So after last week's CSA pickup, I'm sure most people were wondering...what is this vegetable? Well, it's a German turnip and tastes similar to cabbage, but can be cooked like potatoes!
This recipe makes a great side dish or can be eaten instead of homefries for breakfast.
Ingredients:
1 Kohlrabi bulb
1/2 small onion (chopped)
1 garlic clove
1 tsp Celtic Sea Salt
Pepper to taste
Dash of Paprika
1 tbsp Olive oil
Preparation:
Cut off the leaves on the kohlrabi. Trim off the bottom of the bulb slightly. Cut into 2 inch cubes if strong enough. (If cannot cut it-boil entire bulb and then chop later). Put kohlrabi in water and boil for 20-30 min until soft. Sautee chopped onions and garlic in olive oil until softened. Chop cooked kohlrabi into small bite-sized chunks, then add to the pan. Add sea salt, pepper, paprika to taste. Sautee until slightly browned. Serve warm.
Alternative- Kohlrabi mash:
After kohrabi and onion/garlic mixture is sauteed, put in blender and puree with 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk. Serve as a side dish.
Showing posts with label nutrition. Show all posts
Showing posts with label nutrition. Show all posts
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Thursday, June 3, 2010
A Holistic Lifestyle—What is it? Where do I start? by Dr. Jennah Dieter
We are bombarded with high levels of toxicity in our environment, food and water supply; high levels of stress due to our fast-paced lifestyles, career pressures, family matters or financial hardship; and more sedentary lifestyles due to our computerized, motorized world. A holistic lifestyle will offset these physical, chemical and mental stressors and help maintain balance between the mind, body and spirit.
Holistic healthcare is concerned with the whole person and complete body systems, which contrasts with the mechanistic philosophy of traditional medicine that address the body in parts and pieces. Holistic healthcare traditionally does not use medications, but rather looks to treat the cause of health problems and dis-ease, instead of masking symptoms with medications. A holistic approach is based on "vitalistic" principles in which the body is viewed as self-healing and governed by vital forces or innate intelligence. Dis-ease can only occur when there is interference with innate intelligence. Interference can occur due to stress; physical, chemical or mental. Reducing these stress factors will allow innate intelligence to promote optimal health.
Your traditional medical care should be balanced with holistic healthcare practitioners who can guide you to promote health naturally. Holistic practitioners include doctors of chiropractic, acupuncturists, naturopaths, massage therapists, psychotherapists, fitness experts, nutritionists, energy practitioners, and holistic dentists.
To address physical stress incorporate chiropractic care to reduce nerve and organ stress, massage therapy to relax muscle tension and stress, acupuncture to balance “qi” (energy flow), and proper exercise at least 3x/week (yoga, pilates, walking, dancing, stretching, etc). If you are currently experiencing pain in your body, this is your warning sign, your “check engine light,” which cannot be ignored, especially if it is preventing you from exercising! Address these issues as a priority with a doctor who will help reduce the cause of the pain and not just treat symptoms. Chiropractic is always a good place to start for chiropractors are portal of entry doctors (no medical referral is necessary) and they use gentle adjustments to remove spinal nerve stress, resulting in increased function, health and decreased pain. Chiropractors can also refer you to other holistic practitioners or medical professionals as needed.
To address chemical stress you should reduce pesticides, antibiotics, hormones, and carcinogens in your food, household and personal care products. Eat “real,” whole and organic foods that are not processed. The diet should include mainly whole vegetables, protein (i.e.: poultry, fish, red meat, nuts, beans), whole fruit, unrefined sprouted grains or wild rice, filtered/purified water (1/2 your body weight in ounces). Reducing processed/packaged foods, sugar, inflammatory and trans-fats, corn, soy, juice, soda, and alcohol will quickly help boost your health and energy levels. Take one step at a time with respect to nutritional changes and it will seem less daunting. A good starting point: visit the Newburyport Famers Market on Sundays!
To address mental stress you could incorporate meditation, yoga, walks on the beach, holistic psychotherapy, reiki, motivational or relaxing CD’s or music. Taking time to pamper yourself and disconnect from your “to-do-list,” career, internet, and television, will help you recharge and allow you to reconnect with a clearer head and vision. Start with 5 minutes per day of “personal” time and gradually increase the time as it becomes habitual.
In my office, every patient is handled differently and has individual needs. When meeting with a new patient, I perform a lifestyle consultation and health history to determine which aspect of a patient’s health needs improvement. Wherever the current health program is lacking is where the patient should begin. Making slow and gradual changes is the best way to make long-lasting wellness lifestyle choices.
Complimentary consultations available with Dr. Jennah Dieter, Pediatric/Perinatal certified Chiropractor and Clinical Nutritionist at Healthcare Complete (offering chiropractic, nutrition, yoga, holistic psychotherapy, reiki/reflexology) 260 Merrimac St., The Towle Bldg-Colonial Wing, Newburyport, 978-499-WELL.
Holistic healthcare is concerned with the whole person and complete body systems, which contrasts with the mechanistic philosophy of traditional medicine that address the body in parts and pieces. Holistic healthcare traditionally does not use medications, but rather looks to treat the cause of health problems and dis-ease, instead of masking symptoms with medications. A holistic approach is based on "vitalistic" principles in which the body is viewed as self-healing and governed by vital forces or innate intelligence. Dis-ease can only occur when there is interference with innate intelligence. Interference can occur due to stress; physical, chemical or mental. Reducing these stress factors will allow innate intelligence to promote optimal health.
Your traditional medical care should be balanced with holistic healthcare practitioners who can guide you to promote health naturally. Holistic practitioners include doctors of chiropractic, acupuncturists, naturopaths, massage therapists, psychotherapists, fitness experts, nutritionists, energy practitioners, and holistic dentists.
To address physical stress incorporate chiropractic care to reduce nerve and organ stress, massage therapy to relax muscle tension and stress, acupuncture to balance “qi” (energy flow), and proper exercise at least 3x/week (yoga, pilates, walking, dancing, stretching, etc). If you are currently experiencing pain in your body, this is your warning sign, your “check engine light,” which cannot be ignored, especially if it is preventing you from exercising! Address these issues as a priority with a doctor who will help reduce the cause of the pain and not just treat symptoms. Chiropractic is always a good place to start for chiropractors are portal of entry doctors (no medical referral is necessary) and they use gentle adjustments to remove spinal nerve stress, resulting in increased function, health and decreased pain. Chiropractors can also refer you to other holistic practitioners or medical professionals as needed.
To address chemical stress you should reduce pesticides, antibiotics, hormones, and carcinogens in your food, household and personal care products. Eat “real,” whole and organic foods that are not processed. The diet should include mainly whole vegetables, protein (i.e.: poultry, fish, red meat, nuts, beans), whole fruit, unrefined sprouted grains or wild rice, filtered/purified water (1/2 your body weight in ounces). Reducing processed/packaged foods, sugar, inflammatory and trans-fats, corn, soy, juice, soda, and alcohol will quickly help boost your health and energy levels. Take one step at a time with respect to nutritional changes and it will seem less daunting. A good starting point: visit the Newburyport Famers Market on Sundays!
To address mental stress you could incorporate meditation, yoga, walks on the beach, holistic psychotherapy, reiki, motivational or relaxing CD’s or music. Taking time to pamper yourself and disconnect from your “to-do-list,” career, internet, and television, will help you recharge and allow you to reconnect with a clearer head and vision. Start with 5 minutes per day of “personal” time and gradually increase the time as it becomes habitual.
In my office, every patient is handled differently and has individual needs. When meeting with a new patient, I perform a lifestyle consultation and health history to determine which aspect of a patient’s health needs improvement. Wherever the current health program is lacking is where the patient should begin. Making slow and gradual changes is the best way to make long-lasting wellness lifestyle choices.
Complimentary consultations available with Dr. Jennah Dieter, Pediatric/Perinatal certified Chiropractor and Clinical Nutritionist at Healthcare Complete (offering chiropractic, nutrition, yoga, holistic psychotherapy, reiki/reflexology) 260 Merrimac St., The Towle Bldg-Colonial Wing, Newburyport, 978-499-WELL.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Achoo! Allergy Season is upon us!
This time of year brings in many patients with environmental allergies. Symptoms of itchy eyes, congestion, sneezing, fatigue, and even brain fog increase for many people in the springtime. The good news is there are ways to handle allergies without medications so you can still enjoy spring-time flowers!
An allergy is any type of inflammation caused by an unusual sensitivity to a foreign substance.
It is important to realize that allergies are a reflection of an impaired immune system that is unable to adapt to outside stressors. Allergies almost always coincide with a scattered state of the nervous and immune systems and are often made worse by anything that promotes inflammation (swelling). When you combine a compromised immune system with excess inflammation, substances in your environment, food, or chemicals, can stimulate an inflammatory cascade. The best way to reduce allergic reactions is to identify the underlying cause instead of just treating symptoms alone.
It is best to prevent your body from reacting by doing the following:
1) Identify the allergen and reduce your exposure to it.
Allergist usually perform a scratch test or prick test to determine if you have IgE mediated allergies which are most accurate to detect inhaled allergens. However, environmental allergies can be exacerbated by underlying food allergies or “sensitivities,” which usually result in more subtle symptoms and are more difficult to identify without comprehensive testing. A simple ELISA blood test of IgG antibodies can determine if you have food sensitivities to a variety of foods. Another quick and cost-effective way to identify allergies is to see a doctor who specializes in energetic testing (Applied Kinesiology).
If you identify environmental allergens (dust, mold, pollen etc.) a simple option to reduce your exposure is an air purifier. Other changes within the home include purchasing special bedding to prevent dust mites, consider installing hardwood floors instead of carpeting, using “Hepa” air and vacuum filters, using a face/nose mask to vacuum, or having another individual clean the house at least 1x/week. If you are allergic to mold, you should fix any water leakage first and then eliminate all traces of mold in the house and run a dehumidifier.
2) Decrease Inflammation
Inflammatory foods include sugar, fruit juices, white flour, refined grains, commercial milk, soy, corn, trans-fats and pro-inflammatory oils (corn, soybean, canola, safflower oils, etc.). Interestingly enough, these are also common foods that trigger food sensitivities/allergies. These toxins should be replaced by anti-inflammatory foods such as organic fruits, vegetables and omega-3 essential fatty acids found in fish, fish oil, and flaxseed oil. If you find it difficult to include these foods in your diet, you should supplement your diet with whole food supplements. These dietary changes will reduce overall inflammation within your body and reduce the inflammatory cascade related to allergies.
3) Strengthen your immune and nervous systems.
You can balance a “scattered” nervous system by getting your nervous system checked by a Doctor of Chiropractic to detect and correct any nerve interference that may be decreasing your immune system potential. Patients with allergies often find their allergies reduce significantly just with chiropractic care alone. Additionally, getting enough sleep and proper low-impact exercise can also help your body adapt to damaging stress. Positive mental imagery and meditation can also reduce the negative effects of stress.
I have also found that allergies stem from a liver that is sluggish or under-functioning. The liver should convert air-born particles (mold, dust, pollen) into harmless substances and excrete them through the bowel or urine. If the liver is sluggish or toxic, the body will find other ways to push these allergens out of the body. The nasal sinuses, lungs, eyes, and even the skin become the solution to the liver issue. Patients often find relief when we support the liver with whole food supplements which include kale, brussel sprouts, and beets; and combine this support with homeopathic remedies.
Enjoy spring this year and make your entire body healthier in the process! Correct the underlying cause.
Dr. Jennah Dieter, Chiropractor & Clinical Nutritionist at Healthcare Complete offers chiropractic, nutrition testing & Advanced Allergy Clearing Technique. Complimentary consults available when you mention this article. Disclaimer: This is not a substitute for medical treatment. For attention to your individualized health problems please contact a health care provider directly.
An allergy is any type of inflammation caused by an unusual sensitivity to a foreign substance.
It is important to realize that allergies are a reflection of an impaired immune system that is unable to adapt to outside stressors. Allergies almost always coincide with a scattered state of the nervous and immune systems and are often made worse by anything that promotes inflammation (swelling). When you combine a compromised immune system with excess inflammation, substances in your environment, food, or chemicals, can stimulate an inflammatory cascade. The best way to reduce allergic reactions is to identify the underlying cause instead of just treating symptoms alone.
It is best to prevent your body from reacting by doing the following:
1) Identify the allergen and reduce your exposure to it.
Allergist usually perform a scratch test or prick test to determine if you have IgE mediated allergies which are most accurate to detect inhaled allergens. However, environmental allergies can be exacerbated by underlying food allergies or “sensitivities,” which usually result in more subtle symptoms and are more difficult to identify without comprehensive testing. A simple ELISA blood test of IgG antibodies can determine if you have food sensitivities to a variety of foods. Another quick and cost-effective way to identify allergies is to see a doctor who specializes in energetic testing (Applied Kinesiology).
If you identify environmental allergens (dust, mold, pollen etc.) a simple option to reduce your exposure is an air purifier. Other changes within the home include purchasing special bedding to prevent dust mites, consider installing hardwood floors instead of carpeting, using “Hepa” air and vacuum filters, using a face/nose mask to vacuum, or having another individual clean the house at least 1x/week. If you are allergic to mold, you should fix any water leakage first and then eliminate all traces of mold in the house and run a dehumidifier.
2) Decrease Inflammation
Inflammatory foods include sugar, fruit juices, white flour, refined grains, commercial milk, soy, corn, trans-fats and pro-inflammatory oils (corn, soybean, canola, safflower oils, etc.). Interestingly enough, these are also common foods that trigger food sensitivities/allergies. These toxins should be replaced by anti-inflammatory foods such as organic fruits, vegetables and omega-3 essential fatty acids found in fish, fish oil, and flaxseed oil. If you find it difficult to include these foods in your diet, you should supplement your diet with whole food supplements. These dietary changes will reduce overall inflammation within your body and reduce the inflammatory cascade related to allergies.
3) Strengthen your immune and nervous systems.
You can balance a “scattered” nervous system by getting your nervous system checked by a Doctor of Chiropractic to detect and correct any nerve interference that may be decreasing your immune system potential. Patients with allergies often find their allergies reduce significantly just with chiropractic care alone. Additionally, getting enough sleep and proper low-impact exercise can also help your body adapt to damaging stress. Positive mental imagery and meditation can also reduce the negative effects of stress.
I have also found that allergies stem from a liver that is sluggish or under-functioning. The liver should convert air-born particles (mold, dust, pollen) into harmless substances and excrete them through the bowel or urine. If the liver is sluggish or toxic, the body will find other ways to push these allergens out of the body. The nasal sinuses, lungs, eyes, and even the skin become the solution to the liver issue. Patients often find relief when we support the liver with whole food supplements which include kale, brussel sprouts, and beets; and combine this support with homeopathic remedies.
Enjoy spring this year and make your entire body healthier in the process! Correct the underlying cause.
Dr. Jennah Dieter, Chiropractor & Clinical Nutritionist at Healthcare Complete offers chiropractic, nutrition testing & Advanced Allergy Clearing Technique. Complimentary consults available when you mention this article. Disclaimer: This is not a substitute for medical treatment. For attention to your individualized health problems please contact a health care provider directly.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
St. Patty's day smoothie!
4 scoops SP complete shake mix
2 TBSP Flax oil
juice of 1 whole lemon or lime
handful of fresh mint
3 or more of the following:
1 carrot
half or whole cucumber
1 or 2 stalks of celery
half cup cooked or 1 cup raw spinach or other greens
half zucchini
stevia 4 to 8 drops to taste
Spring water
Blend, blend, blend in a blender....to get the texture out! Then enjoy!
2 TBSP Flax oil
juice of 1 whole lemon or lime
handful of fresh mint
3 or more of the following:
1 carrot
half or whole cucumber
1 or 2 stalks of celery
half cup cooked or 1 cup raw spinach or other greens
half zucchini
stevia 4 to 8 drops to taste
Spring water
Blend, blend, blend in a blender....to get the texture out! Then enjoy!
Friday, March 5, 2010
Your child could be healthier!
By Dr. Jennah Dieter, D.C., C.A.C.C.P.
Carrie brought her child, Anton, to me when he was 4 years old. He had already taken over 10 antibiotics so far, had chronic ear, sinus, and lung infections, and had diarrhea constantly. Carrie was worried, scared and frustrated with him always being sick and taking so many medications. At first, she was a little apprehensive about chiropractic and had never been to a chiropractor before, but she was referred to me by her best friend whose child’s health improved dramatically while under my care. Plus, she wanted to try something different-something more natural without dangerous side effects.
We sat down and discussed Anton’s health and nutritional history thoroughly and conducted an in-depth analysis of his spine and nerve system. I detected nerve system interference, diminishing nerve energy to his sinuses, ears and throat. I also found a link between his diet and immune challenges and suggested dietary modifications and nutritional supplements to support his digestive and immune systems. During Anton’s first adjustment, we gently released the nerve stress from his spine and cranium. Carrie was surprised at how gentle and easy the adjustment was, and that Anton loved the treatment! Within 2 weeks, Anton’s health started to turn around. His eyes started to brighten and he was no longer congested and running to the bathroom during meals. Carrie continued to bring in Anton regularly for chiropractic adjustments and nourishing him with real-whole foods. Now, 4 years later, Anton is a healthy 8 year old boy and has never been on antibiotics while under my care. Carrie has asked me to do all that I can to help others like her son to be healthier.
Unfortunately, stories like these are not uncommon in my practice. The children in our community are getting sicker and sicker. Dr. Jeanne Van Cleave, with the Center for Child and Adolescent Health Policy in Massachusetts states that chronic illnesses in children, including asthma, obesity and behavior problems, have increased from 12.8 percent in 1994 to more than 25 percent in 2006 (JAMA, 2010).
Studies such as these stress the dire need to focus on children’s health. The positive side is that natural healing methods show great promise to turn children’s health around. USA Today reports that nearly 3% of children in the U.S. were treated with chiropractic or osteopathic manipulation in 2007, making it the second-most common form of complementary or alternative medicine for children (USA Today, 1/19/09).
It is important to understand that the Doctor of Chiropractic does not treat conditions or diseases. The expertise of the chiropractor is in checking the child’s spine for nerve system stress caused by misalignments (subluxations). Nerve system stress, left unaddressed, impairs the child’s ability to function in a state of optimal health and well-being. Although symptoms, such as pain and malfunction may not show up for many years in the child, injury to their vital nerve systems can have a lifetime of damaging effects. Children who suffer from frequent ear infections, colds, digestive problems, and allergies may be suffering from nerve stress. Chiropractic removes nerve stress and children can greatly benefit from this drug-free approach to healing. The chiropractic adjustment restores nerve system function allowing the body the ability to express a greater state of health and well-being.
Doctors of Chiropractic also advocate a natural lifestyle and can help families incorporate healthier physical, mental, and nutritional habits in order to attain overall wellness. Doctors of Chiropractic who are members of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) utilize advanced techniques specific to the care of pregnant mothers, infants and children.
Common reasons why your child should be checked by a chiropractor:
1. Difficult birth
2. Difficulty nursing or favoring one side
3. Colic or Reflux
4. Trouble sleeping
5. Ear infections
6. Frequent colds/infections
7. Falls or contact-sport involvement
8. Allergies/Asthma
9. Behavioral problems (ADD, ADHD, Autism)
10. Poor posture
Chiropractic Benefits:
1. Increased Immunity: fewer colds/infections
2. Increased Athletic Potential
3. Increased energy
4. Relief from allergies/asthma
5. Better sleep habits
6. Reduction in hyperactivity
7. Scoliosis & postural improvement
-Dr. Jennah Dieter, Certified Pediatric/Perinatal Chiropractor (ICPA), Clinical Master in Nutrition Response Testing. Healthcare Complete, 260 Merrimac St., Towle Bldg, Colonial Wing, Newburyport, MA. 978-499-WELL (9355). Offering complimentary consultations for children & adults.
Carrie brought her child, Anton, to me when he was 4 years old. He had already taken over 10 antibiotics so far, had chronic ear, sinus, and lung infections, and had diarrhea constantly. Carrie was worried, scared and frustrated with him always being sick and taking so many medications. At first, she was a little apprehensive about chiropractic and had never been to a chiropractor before, but she was referred to me by her best friend whose child’s health improved dramatically while under my care. Plus, she wanted to try something different-something more natural without dangerous side effects.
We sat down and discussed Anton’s health and nutritional history thoroughly and conducted an in-depth analysis of his spine and nerve system. I detected nerve system interference, diminishing nerve energy to his sinuses, ears and throat. I also found a link between his diet and immune challenges and suggested dietary modifications and nutritional supplements to support his digestive and immune systems. During Anton’s first adjustment, we gently released the nerve stress from his spine and cranium. Carrie was surprised at how gentle and easy the adjustment was, and that Anton loved the treatment! Within 2 weeks, Anton’s health started to turn around. His eyes started to brighten and he was no longer congested and running to the bathroom during meals. Carrie continued to bring in Anton regularly for chiropractic adjustments and nourishing him with real-whole foods. Now, 4 years later, Anton is a healthy 8 year old boy and has never been on antibiotics while under my care. Carrie has asked me to do all that I can to help others like her son to be healthier.
Unfortunately, stories like these are not uncommon in my practice. The children in our community are getting sicker and sicker. Dr. Jeanne Van Cleave, with the Center for Child and Adolescent Health Policy in Massachusetts states that chronic illnesses in children, including asthma, obesity and behavior problems, have increased from 12.8 percent in 1994 to more than 25 percent in 2006 (JAMA, 2010).
Studies such as these stress the dire need to focus on children’s health. The positive side is that natural healing methods show great promise to turn children’s health around. USA Today reports that nearly 3% of children in the U.S. were treated with chiropractic or osteopathic manipulation in 2007, making it the second-most common form of complementary or alternative medicine for children (USA Today, 1/19/09).
It is important to understand that the Doctor of Chiropractic does not treat conditions or diseases. The expertise of the chiropractor is in checking the child’s spine for nerve system stress caused by misalignments (subluxations). Nerve system stress, left unaddressed, impairs the child’s ability to function in a state of optimal health and well-being. Although symptoms, such as pain and malfunction may not show up for many years in the child, injury to their vital nerve systems can have a lifetime of damaging effects. Children who suffer from frequent ear infections, colds, digestive problems, and allergies may be suffering from nerve stress. Chiropractic removes nerve stress and children can greatly benefit from this drug-free approach to healing. The chiropractic adjustment restores nerve system function allowing the body the ability to express a greater state of health and well-being.
Doctors of Chiropractic also advocate a natural lifestyle and can help families incorporate healthier physical, mental, and nutritional habits in order to attain overall wellness. Doctors of Chiropractic who are members of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) utilize advanced techniques specific to the care of pregnant mothers, infants and children.
Common reasons why your child should be checked by a chiropractor:
1. Difficult birth
2. Difficulty nursing or favoring one side
3. Colic or Reflux
4. Trouble sleeping
5. Ear infections
6. Frequent colds/infections
7. Falls or contact-sport involvement
8. Allergies/Asthma
9. Behavioral problems (ADD, ADHD, Autism)
10. Poor posture
Chiropractic Benefits:
1. Increased Immunity: fewer colds/infections
2. Increased Athletic Potential
3. Increased energy
4. Relief from allergies/asthma
5. Better sleep habits
6. Reduction in hyperactivity
7. Scoliosis & postural improvement
-Dr. Jennah Dieter, Certified Pediatric/Perinatal Chiropractor (ICPA), Clinical Master in Nutrition Response Testing. Healthcare Complete, 260 Merrimac St., Towle Bldg, Colonial Wing, Newburyport, MA. 978-499-WELL (9355). Offering complimentary consultations for children & adults.
Labels:
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children,
chiropractic,
chiropractor,
chronic illness,
cold,
digestive,
ear infections,
kids,
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nervous system,
nutrition,
obesity,
pediatric,
sinus,
stomach,
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Sunday, February 28, 2010
Healthy Snacks for Children & Adults
Patients are always asking me about healthy snacks...so here are some ideas for you!
- Green beans, pea pods, carrots, peppers and hummus
- Kale Chips (baked pieces of kale drizzled w/ olive oil, spices)
- Green apples with cinnamon & almond butter
- Baked Pieces of chicken
- Chicken Salad
- Hard boiled egg
- Nuts (raw almonds, walnuts, pecans)
- Homemade trail mix: nuts (see above), goji berries, raw cacao nibs
- Dehydrated vegetables with sea salt
- Standard Process or Vega brand protein shake
- Avocado with extra virgin olive oil, sea salt, pepper
- guacomole
- Quinoa with veggies, tomatoes
- Baked Sweet potato "fries"
- Standard Process bar
- Dr. Jennah's Hot cocoa: unsweetened almond milk, raw cacao powder, stevia
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Do you have Celiac Disease?
Approximately 40% of Americans have the genetic potential to become gluten intolerant. More than 1% of Americans have celiac disease. In fact, this percentage may be a low estimate because most physicians are unfamiliar with the signs and symptoms of celiac disease, which can be a “great masquerader." Importantly, gluten intolerance and celiac disease may be related to a variety of serious disorders.
Approximately 40% of Americans have the genetic potential to become gluten intolerant. More than 1% of Americans have celiac disease. In fact, this percentage may be a low estimate because most physicians are unfamiliar with the signs and symptoms of celiac disease, which can be a “great masquerader”. Gluten intolerance and celiac disease are closely related. After repeated exposure to gluten, a person who is gluten intolerant may develop celiac disease. Gluten is a complex of proteins found in wheat, rye, and barley. The human digestive tract cannot break down gluten into its component amino acids, so gluten proteins persist in the gastrointestinal tract until they are excreted.
In susceptible individuals, the gluten proteins may be identified as "foreign" and their immune systems may launch a reaction against these non-self proteins. In such persons, including infants, children, teenagers, and adults, continued exposure to gluten may cause development of signs and symptoms of celiac disease. (1-2)
Wheat, rye, and barley comprise significant components of the Western diet. Almost all breads are made from one or more of these three grains. Cookies, cakes, bagels, muffins, pizza, and pasta are all gluten-containing foods. Additionally, gluten is found in vitamin pills, shampoo, toothpaste, household cleansers, and even prescription drugs. Wheat-based binders are often used in the manufacturing process of these articles. So gluten is literally everywhere.
A susceptible person's initial immune reaction to gluten persists with continued exposure. Eventually the immune reaction may damage the lining of the person's small intestine, leading to the classic symptoms of celiac disease - abdominal pain, constipation and/or diarrhea, and abdominal bloating. Intestinal damage causes these very unpleasant and debilitating symptoms and may also lead to additional serious diseases. Malnutrition is one of the major consequences of celiac disease.
Importantly, gluten intolerance may be related to a variety of serious disorders. Neuropsychiatric conditions such as autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and schizophrenia may be associated with underlying gluten intolerance and celiac disease. Arthritic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus), and psoriatic arthritis may be related to gluten intolerance. Endocrine conditions including diabetes, hyper- and hypothryroidism, and Addison's disease are often related to gluten intolerance and celiac disease. Infertility and frequent miscarriages may also be related to an underlying condition of gluten intolerance.
The takeaway is this. Gluten intolerance and celiac disease may be an underlying cause of serious medical conditions that have not been treated successfully. The key is considering gluten intolerance as an underlying cause and taking appropriate action. Patient knowledge and increased physician knowledge and awareness are crucial to correctly identifying a hidden problem. (3)
Your family chiropractor is an important resource. She is an expert in nutrition and is trained to identify underlying causes of health problems. In addition, chiropractic treatment may help restore more normal and more effective immune system functioning. In cases requiring a holistic, multidisciplinary approach, chiropractic treatment is a crucial component.
Beginning a Gluten-Free Diet
A strict gluten-free diet is the number one step in treatment of gluten intolerance and celiac disease. This is a big undertaking and yet it is critically necessary. Symptoms of these disorders will only resolve when gluten is removed from the diet. Even small amounts of gluten reactivate the disease-causing immune mechanism. Even 20 parts per million (ppm; a standard measure of concentration) can cause symptoms in a person who is gluten intolerant.The very good news is that gluten intoelrance and celiace disease are receiving a much higher media profile. Broadcast, print, and new media are focusing on these disorders, with featured content appearing frequently in the national press. The result is that gluten-free foods and household products are becoming much more widely available. Most health food stores and markets have created a gluten-free section and continue to expand their offerings.
1. Selimolu MA, Karabiber H: Celiac disease. Prevention and treatment. J Clin Gastroenterol 44 (1):4-8, 2010
2. Setty M, et al: Celiac disease: risk assessment, diagnosis, and monitoring. Mol Diagn Ther 12(5):289-298, 2008
3. Schuppan D, et al: Celiac disease: from pathogenesis to novel therapies. Gastroenterology 137(6):1912-1933, 2009
Approximately 40% of Americans have the genetic potential to become gluten intolerant. More than 1% of Americans have celiac disease. In fact, this percentage may be a low estimate because most physicians are unfamiliar with the signs and symptoms of celiac disease, which can be a “great masquerader”. Gluten intolerance and celiac disease are closely related. After repeated exposure to gluten, a person who is gluten intolerant may develop celiac disease. Gluten is a complex of proteins found in wheat, rye, and barley. The human digestive tract cannot break down gluten into its component amino acids, so gluten proteins persist in the gastrointestinal tract until they are excreted.
In susceptible individuals, the gluten proteins may be identified as "foreign" and their immune systems may launch a reaction against these non-self proteins. In such persons, including infants, children, teenagers, and adults, continued exposure to gluten may cause development of signs and symptoms of celiac disease. (1-2)
Wheat, rye, and barley comprise significant components of the Western diet. Almost all breads are made from one or more of these three grains. Cookies, cakes, bagels, muffins, pizza, and pasta are all gluten-containing foods. Additionally, gluten is found in vitamin pills, shampoo, toothpaste, household cleansers, and even prescription drugs. Wheat-based binders are often used in the manufacturing process of these articles. So gluten is literally everywhere.
A susceptible person's initial immune reaction to gluten persists with continued exposure. Eventually the immune reaction may damage the lining of the person's small intestine, leading to the classic symptoms of celiac disease - abdominal pain, constipation and/or diarrhea, and abdominal bloating. Intestinal damage causes these very unpleasant and debilitating symptoms and may also lead to additional serious diseases. Malnutrition is one of the major consequences of celiac disease.
Importantly, gluten intolerance may be related to a variety of serious disorders. Neuropsychiatric conditions such as autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and schizophrenia may be associated with underlying gluten intolerance and celiac disease. Arthritic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus), and psoriatic arthritis may be related to gluten intolerance. Endocrine conditions including diabetes, hyper- and hypothryroidism, and Addison's disease are often related to gluten intolerance and celiac disease. Infertility and frequent miscarriages may also be related to an underlying condition of gluten intolerance.
The takeaway is this. Gluten intolerance and celiac disease may be an underlying cause of serious medical conditions that have not been treated successfully. The key is considering gluten intolerance as an underlying cause and taking appropriate action. Patient knowledge and increased physician knowledge and awareness are crucial to correctly identifying a hidden problem. (3)
Your family chiropractor is an important resource. She is an expert in nutrition and is trained to identify underlying causes of health problems. In addition, chiropractic treatment may help restore more normal and more effective immune system functioning. In cases requiring a holistic, multidisciplinary approach, chiropractic treatment is a crucial component.
Beginning a Gluten-Free Diet
A strict gluten-free diet is the number one step in treatment of gluten intolerance and celiac disease. This is a big undertaking and yet it is critically necessary. Symptoms of these disorders will only resolve when gluten is removed from the diet. Even small amounts of gluten reactivate the disease-causing immune mechanism. Even 20 parts per million (ppm; a standard measure of concentration) can cause symptoms in a person who is gluten intolerant.The very good news is that gluten intoelrance and celiace disease are receiving a much higher media profile. Broadcast, print, and new media are focusing on these disorders, with featured content appearing frequently in the national press. The result is that gluten-free foods and household products are becoming much more widely available. Most health food stores and markets have created a gluten-free section and continue to expand their offerings.
1. Selimolu MA, Karabiber H: Celiac disease. Prevention and treatment. J Clin Gastroenterol 44 (1):4-8, 2010
2. Setty M, et al: Celiac disease: risk assessment, diagnosis, and monitoring. Mol Diagn Ther 12(5):289-298, 2008
3. Schuppan D, et al: Celiac disease: from pathogenesis to novel therapies. Gastroenterology 137(6):1912-1933, 2009
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