impacted the quality of their research. For instance, they stated that one of the questionnaires used in the study may have been "methodologically inefficient" because of the potential for low patient compliance. In addition, the acupuncture-herb therapy used in the trial lasted only 6 weeks; other studies have indicated that longer treatment times and more individualized therapies have resulted in better patient outcomes.3,4

After taking the limitations into account, the authors suggested that the combination of acupuncture and an herbal decoction, tailored to the patient and administered according to the diagnostic principles of traditional Chinese medicine, could be effective in treating mild-to-moderate forms of seasonal allergic rhinitis. As they noted in the study's conclusion:

"We could show that this treatment was efficacious in improving global severity rating and in affecting disease-related quality of life parameters after 6 weeks of treatment when compared with sham needling plus a non-specific herbal formulation ... Taking into account the above-mentioned limitations of the study, we conclude that acupuncture plus Chinese herbal formulations may offer relief in patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis. Our findings support further investigations of acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine in this and other diseases."

References

  1. Management of Allergic Rhinitis in the Working-Age Population . Summary, Evidence Report/Technology Assessment: Number 67. AHRQ Publication No. 03-E013, February 2003. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, Rockville, MD.

 

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!  We ALSO offer 10-20% OFF all orders over $99.

 

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.

Share the HEALTH!

FREE Shipping and

Save 10-20%

on over 500 TOP

Professional Products

Like US?

Join us on FB!

We LOVE to Tweet!

Join us on Twitter!

Visit our Natural Health Library for many GREAT Articles!

Don't Miss a thing! Subscribe now to get our new articles via email.

 

Send this article to a friend!
Views:
10830
February 28th, 2012 at 10:37 pm

YES! , it's even possible to have good skin during the winter months in Chicago. Many of us often experience chapped lips, dry hands and itchy skin this time of year. Let's take a look at the basic structure of the skin to help understand the effects of topical products on the biological function of the skin. The skin is composed of three primary layers: the epidermis, the dermis and subcutaneous tissue. Each layer possesses specific characteristics and functions; however, we will focus on the epidermis intreating dry skin, also known as xerosis. Xerosis is sometimes referred to as “winter itch” because it is worse during the winter season. The outermost layer of the epidermis, called the stratum corneum provides a barrier against water loss and also helps to absorb unwanted materials that come into contact with our skin. Dry skin is primarily characterized by lack of moisture in the stratum corneum. For the skin to appear and feel comfortable, the water content in stratum corneum must be more than 10 percent. Water,i.e. moisture, is lost when the skin barrier is disrupted by low temperatures, indoor heating, low humidity and brutal winds; especially when combined with harsh soaps and skin care products or frequent, prolonged bathing in hot water. When the skin is too dry, it may become irritated, inflamed, flaky and itchy and can even develop cracks and fissures. Fortunately, there are many ways to address the common problems associated with “winter skin”. Not only is it important to moisturize more often but choosing moisturizers with the most beneficial ingredients is key. Look for products that contain ingredients such as ceramides, which help to repair the skin's lipid barrier and hyaluronic acid, a good humectant to attract and hold moisture in the skin. One product line I carry is Donnell Dermedics a professional skincare line which offers a gentle creamy moisturizing cleanser.The products are also fragrance-free; an important factor when choosing skin carefor sensitive or dry skin as perfumes and scented products can cause irritationand further inflame the skin.  In fact, some higher end products may contain unnecessary or irritating ingredients. The most important factor is how your skin feels and looks in response to a product—not how much the product costs. Even plain olive oil can be used as a gentle and effective moisturizer.

 Chapped and cracked lips are also a common and uncomfortable condition this time of year. Again, avoid flavored and fragranced lip products which can exacerbate the problem. My favorite lip balm is actually a chinese burn ointment.It is wonderful for healing and preventing severly chapped lips. Beeswax and vitamin E are also good natural moisturizing agents. 
 Long, hot showers or baths may be tempting after an outing in Chicago winter weather; however, it's best to stick with quick bathing in lukewarm water to help prevent dryness. Moisturizing right after bathing and handwashing is especially important during the winter months.  Ultra M and a very high percentage lactic acid moisturizer are two products I dispense regularly to our clients.  Investing in a humidifier is also an excellent option for adding moisture to your home environment which in turn benefits the skin. If you sleep with a humidifier in the bedroom, keep doors closed to prevent the moist airfrom escaping the room. Alsdo make certain you change the water frequently to avoid mold spores from forming.
 
Wool clothing feels good during the winter months but be aware that wool and cashmere, is a common skin irritant that may cause redness, itching and rashes in persons with sensitive skin.  I can only wear these fabrics for short time periods fleece is a better choice if you have a sensitivity to wool.
 
Healthy lifestyle measures such as not smoking, regular exercise and good  diet & nutrition help promote good skin year around. Heart-healthy fats such as Omega 3'sfound in olive oil, walnuts and fish are also “skin-healthy” by helping to keep the skin supple from the inside out. I have discovered a fatty acid product that seems to help thicken and volumize thin fragile geriatric skin, also by Donnell.
 
Some skin regimes for acne or anti-aging may increase also increase winter dryness and irritation of the skin. Products containing retinol, glycolic or salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide may be especially drying during wintertime. However, for persons considering skin rejuvenation procedures such as laser treatments or chemical peels, winter is agood time of year due to the importance of avoiding sun exposure followingthose procedures.
Rapid changes in temperature such as we have been experiencing this winter also take a toll and are a leading cause of the skin actually breaking.

 

Visit my beautiful skin boutique for MY professional line of awesome natural skin products.

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!  We ALSO offer 10-20% OFF ALL orders over $99, discount given upon check out.

 

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.

Share the HEALTH!

FREE Shipping and

Save 10-20%

on over 500 TOP

Professional Products

Like US?

Join us on FB!

We LOVE to Tweet!

Join us on Twitter!

Visit our Natural Health Library for many GREAT Articles!

Don't Miss a thing! Subscribe now to get our new articles via email.

 

Send this article to a friend!
Views:
9768
February 22nd, 2012 at 11:18 pm

Last Friday, The Dr. Oz show covered one of our most valued beauty staples. He featured a woman on the show who appeared MUCH older than her true age. He had the audience guess her age. When they guessed 53 years and her true age is only 44... she accepted that she's aged well beyond her years.  

 

Dr. Oz then recommended Argireline. Argireline is a nontoxic,  protein substance which is involved with muscle contraction.

 

Known as an alternative to Botox, this needle free ingredient can be found in beauty creams all over the industry, but, according to Dr Oz,  only those carrying 5-10% will have the "Botox effect."

 

Our own MUAC Argireline cream contains 12% of the needle-free ingredient. Clinical studies show a 17% reduction in facial lines in just 15 days and a 27% reduction in 30 days. However, these clinicals were performed with a concentration of just 5% Argireline. Remember, ours comes with 12%.

 

Appropriate for both men and women, within MINUTES of applying it to your skin, you'll notice a "lifted" feeling.

 

Today, you can see for yourself and try our MUAC Argireline Cream - again with 12% potency!  I will be getting some trial sized product in for $7.99.  If you would like to try it out please let me know by Friday March 2 so I can place an order.

 

Here's more about what Argireline can do for your skin:

  • Reduce and reverse the degeneration of collagen...
  • Smooth rough skin
  • Reduces the depth of wrinkles...
  • And Minimize fine lines.

Since spring is a time of rebirth and rejuvenation this months natural product showcase highlights the beauty area.  I would also like to mention our elegance facelift product.  Containing all natural ingrediants including seaweeds,  botannicals and natural silk, this facial is used every other day to obtain a skin refining and lifting effect which is very dramatic.  It can be used for cellulite, double chins, necks, knees, stretchmarks, and hands and the cumulative effect is impressive with visible results after just one treatment.  Cost for a years supply is $79.99. 

 

I promised to speak a bit more about telomeres.  Telomeres are getting dramatic press.  They seem to predict the aging process, and Spectrocell one of our excellent labs can now test for telomeres and predict how quickly an individual is aging and make recommendations to change the paradigm in individuals who are aging.  I have complimentary brochures available in the office for whomever is interested.

 

Visit my beautiful skin boutique for amazing professional skin products at great prices.

 

Yours, in health & (beauty) this week.

 

 

Join our weekly health blog for FREE Natural Health tips!

 

Interested in saving a TON on awesome, professional products with FREE shipping and Volume discounts??? Then:

 

Visit our Natural Product Pharmacy for the best 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

Dietitian

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:
14932
February 7th, 2012 at 6:35 pm

                One more BIG case for getting checked and treated for intestinal dysbiosis!  Weight Loss! I have delayed our other calendar blog topics due to this new research!

 

 

Word to the wise: Weight loss has been a side benefit of nearly every case of intestinal dysbiosis I have ever been involved with!

If you are still struggling with your weight it may be time for this novel approach.  Please contact me for a free consultation to discuss your situation!

 

Have a great week!

 

Join us at a Valentine's open house on 2/15 from 4:30-6PM!

 

10% off all orders that day too!

 

Blessings!

 

Taryn DeCicco, ND, LAc, LDN

doctaryn@aol.com

847-577-4455

 

We've heard obesity can be "spread" between friends when we copy each other's eating habits, but a new study in mice suggests obesity could actually be infectious.

That's right, infectious. As in, something you can catch.

In the study, mice engineered to have a particular immune deficiency developed fatty liver disease and got fatter when fed a Western-style diet. But strikingly, when these immune-deficient mice were put in the same cage as healthy mice, the healthy mice started to come down with symptoms of liver disease, and also got fatter.

The culprit? Microbes in the stomachs of the mice. Because the mice had their immune systems disturbed, the bacteria in their guts got "out of wack," said study researcher Richard Flavell, a professor of immunobiology at Yale School of Medicine. We normally live in symbiosis with the bacteria in our guts, but in the study, the number of "bad," disease-associated bacteria increased 1,000-fold in mice with immune problems, Flavell said.

And it's these bad bacteria that were transmitted from mouse to mouse, causing the healthy mice to also experience changes in their gut microbes -- and making them fat.

"We could make a mouse fatter just by putting it in the same cage as the other mouse," Flavell said.

The crucial question is: Could this happen in people?

It's possible, but we'll need much more research to find out, Flavell said. The contagiousness of obesity  seen in this study is probably more likely in mice than in people because mice eat each other's poop, a very efficient way to transmit gut bacteria (add this to your list of reasons not to eat poop).

At minimum, the study suggests "this should be very seriously looked at in people," Flavell said. Fatty liver disease is very common among obese people, affecting 75 percent to 100 percent of the obese population, the researchers say. In about 20 percent of these individuals, the disease progresses and becomes severe.

Previously, if two family members living in the same household both developed liver disease or became obese, people would have blamed genetics. But the new study suggests the environment may play a role as well.

If the findings apply to people, they would suggest we need to take approaches to obesity and fatty liver disease that address gut microorganisms — perhaps antibiotics or natural approaches — in addition to traditional treatments, Flavell said.

"This is a very thought-provoking study that underlines the role of the bugs that we all carry inside us in determining our susceptibility to liver disease and its complications," said Dr. Jasmohan Bajaj, an associate  professor of gastroenterology, hepatology and nutrition at Virginia Commonwealth University,  who was not involved in the study.  More work is needed in humans, who are much more complex than mice, to understand the role of gut bacteria in liver disease, but "these experiments form a key step forward," Bajaj said.

The study was published online Feb. 1 in the journal Nature.

Pass it on: Alterations in gut microbes may increase the susceptibility to obesity and fatty liver disease and also make it possible to spread these diseases, at least in mice.

 

PS: We offer a great array of safe and effective weight loss products in our Natural Pharmacy.

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!  We ALSO Offer 10-20% OFF on all orders over $99.  Discounts given at check out.

 

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.

Share the HEALTH!

FREE Shipping and

Save 10-20%

on over 500 TOP

Professional Products

Like US?

Join us on FB!

We LOVE to Tweet!

Join us on Twitter!

Visit our Natural Health Library for many GREAT Articles!

Don't Miss a thing! Subscribe now to get our new articles via email.

 

Send this article to a friend!
Views:
11394
February 1st, 2012 at 8:54 pm

Happy February!  Check out our events and promotions and upcoming forums as well as a special Valentine's Invite for you!

 

 

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.

Share the HEALTH!

FREE Shipping and

Save 10-20%

on over 500 TOP

Professional Products

Like US?

Join us on FB!

We LOVE to Tweet!

Join us on Twitter!

Visit our Natural Health Library for many GREAT Articles!

Don't Miss a thing! Subscribe now to get our new articles via email.

 

Send this article to a friend!
Views:
9585
January 31st, 2012 at 6:15 pm

  

Well,  we're almost a month into 2012....how many health resolutions have you kept?  Here are some health resolutions that you'll want to keep for the rest of the year....seriously.
 
#1 keep resolutions easy and reasonable and so easy it is hard to break them...like the following....
 
#2 Listen to a song you love everyday.  University of Maryland medical school found major health benefits attached to listening to ONE song like....26% increase in arterial width, decreased blood pressure and increasing circulation.
 
#3 Eat only foods you LIKE...and find more of them.  Most people fail making dietary changes because they are convinced that they need to eat foods they dislike.  The right idea is to eat healthy foods you like and expand those foods. It is also important to not deprive oneself of unhealthy foods you really like but limit them to once per week.  I think dietary quality is the most important health habit ever. If you need help with this come in.
 
#4 Take some vitamin D. A nutrition superstar,  vitamin D is linked to every good thing from immunity to bone health and has recently been linked to seasonal affective disorder and depression.  I can test for your D level in my office or you can take a reasonable dose...here is a product you can purchase in my store....as a liquid it is readily absorbed. Liquid D-3
 
#5 Get a (SEX) life!
 
Having sex more often regulates hormones, reduces pain, relieves depression, and reduces anxiety. It also burns calories and helps cardiac health.
 
#6 Cheers!  Having a drink with friends is even more beneficial presumably because the laughing, joking and support potentiates the health impact of moderate drinking.
 
#7 Watch a comedy...heaven knows that there is enough heavy, negative energy everywhere.  A comedy boosts your mood and allays anxiety and loneliness.
 
#8 Take a Tea Break....telomeres are a new health buzzword and can predict how quickly you are aging. I can test for telomeres in my office thanks to Spectracell labs so please stop in and pick up a brochure about that. Until then, studies have shown that as little as three cups of tea per day can increase telomeres which translates into about 4.6 years of aging.
 
#9 Take an entire day off per week. Helsinki University researchers have identified that people who do not stop working are three times more likely to suffer a heart attack or stroke.  Everyone needs some free and alone time otherwise stress chemicals really escalate.
 
#10  Choose only whole grains...recent research has shown that they contain as many antioxidants as vegetables and fruits.
 
Tomorrow I will launch our February website and events.  I am beginning a new program for my best clients at that time. I will notify you by invitation on how to log in to that information which will qualify you for exclusive classes, articles and promotions.
 
Did you know that my natural pharmacy is open 24 hours per day???  Orders placed here are filled the next business day and you can HOLD THEM FOR PICK UP, should you not want them to be shipped....here's the link...
 
Your visits and product purchases support the valuable work I do. Thank you for the opportunity to be of service.  Hope to see you soon.

 

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! We ALSO Offer 10-20% our already great prices on ALL orders over $99.  Discount given at check out!

 

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.

Share the HEALTH!

FREE Shipping and

Save 10-20%

on over 500 TOP

Professional Products

Like US?

Join us on FB!

We LOVE to Tweet!

Join us on Twitter!

Visit our Natural Health Library for many GREAT Articles!

Don't Miss a thing! Subscribe now to get our new articles via email.

 

Send this article to a friend!
Views:
9420
January 24th, 2012 at 11:23 pm

Welcoming the Chinese New Year!!!!  It is the year of the dragon which is considered the luckiest year in all of Chinese astrology.  Our topic this week is surprising causes of back pain.  To shed some light on home common back problems are 8 out of 10 Americans will suffer from a back problem at some point in time.  As an acupuncturist, back pain and chronic back and neck problems are the number one reason people see me.  Back pain is no picnic so today's forum will shed some light on how to prevent some problems.

 

#1. Weekend exercise warriors!

 

Exercise is great.  Irregular exercise especially playing sports without conditioning and core strengthening is just foolhardy.  15 minutes of core strengthening 3 times a week may be sufficient for some people.

Disc destruction is cumulative according to the American Academy of Orthopedists, and stress exercise such as this leads to serious back strain.

 

#2. Lifting children:

 

Picking up children exerts spinal stress. Piggyback rides or anything involving body weight directly upon one's spine is the most problematic however, lifting children as with anything requires proper form...IE keeping shoulders above the pelvix, and bending the knees.

 

#3. Slouching while sitting puts tremendous pressure on the lumbar spine.  It is important to move throughout the day and to observe their posture. I teach many people about proper posture.

 

#4. Smoking causes disk degeneration and is terrible for spine health. Spinal surgeries are usually unsuccessful in smokers.

 

#5. Twisting your spine....This causes microtrauma to your lower back think whiplash. I cringe when I see people do this at the gym, or perform lunges with barbells....madness!

 

#6. Neuro disorders such as: Chiari Syndrome, spinal cord tumor, Team disorder or tethered cord syndrome do show up though rare.  I have suspected them at times and send people to neurologists for diagnosis on occasion since they do not show up on MRI's.

 

#7.  Dehydration...Your discs do not have a direct blood supply bringing them nutrients so they rely on diffusion...IE water. Obviously if you are dehydrated this cannot happen...Sleep deprivation is also a huge problem since discs rehydrate during the night.

 

#8. Sagging mattresses.  These bend the spine in unnatural positions and that is not good. The thinking now is that the best mattress is a soft one with firm cords underneath.

 

#9. Exhaustion...discs form your internal structure. When discs are collapsing often years of bad habits are to blame...poor diet, lack of sleep, vitamin deficiencies, etc....healing this takes time and effort but will pay off in the end.

 

Herbs, acupuncture and nutrients all play a vital role in keeping your discs healthy and some attention and prevention can keep back problems from becoming a lifestyle.  One product I recommend highly is right here!

 

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! We ALSO offer 10-20% Off on all orders over $99....Discounts applied at check out.

 

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.

Share the HEALTH!

FREE Shipping and

Save 10-20%

on over 500 TOP

Professional Products

Like US?

Join us on FB!

We LOVE to Tweet!

Join us on Twitter!

Visit our Natural Health Library for many GREAT Articles!

Don't Miss a thing! Subscribe now to get our new articles via email.

 

Send this article to a friend!
Views:
10284
January 17th, 2012 at 6:13 pm

           Healthy Food Healthy Body!  

 

 

Deciding what to incorporate into your diet may be difficult with all of the items on the market but certain foods are considered to be the best for your health. Several authorities recommend the folowing ten foods that should be included in everyone's diet because they contain phytonutrients and vitamins which are known to decrease the risk of certain cancers, prevent heart disease and boost your immune system. These items are also good choices because a small volume of these has huge health benefits. Check out these high octane super foods.  If you need help with healthy eating be sure to schedule an appointment. 

 Although the pear shaped nut doesn't look like it can offer much; a palm full of almonds is an average serving offering nutrients such as fiber, riboflavin, magnesium, iron and calcium. The almond has more calcium than any other nut and one serving will provide 1/2 the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) of vitamin E. They are also great to curb hunger and handful of these before a meal will keep you from over eating.

Apples seem to be a favorite among kids and adults and often it's being eaten without realizing the amazing health benefit of the glossy fruit. Apples contain pectin, a soluble fiber, that can lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels. It is also packed with vitamin C which is great antioxidant.

Another small fruit, blueberries, are worth their weight in antioxidants and phytonutrients. This bright color fruit is similar to that of a cranberry and can help ward off urinary tract infections. It's also low on the glycemic index making it a good fruit addition for someone who is doing a low carbohydrate diet, or who has diabetes.

Broccoli should be incorporated into the diet on a regular basis due to it's high content of antioxidants and phytonutrients. These nutrients are a combination of compounds that help with chronic disease and contains calcium and potassium. Broccoli is a strong cancer fighter and cancer preventer.

Although red beans are full of phytonutrients which may help disease beans are also loaded with vitamins such as iron, magnesium, and potassium. Red beans are also great for vegan eating because they are high in protein and fiber but low in calories.

Essential Fatty acids (EFA's) are not created in the body so what better source than salmon to get a dose of omega-3 fatty acids. Salmon is a great source of protein and the omega-3's are great for a healthy heart. These EFA's have been noted to help decrease blood clots that could be the cause of heart attacks.

Spinach may look like just another leafy vegetable, but it's a great way to increase your immune system. This little leaf is high in folate, vitamin A and C, as well as, helps to keep your hair and skin healthy.

The orange color of a sweet potato is the first sign it's rich in beta carotene. This antioxidant is known for aiding in slowing the aging process and can possibly reduce the risks of some cancers. One small sweet potato only has 54 calories and is a complex carbohydrate making it a good source of sustained energy.

Green juices are a great source of getting many awesome nutrients into your diet, especially if you prefer not to eat vegetables. Tomato juice has antioxidants such as lycopene which is good for the prostate, reducing cardiovascular disease and some forms of cancer. Most commercial products have way too much sodium. My top selling Green's First is a wonderful source of the best nutrients available and a little goes a long way.

Wheat germ is actually the small center of the wheat seed that is responsible for growth of the new sprout. It's full of vitamins and nutrients and even has protein, fiber and some fat.

I'd prefer organic forms of these foods but if that is too pricey regular is FINE!

 

See you next week!

 

Have a New health concern?  Please call or schedule a FREE/No obligation consultation!

 

Best of Health!

 

Visit our Natural Product Pharmacy at GREAT 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!  ALSO: we offer 10-20% OFF ALL orders over $99, discounts applied upon check out.

 

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.

Share the HEALTH!

FREE Shipping and

Save 10-20%

on over 500 TOP

Professional Products

Like US?

Join us on FB!

We LOVE to Tweet!

Join us on Twitter!

Visit our Natural Health Library for many GREAT Articles!

Don't Miss a thing! Subscribe now to get our new articles via email.

 

Send this article to a friend!
Views:
10550

 

 

 

 

 

847-477-5442

Taryn DeCicco ND, LAc, nutritionist, acupuncturist, naturopathic Doctor, Acupuncture, Nutrition and Naturopathy, Natural Products in Arlington Heights, IL Acne and digestion specialist

©2020 - Apple-A-Day Clinic.com