We’ve all heard about going gluten-free. But is going gluten-free just another craze or are there real benefits to a gluten-free diet? Your questions answered.
“What Vitamins Should I Take?” – Getting the Essentials
When I see a new patient, I always ask about vitamin usage. I find that many of my patients are not taking the fundamental essentials – so they end up asking me “What vitamins should I take?”. Although everyone benefits from the basics, I often find my patients already have conditions related to a lack or low level that showed up in previous blood work. Some have high cholesterol, high blood pressure or diabetes for which omega 3s are extremely important, and even cramping or constipation, which is often a reflection of low magnesium. Everyone needs a healthy nutrient foundation – and few people get enough of the proper nutrients from their food. So here’s my approach to the question of “what vitamins should I take?”.
Vitamin Brands: Not All Created Equal
Vitamins. Everyone hears a lot about them, but how much does the average person really know? Many years ago, I first started taking vitamins based on the recommendation from the first chiropractor I started seeing while as an undergraduate student.
I knew very little about which vitamins to take and how much. I didn’t know which foods were the best sources of certain vitamins or that even if we eat healthy fruits and vegetables from the grocery store, our soils are very depleted of nutrients. I was unaware that there were differences in vitamin brands.
Luckily, he walked me through all of this gradually and even inspired my interest in being a chiropractor!
Cold and Flu – More Help
In my last blog, I talked about the real cause of colds and flu – and my #1 preventative, taking vitamin D. The bottom line is that you need to strengthen your immunity during this time of increased incidence of cold and flu. Knowing both the contributors of a weakened immune system and ways to build a stronger immune system is your first step.
Limit your intake of sugar, grains and processed foods
Cold and flu prevention does start with what you eat. Sugar, grains and processed foods are pro-inflammatory substances that stresses rather than nourish your body. If you want to indulge in sweets, try small doses of dark chocolate, which is actually anti-inflammatory. Dark chocolate with almonds is an even better choice, as the protein and good fat in the almonds will help minimize any blood sugar spike.
Eat food that encourage immune functioning
Boost your immune functioning by including plenty of the following in your diet: organic fruits and vegetables, fermented foods (such as kimchee or sauerkraut), coconut oil, fish rich in omega 3 fatty acids and grass fed meat. Consider adding immune-boosting spices to your cooking or take them as a supplement. Garlic, turmeric, oregano, clove and cinnamon are good options.
Cold and Flu – Cause and Prevention
Wondering if you’ll get the common cold or the flu this winter? The question is not IF you will be exposed but WHEN. Germs and the flu virus exist everywhere you go… the grocery store, work, the coffee shop, etc. Well, you have a lot more control over getting sick then you think! Both your current health and the strength of your immune system during the time of exposure have an impact on cold and flu prevention.
Getting in the “Sweet Zone” With Vitamin D
Why is it important to increase your Vitamin D level? Well there are many reasons! There is a “sweet zone” of the Vitamin D level in your blood. If you can get your Vitamin D level within this “sweet zone” there is a statistical decrease in cancer, diabetes, fractures, neurological disorders, and heart attack. Besides bone health and prevention of certain diseases, Vitamin D plays a large role in fighting viral infections. Your best flu shot just may be your daily dose of Vitamin D! The first and most important…