We have made great strides over the last few decades when it comes to identifying the genetic mutations associated with different cancers. Genetic counseling is now available to anyone with a family history of multiple cancer types, early onset of illness, a rare cancer type, or a generational pattern of one particular cancer. Most insurances will cover this test if individuals meet high-risk criteria, and many labs offer financial assistance to those with a demonstrated need (we work with several oncology centers that offer this as a resource). Genetic screening can be an extremely useful data point for people evaluating the risks to themselves and to their family members for cancer. The results can inform how frequently people should be screened and what the statistical recommendations are for preventative surgical treatments (a la the “Angelina Jolie” approach).
That said, current research indicates that only 5-10% of all cancers are due to inheritance (the DNA one receives from one’s parents). We like to use the analogy that your body is like a garden and we are all making weeds called cancer cells in the garden every day. However, if the soil is healthy the weeds do not take over. Your genes are one minor factor of what allows the weeds to grow. A healthy garden explains why a number of patients with documented genetic mutations never go on to develop cancer.
Someone can be BRCA1 or BRCA2 positive, meaning that these inherited genes do not repair DNA as expected. This leads to mutations over time and greatly increases the risk of developing cancer, especially breast cancer and ovarian cancers. So, what happens with the minority of folks who carry these dangerous genes and yet remain cancer-free? You inherit your genes from your parents, but your environment and nutrition turn them on or off. This is what is referred to as epigenetics and nutrigenomics and where we at Journey to Wellness come in.
We know cancer is a multifactorial disease. There is never only “one reason” for cancer, for if that were the case, we’d have eradicated this scourge many generations ago. Instead, cancer is the result of a complex interplay between genetic predispositions, environment, lifestyle, nutrition, blood sugar control, immune function, inflammation, and emotional/spiritual health to name a few. No one is capable of being “perfect” and/or completely without risk. But, knowing what many of the risk factors are for cancer, we are given the gift of agency. Those of us trained in Naturopathic Oncology prioritize teaching patients how to take care of themselves. Patient education and empowerment are central to our practice at Journey to Wellness. Epigenetics and nutrigenomics are essential to modulate genetic risk factors and reduce your chance of getting cancer, especially those with a family history of cancer. We also use the tools of complementary oncology to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence for those who have already had it.
When appropriate, genetic testing is important for clarifying one’s own risks and those affecting one’s family. However, it is important to remember, genes are not destiny. They may change the soil a bit, but we can help to modify that soil to determine whether the seeds or weeds in the garden grow. Which will wither or thrive depends on the health of the garden. Our job is to keep the garden healthy so the weeds do not take over. There are concrete actions that can be taken in advance to reduce the risk of developing cancer. There is no such thing as 0% risk…. but there are many things that can be done to improve the outlook for someone who is at risk. If you want to learn more, please call our office at (360) 695-8800 for a free 15-min consultation.
Best in health,
Cynthia Bye, ND, FABNO Board Certified in Naturopathic Oncology
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/13163800/E5998142-0A67-4EE3-856B-51347A5407F1.jpeg9601920Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2020-07-13 16:39:542020-07-13 16:39:59Health + Wellness: Genetics Aren’t Destiny When it Comes to Cancer
Everyday it seems we learn more and become more confused as to what the COVID-19 is. Apparently, it can attack any part of the body. Today a story of someone who had the gastrointestinal symptoms and then all of a sudden, a fever of 105 and oxygen levels dropping dangerously low to the point that intubation was required. Children with a rash and high fever. One common thread seems to be the inflammation of the blood vessels called vasculitis and blood clots. So, it would seem those that already have a lot of inflammation in their bodies would be more adversely affected by the virus. Certainly, that would explain those with obesity and diabetes with higher death rates.
If pre-existing inflammation is a common thread, then we need to address general inflammation in the body. These are also common things I see with my cancer patients.
The first and easiest thing to do is to eat an anti-inflammatory diet
Stay away from red meat – it is high in iron and iron is very inflammatory. Iron also feeds bacteria and cancer cells.
Reduce your carbohydrates as they cause an increase in blood sugar which causes an increase in insulin. Insulin is one of the most inflammatory things to your blood vessels. If you carry weight in the middle you are insulin resistant and your insulin will increase to keep the blood sugar under control.
Examples of carbohydrates that raise blood sugar quickly are:
Grains
Fruit (except for dark berries) – fructose is a sugar that raises blood sugar
Dairy – the protein molecule in dairy looks very similar to gluten and raises blood sugar quickly.
Even sugar substitutes raise insulin. As soon as you taste something sweet it sends a message to the brain that sugar is coming and your body will respond with insulin.
Heal the gut
Another big contributor to inflammation in the body is irritable bowel or constipation. Both lead to an inflamed lining of the gut and “leaky gut” which in turn causes inflammation in the body. Most people with leaky gut have joint pain as the inflammation settles into the joint and deteriorates them, as well as allergies. Get your food allergies tested. Being on acid blockers also increases inflammation as it reduces your ability to digest. Please do not just go off your acid blockers, treat why you have acid reflux so you can wean off of them.
There are several anti-inflammatory herbs and supplements, but caution is advised here. Many are contraindicated if you are on certain medications.
As I tell my patients, inflammation is the cause of all disease. All of the above are common threads I see in most of my cancer patients. We get one body to experience our life. It is important to do what is necessary to keep it running well so we can maintain a good quality of life. If you do not maintain your car you can buy a new one, we do not have that option with the vehicle through which we experience our lives.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/07072944/8508C89C-55ED-40CF-8779-479BB93A07F1.jpeg11731920Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2020-05-13 16:52:442020-05-13 16:52:51Health + Wellness: A Local Naturopath’s Perspective on COVID-19
Did you know that chiropractic is not just for relief from back pain? In fact, many of the doctor’s patients do not suffer from the disorders typically associated with chiropractic, such as arthritis, backache, neck pain or headache. Instead, patients seek chiropractic care for a variety of benefits, which are supported by scientific research. Although your doctor at Davis Family Chiropractic does care for patients with back and spinal conditions traditionally associated with chiropractic, many of our patients seek care for a multitude of other reason. Below is a sampling of just some of those reasons.
Keep Abreast of the Latest Health Research
Several of our patient’s consider their regular Chiropractic visits not only opportunities to keep their spine in optimal conditions, but also occasions to learn about late-breaking research in wellness fields like disease prevention, nutrition, exercise, mental outlook and stress reduction. To this end, each week your doctor at Davis Family Chiropractic publishes an Optimal Health University® handout on a research topic. In addition, we offer preventive care and wellness workshops aimed at keeping our patients on the forefront of holistic research and warding off potential health challenges before the onset of symptoms.
Correct Extremity Conditions
Sure, you know that chiropractic alleviates pain and disability in the spine, hips, back and neck. You are probably aware that this drug-free approach to health wards off headaches, jaw pain and fibromyalgia as well. But did you know that chiropractic offers effective correction for problems in the joints of the upper and lower limbs (extremities) as well? Your doctor at Davis Family Chiropractic addresses maladies affecting the ankles, knees, wrists, elbows and shoulders with a multifaceted approach. First, alignment in the extremities is influenced by spinal posture. Consequently, a misaligned spine may spark a chain reaction that throws limbs slightly out of balance, leading to uneven wear on joints. Your doctor examines the spine for areas where movement is restricted or spinal bones (vertebrae) are slightly out of place. These dysfunctional segments are called vertebral subluxations. This condition is corrected with specialized, gentle maneuvers called chiropractic adjustments. Next, chiropractic care targets the specific joint involved. This may include gentle adjustment to or manipulation of the joint. It may also involve physiotherapy techniques or exercises custom tailored to the patient’s unique circumstances.
Ergonomic advice is also a common component of an extremity care plan. Scientific evidence supports the use of chiropractic for extremity injuries. For instance, among a group of 30 patients with sprained ankles, researchers found that chiropractic ankle adjustments were superior to ultrasound therapy. Adjustments significantly reduced pain and increased ankle range of motion and function (J Manipulative Physiol Ther 2001:24:17-24). Another study demonstrated that not only can these adjustments subdue knee pain, but they also help restore proper tracking to the kneecap (J Manipulative Physiol Ther 1990; 13:539). And, in another analysis, 24 patients with long-term elbow pain received either a placebo treatment or manipulative therapy. Findings showed “a significant and substantial increase” in the pain-free grip strength of 58 percent during treatment – but not during placebo or nontreatment phases (Manual Therapy 2001; 6:205-12)
Woman having chiropractic back adjustment. Osteopathy, Acupressure, Alternative medicine, pain relief concept. Physiotherapy, sport injury rehabilitation
Improve Overall Health
Scientific research indicates that chiropractic care improves the immune response, which may lead to superior health overall. One study looked at the effect of chiropractic adjustments on specific white blood cells associated with immune function. Known as Pholymorphnulcear neutrophils (PMN) and monocytes, these disease busters help the body destroy unhealthy cells. The study revelead that “…pholymorphnulcear neutrophils (PNM) and monocytes were enhanced in adults that had been adjusted by chiropractors.” ( J Manipulative) Investigators also note that chiropractic care dramatically increases immune response in HIV-positive individuals. In one study, patients receiving adjustments had a 48 percents jump in CD4 cells (cells that play an essential role in immunity). However, test subjects who were not adjusted experienced a 7.69 percent drop in CD4 cells during the same six months (Chiro Research Journal 1994; 3:1)
Combat Visceral Conditions
Visceral conditions are disorders affecting the body’s organs. While chiropractic is usually sought to ward off dysfunctions of the muscles and bones, recent research supports patient testimonies that the benefits of chiropractic are wide sweeping – including possibly preventing visceral conditions. For Instance, findings show that chiropractic may help maintain normal blood pressure ( J Manipulative Phsiol Ther 1988: 11:484-8). Findings also suggest that chiropractic care may improve the likelihood of conception among woman struggling with infertility (JVSR 2003:1:6). Another study reveled that after undergoing chiropractic adjustments. 91percent of patients with multiple sclerosis and 92 percent of patients with Parkinson’s disease “showed symptomatic improvement and no further disease progression during the care period.” (JVSR 2004; 1:9) In one injury in 17 patients with the intestinal disorder Chron’s disease, 12 enjoyed substantial relief from chiropractic care (JVSR 2002; 4:2).
For instance, in a study of 46 children with ear infection, 92 percent recovered with chiropractic intervention alone. “This study’s data indicate that limitations of medical intervention and the addition of chiropractic care may decrease the symptoms of ear infection in young children.” (J Manipulative Physiol Ther 1996; 19:169-77). It’s also been shown to help reduce bed-wetting (J Manipulative Physiol Ther 1994; 17:596-600). And an analysis of 316 babies with colic found that 94 percent benefited from chiropractic care (J Manipulative Physiol Ther 1989; 12). In addition, 76.5 percent of children with asthma in one survey reported improvements from chiropractic (Bull Eur Chir Union 1978; 26:17-34). Researchers also note that “chiropractic manipulation [adjustment] has the potential to become an important nondrug intervention for children with hyperactivity.” ( J Manipulative Physiol Ther 1989;12).
Boost Athletic Performance
Regular chiropractic care helps keep the entire body not merely pain-free but also in top physical form. That’s why professional athletes like Aaron Rogers and Tom Brady turn to chiropractic. Nearly all major professional sport teams work with doctors of chiropractic. Chiropractors tour with PGA and LPGA. And doctors of chiropractic can be found caring for athletes at the Olympic Games. But you don’t need to be an elite athlete to reap the performance-related rewards of thiscare. Recreational sports buffs enjoy bolstered functioning and reduced fatigue from chiropractic care.
Bolster Cognitive Function
Research indicates that these adjustments promote cognitive function and may boost short-term memory. In one study, 36 students were examined for signs of vertebral subluxations. Subjects received either chiropractic adjustments or placebo treatments. Volunteers were then timed to see how quickly they could differentiate between normal and mirror-reversed objects. Individuals receiving chiropractic adjustments improved their reaction time by 14.9 percent during the experiment, while controls enhanced mental processing by only 8 percent (J Manipulative Physiol Ther 200; 23:246-51).
Be More Productive at Work
Patients often report that chiropractic care enhances their productiveness at work. This productivity boost stems from elevated energy and reduced fatigue. In addition, these treatments ward off debilitating chronic pain. “Chronic pain had a larger impact on work performances then has previously been recognized,” researchers in Australia determined after analyzing the data from 484 study participants. “When both lost workdays and reduced-effectiveness workdays were summed, an average of 16.4 lost workday equivalents occurred in six month period, approximately three times the average number of workdays [for non pain reasons].” (Pain 2003; 103:41-7.) According to an alarming article in the Journal of the American Medical Association, “Lost productive time from common pain conditions among active workers cost an estimated $61.2 billion per year [in the United States]. The majorities (76.6 percent) of the lost productive time was explained by reduced performance while at work and not work absence.” (JAMA 2003; 290:2443-54.)
Get the Big Picture
More and more patients are giving up their narrow perception of chiropractic and discovering that this revolutionary holistic approach to health is for much more then back pain. If your friends or family have a “tunnel vision” of chiropractic, please share the research contained in this handout with them. Optimal Health University™ is a professional service of PreventiCare Publishing®. The information and recommendations are appropriate in most instances. They are not, however, a substitute for consultation with a health-care provider such as Dr. Davis. Copyright, 2017.
Dr. Marc Davis, Dr. Christina Kulesz and Dr. Andrew Wade adjust patients at Davis Family Chiropractic & Massage, a thriving wellness-oriented office located next to Fred Meyer in Fisher’s Landing. For FREE monthly tips and community events like us on Facebook or become a member of our website www.davisfamilychiro.com. To schedule a time to meet with Dr. Davis or Dr Christina, or to get information about having him speak at your club, church group or workplace, call (360) 823-2225. Mention “LacamasMagazine” and “Free Scan” to get your Computerized Back and Neck Scan (regularly $95) for FREE (limited time offer).
Dr. Marc Davis, Dr. Christina Kulesz, Dr. Andrew Wade DAVIS FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC AND MASSAGE, PLLC www.davisfamilychiro.com 2415 SE 165TH Avenue, Suite 105 Vancouver, WA 98683 (360) 823-2225
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/07080115/D19E3CCC-F4D8-4245-A936-61FC8F7C2D87.jpeg5211375Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2019-08-05 18:48:492019-08-05 18:48:58Health + Wellness: Chiropractic Care Not Just For Back Pain
It’s August, and Vancouver Laser Skin Care Clinic has some great specials on Laser Genesis, Ultherapy, and laser hair removal.
What is Laser Genesis?
Laser Genesis is a highly effective treatment for targeting enlarged pores, texture and fine lines. Patients often describe the treatment as relaxing and therapeutic. They report a gentle warming of the skin’s surface during the procedure. Patients who incorporate IPL and Laser Genesis treatments as a part of their beauty routine maintain radiant, youthful skin.
Frequently Asked Questions About Laser Genesis
How does it feel?
Patients report a warming of the skin that is quite relaxing.
What is the downtime?
There is no down time.
How long before I see results?
The benefits can be seen instantly with your skin showing a healthy glow and will continue to improve over the following week.
Are there any side effects?
There are no side effects.
The August Laser Genesis special is get a Free Microdermabrasion with the purchase of a Laser Genesis treatment.
Laser Genesis: Before and after.
What is Ultherapy?
Ultherapy® is a non-invasive, non-surgical procedure that utilizes the power of focused ultrasound technology, and sound waves to simulate collagen to lift, tone and tighten the skin. The Ultherapy procedure can be performed on the eyes, brow, face, neck and under the chin and chest. This technology stimulates the production of collagen resulting in continuous improvement of the tone and tightness. An Ultherapy procedure can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on the area treated. Ultherapy delivers outstanding results without surgery or downtime.
The August Ultherapy Special is Purchase a lower neck treatment get the upper face free ($1,500 savings!)
Visit www.VancouverLaserSkinCareClinic.com
Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal is a treatment that safely and effectively removes unwanted hair. It works by targeting the brown and black pigments in the hair, effectively reducing growth with each treatment.
When Vancouver Laser Skin Care Clinic (VLSCC) decided to move its offices to Downtown Camas, they brought more than 30 years of aesthetic laser and skin care experience and an array of treatments and products that rejuvenate skin and restore your youthful glow. They feel good when you look great.
Their office at 715 NE 5th Avenue is charming, and peaceful, and is part of the history and future of Camas, a quaint and successful town that many say is a city about wellness.
“We love being part of this wonderful and historic downtown scene,” said Keller, who owns VLSCC. “And, we invite you to come see what we’re all about. — from pre-teen/adult acne sufferers to mature patients.”
VLSCC offers many services, including: IPL, Chemical Peels, Microneedling, Ultherapy, Face and Leg Vein Removal, Botox, and more!
VANCOUVER, WA – Community Home Health & Hospice is hosting an open house to celebrate the grand opening of their new grief center in Salmon Creek. The open house will take place on March 6, 2019, from 4 pm – 6:30pm at the Seasons of Hope Grief Center, 3102 NE 134th Street, Vancouver. The ribbon cutting with the Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce will take place at 4:30 pm. Attendees will enjoy refreshments hosted by Glenwood Place Senior Living, The Quarry and The Hampton Salmon Creek, games, live entertainment and prizes.
“We are excited about this project and humbled by the support we received. We could not have done this without the Clark County community,” said Greg Pang, CEO Community Home Health & Hospice. “We know there is a need for grief services in our community and we look forward to being a great community resource.”
The Seasons of Hope Grief Center offers free grief support for adults and children ages 5 and up in Clark County. For more information, contact 360.703.0300 or [email protected]
Community Home Health & Hospice is an independent, community-based non-profit healthcare agency serving the healthcare needs of Washington and Oregon families since 1977. Their services include home care personal services, home health, home hospice, in-patient hospice care and bereavement services. Every day, they care for 775 patients throughout Clark, Cowlitz, and Wahkiakum Counties in Washington and Columbia County in Oregon. Community Home Health & Hospice’s mission is to bring peace of mind to patients and their families by providing compassionate, dignified, collaborative, and patient-focused home healthcare and hospice. They have received recognition for nine years as a HomeCare Elite top agency. For more information, visit www.chhh.org
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/07083020/893A4AEA-612B-4FC3-855E-99C946B1CA04.jpeg7901762Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2019-02-05 15:04:272019-02-05 15:04:27Health: New Salmon Creek Grief Center To Open Its Doors Soon
Olympia, WA — With the measles outbreak in Clark County continuing to grow, Governor Jay Inslee issued a proclamation Friday morning declaring a State of Emergency.
The proclamation directed the Washington State Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan to be implemented, which allows state agencies and departments to utilize state resources to assist in prevention and response efforts.
There are now 30 confirmed cases of measles across Clark County. Friday evening, the following lawmakers from Washington’s 17th and 18th Legislative Districts issued the statement below:
Sen. Ann Rivers, R-La Center
Sen. Lynda Wilson, R-Vancouver
Rep. Paul Harris, R-Vancouver
Rep. Brandon Vick, R-Vancouver
Rep. Larry Hoff, R-Vancouver
“We appreciate Governor Inslee issuing a State of Emergency this morning. The outbreak of measles in our local communities is extremely concerning, but we are thankful every resource has been made available to help the Department of Health respond quickly and effectively.
“The governor’s proclamation not only provides essential resources and personnel, but also brings a heightened public awareness about this dangerous and preventable disease. While this is an uncertain and unfortunate time for many across our county, this State of Emergency will help reduce the spread and length of the outbreak. We will continue to closely monitor the situation.”
For more information about the measles outbreak in Clark County, as well as resources on how you can prevent its spread, click here to visit the Washington State Department of Health’s website.
From left: Representative-elect Larry Hoff, Senator Ann River, and Representative Brandon Vick.
As brightly colored gifts pile up under the tree, and kids start dreaming of Santa, parents’ minds are filled with a certain type of anxiety: Will my child be gracious if the toy they receive is a flop? Will they appreciate the things that aren’t wrapped up with a bow?
Set expectations early
Gratitude has two aspects to it: expression and experience. Many parents, in an effort to teach good manners, focus on the first one. It’s important; it can be embarrassing when kids don’t say thank you or give a gift only cursory attention.
Oftentimes, issues with gifts can be headed off by reminding children of your expectations beforehand and letting them know that presents that aren’t a good fit can be exchanged later. Kids who are unable to handle a disappointment can be separated from the gift exchange for a while. Getting upset with or shaming a child for not being gracious is never helpful, as this tends to add to their distress rather than change their behavior.
Nurture the emotion within
However, saying “thank you”—even if it’s for an ugly sweater—is not the same as true gratitude. True gratitude is also an experience or a feeling that comes from within. It’s an emotion, not a behavior. And while it’s extremely valuable, it takes more effort to foster.
Like most things with raising children, teaching them how to feel grateful takes time, patience, and adaptability. Because children naturally imitate adults, I’ve found that the most effective way to instill a sense of gratitude in kids is to model it in your own life. During the 41 years I’ve spend in the health field, my families have shared some unique and fun ways they’ve done this.
One family started a daily dinner routine where everyone shared something that they were grateful for. The parents used the opportunity to provide examples of all the things they considered gifts.
It’s often easier for kids to appreciate physical items, yet it’s the intangible presents—such as someone taking the time to help us with a job, watch a movie with us, or share our joy and pain—that often matter the most. Being able to recognize both types of gifts is critical to creating the types of strong relationships people need in life.
David McWherter is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.
Invent a new family tradition
Another family made a holiday tradition out of sharing things they appreciated about each other. Once a month at dinner, each person wrote down something they were grateful for and the name of the person involved. They kept the notes secret until Christmas Eve when they read their “gratitudes” to the entire family.
Use gratitude as a bridge
Finally, one stepparent used gratitude to bring his blended family closer together. The children’s father had passed away several years previously and he had married their mother. Relationships between the stepdad and the kids were strained. One Christmas, he put a letter to the deceased father on the tree. The kids were crazy with curiosity, but had to wait until all the other Christmas gifts were opened before seeing the contents.
It was worth the wait. Inside the envelope was a letter of gratitude highlighting how much the children had enriched his life and how grateful he was to be a part of their family. He thanked the deceased father for that gift and wrote that he should be proud of his children. There was not a dry eye in the room at the end of the reading.
By modeling gratitude and kindness, and by equipping kids with the tools they need to be thankful for gifts in all their forms, parents can help their children be appreciative during the holidays and beyond.
_________________________________________________
David McWherter is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner serving children, adolescents, and kids with autism spectrum disorders.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/07090129/9E6DEF0A-C4F8-411E-A125-FA1C99C0109F.jpeg9201919Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2018-12-03 15:03:092018-12-03 15:03:09McWherter: How to Help Children Appreciate Holiday Gifts
Don’t wait until you get sick to start taking care of yourself! These tips are easy to incorporate everyday and will build up your immune system, which can help you avoid illness and if you do get sick, reduce the duration and severity of symptoms.
1) Incorporate immune-boosting foods like garlic, turmeric and ginger daily. These spices have a long history in terms of protecting us from bacteria and viruses. Make these spices a part of your everyday routine to boost your body’s natural defense system: use garlic in almost any savory dish, sip on ginger tea or try Golden Milk to get a dose of turmeric. A curry would be a great way to combine all three!
2) Take care of your gut. Did you know that researchers are now saying that up to 80 percent of your immune system resides in your gut? Keep it healthy by consuming fermented foods regularly (think sauerkraut, kimchi, kombucha, and yogurt), taking a probiotic supplement and eating plenty of fruits and vegetables. The fiber from fruits and veggies helps nourish the good bacteria in your gut, making it more likely to flourish over potentially harmful bacteria.
Kimchi is a great food.
3) Apple cider vinegar is a traditional folk remedy. You’ve probably been told at some point to try apple cider vinegar for some health complaint you were experiencing. Not only is it good for your gut, but the acid in the vinegar can help fight off pathogens that threaten to make you sick. If you’re already sick, apple cider vinegar can help thin out mucus. Try taking 1 – 2 tbsp in a cup of warm water or using it in cooking and in salad dressings. No need to do straight shots, which may do more harm than good!
4) Vitamin D supplementation. Living in the Pacific Northwest, we’re accustomed to being mindful about our vitamin D levels, but did you know vitamin D plays a role in our immune system as well? Adequate levels of vitamin D are protective against infection. Make sure to take your supplement with some fat to maximize its absorption.
5) Less stress, more sleep. Stress wrecks our immune systems by throwing off the healthy microbes in your gut, which is a big blow to your body’s defense system. This time of year is notoriously stressful, but try to minimize stress as much as you can. Find tools that help you manage your stress – a deep breathing practice, yoga, a walk in the woods, having a few quiet minutes with your coffee in the morning. When we sleep, our body gets to work on healing us and keeping us healthy. The more sleep you get this time of year, the better off your immune system will be!
Emily Penn is a Holistic Nutritionist based in Camas. She offers nutrition counseling, meal delivery, pantry clean outs and grocery store tours through her business, Good Medicine Nutrition. Food is our best medicine and she wants to help you use it.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/07090933/0150BD04-FACB-4290-A7AC-B947B5DE751E-e1542225996997.jpeg10542119Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2018-11-14 12:13:162018-11-14 12:15:53Emily Penn: Five Tips to Boost Your Immunity This Cold + Flu Season
Lori Keller, Master Aesthetician, and owner of Vancouver Laser Skin Care Clinic, located in Downtown Camas, answers common questions about laser benefits.
Why are laser aesthetics so effective?
It reverses the signs of aging and sun damage with minimal to no downtime.
When you come in, we will do a complimentary consultation to create a program for your skin care needs. For example, if a client wants to reduce wrinkles, we do a combination therapy which includes laser, microneedling, and peels, depending on the severity of the wrinkles or sun damage.
What are common myths and misconceptions about aesthetic laser treatments?
Does it hurt is the most common question. The answer is sometimes there is none to minimum pain level, depending on treatment being performed.
Another common question is “does it work?” The answer is yes — we have lasers that correct and ultrasound to lift and tighten the skin without surgery.
Going on the Internet and seeing mistakes being done by people who are unqualified or inexperienced. I have more than 30 years of experience.
What kind of equipment do you have?
The Cutera XEO platform is the laser we use, which I’ve been using for 20 years, and I’m happy with the results this awesome technology offers. We also have the Ultherapy ultrasound for lifting and tightening the skin without surgery.
BEFORE/AFTER: Limelight treatment for brown spots and sun damage.
What makes our treatments a good Christmas gift?
Start the New Year with renewed self-confidence! You can see the results pretty quickly, depending on skin type. We feel that lasers offer great results in skin rejuvenation. Bring in the New Year with your best face forward. It’s about giving the gift of confidence at any age — male or female, young, middle-aged or more mature all benefit from our services at Vancouver Laser Skin Care Clinic! Lasers produce fabulous results, as well as facials, microdermabrasion, chemical peels and ultrasounds for lifting and tightening without surgery.
We have special offers that are very affordable. It’s giving the gift of beauty.
What services does Vancouver Laser Skin Care Clinic offer?
Intense Pulse Therapy (IPL), Chemical Peel Treatment, Microneedling, Ultherapy, Face/Leg Vein Treatment, Botox/Fillers, and we offer Jane Iredale mineral makeup (makeovers), and medical level skins care products that perform!
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/07091017/41746580-E7AD-4877-A112-2E7E90BD7918-e1542057012547-scaled.jpeg18164000Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2018-11-12 13:50:182018-11-14 12:17:43Health: What Are The Benefits of Laser Skin Care Treatments?
Colon cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S. Thanks to advanced screening measures, it’s also a highly preventable disease—and treatable when discovered early. Yet far too many individuals and families have to deal with a difficult diagnosis because they don’t know what to do to protect their colons—or are afraid to do it. As a gastroenterologist, one of my passions is taking the fear and embarrassment out of GI exams and discussions so that people are willing to get the care they need. Below are five of the most important things I think everyone should do when it comes to reducing their colon cancer risk.
Dr. John Randles
1. Get a colonoscopy.
A colonoscopy is the absolute best way to check for cancer and to prevent it through polyp removal. The procedure allows doctors to catch issues early on, removing pre-cancerous polyps and catching cancerous ones before they even produce symptoms. Between 30 and 40 percent of individuals have polyps on their first screening. The earlier issues are caught, the greater the chance of a cure.
What’s more, while colonoscopies sound uncomfortable, they’re actually quite unremarkable. Drinking the prep to clean out the bowels is the worst part. The actual procedure is extremely simple and takes just 25 to 30 minutes. Sedation is provided, and most patients drift off to sleep and do not remember the procedure.
2. Know the facts about other screening methods.
A stool test can find trace amounts of blood or DNA from cancer and detect if a patient already has the disease. Stool tests are not as good as a colonoscopy at detecting pre-cancerous polyps. And while these stool-based tests are surely better than no screening, only a colonoscopy can help prevent colon cancer by allowing doctors to remove the polyps that lead to cancer.
3. Discuss your family history with your doctor.
Most individuals need to begin colon cancer screenings at 50, which is the age that colon cancer generally starts appearing. However, individuals with a family history of colon cancer or advanced polyps, and individuals who have inflammatory bowel disease may need to start screenings earlier. African-Americans are at higher risk of the disease and may consider beginning screenings at age 45.
4. Treat your body well.
Eating a diet rich with fiber, fruit, and vegetables and maintaining a healthy weight can help protect people from colon and other cancers. It’s also best to avoid red meat and alcohol, which are linked to an increased risk. Of course, smoking is never a good idea. Certain adults who are 50-plus may benefit from taking a daily low-dose aspirin, which can decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease and possibly colorectal cancer.
5. Pay attention to concerning symptoms.
While most colon cancers occur in those age 50-plus, everyone, no matter their age, should see their doctor if they notice concerning GI issues. Bloody stools, weight loss, a change in bowel habits, and persistent abdominal pain all warrant a trip to the doctor.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/07091817/BE2B4993-9D62-4F75-9A7C-0211F84563ED.jpeg11782120Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2018-11-01 14:35:562018-11-02 08:18:58Health: Dr. Randles Provides Five Tips for Colon Cancer Prevention
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