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.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Friday, March 26, 2010
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.
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
Friday, February 26, 2010
Me toxic?
Me Toxic? Could Toxins be Ruining Your Health?
by Dr. Jennah Dieter, D.C., C.A.C.C.P
We are meant to be Healthy!
Most people find that as they get older, things start to break down. Perhaps they gain weight or have high cholesterol levels for the first time in their lives. Or, they begin to have migraines, digestive problems, insomnia, or aches and pains. They may feel as though they are aging quicker. Sound familiar?
You could be Toxic.
Every part of our digestion and metabolism was designed to keep us active for a full, long life. Our bodies are incredibly designed with self-healing processes, provided we take care of them. If we are not healthy, somewhere along the way we have interfered with our body’s normal process of healing. Waiting until we have physical symptoms before we think about following a healthy lifestyle is often too late. Learning how to prevent disease is far better than trying to cure it!
We are all exposed to thousands of toxins and chemicals on a daily basis at work, in the home, through the air we breathe, our food and water supply, and through the use of legal and illegal drugs. In addition, we are eating more sugar and processed foods than ever before and regularly abuse our bodies with various stimulants and sedatives. Unfortunately, one of the most common ways to become toxic is through our American diet! The fast-food American diet of high fat, sugar & salt does not give our bodies enough nutrients to maintain proper health and hinders our normal internal cleansing abilities.
Common Signs of Toxicity:
Fatigue and low energy
Food Cravings
Weight gain
Indigestion or reflux
Dark circles under eyes
PMS
Gas & Bloating
Frequent headaches
Difficulty sleeping
Joint pain
Mentally dull
Hypoglycemia
Allergies
High cholesterol
Skin problems
High blood pressure
Low libido
Fibromyalgia
Constipation
Mood swings
How Toxins Rob our Health.
When we continue year after year, to demand that our body handle an overload of toxins that it was not designed to handle. Sooner or later symptoms of disease appear. The body’s inability to handle toxins may be the determinating factor in most diseases. The better your body can eliminate toxins, the more likely you will be healthy.
How do you know if you are toxic?
Your body is giving you the answers all the time but we typically ignore the signs. Check the list below. If you answer yes to many of the questions, then it is likely that your diet significantly increases your toxic load.
Do you…
Drink Tap Water?
Drink Coffee, soda, Beer, Wine or Alcoholic Drinks?
Use Artificial Sweeteners?
Eat Fast Foods?
Eat French Fries or other Fried Foods?
Eat Chips or Corn Chips?
Eat Cookies, Candy, Cake and Ice Cream?
Eat foods that contain ingredients you can’t pronounce
Eat Commercial Meat & Chicken instead of Organic/Local
Eat Commercial Vegetables & Fruits instead of Organic/Local
So you’re toxic. What can you do?
Cleanse your body from the inside out! Internal cleansing helps every part of your body heal. More importantly, cleansing helps you shift gears and go from an unhealthy to a healthy lifestyle. Internal cleansing is one of the most powerful natural healing therapies there is. Cleansing helps us correct damage done to us by our diet and lifestyle.
Benefits of Cleansing
Improved digestion and elimination
Increased energy
Improved and easier weight loss
Stronger immune system
Improve physical appearance
Normal appetite
Decreased cravings & additions
Improved circulation
Improved sleep
Clearer skin
…And these are just a few!
What type of cleansing is right for me?
Many types of cleansing products are available over the counter, but not all are safe or natural, and most products render minimal results, especially when diet is not addressed. The best type of cleanse is a nutritive cleanse which allows you to eat local, organic vegetables, protein, and clean, filtered water, while also providing you with whole food and/or herbal supplementation to support the organs of detoxification. Drastic fasts which restrict eating can be dangerous. Going it alone during a cleansing program is not recommended and could even be dangerous if there are any contraindications in your case. This article is not intended to treat any disease or dysfunction; consultation with a doctor is recommended.
-Dr. Jennah Dieter, Pediatric Chiropractor, Clinical Nutrition Master, Offering safe & effective Purification/Cleansing Programs. Healthcare Complete, 260 Merrimac St. Newburyport, MA 01950. Phone: 978-499-(WELL) 9355. Complimentary consults available.
by Dr. Jennah Dieter, D.C., C.A.C.C.P
We are meant to be Healthy!
Most people find that as they get older, things start to break down. Perhaps they gain weight or have high cholesterol levels for the first time in their lives. Or, they begin to have migraines, digestive problems, insomnia, or aches and pains. They may feel as though they are aging quicker. Sound familiar?
You could be Toxic.
Every part of our digestion and metabolism was designed to keep us active for a full, long life. Our bodies are incredibly designed with self-healing processes, provided we take care of them. If we are not healthy, somewhere along the way we have interfered with our body’s normal process of healing. Waiting until we have physical symptoms before we think about following a healthy lifestyle is often too late. Learning how to prevent disease is far better than trying to cure it!
We are all exposed to thousands of toxins and chemicals on a daily basis at work, in the home, through the air we breathe, our food and water supply, and through the use of legal and illegal drugs. In addition, we are eating more sugar and processed foods than ever before and regularly abuse our bodies with various stimulants and sedatives. Unfortunately, one of the most common ways to become toxic is through our American diet! The fast-food American diet of high fat, sugar & salt does not give our bodies enough nutrients to maintain proper health and hinders our normal internal cleansing abilities.
Common Signs of Toxicity:
Fatigue and low energy
Food Cravings
Weight gain
Indigestion or reflux
Dark circles under eyes
PMS
Gas & Bloating
Frequent headaches
Difficulty sleeping
Joint pain
Mentally dull
Hypoglycemia
Allergies
High cholesterol
Skin problems
High blood pressure
Low libido
Fibromyalgia
Constipation
Mood swings
How Toxins Rob our Health.
When we continue year after year, to demand that our body handle an overload of toxins that it was not designed to handle. Sooner or later symptoms of disease appear. The body’s inability to handle toxins may be the determinating factor in most diseases. The better your body can eliminate toxins, the more likely you will be healthy.
How do you know if you are toxic?
Your body is giving you the answers all the time but we typically ignore the signs. Check the list below. If you answer yes to many of the questions, then it is likely that your diet significantly increases your toxic load.
Do you…
Drink Tap Water?
Drink Coffee, soda, Beer, Wine or Alcoholic Drinks?
Use Artificial Sweeteners?
Eat Fast Foods?
Eat French Fries or other Fried Foods?
Eat Chips or Corn Chips?
Eat Cookies, Candy, Cake and Ice Cream?
Eat foods that contain ingredients you can’t pronounce
Eat Commercial Meat & Chicken instead of Organic/Local
Eat Commercial Vegetables & Fruits instead of Organic/Local
So you’re toxic. What can you do?
Cleanse your body from the inside out! Internal cleansing helps every part of your body heal. More importantly, cleansing helps you shift gears and go from an unhealthy to a healthy lifestyle. Internal cleansing is one of the most powerful natural healing therapies there is. Cleansing helps us correct damage done to us by our diet and lifestyle.
Benefits of Cleansing
Improved digestion and elimination
Increased energy
Improved and easier weight loss
Stronger immune system
Improve physical appearance
Normal appetite
Decreased cravings & additions
Improved circulation
Improved sleep
Clearer skin
…And these are just a few!
What type of cleansing is right for me?
Many types of cleansing products are available over the counter, but not all are safe or natural, and most products render minimal results, especially when diet is not addressed. The best type of cleanse is a nutritive cleanse which allows you to eat local, organic vegetables, protein, and clean, filtered water, while also providing you with whole food and/or herbal supplementation to support the organs of detoxification. Drastic fasts which restrict eating can be dangerous. Going it alone during a cleansing program is not recommended and could even be dangerous if there are any contraindications in your case. This article is not intended to treat any disease or dysfunction; consultation with a doctor is recommended.
-Dr. Jennah Dieter, Pediatric Chiropractor, Clinical Nutrition Master, Offering safe & effective Purification/Cleansing Programs. Healthcare Complete, 260 Merrimac St. Newburyport, MA 01950. Phone: 978-499-(WELL) 9355. Complimentary consults available.
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