Spring Cleansing and Clearing

Spring Cleansing and Clearing

Springtime has a natural feeling of rejuvenation and rebirth. The days get visibly longer, little green buds start to appear on the trees and hibernating animals come out of their winter slumber. For us, as humans, the lengthening days bring with them a natural urge to shed winter layers and move into new beginnings. Cleansing, either by eliminating things from your diet, introducing new things or clearing our spaces of unnecessary clutter, can be a supportive way to move into spring.



Cleansing by eliminating certain parts of your diet can be a great way to rid the body of any toxins that may have built up over the winter months, healing and resetting our bodies for the new season. Cleansing can look very different depending on what your goals are, but the idea is to spend a chunk of time consuming a “cleaner” diet, meaning more whole foods, like fruits, vegetables, whole grains and nuts.



The natural availability of more fruits and vegetables during the spring presents the perfect opportunity to cleanse by only consuming raw fruits and vegetables or fruit and vegetable juices. This might feel dramatic. Cleansing can also mean eliminating just one part of your diet for a week or 10 days, which could be sugar, caffeine, alcohol, processed foods, etc. There is a spectrum of cleansing, but based on what your needs are this spring, practicing some sort of elimination diet can be incredibly rejuvenating and healing.



Incorporating a cleanse into your spring could also be introducing certain elements into your diet to support healthy digestive and immune system function. As mentioned before, consuming a diet based around only whole foods is very healing for the body, and spring is a great time to add more of those elements into your diet simply because more fruits and vegetables are in season once the weather improves. Incorporating vitamins or supplements into your diet can also support your overall health and have a rejuvenating effect. Adding local honey into your diet can also be a great way to boost your immune system and fight allergic reactions, because it is made from local flower pollens.



Dandelions, which pop up in huge numbers during spring, can also be incorporated into a springtime cleanse. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), spring is the time of year to attend to the liver and gallbladder, and dandelion is very cleansing and strengthening for both organs. The dandelion greens can be used in a salad or tea and are very nourishing.



In conjunction with dietary cleansing, spring is a time to incorporate more regular exercise and movement into your life. As the weather improves and it’s easier to get outside, our bodies come out of a type of hibernation themselves and crave more movement each day. Consider taking your bike to work instead of driving your car if that’s possible in your city, or incorporate movement into your day in other ways. Take walks after dinner or during your lunch break, up the intensity of your workouts or stretch in the mornings or evenings to facilitate more movement throughout your day. Bodywork, such as acupuncture or massage, can also be very beneficial and cleansing practices this time of year. Both acupuncture and massage will support your other cleansing efforts as well as your muscles and tendons for healthier exercise and physical activity.



Lastly, spring cleansing can extend beyond your physical body and into the spaces you inhabit. Taking some time this spring to clear out clutter from your home can be a great way to enter the new season feeling lighter and refreshed. Creating a clean, tidy space in your bedroom can be especially helpful, because it creates a restful atmosphere that invites relaxation and sleep. One simple way to incorporate more tidiness is to clear off any clutter from your bedside table. It is also a good time of year to go through your wardrobe and get rid of or donate anything you no longer wear. Creating a peaceful bedroom will support the rest you need to tackle any changes or opportunities that may present themselves this spring. 

New York Sports Acupuncture

Bishara Wilson, DACM, L.Ac.

www.NewYorkSportsAcupuncture.com

888.375.5444

Five Reasons Acupuncture Helps Digestive Function

Five Reasons Acupuncture Helps Digestive Function 

Digestion is a complex task performed by the body. It begins in the mouth and finishes when the ingested food leaves the body through the rectum. For all we have learned over the years regarding digestion, there is still so much more we don’t know or are still learning. For example, it wasn’t until recently, the last 10 years or so, that modern medicine confirmed our gastrointestinal tract is our second brain. This discovery is drastically changing the way the body and its many functions are viewed, because everything we put in our mouths can potentially have life-altering effects on the mind, as well as the body.



Digestive disorders are rampant in the United States. Surveys estimate nearly 70 million people in the United States are affected by some sort of digestive disorder. This could be anything from gallstones to acid reflux to pancreatitis. For many, these disorders are extremely debilitating. But for every person dealing with a debilitating digestive disorder, there are thousands more that just assume everything they are experiencing is “normal.”



Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is just one of the many ways people can deal with their digestive disorders. TCM is a very old medical system that utilizes many different modalities to treat imbalances in the body. Acupuncture is just one of the modalities that can be used. More and more studies about the effectiveness of acupuncture are being performed every day, many of which hold great promise for those who suffer from digestive issues.



Acupuncture helps with digestion because it treats the person holistically, meaning all parts are considered when treatment is rendered. There is no compartmentalizing as in Western medicine. So, a person being treated by a licensed acupuncturist or TCM practitioner will not only notice changes in their digestive issues, but they may also notice changes in their psyche too. And since the mind and body are closely connected, this can be very beneficial for the patient.



Studies have shown acupuncture can stimulate peristalsis in the intestinal tract. This is very helpful for people who deal with chronic constipation. In as few as one to two treatments, a person suffering from chronic constipation may find relief.



Nausea and vomiting are another frequent problem associated with digestion. Acupuncture and even acupressure are wonderful tools for calming the upset stomach. One acupressure point on the underside of the forearm has been studied extensively just for this function. In most cases, the nausea and vomiting are greatly decreased or stopped altogether.



Bloating is another common problem associated with the digestive tract. This can be caused by eating too much food or improper digestion. Acupuncture treatments help the digestive process of breaking down foods without the excess gas that frequently causes bloating.



Diarrhea isn’t just a problem that occurs when somebody is suffering from the stomach flu. In fact, it is much more common than many people think. Acupuncture treatments can help resolve diarrhea by clearing either excess heat or excess dampness from the digestive tract, while also strengthening it.



If you are curious about how acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine can help you with your digestive issues, ask us! We are happy to guide you along your healing journey. 

New York Sports Acupuncture

Bishara Wilson, DACM, L.Ac.

www.NewYorkSportsAcupuncture.com

888.375.5444

Walnuts and Your Brain

Walnuts and Your Brain

Many people like to add walnuts to food to add some zest and a little crunchy kick, but walnuts are much more than a flavor additive, as they are chock full of healthy properties and have been used in Asia as an overall health tonic and brain booster for years. Let’s take a nutty look at walnuts.

Walnuts, otherwise known as Hu Tao Ren in Chinese medicine, are used as a kind of herbal remedy. In Chinese medicine, they look at the quality, temperature, flavor, and color of a food to uncover certain elements that are beneficial to those who need to balance those qualities in their body. For example, the walnut is classified as “warming”. Warming foods tend to improve circulation and raise what is known as the yang qi. The yang is what is energetic, bright, outward, hot and moving (as opposed to yin, which is more inward, dark, still, cool and moist). Warming food is used in cold conditions; for example, if your stomach is cold from an overabundance of cool foods, you may have some digestive issues like gas and bloating due to slower digestion. In addition, the walnut is lubricating, moist and a bit greasy. This quality is helpful for lubricating the intestines and helping digestion and constipation.

In Chinese medicine, the element of the food goes to certain organs and is beneficial for them; walnuts are said to benefit the lungs, large intestine and the kidneys specifically. Walnuts strengthen the lungs to help chronic cough, asthma and skin conditions (which are connected to the lung, according the Chinese medical principles). Walnuts also are a kidney tonic and help urination; in addition, kidneys are said to influence libido, fertility, the back and knees and the aging process. Walnuts have been used to help libido and fertility, a 2012 study in Asia showed males who consumed walnuts had improved sperm quality. In addition, walnuts are used for insomnia. They help raise serotonin levels, which promote feelings of well being and help people sleep better. Finally, in looking at food as medicine, foods that resemble a body part often treat that organ. What does the walnut resemble? Two lobes of the brain, the left and right hemisphere. It is commonly known that walnuts are an excellent brain food.

Walnuts have been shown to have high levels of Omega-3, which is an essential fatty acid that helps brain and heart function. Walnuts are anti-inflammatory, have antioxidants and recent research has shown they may have anti-cancer properties and help diabetes due to beneficial fats. In addition, they have vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant, minerals and B vitamins. Walnuts help digestion and give a feeling of being full, so they aid in weight loss.

It should be noted that in Chinese medicine, most food recommended for health is used in a formula that is unique for you and an overall treatment plan is created. Walnuts are not a panacea for health care, and it’s best not to self-diagnose; instead, visit an acupuncture provider to get a thorough diagnosis and a balanced formula right for you.

Walnuts are not recommended in cases of fever, diarrhea or allergic reaction to nuts. If you are generally healthy and want a nice tonic, add a nice handful of nuts to not only perk up your food but also your body.


New York Sports Acupuncture

Dr. Bishara Wilson, DACM, L.Ac.

888.375.5444

www.NewYorkSportsAcupuncture.com

Healthy Eating According to Traditional Chinese Medicine

Healthy Eating According to Traditional Chinese Medicine

Do you consider yourself a healthy eater? Do you follow the guidelines set forth by the government for healthy eating? Or have you gone rogue? There are as many different definitions of healthy as there are colors in the rainbow. But according to traditional Chinese medicine, there are certain guidelines that will keep the body happy and healthy throughout life. Let’s explore this a little deeper.

The Traditional Chinese Medicine diet is based on energetic principles that encourage balance, clean-burning digestion and a well-functioning body that remains free of disease and full of energy. Eating for balance is a way of life in Traditional Chinese Medicine theory. There are certain foods that help the digestive system function properly and allow the body to utilize the nutrients it needs to perform. When food enters the mouth, it travels through the stomach and intestines. This is where the energy is extracted from the food and the waste products are excreted. The energy that was extracted become your life force or Qi (pronounced “chee”). Digestion, in TCM theory, should be an unnoticeable event. The digestive system should be clean and quiet, allowing the body to extract the most nutrition and energy from the food that is ingested. If the digestive system becomes clogged, the energy does not get adequately absorbed and there is leftover residue that sticks to places within the body thus causing blockages and affecting the body’s daily functions.

Dampness is the most common byproduct of eating foods that create blockages in the digestive system. Foods that create dampness include cheese, yogurt, white flour, and sugar. Dampness causes blockages or stagnations that can then lead to pain and disease. Symptoms of accumulated dampness include mucus, loose stools or constipation, excess weight gain and swollen joints. Chronic allergies and arthritis are two Western medicine diseases that are very closely linked to dampness.

To avoid disease, the TCM diet recommends things like steamed rice, cooked vegetables and small quantities of animal protein. Vegetables play a major role in draining dampness and are packed with nutrition. The more colorful the vegetables, the healthier they are for the body, as they contain lots of antioxidants that promote health and longevity. Your plate should begin with large quantities of brightly colored and lightly cooked vegetables. Leafy greens are very important also as they are some of the most balancing and nutrient-dense foods available.

Rice is a balanced food that is easily digested. Rice is also hypo-allergenic and this is advantageous to those who are dealing with allergies as it is very gentle on the digestive system. White rice tends to be more cleansing, while brown rice is considered more nourishing. Rice is a clean burning food that gently drains dampness from the body.

Protein is the final component of a healthy TCM diet. Animal proteins and beans are difficult to digest and therefore are only suggested in small quantities. Beans are better overall than animal proteins as they do help absorb dampness and they provide fiber.

There are several things that should be avoided in the TCM diet. Dairy is one of the biggest culprits in creating dampness. It is also cold in nature and this is a hindrance to the digestion. Cold, raw foods are culprits in the formation of dampness, as it is difficult for the body to process them. This is why foods ingested should be at least at body temperature. When the body has to heat the food, it drains the energetic resources of the body, which weakens the body over time. So things like salads, chilled food, iced drinks and frozen foods should not be included in the daily diet.

When it comes to healthy eating, it is obvious that most of the United States doesn’t adhere to the aforementioned guidelines. If you are truly trying to eat healthily and you are dealing with illness, why not consider trying the TCM way of eating? You might be surprised at how your body changes.


New York Sports Acupuncture

Bishara Wilson, L.Ac., MSTOM, DACM (c)

www.nysportsacu.com

888.375.5444

Eating According to TCM: Four Foods for Summer

Eating According to TCM: Four Foods for Summer

Traditional Chinese Medicine is a medical system thousands of years old and incorporates many different modalities. TCM theory emphasizes that Mother Nature provides the right kind of food for the right kind of environment. For instance, if the weather is cold, then warming, nutrient-dense foods are best for the body. Likewise, when summer rolls around, it is best to partake of cooling foods and foods abundant during this season.

           

Summer is a time of great abundance. Or as the Chinese refer to it, the time of utmost yang.  The days are longer and warmer. And everything and everybody seems to be more active. The warmth of the summer sun encourages growth and maturation. In TCM, summer relates to the element of fire and the heart and small intestine energetic pathways or meridians. Because summer is a time of growth, many fruits and vegetables become abundant during the season.  And because the season tends to be the warmest, it is important to stay cool and hydrated.

           

The summer months are generally hot and therefore the body needs to be kept cool. This is the perfect time to eat more raw foods that can clear heat. But as with anything, don’t overdo it. Too many cold or raw foods can wreak havoc on the digestive tract causing spasms, tightness and contractions. This will make the body work harder to warm the food being eaten, which can then deplete the Qi of the spleen and stomach meridians. Therefore cooked foods and even soups are still recommended during the warm summer months. They are usually made with seasonally-available foods or eaten at room temperature to avoid any digestive conflict.

           

It is best to avoid heavy, greasy and fried foods during the summer months, as they can also clog up the digestive system. They can also create excess phlegm in the lungs leading to respiratory problems. And when cooking during the season of summer, it is best to create meals quickly and simply by grilling or stir frying.

            

As mentioned, foods cooling or neutral in nature and hydrating foods are all good choices during the summer months. Here are some foods recommended to eat throughout the season of summer.

                       

1.   Summer Vegetables: Things like peppers, eggplant, onions and summer squash are all good choices. They tend to be high in water content which helps keep the body cool.

2.   Greens: Foods like cabbage, kale, broccoli, Swiss chard, and spinach are great choices to add to a salad or even to stir-fry. They tend to be neutral to cooling in nature.

3.   Melons: Melons are high in water content, so they are great to have around on those really hot summer days for replenishing lost fluids. They are also non-calorie dense so they won’t be heavy on the stomach.

4.   Fruit: Summer is when there is an abundance of fruits. Most fruit tends to be cooling in nature, but the high sugar content can be detrimental to the spleen. The best choices are fruits grown in tropical climates, as they have the highest water content.

If you need more help understanding or designing a proper seasonal eating plan, contact us. We want to help identify what plan works best for you.

New York Sports Acupuncture

Bishara Wilson, L.Ac., MSTOM, DACM (c)

www.NYSportsAcu.com

888.375.5444

Herbal Formulas for Summer

Herbal Formulas for Summer

Summer. The word alone stirs up thoughts of campfires, flip-flops, popsicles, swimming and long sunny days. However, for many people, it also means sunburns, mosquito bites and excessive sweating. Fortunately, there are lots of ways to deal with all of these issues. Sipping on some refreshing lemonade or munching on a slice of watermelon are some traditional ways to cool off. But Traditional Chinese Medicine has some other less common ways of treating summer ailments.

TCM utilizes a methodology based on the five elements. Summer is ruled by the fire element. The summer months are a time of growth, joy and spiritual awareness. Something commonly seen by TCM practitioners during the summer season is a phenomenon called summer heat. The symptoms of summer heat include excessive body heat, sweating, constipation, dry mouth and heart palpitations. Despite the fact summer is a season of warmth, the body still needs to be prepped for the seasonal changes. Any transition from one season to another should include the boosting of the body’s immune system. Therefore, herbal formulas that strengthen the essence and nourish the body are very important to have on hand as summer rushes in.

Herbal formulas are an integral part of TCM. In fact, most scholars believe herbal formulas preceded the development of acupuncture, another vital modality utilized by TCM. One herbal formula that is a must must-have for somebody showing signs of summer heat, is known as Qing Shu Yi Qi Tang. This formula will clear away summer heat, promote bodily fluids and benefit the Qi (pronounced “chee”). Qi is the energy or life force that keeps all living things alive. When Qi becomes deficient or depleted, the body shows signs of disease.

Another herbal formula that can be beneficial during the summer months is known as Liu Yi San. This formula clears summer heat, resolves dampness and tonifies Qii. This particular formula can be used in severe cases of summer heat or heat stroke, as it can help stop any nausea or vomiting associated with heat exhaustion.

Not all herbal formulas are comprised of multiple herbs. There are some individual herbs that can be very helpful to have around in case somebody becomes stricken with summer heat. For instance, chrysanthemum flowers (Ju Hua) are frequently steeped into a refreshing tea during the warm summer months. Ju Hua clears heat from the lungs and is cooling to the body.

Mung beans can also be used to fight off summer-heat and heat exhaustion. Mung beans can be steeped into a tea and sipped during an attack of summer heat. This tea can prevent and decrease the symptoms of dehydration, headaches, abdominal bloating and decreased urination.

There are also many other herbs that can be added to food or steeped into teas or used topically that can help with summertime ailments. Lavender is good for stress relief, as well as skin problems. Got a bug bite? Try applying some diluted tea tree oil. Elderflowers can assist with upper respiratory congestion that is sometimes common. Dandelions can be steeped into a tea that will help reduce a fever.

There are many ways herbs and herbal formulas can help during the warm summer months. Many of the single herbs can be found already made in teabags at the local grocery store. For the herbal formulations, call us now to see exactly you need. So raise a glass of lemonade or iced tea to the season of summer. And don’t forget to add the Ju Hua.

New York Sports Acupuncture

Bishara Wilson, L.Ac., MSTOM, DACM (c)

www.nysportsacu.com

888.375.5444

Four Ways to Overcome Childhood Obesity

Four Ways to Overcome Childhood Obesity

Childhood obesity is a serious health issue affecting more than 12 million children in the United States. From a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, obesity is related to a weakness in the digestive energy, a stagnation of energy in the body, heat accumulating in the stomach or an accumulation of dampness and phlegm. These imbalances may be inherited or may be products of the environment, lifestyle, diet and stress of the patient.

There is no magic pill for obesity - but in most cases, childhood obesity can be prevented or treated with lifestyle modifications and natural medicine. Here are four ways to help your child overcome obesity.

1. Move!

           

Exercise is incredibly important in reaching and maintaining a healthy weight. It is important, especially for kids, to make exercise fun! Try different team sports and individual athletic endeavors, competitive sports and collaborative activities, high intensity exercise and more gentle forms of movement like yoga or tai chi. The important thing is to find what is right for your child - what he or she will keep doing on a regular basis (at least four times per week).

2. Eat a Spleen-friendly Diet

           

In Traditional Chinese Medicine the spleen is what controls digestion. It is in charge of transforming the food we eat into nutrients the body can use, and then transporting those nutrients around the body. When the spleen is constantly fed food that is overly processed, sweet or greasy, it can’t function optimally. This leads to the formation of dampness and excess fat. The metabolism will suffer as the spleen is weakened, compounding the problem. That is why it is important to be sure your child largely eats a spleen-friendly diet.

           

To nourish the spleen, avoid foods that have a lot of sugar, are overly processed or are particularly greasy. Also, limit the intake of cold temperature foods and beverages. The spleen exerts a lot of energy heating up the food you eat to be 98.6 degrees - you can help it out and give it warm foods or room temperature beverages, allowing it to use its resources on digestion, transformation and transportation.

3. Heal the Gut.

           

A spleen-friendly diet is a great way to prevent obesity and to teach your child how to stay healthy long-term. However, in order to reverse direction when obesity is already present, it is important to take steps to heal the digestive system, as it is clearly already compromised. Taking age-appropriate probiotics is a great place to start. Probiotics introduce good, healthy bacteria into your gut, so that there isn’t space for unhealthy bacteria to make themselves a home. More and more research shows how integral our microflora biodome is to our overall health, and probiotics are an essential piece of creating healthy gut flora. 

Another way to heal the digestive tract is to introduce bone broth. Bone broth refers to soup or broth made from cooking animal bones for a long time, allowing the broth to leech out the good, healing nutrients from the bone marrow. Bone broth is incredibly nourishing to the digestive system as well as other core energy systems in the body. It helps repair a damaged gut.

           

4. Get Acupuncture

           

Acupuncture can be a terrific therapy for helping your child through this process of losing weight and shifting their lifestyle. Depending on the age of your child, acupuncture or acupressure may be more appropriate, and both serve to move stuck energy, strengthen the spleen and stomach, reduce heat or inflammation, and transform dampness and phlegm. They can improve metabolism, reduce cravings, regulate appetite and offer support during these difficult lifestyle changes.

It may be hard work, for both you and your child, but overcoming childhood obesity is essential in setting your child up for health as an adult.

New York Sports Acupuncture

Bishara Wilson, L.Ac., MSTOM

www.NewYorkSportsAcupuncture.com

888.375.5444

Foods for the Winter Season

Foods for the Winter Season

Everybody knows that food is what gives our bodies the energy we need to survive. But not everybody is aware that certain foods should be consumed during specific times of the year. In areas like the Midwest, where fruits and vegetables are harder to keep on hand when the weather becomes colder, this principle is followed a little more closely. But in areas like Hawaii and Southern California, where fresh fruits and vegetables are always available and the climate is more moderate, people sometimes forget to eat according to the seasons.

Traditional Chinese Medicine is a medical system that has been around for nearly 4,000 years. When this system came into being, people were much more in tune with the seasons and their environment. The foods they consumed were based on the seasons and when those foods were available. This is a system that should be followed for people to remain healthy throughout the year, regardless of where they live.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, winter is a time of reflection and rejuvenation.  The body needs the extra hours of darkness to repair. The kidneys are the center of energy in the Traditional Chinese Medicine system and thus, they need to be nourished during the winter months. It is recommended we consume foods that are warming and that will boost the kidney energy. We also need to eat foods that benefit the Shen (spirit) so that the winter months don’t bring about depression.

Things like soups and stews are extremely important during the cold winter months. Energetically, warming foods such as anchovies, bay leaves, chestnuts, chicken, fennel, leeks, mussels, mutton, nutmeg, pine nuts, sweet potatoes and walnuts are all great to incorporate into the diet. Also, foods that boost kidney energy are just as important. Items like millet, sesame seeds, kidney beans, lamb, beef, goose, duck, eggs, grains, seeds and nuts are all good tonics for the kidneys. Bone broth is another important food to consume during the winter months, as it supports the bones and the kidneys. It is recommended that the foods be cooked for longer periods and at lower temperatures to retain as much energy as possible. It is also advisable to eat more food with bitter flavors while reducing salty flavors, so that heart health is promoted and the workload of the kidneys is reduced. Bitter-flavored foods include apricot, asparagus, celery, coffee, tea, grapefruit, lettuce, kale, vinegar and wine.

One of the most commonly used foods is something known as congee. Congee is a thick grain-based soup or porridge. Congee is used in a preventive fashion to promote good health and strong digestion. Congee can be made with a single grain, like brown rice, or a combination of grains, beans, vegetables and medicinal herbs.  Incorporating this item into the daily diet will improve energy levels over time. Congee is prepared in a crock pot overnight, which fits in perfectly with the aforementioned principles of slow cooking at lower temperatures. It is said that the longer the congee cooks, the more powerful it becomes.

Incorporating the foods listed above during the winter months, can be a wonderful way to boost your energy throughout the season. And this will also help in the seasons to follow, as the body will be healthier and better prepared.

Bishara Wilson

New York Sports Acupuncture

www.newyorksportsacupuncture.com

888.375.5444

Performance-Enchancing Herbs

Performance-Enchancing Herbs

Everyone is looking for that competitive edge. Have you ever wondered how you can easily increase your athletic performance (legally of course)? Well, look no further. Here are three performancing-enhancing herbs that will kick your body into gear and have you playing to the fullest of your potential.

1. Ginseng - Ginseng is a well-known fix to increase performance. So well-known, that many consider ginseng to be the most-studied herb in the field of performance enhancement. It is said to restore Qi and increase physical power.

2. Gotu Kola - Known more commonly as Indian Pennywort, gotu kola increases energy levels and aids in quick recovery of sports-related injuries. The herb can be consumed in pill form, in a drink or in a salad.

3. Rhodiola - Rhodiola may just be your new favorite go-to herb. Ditch the 5-hour Energy, and pick up some of this miracle herb. From fighting fatigue to increasing overall athletic performance, there is little rhodiola can’t do. You can find rhodiola in both pill and powdered-form.

Bishara Wilson

New York Sports Acupuncture

www.newyorksportsacupuncture.com

888.375.5444

6 Truths About the Not-so-sweet Side of Sugar

6 Truths About the Not-so-sweet Side of Sugar

A study published by the JAMA Internal Medicine found that more than 70 percent of Americans consume more than the recommended daily amount of sugar. Sadly, most of us are addicted to sugar, which happens to be hidden in most of the foods and drinks we consume. Added sugar can cause a whole array of problems that can be short term as well as long term. If you are experiencing health problems, lowering your sugar intake may be one of your best options. Below are 10 truths about the ugly side of sweets.

 

No nutrients

Refined sugar has no nutritional value and it is recommended to consume as little as possible. The first step in eliminating sugar is from drinks such as soda, juice and mixed alcoholic drinks. Because of the large amounts of sweetener in these drinks, it can make them very addictive and hard to quit drinking.

Harms your liver

Sugar can be just as damaging on your liver as alcohol and lead to fatty liver disease. When you consume too much fructose, your body becomes insulin resistant resulting in various problems that can cause disease.

Raises cholesterol

One study done in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that participants who ate the highest levels of added sugars showed the biggest increase in bad cholesterol levels and triglyceride blood fats and the lowest levels in the good cholesterol levels.

Leading cause of obesity

In America, sugar is one of the leading culprits of obesity. It is estimated that 80 percent of food products in the U.S. contain added sugar. The best way to lose weight and lower your risk of obesity is to eliminate all processed foods and drinks.

Bad for your teeth

It should be a no-brainer that sugar is bad for your teeth. You may remember growing up having the dentist tell you as a kid to eat less candy to prevent cavities. As an adult, we know it’s not only candy that will cause cavities, but sugar that is found in your favorite drinks and everyday foods as well. Best way to sustain healthy teeth and gums? Cut the processed and refined sugar.

Can lead to type 2 diabetes

When your body is consuming too much sugar, your glucose levels become too high, which can be toxic to the body. When this happens, your body has a harder time producing enough insulin to keep blood sugar levels normal. This can then lead to type 2 diabetes.

Bishara WilsonNew York Sports Acupuncturewww.newyorksportsacupuncture.com888.375.5444

Sources:

http://bit.ly/1VXrUuT

http://bit.ly/1U6W5uR

http://bit.ly/1Onu7xU

7 ways to make your loved one smile this Valentine’s Day

7 ways to make your loved one smile this Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to show your loved ones how much you care. Below are some ideas to make this year’s holiday a memorable one.

Start the day off right

Make a homemade breakfast for your loved one or close family and friends in your life. Everyone can appreciate waking up to something homemade. Try doing breakfast in bed for your significant other or hosting a friends and family brunch at your house.

Show your appreciation

Don’t forget to tell your loved one how much you appreciate them. Show them how much they mean to you by making a creative list of all the reasons you are happy they are in your life.

Plan the day

Make a plan for the day! Decide to do an activity that you both enjoy whether it is getting outside, going to a museum or going out to the movies. Splurge a little for the day.

Don’t sweat the small stuff

Take this day to put everyday stressors on the backburner. Life gets busy, and a lot of times we take it out on the people we care about the most. Try to forget about trivial problems and enjoy your loved one’s company! The small things you may fight about don’t matter, especially today.

Take the pressure off

Instead of doing Valentine’s Day gifts this year, make a decision with your significant other to put the money toward something else for the both of you. Instead of feeling the pressure to go buy a gift, plan a weekend getaway together or even a day trip to enjoy each other’s company.

Take care of yourself

Your loved ones care deeply about you, so make sure you are taking care of yourself as well. Keep your health in check and remember that it is ok to be selfish sometimes. The people in your life want to see you happy as much as you want to make them happy.

Every day can be Valentine’s Day

Remember that any day is the perfect opportunity to show how much you care and love the people in your life. Strive to make your loved ones smile today and every other day as well. The small gestures can go a long way. 

Bishara Wilson, L.Ac., MSTOM, C.SMA

New York Sports Acupuncture

(888) 375-5444

www.newyorksportsacupuncture.com

How Folic Acid Can Help You Get Pregnant

How Folic Acid Can Help You Get Pregnant

Becoming pregnant can be frustrating and discouraging when it doesn’t happen right away. There are many common problems that could be preventing you from getting pregnant including a folic acid, or folate, deficiency.

According to research fellow Dr. Jorge Chavarro from Harvard School of Public Health in Boston, folic acid is one of the most important reasons for reducing the chance of ovulatory failure.

Folic acid is the synthetic form of the B-vitamin folate, it can be found in supplements as well as enriched foods such as cereal or other grains.

Taking folic acid for at least one month before conception reduces the risk of neural-tube defects, such as spina bifida, by up to 70 percent, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The recommended-daily dose of folic acid for women who want to get pregnant is .4 milligrams, during pregnancy the recommended amount is .6 to .8 milligrams.

Not only can it help you get pregnant, but this vitamin can also help embryo survival as well as brain development of the child during pregnancy.

A study done by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine on more than 18,000 women found that those who took multivitamins that included folic acid had improved fertility.

These women also had a 40 percent lower risk of complications producing eggs.

Along with supplements, you can find folic acid in its natural form in many vegetables and fruits:

• Lentils

• Dried beans, peas

• Broccoli

• Spinach

• Collard or turnip greens

• Okra

• Asparagus

• Citrus fruit: papaya, oranges, grapefruit, strawberries, raspberries

• Avocado

• Seed & nuts

• Cauliflower

• Beets

• Corn

• Carrots
• Squash

Getting the recommended-daily amount of folic acid before and during pregnancy is one of the easiest ways to improve fertility and to have a healthier pregnancy. You can find folic acid supplements at your local grocery story.

Bishara Wilson, L.Ac., MSTOM, C.SMA

New York Sports Acupuncture

(888) 375-5444

www.newyorksportsacupuncture.com

5 Ways to Eat Without Overeating this Holiday Season

5 Ways to Eat Without Overeating this Holiday Season

Moderation

We’ve always the heard the saying to enjoy everything in moderation, and that is definitely true when it comes to holiday foods. Don’t try to deprive yourself during the holidays, it most likely won’t go over well. Having an extra holiday treat here and there won’t kill you. You’re allowed to indulge a bit, just keep portions small when it comes to holiday desserts and make sure you limit how often you eat them. Going the whole season without any treats is cruel and will most likely end in binging later, so have your guilty pleasures, just keep them in moderation.

Watch the alcohol

The holidays are a time for celebration, which most likely means more alcohol. Not only does alcohol add on empty calories, but can also lead you to eating more while drinking. If you are at a gathering, limit yourself to one or two drinks to cut down on the unhealthy cravings you might be feeling afterward.

Focus on the protein

Protein-packed foods are a great way to fill up without adding a lot of sugar and empty carbohydrates. Pack your plate with low-fat meats like turkey and chicken. If you’re vegetarian, eat more of the vegetable based protein than the side dishes that are most likely to be sugar and carbohydrate heavy.

Fill up on the water

Don’t forget about water! The holidays are an easy time to drink more sugary beverages than normal. Substitute drinks for water, and drink a lot of it. Not only is water essential for your health, but drinking a glass before a meal can fill you up more as well, preventing you from overeating.

Take your time

Eating too fast is one of the easiest ways to overeat. When you don’t give your body the chance to digest food and feel full before you stop eating, chances are you’re going to end up eating more than you want. Eat slowly and enjoy each bite to give your body a chance to catch up. This way, you’ll end up getting full faster and eat less.

Most of all don’t forget to enjoy the holidays and the delicious food that comes with it, don’t be afraid to indulge a little!

Give me a call today to schedule a complimentary 15 minute health evaluation.

Bishara Wilson, L.Ac., MSTOM, C.SMA

New York Sports Acupuncture

(888) 375-5444

www.newyorksportsacupuncture.com

Germ Warfare

Germ Warfare

You never have to wonder when the cold and flu season is around the corner. The pharmaceutical industry will be sure that you are reminded of its arrival. 

The pharmaceutical industry and the medical community at large are depending on you to leave the fate of your health and well being up to the workings of chemical-laden pills and shots rather than the innate power that runs your body and the living world around you.

The reality is that germs don’t make you sick.  Rather, your body’s inability to fend off germs and foreign invaders is what results in you succumbing to illness.

Think about it… How is it possible that a family of 5 people living under the same roof can have completely different reactions during flu season?

Assuming that everyone is exposed to the same germs and viruses, if the sickness were attributed completely to the virus, everyone would get sick and exhibit the same reaction and symptoms.

What happens in reality is that one or two family members get ill while the others don’t.  Clearly the issue is not the germs, but the body’s response to them, caused by an individual’s immune system.

Chances are the last time you got sick you were running yourself ragged, missing sleep, eating improperly, slacking on your nutrition, all stressed out from work, skipping your acupuncture sessions, and neglecting your workouts.  This is a vicious pattern that many of us fall into and it’s one that weakens the body and allows germs to take hold.

Your best defense against the flu, colds, or any other germ-borne illness is not to drug yourself, but to bolster your internal defenses.  You stand your best chance of being at your healthiest when you have an optimally functioning nervous system and immune response.

So come in for an acupuncture tune-up, keep your lifestyle habits in good order, and maintain a positive attitude. Do so, and those pesky little germs don’t
stand a chance!

Can Acupuncture Effectively Treat Psoriasis?

Can Acupuncture Effectively Treat Psoriasis?

Affecting approximately 125 million people – or about 2-3% of the global population –  psoriasis is one of the most common autoimmune diseases in the world. It's characterized by the chronic formation of skin lesions, red patches, papules and plaque. These formations may appear in localized areas of the body or throughout the entire body, depending on an individual's condition.

Psoriasis is known to trigger intense bouts of itching. The sensation can be so intense that it causes the individual to scratch infection-prone sores into his or her skin. Regardless of how bad it itches, you should never scratch your psoriasis, as it will only make the condition worse.

As with most autoimmune diseases and disorders, psoriasis is caused by an overactive immune system. The immune system is responsible for fending off potentially harmful viral and bacterial infections. It does this by producing key inflammatory hormones. Normally, it produces the right amount of these hormones, but there are times when it produces too much; resulting in conditions such as psoriasis.

The good news is that acupuncture may offer relief of psoriasis and its related symptoms. Acupuncture can have very positive effects on the immune system. When we are sick or dealing with chronic illness, our bodies are not able to function properly. This can be due to the body’s natural energy being restricted or blocked. Acupuncture works by treating the whole body and releasing any abnormalities through acupuncture points. By doing so, the body is able to function as it should and the immune system is strengthened because of this.

With psoriasis, the Spleen 10 xue hai acupuncture point is a popular choice because it targets the immune system.

One study found acupuncture to be effective at treating psoriasis, particularly when western medicine has been exhausted. “Our experience indicates that acupuncture is induced an effective therapeutic modality for psoriasis, particularly when the western medical management is unsuccessful. We speculated about the possible involvement of the cutaneous reticuloendothelial system in the clearance of the skin lesions,” wrote the study's researchers.

Give me a call today to learn how you can get back on track to better health!

Bishara Wilson, L.Ac., MSTOM, C.SMA

New York Sports Acupuncture

(888) 375-5444

www.newyorksportsacupuncture.com

Sources:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1357925