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Chiropractic Care for Sciatica This common condition affects more than 3 million people each year in the United States. Sciatica can cause serious and persistent nerve pain that originates in the spine and typically extends down the back of the leg. For many people, the pain from sciatica can be excruciating and debilitating, sometimes making standing or sitting difficult or impossible. If you or someone you love is suffering from sciatica, you've come to the right place. Read on to learn how chiropractic can relieve the painful symptoms of sciatica. ​ The Sciatic Nerve The longest nerve in the body, the sciatic nerve is actually a bundle of five nerves that exit from the lumbar spine and sacral foramen. These nerves group together at the piriformis muscle in the buttocks to form the one large sciatic nerve, which then travels down the back of each leg. The sciatic nerve provides strength and sensation to the legs and connects major muscles with the spinal cord. An impairment or issue with the sciatic nerve can cause muscle weakness, numbness and pain. ​ A Set of Symptoms, Not a Diagnosis Often misunderstood, sciatica is not the cause of the irritation at the nerve root, rather it is a set of symptoms. Some of the conditions that cause sciatic pain: Herniated or slipped disc (most common cause) Piriformis syndrome (muscle in the buttocks becomes tight or spasms) Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal creates pressure on nerves) Spondylolisthesis (slippage of a vertebra, narrowing the nerve exit) General wear and tear on the lower spine ​ Risk Factors for Sciatic Pain and Damage As the body ages, risk increases for sciatic nerve issues due to age-related changes in the spine, such as herniated discs and bone spurs. (Another important reason why continuous and preventative chiropractic care is essential to spinal and overall health.) Obesity also can increase risk, as excess weight can contribute to spinal changes. Diabetes increases risk of nerve damage, and is another risk factor for sciatica. Other lifestyle factors such as occupation and prolonged sitting can play a role in the development of sciatica. ​ Supporting Research for Chiropractic and Sciatica Whenever possible, opt for conservative treatments over more invasive and drastic measures, such as surgery. Chiropractic care and adjustments are a viable option for treating the pain and symptoms associated with sciatic nerve issues. A 2006 study published in Spine found that manipulations (adjustments) helped relieve pain due to acute back pain and sciatica. Another study published in 2010 found that sixty percent of sciatica patients (who hadn't found relief from other therapies) experienced the same level of relief from chiropractic adjustments as patients who eventually had surgery. In closing: There is an urgent problem facing our community where families are being compromised due to misinformation about health. Americans have never been as sick, diseased, or symptomatic as we are today. There are an endless amount of people who are suffering, who have been through the ringer and have tried anything and everything to no avail. Schedule an appointment to talk to our doctor about how chiropractic may be able to help you take your health to the next level.

​Spinal Disc Condition Solutions Spinal discs, though blamed with causing a long list of physical ailments, do provide essential benefits to your health. These vital inter-vertebral "pads" allow you to move about with the ease and flexibility. They are the spine's shock absorbers. A side view of a normal spine shows that it is not as straight as perhaps generally supposed. There are curves which give the spine additional shock absorbing properties. A jolt or bump to any part of the body is diffused to the spine and it is principally the discs which absorb the impact, even in such everyday jolts as those created by walking. Since a vertebra cannot become misaligned without involving one or more discs to some degree, it is easy to see why these innocent discs get blamed for causing trouble more often than they deserve. Nature placed these cushioning discs between the spinal segments for a most special and serviceable purpose. They act as hinges between the vertebrae and it is their elasticity which gives the spine whatever mobility it has. BACK SYMPTOMS Any kind of persistent back or neck symptoms indicate a serious health problem. Like your teeth or almost any other part of your body, your vertebrae and spinal discs may be in trouble long before you experience symptoms or discomfort. A normal, healthy spine can withstand a tremendous amount of stress and strain without breaking down and without symptoms. When a severe symptom follows a slight accident or incident of stress or strain, you may be sure your spine was already weak and in trouble – perhaps for months or even years before the symptom was felt. Yet even a healthy spine can succumb to unusual stress, accidents, or jolts; the damage to the spine, as well as to surrounding muscles and joints, can produce spinal misalignments, disc problems, back symptoms, and continuing back disorders. SLIPPED DISCS The term "slipped disc" is really a misnomer. Discs are firmly attached to the vertebrae above and below and, as such, cannot "slip." They can, however, become wedged or "bulged" due to misalignment of one or both of their neighboring vertebrae. This condition is often termed a "slipped disc." A common cause of such wedging – and one which can cause indescribable symptoms – is a sudden injury to the spine from a fall, an auto accident, whiplash, strain from lifting, a blow to the neck or back area, etc. The effects of disc injuries may be very extensive and distressing. There may be limited motion with severe symptoms, or even organic dysfunction resulting from pressure on the nerves that pass between the vertebrae and are adjacent to the disc, thus altering nerve supply to organs and parts of the body located away from the spine itself. Note: The word "pressure" is used for clearer understanding; the scientific term is "irritation." RUPTURED DISCS True herniation - or rupturing - of a disc is quite rare. More often than not, back conditions thought to be ruptured discs are really the result of a bulging disc due, primarily, to a spinal misalignment (called "subluxation"). When such a misalignment is corrected by chiropractic methods, the disc can return to its original, natural position and resume its normal function, thus relieving the nerve pressure and accompanying symptoms. However, in severe cases, a disc can actually rupture. Such conditions are always extremely symptomatic and are generally caused by: Tremendous traumatic force, such as a fall from a high level or perhaps an auto accident Pathological weakness of the disc resulting from prolonged altered nerve supply to surrounding supporting areas, which may have been caused by a vertebral subluxation Pathological weakness coupled with trauma. When pathological weakness is present, complete recovery is not possible until the disc can regain its natural and normal toughness. Such pathological weakness is usually preventable or correctable through proper chiropractic care of the vertebrae and discs. DIAGNOSIS Diagnosis is essentially naming the condition. Medical treatment is primarily dependent upon knowing the name of the condition, then administering drugs or perhaps performing surgery to alleviate the symptoms. However, many medical theories about back symptoms are not supported by scientific proof. The concept of this common problem of back or disc injury often is restricted in scope and unsound in theory. The average family doctor does not have the specialized knowledge, training, or skill needed to properly analyze and treat back problems as effectively as a chiropractor can, though he may be thoroughly trained and qualified in other specialties. Surgical statistics factually report that up to 90% of all back operations fail to bring complete relief. Powerful drugs may relieve back symptoms, but they often cause other conditions to develop and are dangerously deceptive. Medication masks useful diagnostic symptoms and hides the signs of destructive processes, which may continue unabated. Such drugs interfere with the body's natural recuperative processes and can cause a harmful delay in proper chiropractic treatment to correct the underlying causes, usually misalignments of spinal vertebrae and discs, rather than a true ruptured disc. CHIROPRACTIC ANALYSIS AND CARE Our chiropractor specializes in the area of spinal and disc conditions and related bone and nerve problems. Years of nerve-muscle-skeletal specialization and additional experience of obtaining results in all types of back problems enable them to analyze each patient's unique disc problems with expertise found only through this chiropractic training. Your disc problem may be unique, but your symptoms will be similar to thousands of others because the general symptoms of most back disorders are similar. A simple label of "slipped disc" or "pinched nerve" is useless as a diagnosis, unless the correct spinal and disc adjustments are given to solve the problem. Chiropractic diagnosis and analysis is designed to locate the real cause of your back problem. Our doctors have the special knowledge, training, and skill to correctly find and eliminate the cause of back symptoms in probably 80% of disc conditions. PROTECT YOUR SPINAL DISCS While medical diagnosis uses "slipped disc" as a cover name for most back problems, including those few true ruptured discs, a false impression is given that most all back problems are due to disc problems. This simply is not true, and statistics and results prove it. The fact is that most back problems, including disc involvement, can be corrected through specific application of chiropractic spinal adjustment. Providing comprehensive solutions and pain relief for a variety of chronic conditions: Bulging or herniated discs Degenerative disc disease Facet syndrome Failed back surgery Sports injuries Car accident injuries ​ Chiropractic Treatment: Chiropractic care is a safe and effective way to treat herniated and bulging disc problems. By utilizing a comprehensive report of the patient's history, performing a physical examination and potentially taking digital images, a chiropractic doctor will diagnose what type of disc problem may be occurring. In some cases, your chiropractor may need an MRI to be able to prescribe a suitable treatment plan specific to your needs including adjustments and therapeutic exercises. In many cases, surgery and injections should be considered your last option due to the risks and side effects involved. In closing: There is an urgent problem facing our community where families are being compromised due to misinformation about health. Americans have never been as sick, diseased, or symptomatic as we are today. There are an endless amount of people who are suffering, who have been through the ringer and have tried anything and everything to no avail. Schedule an appointment to talk to our doctor about how chiropractic may be able to help you take your health to the next level.

Sinus Infections and Chiropractic Treatment Common in the United States and affecting over three million people a year, sinusitis or sinus infection is an infection or inflammation of the sinuses. Often when you have a cold that lasts longer than 10 days or begins to worsen after it started to get better, it's likely you have sinusitis infection. ​ Find out more about sinusitis and how chiropractic care can help... ​Symptoms of a Sinus Infection The most obvious sign of sinus infection is pain in the ear, face, forehead, sinuses, behind the eyes or nose. Other symptoms and signs include yellow-green nasal discharge, congestion, headache, cough, difficulty sleeping, throat irritation or soreness, fever and fatigue. ​ Causes of a Sinus Infection Your sinuses serve an important purpose; the hollow cavities in your cheekbones, around your eyes and behind your nose contain mucus that filters, warms and moistens the air you breathe. An infection is typically caused by something blocking the mucus from draining. ​ Typically, a sinus infection will start as a cold and then a virus or bacteria infect the sinuses. A good rule of thumb for determining if your infection is viral or bacterial, is the length and symptoms. If you've been sick less than 10 days and are not getting worse, it's likely viral. If you have not improved at all within 10 days, or have begun to get worse after it started to get better, it's likely bacterial. ​ Chronic Sinus Infections Prolonged inflammation (not infection) of the sinuses, lasting 12 weeks or longer, is considered chronic sinusitis. Salt-water irrigation is often used to treat this condition. In some cases, surgery is performed, but it's important to take a conservative approach first. ​ The Chiropractic Connection: Preventing Illness In the United States, preventative medicine is often overlooked. Building a routine of healthcare around maintaining wellness versus treating illness is an important part of a wellness lifestyle. Chiropractic treatment focuses treating subluxations in order to maintain an optimally functioning nervous system. Subluxations, a misalignment of one or more spinal vertebrae that create stress or irritation on nearby nerves, can hinder the optimal function of the nervous system. ​ The Chiropractic Connection: Boosting Immunity We know that the nervous system and the immune system are connected through the adrenal glands, and mounting evidence is revealing that these two systems are linked in other ways. The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases states there is evidence that the "brain may send messages directly down nerve cells to the immune system." This link supports the theory of chiropractic: Removal of subluxations through the chiropractic adjustment allows the body to function optimally. ​ Additionally, studies have also shown a connection between boosted immunity and chiropractic care, and continued research is being performed in this field. In closing: There is an urgent problem facing our community where families are being compromised due to misinformation about health. Americans have never been as sick, diseased, or symptomatic as we are today. There are an endless amount of people who are suffering, who have been through the ringer and have tried anything and everything to no avail. Schedule an appointment to talk to our doctor about how chiropractic may be able to help you take your health to the next level.

A bulging disc is often thought of as a normal part of the aging process. It may cause pain and decrease mobility. Athletes and people who have very physical jobs are often prone to bulging discs as well as other disc issues. Not getting enough water and nourishment to the disc can also cause it to become weakened. Chiropractic has been proven to be an effective treatment for bulging disc and the associated pain. A herniated disc is a relatively common condition that can occur anywhere along the spine, but most often affects the lower back or neck region. Herniated discs are typically caused by overuse injuries or trauma to the spine; however, disc conditions can also develop as a result of the normal aging process. It is also known that there is a genetic factor that contributes to the development of disc degeneration and herniated disc. WHAT ARE BULGING AND HERNIATED DISCS? As we age, the spinal discs gradually lose fluid volume. This process starts at about age 30 and progresses slowly, over time. Bulging discs are often thought to be the same as herniated discs but that is incorrect. A herniated disc involves a crack in the disc’s outer layer. This is called an annulus. Typically, a small part of the disc is affected, allowing the soft material that makes up the nucleus pulposus to protrude. This is different from a bulging disc because, unlike a herniated disc, there is no crack. The disc bulges out of the space but it doesn’t crack and no material protrudes. It also affects more area of the disc than a herniated disc. The most common causes of herniated disc are: Wear and tear: Discs dry out and aren’t as flexible as they once were. Repetitive movements: Work, lifestyle, and certain sports activities that put stress on the spine, especially the lower back, further weaken an already vulnerable area. Lifting the wrong way: Never lift while bent at the waist. Proper lifting entails lifting with your legs and a straight back. Injury: High-impact trauma can cause the disc to bulge, tear or rupture. Obesity: Carrying excess weight puts an undue amount of strain on the spine. Genetics: There are some genes that are more commonly present in individuals with disc degeneration. More research is needed to investigate the role of these genes-they could be targets of biological treatment in the future. While a herniated disc is likely more painful, a bulging disc can also cause pain that can increase over time. Symptoms of a bulging disc include: Tingling, numbness, or muscle weakness in one or both legs Changes in bowel or bladder function Hyper reflexivity in one or both legs Paralysis below the waist Deep pain over the shoulder blade or in the shoulder area Pain when moving the neck or low back Radiating pain in the fingers, forearm, and upper arm Bulging and herniated discs are often diagnosed by a combination of several methods. A physical exam, along with a full history of the problem depending on severity may lead to tests like MRI, x-ray, and myelogram with CT scan. From there, your Doctor of Chiropractic will work with you to find the best course of care. How can chiropractic help with disc issues? Chiropractic is the preferred method for many patients with bulging and herniated discs because it is non-invasive and does not involve drugs or injections. Once you have your diagnosis, you and your chiropractor can work together to find the best way to care for your condition. Your Chiropractor will want to verify your diagnosis so you may go through questions about your medical history, a physical examination, and tests that involve nerve function, reflexes, balance and muscle tone. Your Chiropractor may also order an MRI, pre and post x-rays as well as other diagnostic testing in order to get a better picture of what is going on and your progress. One of the most popular features of chiropractic care is the whole body approach to wellness. Your Chiropractor will look at your entire spine, not just the area that is painful and lifestyle choices to help you heal and recover. They will care for your entire spine because it is one structure working cohesively and provide self-care direction, exercise, and nutritional recommendations so that you can continue to progress and function better. Your pain and spinal problems occur due to the results of spinal misalignment inducing the disc weakness. Your Chiropractor will seek to get to the root of the problem so that you have less pain, your body can heal, and you can have better function and mobility. Through focused Chiropractic adjustments, your Chiropractor will use techniques to relieve the painful symptoms by adjusting your spine around and at the disc that is bulging or herniated. Using cervical or lumbar traction machines can aid in helping to open the joints of the spine up to take pressure off of the disc and allow for the bulge and herniation to absorb back to where it needs to be. Chiropractic care for bulging or herniated discs is safe, effective, and long lasting. Those having back pain from a disc problem get quality chiropractic care at our office so everyone can enjoy less pain, improved mobility, and better quality of life. Schedule an appointment to talk to our doctor about how chiropractic may be able to help you take your health to the next level.

Neck Pain and Chiropractic Care One of the most common conditions chiropractors see and treat is neck pain. According to the National Institute of Health Statistics national survey, neck pain is the second most common form of pain in the United States (following back pain and tied with headaches and migraines). An estimated three quarters of Americans will be affected by neck pain at some point in their lifetime. As experts in the musculoskeletal system, chiropractors are the ideal healthcare providers to treat problems associated with the neck. ​The Cervical Spine The neck makes up the part of the spine referred to as the “cervical spine.” This curved portion of the spine consists of the first seven vertebrae, starting from the base of your skull at the C1 (atlas) vertebrae and ending at your thoracic spine. One of the three curves in your spine, the cervical curve is critical to overall spinal health. Any reduction or misalignment in this area of the body can cause pain, headaches, migraines, stiffness and more. It’s important to note that it may take years for pain or other issues to surface, which is why it’s critical to get check in order to prevent or delay potential health issues. ​ The Four Commonly Seen Cervical Curves There are four different types of curvatures in the cervical spine—all of which can be determined through an X-ray. Our doctors typically see these four different kinds of curves in patients: ​ Lordotic. This is a normal, healthy curvature in the neck—which is about 42 degrees when standing upright. Think of it as a c-shaped curve that faces the opposite way your nose points. Hypolordotic/Alordotic. This means that there is a decreased curve or no curve in the neck. In an X-ray, the neck may look straight. Reverse Curve/Kyphotic. This is a reverse curve—and the kind of curve you want to stay far, far away from. This means that your neck has completely lost its healthy curve and is now curving the opposite direction, connecting your thoracic and cervical curves. ​ “S” Curve. The hardest curve to correct, the “S” curve is when the spine has both a lordotic and kyphotic curve. ​ Why is the Cervical Curve Important? The curvatures in the spine act as shock absorbers for various body parts. If the correct curvatures are not present, the discs and joints will experience greater pressure. To give you an idea of how this may feel: imagine jumping off a ledge without bending your knees. Without proper curvature in your neck, this is the kind of pressure your discs and joints are under. This isn’t the only issue hypolordotic/alordotic, reverse curve/kyphotic or “S” curves present. An unhealthy curve can also cause premature degeneration of the discs and joint spaces of the spine. This degeneration could lead to neurological symptoms down the road, as well as premature arthritis and joint fusion. ​ How Do I Know if I Have a Healthy Curve? The best way to determine if you have a healthy curve in your neck is to be evaluated by your chiropractor. X-rays and physical examinations can help the doctor determine what kind of curve you have and the best methods of treatment. Remember: Pain is a late indicator of an issue. Even if you’re not currently experiencing any pain, it’s important to take preventative steps and have regular spinal evaluations and adjustments. ​ Many patients we see with neck pain and stiffness have a reduced curvature in their neck. Certain chiropractic adjustments and supportive exercises and therapies are designed to help restore the neck to the ideal (lordotic) curve. Shortly after beginning treatment, many patients see improvements, including a reduction or even elimination of pain. It’s important to continue care even after your symptoms have subsided, as it takes time to restore a healthy curve. In closing: There is an urgent problem facing our community where families are being compromised due to misinformation about health. Americans have never been as sick, diseased, or symptomatic as we are today. There are an endless amount of people who are suffering, who have been through the ringer and have tried anything and everything to no avail. Schedule an appointment to talk to our doctor about how chiropractic may be able to help you take your health to the next level.

Aging and Chiropractic Aging is a natural process that occurs as an individual goes through life. Over time, the body goes through natural changes such as thinning or graying hair, declining senses or decreased function in bodily organs and normal wear and tear on joints and muscles. ​ Around the world, people are living longer, making proactive and preventative healthcare, such as chiropractic, critical to not only living longer, but enjoying the later years in good health. ​ Longer Lifespans and the Baby Boomers According to the 2012 Center for Disease Control and Prevention report, life expectancy in the U.S. is 78.7 years. Incredibly, that's nearly double what it was in 1880, when Americans were living between 38.3 and 44 years. Currently, baby boomers are turning 65 years old at a rate of 10,000 per day! As this generation likely extends the average lifespan, drug-free and conservative forms of healthcare, like chiropractic, can play an important role in preserving good health. ​ Top Health Concerns Facing Aging Adults Some of the top health conditions American seniors experience: Heart disease Arthritis Mental health Osteoporosis Vision and eye diseases Age-Related Falls and Injuries Millions of senior Americans fall each year and many of these falls result in moderate to severe injuries. These injuries, which are largely preventable, can increase the risk of early death. One out of three adults (aged 65 or older) fall each year. Around 20 to 30 percent of these adults experience moderate to severe injuries such as lacerations, hip fractures and head traumas. Other fractures are spine, hip, forearm, leg, ankle, pelvis, upper arm and hand. ​ Preventing Age-Related Health Issues through Chiropractic Care Chiropractic care helps encourage whole body wellness and prevent problems that can cause pain and other symptoms down the line. Choose the conservative approach of chiropractic care because: Chiropractic adjustments keep your spine and nervous system interference-free so you can be at your physical, mental and emotional best Chiropractic care is gentle, safe and effective Regular chiropractic adjustments and supportive therapies encourage your body's innate ability to heal itself and prevent injuries Chiropractic is a natural, conservative approach Through proper nutrition, exercise, limited medications, healthy relationships and chiropractic care, living in good health in "old" age is absolutely possible. In closing: There is an urgent problem facing our community where families are being compromised due to misinformation about health. Americans have never been as sick, diseased, or symptomatic as we are today. There are an endless amount of people who are suffering, who have been through the ringer and have tried anything and everything to no avail. Schedule an appointment to talk to our doctor about how chiropractic may be able to help you take your health to the next level.

Core Exercises to Strengthen Your Back Did you know that a weak core is often a cause of back pain and problems? Your abdominal muscles are actually the front anchor of your spine, and when they’re weak, the muscles in your back have to work extra hard to provide the support it needs to function and stay in proper alignment. As you can guess, when muscles work overtime, injury can happen! Do you work out your core muscles? If not, here are a few easy ideas to add to your exercise routine. 1. Side bridge. While laying on your side, prop yourself up onto your forearm (which should be kept directly below your shoulder. Your top foot should rest on the ground in front of your bottom foot. While maintaining the natural curve of your spine, lift your hips off the ground and hold the pose for 10 seconds. Repeat a few times on each side. 2. Reach and kick. Place your hands and knees on the floor as if you were in a table top position. Your knees should be directly under your hips, and your hands under your shoulders. Kick one leg back in a straight position, and with the opposite arm, reach forward. Squeeze your shoulders. Retract your limbs slowly and repeat evenly on both sides. 3. Superman. While lying face down on your stomach, reach your arms out in front of you and lift. At the same time, lift your legs up. Hold the pose for a few seconds and repeat. Looking for Another Back Boost? We’re here when you need us. We regularly work with patients to devise custom care plans that include adjustments, focused exercises and stretching to help their spine work optimally. Schedule a visit with us today to get started.

152 pounds of sugar. That’s the average amount an American adult eats per year. Consuming sugar might be something most people do a lot of, but eating sugar is not good for your health. While it’s not easy to cut sugar out of your diet, it’s worth it. Here is a guide to help you learn how to stop craving sugar and why you should start finding ways to eliminate it from your life. Why We Crave Sugar Most of us crave sugar because we consume so much of it. The more sugar you eat, the more you will crave. You see, each time you eat sugar, it triggers your brain to release dopamine. Dopamine is a hormone that causes “good feelings” for you. As you eat more sugar, your brain requires more sugar to release dopamine. Therefore, you eat more to feel better. After a while, you might eat way more sugar than you ever did before in your life. How to Stop Craving Sugar Eating sugar is an addiction, in a sense. Therefore, it’s difficult to stop eating it. You might not feel good when you stop consuming sugar. It’s also hard to stop eating it because sugar is a key ingredient in so many different foods and beverages. If you want to stop eating it, you’ll need to learn how to stop craving sugar. Here are some tips that might help you decrease your craving for sugar: Start Eating Less Sugar If you want to learn how to eat less sugar and stop craving so much of it, you’ll need to start cutting it out of your diet. A good way to start is by skipping the sugar you normally add to the foods you eat. For example, if you add three tablespoons of sugar to your oatmeal, reduce it to one tablespoon. If you add sugar to your coffee, cut the amount in half. Finding ways to eat less sugar will help you retrain your brain to crave less. Replace Sugar With Natural Things Next, you should look for ways to replace sugar with natural things. For example, instead of eating a candy bar for a snack, grab an apple. Instead of drinking a soda with your lunch, drink water. Cutting out sugary things by replacing them with less-sugary things is a great way to reduce your sugar intake. As you reduce your intake, you will crave less sugar. Begin Exercising Exercising each day can also help you reduce your cravings. When you exercise, your brain also releases dopamine. As this occurs, you feel happier and better. As a result, your body might not crave sugar as much. Start Using a Diet Program If you want to eliminate sugar from your diet, you might also want to start using a diet program. ChiroThin is one option to consider, as it helps you accomplish this goal. When you eliminate sugar from your diet, your body will go through a detoxification process. Detoxification involves removing the impurities from your body, and this process takes time. While you’re going through it, you might notice some changes occurring in your body. These changes are normal, and you should expect them to occur. Health Benefits of Cutting Sugar Out of Your Diet At this point, you might be asking yourself, “why should I eliminate sugar?” There are many reasons to eliminate sugar, and you’ll understand this more by learning the primary benefits of cutting out sugar. Here are some of the benefits: Your Blood Pressure Might Drop Eating too much sugar leads to an increase in blood pressure. Sugar consumption also leads to weight gain. When you cut sugar out, your body should naturally respond in two ways. First, you will likely begin to lose weight. Being overweight is a top cause of high blood pressure. Therefore, when you lose weight, your blood pressure drops. Next, your blood pressure might drop simply because you are no longer eating something that causes an increase in blood pressure. If you are concerned with your blood pressure, try eliminating sugar. You Might See an Improvement in Your Cholesterol Levels People who consume a lot of sugar also have a risk of high cholesterol. When you eat sugar, it causes your liver to create more bad cholesterol (LDL). When you stop eating so much sugar, your body has less LDL in it. You Will Have More Energy Eating a lot of sugar stops your brain from releasing chemicals that help you feel alert and awake. While you might initially feel some added energy after eating sugar, you’ll soon feel tired after eating it. Eating sugar makes you feel tired. When you cut sugar out of your diet, you will likely have more energy and feel more alert and awake. You Will Lose Weight Sugar leads to weight gain. If you struggle with your weight and cannot seem to lose it, try eliminating sugar. It can make all the difference in the world. You Lower Your Chances of Diabetes When you eat sugars, your pancreas responds by releasing insulin. When you continue to eat sugars all the time, your pancreas can experience problems creating enough insulin. If this happens, you could be at risk for developing diabetes. One of the best ways to protect yourself against diabetes is by controlling the amount of sugar you eat each day. Cutting out sugar offers many other benefits than the ones listed here, but these are some of the top ones. Seek Help From an Expert craving sugar is a common problem in life. While you might face challenges trying to eliminate it completely from your life, your body will thank you when you do. Learning how to stop craving sugar is an excellent place to start, and seeking help from an expert is also wise.

Blood Flow Boosting Foods It’s no secret that proper blood flow is essential to the overall health and function of our body. But how can it be improved? One of the best (and most natural ways) to do so is through nutrition. If you feel like your circulation could use a boost, consider adding these healthy foods to your diet—or eating more of them without going overboard—and see if you notice a difference. 1. Omega-3s. Fish aren’t the only way to ensure you’re getting Omega-3s into your diet. Protect the lining of your blood vessels with chia seeds and nuts in addition to fish like salmon. 2. Leafy greens. Did you know that leafy greens are good for blood vessel health? Things like arugula, brussels sprouts and broccoli make great sides with dinner. 3. Beets. The benefits of beets have long been studied. Some research even ties fresh beet juice to a reduction in blood pressure. Add beets to your next salad or sandwich! 4. Green tea. A study by the Chiba Hokusoh Hospital in Japan found that green tea intake was related to a lower risk of developing coronary artery disease. Green tea also makes a great pick-me-up during your midday slump. 5. Dark chocolate. No, we’re not kidding! Dark chocolate contains polyphenols that work to mobilize stem cells, which may aid in circulation. Want to give your circulation and body an even bigger boost? Schedule a visit with our team and learn more about the power of natural chiropractic care. We look forward to welcoming you into the practice soon.

A slow metabolism might not be the only reason you’re having a hard time losing weight. You read that right. Metabolism plays a role but isn’t the only determining factor. Your metabolism is responsible for maintaining many of your body’s functions. Like most people, you probably associate it with your weight more than anything else. According to the experts at Harvard Medical School, genetics plays the biggest role in your metabolism. However, there are some ways to jump-start it, which can be helpful if you’re trying to shed some pounds. One of the best ways to reach your goal weight is to burn more calories than you consume. Clearly, the foods you eat play a role in the success of your weight loss program. Choosing the right foods is a matter of calories in versus calories out, but there are some foods that slow metabolism at the same time. Avoiding these items may be what it takes to lose those pounds. Refined Grains If you’re wondering how to speed up metabolism, cutting refined grains is the ideal first step. While your body needs grains for their healthy carbohydrate content, refined ones should be avoided. That’s because they have had most of their nutrients stripped away during processing. White bread, pasta, crackers, and rice are the biggest offenders. These foods are easy for your body to break down, which means your metabolism doesn’t have to speed up as much to digest them. Whole grains are a much better choice. Read food levels to determine if an item is made from whole or refined grains. Soft Drinks Soft drinks contain high fructose corn syrup, which has many damaging effects on your metabolism. That includes slowing it down but also increasing the risk of metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of diseases that can have devastating health consequences. They include diabetes, stroke, and heart disease. In addition to potentially slowing your metabolism, soft drinks are also high in calories, which can derail any healthy weight loss plan. It’s better to drink water and skip the soda. Alcohol Many kinds of alcohol, especially when used to make cocktails, contain large amounts of sugar and calories. But it’s also been linked to a slower rate of fat burning. At the same time, alcohol contains toxins that your body must work to neutralize. While it’s doing that, it’s not burning fat. So drinking too much alcohol can slow your metabolism and lead to weight gain. Fried Foods You’re probably already aware that fried foods can hinder your weight loss goals. After all, they are packed with fat and calories. Too much of either will pack on the pounds, rather than support your goals. However, fried foods may also slow your metabolism. This is especially true with restaurant meals, which are often fried in partially hydrogenated oils. These oils, which contain huge amounts of trans fats, stop your metabolism from humming along as it should. Combined with the high amounts of fat and calories in fried foods, this is a sure-fire way to prevent weight loss. Farmed Beef Beef can be part of a healthy weight loss diet. However, farmed beef is often treated with antibiotics. This can alter the healthy balance of bacteria in your digestive system. When that happens, it can make your metabolism sluggish. When it can’t keep up with what you’re eating, chances are you’re going to gain weight. The good news is that you don’t have to give up your favorite burger. Choose organically raised or grass-fed beef products instead of farmed ones. Granola Bars If you’ve always thought granola bars were a healthy food, it’s time to take another look. Many of them contain high fructose corn syrup, preservatives, and other ingredients that can slow your metabolism. If you’ll recall from our discussion about soft drinks, high fructose corn syrup can cause health problems but also slows metabolism. Combined with the other preservatives in granola bars, they could be hindering your goals. When you buy granola bars, be sure you choose those that are made with oats, which can speed metabolism, but that are also free of preservatives and sugar. You might also consider making your own granola bars. This gives you control over ingredients and allows you to enjoy a favorite snack without worrying that it will derail your weight loss. Frozen Dinners While they are certainly convenient, frozen dinners often contain the ingredients talked about on this list. That includes farmed beef and produce that has been treated with pesticides. In addition to their high fat and calorie content, frozen dinners can slow your metabolism. Many also contain partially hydrogenated oils, which can make the situation even worse. Foods That Slow Metabolism and Foods That Don’t When it comes to figuring out how to speed up metabolism, the foods you eat play a role. This list gives you some specific examples, but in general, it’s best to choose whole foods over processed ones. The bulk of your diet should contain a variety of fruits and vegetables, lean meats and protein, low-fat dairy, and whole grains. They are your best bet for learning how to boost metabolism. Not only can these foods help speed metabolism, but they are high in nutrients that support good health. At the same time, they also tend to be lower in fat and calories, another great way to support healthy weight loss. The best foods to help with metabolism should also be ones that you enjoy. You’re more likely to stick with the plan if you eat foods that taste good to you. Experiment with healthy choices to find what you love best. What’s Next? Avoiding foods that slow metabolism in favor of those that speed it up can help with your weight loss goals. Marking the items here off of your grocery list is a great first step.

Chiropractic for ADD / ADHD Relief If you are a parent of a child suffering from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, you may be wondering what all your treatment options are. The most common intervention for ADHD is prescribed medication. While this may have some success at treating the symptoms, it can come with a slew of unwanted side effects. Also, many parents may be concerned with the effects of long term prescription medication consumption may have on their children. ​ You may think that the only effective treatment for disorders such as ADHD are medications, but there are other treatments out there that are natural and effective. Did you know that many chiropractors have a proven track record of successfully treating the symptoms of ADHD and other learning disabilities? Chiropractic care can help treat an array of symptoms and disorders. If you think that chiropractic is limited to back pain, you haven’t learned about all that regular adjustments can do. ​ Chiropractors work to find and address any subluxations in the spine. By performing regular adjustments, chiropractors help to ensure proper nerve flow. If a child’s spine is misaligned, it may be affecting their behavior and performance at school. Chiropractic care is based on the concept of holistic wellness, meaning the health of the whole body. If the spine and nerve flow are working properly then the rest of the body may follow. ​ Chiropractors suggest the following tips and lifestyle changes for children dealing with ADHD: Eliminate sugar, preservatives, food dyes and additives from the diet. Use natural, unprocessed foods, avoiding all pesticides and herbicides. Find out if your child has any allergies, and address them. Avoid medications, alcohol, nicotine and any other stimulants while pregnant. Find time to relax while pregnant as stress can affect the unborn baby’s health. In closing: There is an urgent problem facing our community where families are being compromised due to misinformation about health. Americans have never been as sick, diseased, or symptomatic as we are today. There are an endless amount of people who are suffering, who have been through the ringer and have tried anything and everything to no avail. Schedule an appointment to talk to our doctor about how chiropractic may be able to help you take your health to the next level.

10 reasons parents take their children to see a Chiropractor: To encourage good neural plasticity (brain and nerve development). To support their child’s overall immune health and wellbeing. To help strengthen their child’s immunity and reduce the incidence of colds, ear-aches and general illness. To assist with breast feeding issues, colic, digestive and Irritable Baby Syndrome. To help with sinus, asthma, breathing difficulties and allergies. To encourage good spinal posture. To help improve their child’s ability to concentrate… parents will really appreciate this!! To assist with behavioral disorders. To help alleviate digestive problems and bowel functions. To assist with bed-wetting and sleep issues. Your child’s health is their greatest asset. I urge you to explore all possibilities you have to strengthen your child’s health... While chiropractic may be able to help with a number of health issues, our focus is not treating or curing ailments; our focus is ensuring the nervous system has every opportunity to work efficiently and effectively. Can you cook at night with the lights out? Duhhh! For example, imagine your nervous system is like the lighting system in your home. If the lights start to dim, you might not be able to cook dinner very well, you may start banging into furniture, you may trip and hurt yourself, you may feel frightened. How the dim lights influence you precisely will vary but the issue is still the same – there is a communication problem between the wiring and the light bulbs which need detecting restoring and fixing. In the same way, Chiropractors spend years studying the nervous system to be able to detect and correct these ‘communication errors’ in the body called Subluxations. Schedule an appointment to talk to our doctor about how chiropractic may be able to help you take your health to the next level.