Proper gastrointestinal function includes the absorption of nutrients derived from the braekdown of foods supplied by our diet, as well as blocking the absorption of toxins, bacteria, and other pathogens into the GI tract. Aging, as well as consumption of alcohol, aspirin, NSAIDS and other drugs, x-ray expsoure and infections, may lead to increased permeabilty in the gut.
Once undigested food particles get absorped, they cause the immune system to overact and cause widespread inflammation throughout the body. Yes, 70% of your immune system is found in the GI tract and when turned on can lead to many pathological conditions. Upregulated immune responses to the skin, joints, soft tissure and even the brain can result. This is referred to as "leaky gut syndrome".
Next-Leaky gut and chronic illness.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Friday, April 29, 2011
Gastrointestinal Function A Portal to Health
Over the last several years, there has been a growing body of evidence that supports the fact that proper intestinal health, ie, absorption and bacteria in the gut leads to good health and well-being. Only recently has a group of researchers state that perhaps we all fall into 3 categories of individuals, based upon the makeup of the amounts of bacteria in our guts. They information may one day help develop treatment protocols for various illness, using this knowledge.
The types of bacteria that is found the gut have many functions, they help in digestion, help vitamins and minerals to function optimally, but most importantly they help regulate how the immune system works.
Unhealthy bacteria as well as large amounts of "bad" bacteria when compared to the amounts of "good" bacteria that is found in the gut may lead to an immune system that not only does not work properly to fight off infection, but may actually turn on the system to work too much. This may lead to autoimmune types of illnesses which over the years have increased in number.
Over the next several blogs, I will discuss how bacteria and health are related and what you can do to make sure you have adequate amounts of "good" bacteria.
The types of bacteria that is found the gut have many functions, they help in digestion, help vitamins and minerals to function optimally, but most importantly they help regulate how the immune system works.
Unhealthy bacteria as well as large amounts of "bad" bacteria when compared to the amounts of "good" bacteria that is found in the gut may lead to an immune system that not only does not work properly to fight off infection, but may actually turn on the system to work too much. This may lead to autoimmune types of illnesses which over the years have increased in number.
Over the next several blogs, I will discuss how bacteria and health are related and what you can do to make sure you have adequate amounts of "good" bacteria.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Cold Light Laser Therapy
Laser Light Therapy (Cold Laser Therapy)
Laser Light Therapy is a physical modality that emits photons (light) in very specific regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. Laser therapy uses this light to penetrate tissue for increased blood flow and more rapid healing. Laser Light Therapy is the most researched and published modality in physical rehabilitation and has demonstrated a multitude of clinical benefits that include relieving pain from minor muscular and joint aches, pain and stiffness associated with arthritis, relaxing muscle spasms and increasing local blood circulation. Clinically proven and long popular in Europe, laser therapy is now cleared to market in the United States by the FDA.
How does it work?
Cold Laser Therapy (CLT) uses laser light energy to stimulate cells to function optimally. Cold laser therapy is similar to photosynthesis in plants; sunlight is absorbed by the plant and converted into energy the plant can utilize for growth. In the body, light sensitive chromophores and other elements within the cell absorb energy, initiating a series of important photochemical changes such as increased production of nitric oxide, singlet oxygen and ATP, as well as an increase in the cell membrane’s permeability. The mitochondria and Kreb’s Cycle stimulation initiates the production of ATP, providing the cell with the extra energy needed to accelerate the healing process and positively influence pain etc. The additional energy and effects result in normalization of cell function when cell function is impaired. Since the following activities can occur in all types of cells (muscle, ligament, cartilage, nerves etc.) a number of wide-ranging conditions can be treated. Research and clinical experience has demonstrated the following:
Cellular Activities
Increased cell metabolism (Increased cell function)
Increased collagen synthesis (Increased healing of soft tissues)
Increased osteoblast production (Increased healing of bone)
Increased circulation
Increased formation of new capillaries (tiny blood vessels) by release of growth factors
Increased T-cell production (Increased immune function)
Increased production of neurotransmitters such as endorphins, serotonin, ACTH etc. (Increased nerve function)
Increased chronic pain threshold through decreased C-fiber activity (Decreased pain)
Physiological Effects
Accelerated tissue healing and repair by 40%
Increased tensile strength in tissue repair
Increased osteoblast production (Increased healing of bone)
Increased circulation
Increased formation of new capillaries (tiny blood vessels) by release of growth factors
Increased T-cell production (Increased immune function)
Increased production of neurotransmitters such as endorphins, serotonin, ACTH etc. (Increased nerve function)
Increased chronic pain threshold through decreased C-fiber activity (Decreased pain)
Physiological Effects
Accelerated tissue healing and repair by 40%
Increased tensile strength in tissue repair
Increase callous and bone formation
Reduced or eliminated pain
Decreased edema and inflammation
Improved immune response
Stimulates nerve function
Promotes Cellular Oxygenation/Detoxification
The laser's unique ability to interact with and influence the body on a cellular level leads to the following:
Rapid cell growth: CLT accelerates cellular reproduction and growth for faster wound healing i.e. Sports injuries, and repetitive movement injuries.
Faster wound healing: CLT stimulates fibroblast development and accelerates collagen synthesis in damaged tissues. Collagen is the essential protein used to repair damaged tissue. It is the substance that holds cells together and has a high degree of elasticity i.e. Soft tissue injuries, sports injuries, and overuse injuries.
CLT increases metabolic activity: Causing higher outputs of specific enzymes, greater oxygen and food particle loads for cells thus causing greater production of ATP (energy). ATP is the major carrier of energy to all cells. Increases in ATP allow cells to accept nutrients faster and get rid of waste products faster by increasing the energy level in the cell resulting in faster and better wound healing i.e. soft tissue injuries, sports injuries, arthritis, and overuse injuries.
Reduced fibrous tissue formation: CLT reduces formation of scar tissue. By increasing collagen production less scar tissue is formed at the damaged site. Scar tissue has little elasticity i.e. Sports injuries, soft tissue injuries, and repetitive movement strains and overuse injuries.
Anti-inflammatory action: CLT helps to reduce swelling to offer enhanced joint mobility following injury i.e. Sports injuries, soft tissue injuries, arthritis and tendonitis.
Increased lymphatic system activity: Edema, which is the swelling or natural splinting process of the body, has two basic components. The first is the liquid part, which can be evacuated by the blood system. The second is comprised of proteins, which have to be evacuated by the lymphatic system. Research has shown that the lymph vessel diameter and the flow of the lymph system can be doubled with the use of laser therapy. The venous diameter and the arterial diameters can also be increased. This means that both parts of edema (liquid and protein) can be evacuated at a much faster rate to relieve swelling and thus reducing pain as well i.e. Sport injuries, soft tissue injuries, and overuse injuries.
Increased phagocytosis: The process of cleaning up dead or degenerated cells i.e. Sports injuries, soft tissue injuries, arthritis, tendonitis, and shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, and ankle injuries for the purpose of "clean up." Clean up must take place before healing can occur.
Reduce the excitability of nervous tissue: CLT speeds nerve cell processes, which decreases pain and numbness, associated with certain conditions. The photons of light energy enter the body as negative ions. This calls upon the body to send positive ions like calcium and others to go the area being treated. These ions assist in firing the nerves thereby relieving pain i.e. Arthritis, soft tissue injuries, sports injuries and tendonitis.
Is Cold Laser Therapy Safe?
Cold Laser Therapy has been successfully used around the world for over 30 years, with no reported long-term side effects. In the United States the FDA has ruled that the therapy is safe. The laser used in our office is an FDA certified laser. For the past 30 years the technology of Cold Laser Therapy (also known as Low Level Laser Therapy or LLLT) has been formally accepted in Canada and in many other parts of the world such as Europe, Scandinavia, Russia and Japan. In all this time there have been no recorded long-term adverse effects from its use. It is considered to be non-invasive, painless and safe.
The question is often asked "If it's a laser aren't they used in surgical operations, to cauterize tissue?" The answer is "Yes" - Hot Lasers are able to cauterize (cut) tissue. Our Laser stimulates and energizes the cells.
Is Cold Laser Therapy Painful?
No. Low level lasers do not generate perceivable heat. Therefore, when the laser contacts the skin the patient experiences no warmth or burning as a result of the laser. Most people feel nothing at all while a few may feel a slight tingling (energy) during the treatment.
What conditions does the Cold Laser Therapy help treat?
• Acute and chronic spinal pain in neck, mid and low back.
• Acute and chronic joint pain in shoulders, elbows, wrists and hands
• Acute and chronic joint pain in hips, knees, ankles, and feet
• Arthritis, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
• Whiplash and spinal strain/sprain injuries
• Post-operative pain Inflamed joints (tendonitis, bursitis etc.)
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Neuralgia
• Fractures
• Rotator cuff Injuries and impingement syndromes
• Bursitis
• Tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow
• Fibromyalgia
• Plantar fascitis
• Neuromas
• Headaches, including migraines
• Tendonitis
• TMJ
• Other Musculoskeletal injuries
What to expect on your initial visit to determine if we can help you?
All patients go through an initial consultation with Dr. Benedikt to discuss the problem so he can answer all your questions about the Cold Laser Program. The laser will be shown and demonstrated so there’s “no fear of the unknown.” Every patient gets a complete evaluation with Dr. Benedikt to determine the best laser protocols to utilize.
Laser Light Therapy is a physical modality that emits photons (light) in very specific regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. Laser therapy uses this light to penetrate tissue for increased blood flow and more rapid healing. Laser Light Therapy is the most researched and published modality in physical rehabilitation and has demonstrated a multitude of clinical benefits that include relieving pain from minor muscular and joint aches, pain and stiffness associated with arthritis, relaxing muscle spasms and increasing local blood circulation. Clinically proven and long popular in Europe, laser therapy is now cleared to market in the United States by the FDA.
How does it work?
Cold Laser Therapy (CLT) uses laser light energy to stimulate cells to function optimally. Cold laser therapy is similar to photosynthesis in plants; sunlight is absorbed by the plant and converted into energy the plant can utilize for growth. In the body, light sensitive chromophores and other elements within the cell absorb energy, initiating a series of important photochemical changes such as increased production of nitric oxide, singlet oxygen and ATP, as well as an increase in the cell membrane’s permeability. The mitochondria and Kreb’s Cycle stimulation initiates the production of ATP, providing the cell with the extra energy needed to accelerate the healing process and positively influence pain etc. The additional energy and effects result in normalization of cell function when cell function is impaired. Since the following activities can occur in all types of cells (muscle, ligament, cartilage, nerves etc.) a number of wide-ranging conditions can be treated. Research and clinical experience has demonstrated the following:
Cellular Activities
Increased cell metabolism (Increased cell function)
Increased collagen synthesis (Increased healing of soft tissues)
Increased osteoblast production (Increased healing of bone)
Increased circulation
Increased formation of new capillaries (tiny blood vessels) by release of growth factors
Increased T-cell production (Increased immune function)
Increased production of neurotransmitters such as endorphins, serotonin, ACTH etc. (Increased nerve function)
Increased chronic pain threshold through decreased C-fiber activity (Decreased pain)
Physiological Effects
Accelerated tissue healing and repair by 40%
Increased tensile strength in tissue repair
Increased osteoblast production (Increased healing of bone)
Increased circulation
Increased formation of new capillaries (tiny blood vessels) by release of growth factors
Increased T-cell production (Increased immune function)
Increased production of neurotransmitters such as endorphins, serotonin, ACTH etc. (Increased nerve function)
Increased chronic pain threshold through decreased C-fiber activity (Decreased pain)
Physiological Effects
Accelerated tissue healing and repair by 40%
Increased tensile strength in tissue repair
Increase callous and bone formation
Reduced or eliminated pain
Decreased edema and inflammation
Improved immune response
Stimulates nerve function
Promotes Cellular Oxygenation/Detoxification
The laser's unique ability to interact with and influence the body on a cellular level leads to the following:
Rapid cell growth: CLT accelerates cellular reproduction and growth for faster wound healing i.e. Sports injuries, and repetitive movement injuries.
Faster wound healing: CLT stimulates fibroblast development and accelerates collagen synthesis in damaged tissues. Collagen is the essential protein used to repair damaged tissue. It is the substance that holds cells together and has a high degree of elasticity i.e. Soft tissue injuries, sports injuries, and overuse injuries.
CLT increases metabolic activity: Causing higher outputs of specific enzymes, greater oxygen and food particle loads for cells thus causing greater production of ATP (energy). ATP is the major carrier of energy to all cells. Increases in ATP allow cells to accept nutrients faster and get rid of waste products faster by increasing the energy level in the cell resulting in faster and better wound healing i.e. soft tissue injuries, sports injuries, arthritis, and overuse injuries.
Reduced fibrous tissue formation: CLT reduces formation of scar tissue. By increasing collagen production less scar tissue is formed at the damaged site. Scar tissue has little elasticity i.e. Sports injuries, soft tissue injuries, and repetitive movement strains and overuse injuries.
Anti-inflammatory action: CLT helps to reduce swelling to offer enhanced joint mobility following injury i.e. Sports injuries, soft tissue injuries, arthritis and tendonitis.
Increased lymphatic system activity: Edema, which is the swelling or natural splinting process of the body, has two basic components. The first is the liquid part, which can be evacuated by the blood system. The second is comprised of proteins, which have to be evacuated by the lymphatic system. Research has shown that the lymph vessel diameter and the flow of the lymph system can be doubled with the use of laser therapy. The venous diameter and the arterial diameters can also be increased. This means that both parts of edema (liquid and protein) can be evacuated at a much faster rate to relieve swelling and thus reducing pain as well i.e. Sport injuries, soft tissue injuries, and overuse injuries.
Increased phagocytosis: The process of cleaning up dead or degenerated cells i.e. Sports injuries, soft tissue injuries, arthritis, tendonitis, and shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, and ankle injuries for the purpose of "clean up." Clean up must take place before healing can occur.
Reduce the excitability of nervous tissue: CLT speeds nerve cell processes, which decreases pain and numbness, associated with certain conditions. The photons of light energy enter the body as negative ions. This calls upon the body to send positive ions like calcium and others to go the area being treated. These ions assist in firing the nerves thereby relieving pain i.e. Arthritis, soft tissue injuries, sports injuries and tendonitis.
Is Cold Laser Therapy Safe?
Cold Laser Therapy has been successfully used around the world for over 30 years, with no reported long-term side effects. In the United States the FDA has ruled that the therapy is safe. The laser used in our office is an FDA certified laser. For the past 30 years the technology of Cold Laser Therapy (also known as Low Level Laser Therapy or LLLT) has been formally accepted in Canada and in many other parts of the world such as Europe, Scandinavia, Russia and Japan. In all this time there have been no recorded long-term adverse effects from its use. It is considered to be non-invasive, painless and safe.
The question is often asked "If it's a laser aren't they used in surgical operations, to cauterize tissue?" The answer is "Yes" - Hot Lasers are able to cauterize (cut) tissue. Our Laser stimulates and energizes the cells.
Is Cold Laser Therapy Painful?
No. Low level lasers do not generate perceivable heat. Therefore, when the laser contacts the skin the patient experiences no warmth or burning as a result of the laser. Most people feel nothing at all while a few may feel a slight tingling (energy) during the treatment.
What conditions does the Cold Laser Therapy help treat?
• Acute and chronic spinal pain in neck, mid and low back.
• Acute and chronic joint pain in shoulders, elbows, wrists and hands
• Acute and chronic joint pain in hips, knees, ankles, and feet
• Arthritis, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
• Whiplash and spinal strain/sprain injuries
• Post-operative pain Inflamed joints (tendonitis, bursitis etc.)
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Neuralgia
• Fractures
• Rotator cuff Injuries and impingement syndromes
• Bursitis
• Tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow
• Fibromyalgia
• Plantar fascitis
• Neuromas
• Headaches, including migraines
• Tendonitis
• TMJ
• Other Musculoskeletal injuries
What to expect on your initial visit to determine if we can help you?
All patients go through an initial consultation with Dr. Benedikt to discuss the problem so he can answer all your questions about the Cold Laser Program. The laser will be shown and demonstrated so there’s “no fear of the unknown.” Every patient gets a complete evaluation with Dr. Benedikt to determine the best laser protocols to utilize.
Friday, October 16, 2009
Signs and symptoms of stress and adrenal insufficiency
Symptoms
•
Exhaustion
•
Weight Gain/Loss
•
Food Intolerances
•
Alcohol Intolerance
•
Allergies
•
Sinus Problems
•
Anxiety
•
Blood Sugar Imbalances
•
Depression
•
Digestive Disorders
•
Diminished Sex Drive
•
Dizziness upon Standing
•
Dry and Thin Skin
•
Excessive Hunger
•
Craving for Sweets
•
Hair Loss
•
Headaches
•
Immune Deficiency
•
Inability to Concentrate
•
Parasite Infections
•
Bacterial Infections
•
Fungal Infections
•
General Pain
•
Inflammation
•
Chronic illness
•
Irritability
•
Liver Disorders
•
Thyroid Disorders
•
Pancreatic Disorders
•
Low blood pressure
•
Low Body Temperature
•
Mood Swings
•
Pain in the Neck
•
Pain in the Shoulders
•
Low Back Pain
•
Heart Palpitations
•
Poor memory
•
PMS
•
Sleep Disorders
•
Weakness
•
Difficulty Building Muscle
Symptoms
•
Exhaustion
•
Weight Gain/Loss
•
Food Intolerances
•
Alcohol Intolerance
•
Allergies
•
Sinus Problems
•
Anxiety
•
Blood Sugar Imbalances
•
Depression
•
Digestive Disorders
•
Diminished Sex Drive
•
Dizziness upon Standing
•
Dry and Thin Skin
•
Excessive Hunger
•
Craving for Sweets
•
Hair Loss
•
Headaches
•
Immune Deficiency
•
Inability to Concentrate
•
Parasite Infections
•
Bacterial Infections
•
Fungal Infections
•
General Pain
•
Inflammation
•
Chronic illness
•
Irritability
•
Liver Disorders
•
Thyroid Disorders
•
Pancreatic Disorders
•
Low blood pressure
•
Low Body Temperature
•
Mood Swings
•
Pain in the Neck
•
Pain in the Shoulders
•
Low Back Pain
•
Heart Palpitations
•
Poor memory
•
PMS
•
Sleep Disorders
•
Weakness
•
Difficulty Building Muscle
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Over the past 30 years there has been over 300 studies have been done on stress and immunity in humans. They have showed that psychological challenges are capable of modifying various aspects of the immune systems. Most studies on stress have defined it as " circumstances that most people would find stressful". These are defined as stressors. But the big question that must be answered is, How does stress get into the body to impact the immune system?
This requires a lengthy discussion explaining how the immune system, endocrine system and hormonal system function both independently of one another and dependent upon one another in order to maintain internal "homeostasis". Simply put, there are fibers that connect the brain, the nervous system and the endocrine system, referred to as the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis all secrete hromones that control many bodily functions. This is a relationship that needs when functioning normally leads to normal physiological and psychological function. Stress, whether acute or chronic leads to adaptations that over days, months and even years may lead to altered metabolic functioned.
Next: Who is vulnerable to stress-induced immune changes.
This requires a lengthy discussion explaining how the immune system, endocrine system and hormonal system function both independently of one another and dependent upon one another in order to maintain internal "homeostasis". Simply put, there are fibers that connect the brain, the nervous system and the endocrine system, referred to as the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis all secrete hromones that control many bodily functions. This is a relationship that needs when functioning normally leads to normal physiological and psychological function. Stress, whether acute or chronic leads to adaptations that over days, months and even years may lead to altered metabolic functioned.
Next: Who is vulnerable to stress-induced immune changes.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Biology of Stress
Under normal circumstances, we can react to and adapt to stress, with our bodies returning to a normal state of function, referred to as homeostasis. When stressful situations persist or last longer than usual, this accumulated stress or allostatic load can become too much for us. This accumulated load can have an effect on how our bodies function from a musculuar, organic, hormonal and even nurological perspective.
How we respond or react to stressful situations, thoughts or beliefs is dependant upon many factors. Genetics, diet and even past history can determine how we respond to the load. Also, whether or not we smoke, drink, exercise can all factor in to our response. Over repsonses to stress leads to an increase production of the adrenal hormone cortisol. High cortisol can and does lead to a host of chronic degenerative conditions, including anxiety, sleep disturbances, diabetes, heart disease and arthritis.
Next, we will look at stress and our immune system.
How we respond or react to stressful situations, thoughts or beliefs is dependant upon many factors. Genetics, diet and even past history can determine how we respond to the load. Also, whether or not we smoke, drink, exercise can all factor in to our response. Over repsonses to stress leads to an increase production of the adrenal hormone cortisol. High cortisol can and does lead to a host of chronic degenerative conditions, including anxiety, sleep disturbances, diabetes, heart disease and arthritis.
Next, we will look at stress and our immune system.
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