Stroke Prevention Through Diet

By: Marco Verch Professional Photographer and Speaker

Every year, stroke kills approximately 140,000 Americans with a staggering  795,000 total incidences of stroke according to the Centers of Disease Control. It’s easy to think that we won’t be affected by stroke, but in 2009, 34% of stroke victims were under the age of 65 again reported by CDC.

Stroke can be a life changing event leading to long-term disability.

You may be wondering, how do I keep this from happening to me?

One way, is to make healthy life-style choices through diet. Certain foods are actually proven to reduce the risk of stroke. While this is not a complete compilation of foods, consider the following list:

7 Best Foods to Prevent Stroke

    1. Salmon-contains omega-3 fats which are known to reduce inflammation in arteries increasing blood flow and decrease risk of blood clots.
    2. Bananas-eating 9 servings a day of potassium rich foods lowers risk of stroke by 38% compared to those who ate only four servings.
    3. Almonds-lowers cholesterol. With 9 grams of monounsaturated fat, lowers bad cholesterol and raises good cholesterol. Also contains vitamin E which could keep plaque from building up in the arteries.
    4. Blueberries-contain antioxidants helping blood vessels widen to increase blood flow and reduce inflammation.
    5. Oatmeal-lowers “bad” LDL cholesterol. (High cholesterol causes plaque build up in blood vessels around the brain increasing risk for ischemic stroke.
    6. Low-fat Milk-Contains calcium, magnesium and potassium which can help lower blood pressure. Fatty acids found in milk have positive effects on LDL and HDL cholesterol contributing factors in stroke prevention (Thorning et al, 2016).
    7. Sweet Potatoes-like bananas, another potassium rich food.

While only a select few are mentioned, the overall benefit of eating fruits and vegetables is know to prevent the incident of stroke (Mo et al, 2019). Also for consideration, nuts are beneficial due to their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anticarcinogenic properties, but have received mixed results in studies confirming stroke prevention (Shao et al, 2016).

Below is a video highlighting stroke preventing food choices:

Check out the following links for more information on stroke prevention through healthy life-style choices:

http://gallagherhomehealthservices.com/eat-way-healthy-6-recipes-prevent-stroke/

https://www.cdc.gov/stroke/healthy_living.htm

https://www.stroke.org.uk/what-is-stroke/what-can-i-do-to-reduce-my-risk/do-more-exercise

References

Centers of Disease Control. (n.d.). Stroke Facts. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/stroke/facts.htm

Mo, X., Gai, R.T., Sawada, K., Takahashi, Y., Cox, S. E., Nakayama, T., & Mori, R. (2019). Coronary heart disease and stroke disease burden attributed to fruit and vegetable intake in Japan: projected DALYS to 2060. BMC Public Health, 19(1), 1-9. Retrieved from library.neit.edu:2216/ehost/detail/detail?vid=6&sid=a17590bb-c038-4a06-8b8f-d48384b98cd8%40sessionmgr4008&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ%3d%3d#AN=31174509&db=cmedm

Shao, C., Tang, H., Zhao, W., & He, J. (2016). Nut intake and stroke risk: a dose-response meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies. Scientific Reports, 6, 30394. Retrieved from library.neit.edu:2216/ehost/detail/detail?vid=8&sid=a17590bb-c038-4a06-8b8f-d48384b98cd8%40sessionmgr4008&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ%3d%3d#AN=27469072&db=cmedm

Thorning, T. K., Raben, A., Tholstrup, T., Soedamah-Muthu, S. S., Givens, I., & Astrup, A. (2016). Milk and dairy products: good or bad for human health? An assessment of the totality of scientific evience. Food and Nutrition Research, 60, 1-11. Retrieved from http://library.neit.edu:2216/ehost/detail/detail?vid=12&sid=a17590bb-c038-4a06-8b8f-d48384b98cd8%40sessionmgr4008&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ%3d%3d#AN=120831066&db=asn

3 Common Misconceptions about Autism

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a social communication disorder. This means that children or adults diagnosed with autism may have difficulty understanding and interpreting meanings behind others actions. They also may have difficulty appropriately expressing their wants and needs.

Rates of autism have been rising. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention the most recent estimate is 1 in every 59 children being diagnosed.

If you think your child has ASD, contact a medical professional to schedule a screening or evaluation.

#1
Fiction: Autism can be cured.

The internet holds some amazing information, but is it all true?
A quick search on Google pulls up a multitude of article claiming Autism can be cured.

While it is possible, that a child previously diagnosed with ASD may no longer demonstrate the same symptoms; medical professionals do not unanimously consider this to mean that the child has been cured.

Treatment is different for each child as it is dependent on what the particular needs are. Some options include Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Speech Language Therapy, as well as Applied Behavior Analysis.

*Seek consultation from a medical professional when considering which method or methods are right for you and your child.*

#2
Fiction: Children with ASD are either
really smart or really dumb.

Autism Spectrum Disorder is just that; a spectrum. Like anyone, each child has their own personal potential. Everyone has things they like and don’t like, as well as things they are good at and not good at.

Sometimes children with autism are eligible for services to assist them in succeeding in school or other activities. However, simply having the diagnosis does not automatically ensure services.

To determine if your child is eligible for services contact a medical professional to schedule a consultation.

#3
Fiction: Children with ASD do not
feel emotions or love.

Autism is characterized as a mirror neuron disorder. Basically, this means that signals are lost or translated incorrectly. Children with ASD may have a difficult time independently recognizing and understanding how other people feel.

However, this does not mean they are incapable of feelings. Everyone expressed their attachment and love in different ways; even children with ASD. It is important to remember that they have the ability to feel as deeply as any other person, even if they express it differently.

Stay Educated

Since research on autism spectrum disorder is constant, new information and updated treatment methods are always in flow. By continuing to stay up to date on the facts you can avoid common misconceptions.

Some helpful websites include:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Autism Speaks

Autism Society

 

Resources:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2019). Autism Spectrum Disorder. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/index.html

Miller Kuhaneck, H. & Watling, R. (2010). Autism: A comprehensive occupational therapy approach. American Occupational Association Press.

Tanner, Hand, O’Toole, & Lane. (2015). Autism Spectrum Disorder. AOTA Critically Approved Topics and Papers Series. Retrieved from https://www.aota.org/~/media/Corporate/Files/Secure/Practice/CCL/Autism/Autism_RRB_%20Play_%20Leisure_CAT.pdf

 

Published Nov. 2019

Brain Breaks in the Classroom: Beneficial or Detrimental?

What are Brain Breaks?

By: Brittany Lapierre

By: USAG- Humphreys

Brain breaks are mental breaks designed to help students stay focused and attend. The brain breaks get students moving to carry blood and oxygen to the brain. The breaks energize or relax. The breaks provide processing time for students to solidify their learning (Jensen) (adapted from Alison Newman)

Why Brain Breaks?

When kids enter Kindergarten, the academic demands greatly increase. This ultimately leads to prolonged sitting which can impact the learning of students due to decreased attention and ability to focus.

What are the benefits?

  • Strengthen social skills
  • Develop perseverance
  • Improve cognitive skills
  • Reduce stress
  • Increase productivity
  • Increase brain function

How Often Should Brain Breaks be Performed?

Students should engage in several Brain Breaks throughout their school day and should take any opportunity to be active in different ways. Some ways that movement can be integrated into the classroom on top of brain breaks are listed as follows:

  • Pass out papers
  • Walk to get a drink
  • Bring a note to the office
  • Incorporate a game into content
  • Quick and silent ball game (throwing, catching, crossing mid line)
  • Run in place
  • Short walk around the school

Ideas of Brain Breaks

References:

Brain Breaks: Watson Life Resources. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.thewatsoninstitute.org/watson-life-resources/situation/brain-breaks/.

Students need Brain Breaks! Here’s why–plus how to help. Retrieved from https://www.realmomnutrition.com/brain-breaks/.

Terada, Y. (2018, March 9). Research-Tested Benefits of Breaks. Retrieved from https://www.edutopia.org/article/research-tested-benefits-breaks.

Time for a Brain Break! (2017, September 28). Retrieved from https://www.responsiveclassroom.org/time-for-a-brain-break/.

 

Does the Flu Shot Cause Guillain-Barre Syndrome?

It is very common to enter a hospital or skilled nursing facility during flu season and see employees with surgical masks on. Most facilities require employees to wear these masks during flu season if they did not receive the flu vaccination. When asked why they chose not to receive the vaccination, a large number of people will reply that they did not want to risk getting Guillain-Barre Syndrome. If so many people are willing to wear a mask everyday at work, could this theory actually be true?

What is Guillain-Barre Syndrome?

Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) is a rare disease that causes a person’s immune system to attack their own nerves causing weakness and eventually paralysis throughout their entire body including some automatic functions such as breathing. This weakness usually starts in the hands and feet and works its way up. GBS effects people in all age groups but is most common in older adults. GBS can cause severe disability and even death but more often than not, partial or full recovery is possible. The recovery stage of this disease is a very long process, often taking over a year to fully regain all strength and coordination. Below is a video of one survivor’s story of recovery. 

Association between the flu shot and Guillain-Barre Syndrome

The common belief that there is a link between the flu shot and GBS dates back to the year 1976 when there was an increased rate of GBS in people who had received the swine flu vaccination. Since then, there have been many clinical studies completed to determine if there is a link between the seasonal flu vaccination and GBS. The overall results determine that there is no elevation in the number of GBS cases following the seasonal flu vaccination or the swine flu vaccination. 

What is the real cause of GBS?

If the flu shot isn’t to blame, what is? According to research, 40-70% of all cases of GBS began shortly after a brief infectious illness such as an upper respiratory infection or gastrointestinal infection. One common bacteria that causes these infections is Campylobacter jejuni which has a strong link to many cases of GBS. Out of 2,502 cases analyzed, 32% included a recent infection of CampylobacterOne example of how someone may develop a Campylobacter infection is from eating raw or undercooked food. In some cases, a person may even develop GBS after having the flu itself rather than the vaccination. When putting it into perspective, the flu vaccination is a much smaller amount of bacteria being put into your system than the flu itself so it makes sense that getting the flu itself has a higher rate of GBS cases preceding. It is hard to determine if Campylobacter has a link to all cases of GBS due to the fact that infected people often let the bacteria run its course and are not tested for which type of bacteria is in their system. By the time the symptoms of GBS begin, the bacteria is completely out of the persons body. 


References:

 Burwen, Dale R., et al. “Surveillance for Guillain–Barré Syndrome After Influenza Vaccination Among the Medicare Population, 2009–2010.” American Journal of Public Health, vol. 102, no. 10, 2012, pp. 1921–1927., doi:10.2105/ajph.2011.300510.

Dash, Sambit, et al. “Pathophysiology and Diagnosis of Guillain–Barré Syndrome – Challenges and Needs.” International Journal of Neuroscience, vol. 125, no. 4, 2014, pp. 235–240., doi:10.3109/00207454.2014.913588.

Poropatich, Kate O, et al. “Quantifying the Association between Campylobacter Infection and Guillain-Barré Syndrome: A Systematic Review.” Journal of Health, Population and Nutrition, vol. 28, no. 6, 2010, doi:10.3329/jhpn.v28i6.6602.

“YouTube.” YouTube, YouTube, 13 May 2016, www.youtube.com/watch?v=huN8iIWXNCs.







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Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

Photo by IamMidnight on Flickr

What is CPR:

Cardio pulmonary resuscitation is a lifesaving technique that can be performed during a medical emergency when another person’s heart stops or the individual stops breathing. There are two different types of CPR according to American Heart Association. The first one is conventional CPR which utilizes the standard chest compression and breaths. The ratio is 30 compressions of 5 cm depths (5cm for adults) and 2 breaths (mouth to mouth). This form of CPR is provided by individuals who are trained in CPR. The second type is compressions only, without the breaths. This type of CPR is provided by an individual who isn’t trained or a healthcare provider. First step is to call 911 and provide compressions at the center of the chest.

Photo by American Red Cross of Colorado and Wyoming on Flickr

Importance of CPR:

Cardio pulmonary resuscitation can save a life! When an individual’s heart or breathing stops, they are in extreme danger. By performing CPR you are buying the person much needed time by continuing blood circulation and breathing. In medical emergencies seconds are extremely important. Having the ability to do CPR and knowing what to do is essential. In an emergency someone might freeze and there might be external factors causing panic and confusion. Having CPR training can be the difference between life and death. CPR provides people with a fighting chance.

Photo by Las-initially on Flickr

CPR Process (Do’s):

  • Before providing CPR check your surrounding, make sure you and the person are out of any danger.
  • Check for responsiveness, tap the persons shoulders and ask if they are okay to make sure they are in need of assistance.
  • Call 9-1-1 (preferably a bystander call if possible)
  • Make sure the person is on a flat surface and open up the airway (tilt head back and lift chin slightly)
  • Check for breathing (look at chest, place ear to mouth to ensure person requires help)
  • Begin CPR
  • Place hands in middle of chest one over the other interlocked, lock arms and use body weight to provide compressions 5 cm of depth. Allow for full recoil of chest between compressions.
  • Provide 2 breaths with persons head tilted back, chin lifted. Pinch the nose and place mouth over mouth to give the breaths.
  • Ratio: 30×2 (compressions x breaths)
  • Continue CPR cycle until person shows signs of life or medical emergency services arrive.

CPR Don’ts:

  • Don’t bend arm while providing compressions. Keep arms in a locked position and allow your body to do the work of the compressions. You will become fatigued if you attempt to provide compressions with just your arms.
  • Provide compressions too deep or not deep enough. The correct depth of a compression should be 2 inches or 5 centimeters for an adult.
  • Don’t stop CPR unless person shows signs of life, an AED is provided, you are too tired to continue or medical emergency services arrive to assist.

Photo by U.S Pacific Fleet on Flickr

Where to receive training:

In todays day and age is quite simple to become CPR certified. You can take an online course or attend an in person course that are provided in the United Stated of America and internationally. The American Heart Association provides a section where you can find a course anywhere in the world. https://cpr.heart.org/en/find-a-course

References:

“What Is CPR.” Cpr.heart.org, https://cpr.heart.org/en/resources/what-is-cpr.

“CPR Steps: Perform CPR.” Red Cross, https://www.redcross.org/take-a-class/cpr/performing-cpr/cpr-steps.

“Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR): First Aid.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 16 Feb. 2018, https://www.mayoclinic.org/first-aid/first-aid-cpr/basics/art-20056600.

Fact or Myth: Dementia

Facts and Myths: Dealing with Dementia

By: eflon

More often than not we see either in public or firsthand how an individual caring for someone with Dementia can seem harsh or short toward the person. Their demeanor is cold, they seem demanding and they appear frustrated; how does the person with Dementia respond? Well, not-surprisingly, they respond in a similar manner. Here is a list of facts and myths associated with facts about Dementia, managing Dementia behaviors and treatment for Dementia.

Remain Calm. FACT. According to the media, and verified by research sources, patient’s with Dementia are often like children who can pick up on bad vibes. When a caregiver creates an environment that feels hectic or is too overstimulating (ex: noisy, bright), the individual will respond negatively. Outbursts are a common way that individuals with Dementia show they are overwhelmed.

By: starmanseries

Pick and Choose Arguments. FACT. There are helpful ways in which a caretaker can help to prevent outbursts and frustration. One way in which this can be done is first by looking at how you approach the person with Dementia. If you show that you are upset or you’re being forceful they immediately pick up on it and react. According to Andrew Voss, from Today’s Caregiver Magazine, approaching someone with Dementia with a calm, reassuring voice and positive body language can be of great benefit. It is important to remember this during all interactions with your loved one. When an argument is beginning to arise, it is important to not argue with them; but instead to accommodate them.

Morning Routines Become Difficult. FACT. As your family member begins to forget the simple things like putting a shirt on correctly or how to open the toothpaste, it is common that you both may become frustrated. A way in which frustration can be reduced is by providing environmental cues to help promote a routine. For example, if you were trying to get your mother to brush her teeth and comb her hair, you may choose to place sticky notes on the mirror to jog her memory about what to do or where to begin. According to Andrew Voss, establishing a routine is primary to reducing confusion and promoting independence.

By: Ann

Treatment Can Reduce Dementia. MYTH! Most forms of Dementia cannot be cured however, the symptoms may be managed and the progression may be slowed. Dementia cannot be reversed. The best treatment for Dementia, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is early treatment of symptoms, a healthy diet, increasing activity and medicinal treatment. If early intervention is not established, your loved one may decline at a more rapid rate. Early intervention can reduce risk of institutionalizing, according to the CDC.

Memory Loss is a Normal Part of Aging. MYTH! Forgetting small things such as your waitresses name at the diner you ate at two mornings ago is completely normal. However, forgetting family members, forgetting to turn the stove off, or forgetting to eat are not considered normal or harmless. Memory loss that affects everyday function should be addressed by a doctor immediately.

Dealing with behaviors related to Dementia can be overwhelming and frustrating; but it doesn’t have to be. Some simple tips on how to deal with behaviors and how to change the environment can make a huge difference in the response received.

References:

Alzheimer’s Association. (2019). Myths. Retrieved from https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-alzheimers/myths

Chapman, D.P., Williams, S., Strine, T., Anda, R., & Moore, M. (2006). Dementia and its implications for public health. Preventing Chronic Disease, Vol. 3(2), 1-13. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1563968/pdf/PCD32A34.pdf

Voss, A. (2017). Caregiver tips for dementia management. Retrieved from http://library.neit.edu:2216/ehost/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?vid=6&sid=7463462c-ff3e-4cb3-a256-3b95724511bf%40sdc-v-sessmgr03

 

Diabetes- the difference.

“So I’ll wait ’til kingdom come, All the highs and lows are gone, a little bit longer and I’ll be fine, I’ll be fine”
– A Little Bit Longer, Jonas Brothers- 

This song was written by Nick Jonas. He was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes in 2005. This was actually the same year I was diagnosed as well. I myself have come to terms with being a diabetic and having to take insulin almost every time I eat. The one thing about it that gets really old really quick is the statement ” You don’t look like a Diabetic!” So in this blog I am going to do a little background on Type 1 diabetes and the difference between type 1 and type 2.

 

To start I am going to talk about the differences. Type 1 is when your pancreas produces little to no insulin. This makes all type 1 diabetics insulin dependent.  Type 2 is when your pancreas still produces normal levels of insulin, your body is just not able to absorb it. Type 2 diabetics can start on pill forms to help control their diabetes but then may needed insulin to help down the road.

As you can see there is a major difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Another major difference is that Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease whereas type 2 is a multifactorial one. This means that for type one the immune system has attacked the cells in the pancreas that make the insulin. So basically, there is a war going on in the body and the immune system thinks that it is doing the right thing but made it so the body can no longer produce the right amount of insulin. With type 2., there is still the production of insulin the body just decides that it no long knows what to do with it and becomes very resistant to it, like a child who doesn’t want to wear a coat even though their parent said they would need it.

Type 2 has many causes like obesity and the disease runs in the family. Type 2 is usually diagnosed after the age of 40. Type 1 however the cause if it is unknown and is usually diagnosed in childhood, which to me makes sense seeing as I am 1 of 5 kids and there is no family history of it that I know of. I know type 2 runs on my papas’ side of the family but he is in no blood relation to me and as you can tell type 1 and type 2 are a very different thing.

There are reasons on why everyone automatically assumes that all diabetics have type 2. That is because it is more widely talked about. This could also be that 95% of diabetics are type 2 and that means that only 5% of diabetics have type 1. Knowing this information makes me understand more where the statement “you don’t look like a diabetic” comes from and it also makes me want to educate more people about the difference more.

Iliades, C., Salomon, S. H., Upham, B., & Roan, S. (n.d.). What’s the Difference Between Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes? Retrieved from https://www.everydayhealth.com/diabetes/difference-between-type-1-type-2-diabetes/.

Medical Providers. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.jchdonline.org/index.php/all-topics/49-programs-and-services/health-education/295-what-are-the-main-differences-between-type-i-and-type-ii-diabetes.

T1D Basics. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.jdrf.org/t1d-resources/about/.

Parkinson’s Disease: What is it and how is it managed?

“Parkinson’s Disease only effects my movement- I will know if I shake.” “You don’t look like you have parkinson’s, so you must feel fine!” “Only older men can get Parkinson’s Disease.” “My life is over because I have Parkinson’s Disease.”

These are just some of the many myths that exist about Parkinson’s Disease. Luckily, there are many videos, pictures, and articles that help to educate about the FACTS surrounding Parkinson’s Disease-starting here! 

So, what is Parkinson’s Disease?

The Clinical Pharmacist Journal, defines Parkinson’s Disease (PD) as a “chronic, progressive, neurodegnerative disease resulting from the loss of dopamine-containing cells.”

Who gets Parkinson’s Disease?

Anyone can be diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease regardless of age, gender, or background. The Clinical Pharmacist Journal reported that although less likely, individuals aged 30-39 can be diagnosed with PD, as well as those aged 80-84, both male and female. This includes all of the ages between 30 and 84 as well. 

The video below provides further education regarding causes, symptoms, and treatment of Parkinson’s Disease, explained by a neurologist. 

Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease: 

By the time the motor symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease require you to go to the doctor, there is a high chance that the non-motor symptoms have been present for much longer, but have gone unnoticed. 

Symptoms can vary from person-to-person, and can also be side effects of the type of medication one is taking to manage Parkinson’s Disease. 

Non-motor Symptoms:

  • Depression
  • Trouble with scent
  • Dysphagia (trouble swallowing)
  • Bladder dysfunction
  • Confusion
  • Constipation
  • Drooling
  • Dementia

Motor Symptoms:

  • Tremors
  • Postural Instability
  • Shuffling walking pattern
  • Bent over posture
  • Diminished facial expression
  • Drooping eyes

Above is a video, where the experience of Parkinson’s of a nurse diagnosed with the disease is described. 

How is it diagnosed?

The Hindawi Journal of Parkinson’s Disease reports that doctors will look at a combination of motor and non-motor symptoms that a patient is experiencing, as well as the presence of Lewy Bodies in the brain. In many cases these can be found through CT scans or MRIs. Your doctor will also look at both subjective (what you say), and objective (what you do) information. 

How can you manage your symptoms?

  • Pharmaceutical Medications
    • Levodopa: Gold standard of medication for PD
    • Dopamine Agonists: activates Dopamine Receptors
    • Ergo-derived Dopamine Agonists: additional medicine for individuals with PD who continue to have dyskinesia and motor impairments despite already taking Levodopa 
    • Non-oral Medication: Patch Therapy
  • Physical Exercise
  • Deep Brain Stimulation: surgical procedure involving the placement of a medical device referred to as a “brain pacemaker”

Please consult your doctor before adding or modifying medication

Type of Exercise that is Beneficial:

The video above provides some visuals of examples of exercise that are appropriate for an individual diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. 

The Hindawi Jounral of Parkinson’s Disease reported that in many studies, it has been shown that exercise has a positive effect on individuals with Parkinson’s Disease. 

In a small study, “regular exercise (>150 minutes/week), is associated with less progression of PD symptoms over one year, compared to those who exercise less or not at all (Heron, Mayol, Miller, Moore, Nicholos, Ragano 2019).”

In many cases, exercise is considered just as beneficial, if not more so than pharmaceutical treatment. It assists with maintaining the quality of life of an individual living with PD. Types of exercise that is beneficial to individuals with Parkinson’s Disease includes, but is not limited to:

      • Aerobic exercise-swimming, jogging, walking, etc.
      • Balance exercises-side stepping, single leg stand, etc.
      • Resistance training-TRX ropes, weights, machines
      • Flexibility training-stretching
      • BIG movements-An exercise program specifically designed for individuals with Parkinson’s Disease (see example below)

It is incredibly overwhelming to research about a topic such as Parkinson’s Disease. This is why it is so important to know what type of information is factual, and what is a myth. Consult with your doctor and loved ones before making any decisions regarding this diagnoses, to understand what will work for your body. 

References: 

Aube, B., & Cote, M., & Morin, N., & Di Paolo, T., & Poirier, A. A., & Soulet, D. (2016). Gastrointestinal Dysfunctions in Parkinson’s Disease: Symptoms and Treatments. Hindawi Jounral of Parkinson’s Disease, 2016. 1-23

Barnes, Janine. (2018). Parkinson’s Disease Management and guidance. Clinical Pharmacist, 10. (8). 237-242

Heron, A., & Mayol, M., & Miller S. A., & Moore, E. S., & Nicholos, V., & Ragano, B. (2019). Rate of Progression in Activity and Participation Outcomes in Exercisers with Parkinson’s Disease: A Five-Year Prospective Longitudinal Study. Hindawi Journal of Parkinson’s Disease, 2019. 1-9.

 

CBD The New Anti-inflammatory Go To!

By: Stephanie Riddell

There has been a clear shift towards seeking alternative more natural methods to manage chronic diseases, this has opened the door for products such as CDB to become more widely researched and utilized from managing various medical diagnosis. Although it is still fairly new and some consider it taboo, CBD continues to display benefits from many patients. In the united states chronic pain and autoimmune diseases have increased in prevalence leading to an increase in medication usage. CBD has shown to have positive effects on suppressing and eliminating inflammation in the body, making it effective in managing chronic pain, arthritis, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Anxiety, Insomnia, wounds, skin inflammatory diseases such as acne and psoriasis, multiple sclerosis, seizures and neuropathy. Using western medications for long periods of time to manage these conditions have provided to have detrimental side effects on your body, effecting your kidney, bowel functioning, cognition, energy and increasing addiction rates due to the use of opioids and none- steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSADs). CBD unlike marijuana has no psychoactive properties, therefore you do not experience a “high” from ingesting it. It is 100% legal in the United States, and is sourced from the hemp strain of cannabis.

What CBD can be used for
• Anxiety
• Seizures
• Wounds
• Arthritis
• Chronic pain
• Insomnia
• IBS
• Psoriasis & acne

Benefits of using CBD
• Not addictive
• Reduces inflammation
• Pain management agent
• No negative physical side effects on other organs
• Safe for use with animals

Methods of taking CBD
• Drops – oil
• Topical creams
• Edibles such as gummies
• Vapes
• Sprays
• Inhalers

Disadvantages
• Finding a reputable source to buy CBD
• Federal Employees are unable to use it due to legalities
• Not as heavily regulated as medications and other products on the market which can lead to false advertising and lower quality products

CBD has achieved a lot of spotlight with the use for seizure management and have allowed states to profit from the legalization of it and marijuana. Please consult with your health care Doctor and team if you choose to explore CBD for your alignments, and find a reputable source to purchase your products from.

By: Winston Peki

 

References:

Teitelbaum, J. A Hemp oil, CBD, and Marijuana Primer: Powerful Pain, Insomnia, and Anxiety-relieving Tools! Alternative Therapies, 25. Retrieved from file:///C:/Users/anast/Documents/MSOT%20classes/English/artcile.pdf


Piermarini, C., & Viswanath, O. (2019, July 3). CBD as the New Medicine in the Pain Provider’s Armamentarium. Springer Link, 8, 157-158. Retrieved from file:///C:/Users/anast/Documents/MSOT%20classes/English/cbd%20article.pdf

Inflammation and CBD Oil: Benefits, Effectiveness, and Dosage

 

 

Dangers Of Vaping

By: Vaping360

Every smokers and new smokers seems to be picking up the habit of vaping because of the claim that vaping is safe compared to smoking an actual cigarette. According to (Friedenberg, L, MA and Smith, A. G 2019) “Since e-cigarettes, vape pens, and other similar devices hit the U.S. market several years ago, their popularity has skyrocketed. (p.1)

What Are The Risk Factors Of Vaping?

New medical problems linked to vaping has been circulating the media recently. Due to those new medical problems, it is no longer considered safe to vape. According to Raloff (2015) Many teens who vaped started feeling dryness and itching in their throat. “Some said that vaping made them cough or choke and that their mouths bled.” (p.3)

There have also been several deaths of young teens who were known to vape on a regular basis. According to the U.S. health officials and the media, those deaths were caused by lung illnesses which were linked to vaping. There were more than 450 lung illnesses that were reported thought out several states in the U.S. in recent months (Cunningham, A 2019).

By: _nyem_

During a study that was conducted by Irina Petrache of the Indiana University in 2014, lab animals were intentionally given nicotine and e-cigarette liquids in order to research the end results of the exposure. The results caused increased oxidative stress and buildup inflammatory cells in the lungs of the animals. The inflammatory later affected the lungs. The study also suggested that once nicotine or acrolein liquids in e-cigarette are inhaled through vaping, they cause the cells of the lung to malfunction which makes the user sick. In The end, it was concluded that vaping is no less dangerous than smoking and that it is just as bad as smoking. (Raloff, J, 2015) (p.2).

References

CUNNINGHAM, A. (2019). Vaping suspected in six U.S. deaths. Science News196(6), 10. Retrieved from http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=hxh&AN=138582228&site=ehost-live

Friedenberg, L., & Smith, G. A. (2017). Dangers of E-cigarettes and Liquid Nicotine Among Children. Pediatrics for Parents, 31, 22. Retrieved from http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=f5h&AN=122753671&site=ehost-live

E-cigarettes: Hazardous or helpful? Their efficacy as a tool for quitting regular cigarettes and their long-term safety remain concerning. (2019). Harvard Heart Letter, 29(12), 5. Retrieved from http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=ccm&AN=137713075&site=ehost-live

Raloff, J. (2015). The Dangers of Vaping: Teens are falling for flavored e‐cigs, but the vapors they inhale may be toxic. Science News, 188(1), 18–21. Retrieved from http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=eoah&AN=36223515&site=ehost-live

By: HRYMX