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Understanding Neuropathy

Understanding Neuropathy

by | Jul 22, 2020 | Advice, Informational, Nutrition, Sleep

Understanding Neuropathy: Questions to Ask Your Neuropathy Doctor

​Over 20 million Americans suffer from some form of peripheral neuropathy.

Neuropathy causes discomfort and weakness in your extremities. Damaged peripheral nerves send interrupted messages to your brain that results in pain. Common neuropathy causes include diabetes, injuries, alcoholism, and infection.

Do you have neuropathy questions? If so, keep reading. Our expert neuropathy doctor has created a go-to guide for frequently asked neuropathy questions.

Why Is Neuropathy Worse at Night?

Medical professionals believe neuropathy symptoms may have something to do with temperature changes during the night. Bodily temperatures fluctuate as we sleep. The same nerves that signal temperature changes also send pain signals.

Damaged nerves may translate fluctuating temperatures to tingling, sharp, or burning pain. The cool temperatures also slow your heart rate, leading to reduced blood flow.

Poor sleep quality may also play a role in neuropathy symptoms. Less sleep leads to increased pain perception and irritability.

Does Peripheral Neuropathy Get Worse in Cold Weather?

Neuropathy can get worse in colder climates. Cold temperatures decrease blood flow. As circulation decreases, nerve pain (especially in the hands and feet) increases.

Patients living with neuropathy should take precautions to bundle up when the seasons change. Light cardio can warm up muscles and promote circulation. Patients should avoid caffeine, as it can restrict blood flow.

Does Neuropathy Get Worse Over Time?

While neuropathy treatments can alleviate symptoms, there is no known cure for peripheral neuropathy.

If left untreated, neuropathy will worsen. Damaged nerves will send irregular messages to the brain more frequently, leading to constant numbness and burning sensations. Over time, the spinal cord may get so used to the pain signals that it starts to send them on its own.

Seeking immediate neuropathy treatment is the key to slowing down nerve signals and preventing severe pain.

What Foods Make Neuropathy Worse?

If you’re living with neuropathy, avoid starchy foods that are high in gluten. Research has shown a gluten-free diet may protect against nerve pain.

Incorporate gluten-free alternatives into your meals. Steer clear of pasta, bread, and pizzas.

Neuropathy patients should also avoid sugary, salty, and processed foods. This includes:

  • Potato chips
  • Cold cuts
  • Candy
  • Soft drinks and fruit juices
  • Fast food

Instead, focus on maintaining a nutritious and wholesome lifestyle. Foods rich in anti-inflammatories and vitamin B12 are ideal. Whole grains, lean meats, nuts, fish, and veggies can decrease neuropathy symptoms.

Natural Ways to Alleviate Neuropathy Symptoms?

Chiropractic, physical therapy, surgery, and injections can treat peripheral neuropathy. However, patients can make healthy lifestyle changes to naturally decrease their symptoms.

First things first, quit smoking and reduce alcohol intake. Smoking decreases blood circulation and increases discomfort. Alcohol causes inflammation and stress, which can trigger nerve pain.

In some cases, neuropathy is related to vitamin deficiencies. Increasing your vitamins B and D intake can ease the condition’s symptoms. Vitamin B boosts nerve health, while vitamin D lessens nerve pain.

Incorporate cayenne pepper into your diet. The pepper naturally lowers the intensity of pain signals, which is why it’s a common ingredient in topical creams.

Take warm baths to prevent discomfort. The warm water boosts circulation and lowers pain symptoms.

Meditation lowers stress and improves sleep quality. It allows those living with neuropathy to feel as if they have some control over their bodies.

Are You Looking for a Neuropathy Doctor?

Neuropathy is a chronic pain disorder that can hinder your quality of life. Fortunately, a professional neuropathy doctor can help.

Request an appointment to learn more about how we treat peripheral neuropathy. Our medical professionals use a variety of treatment methods to decrease pain and heal your body. 

The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Right Protein Shakes

The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Right Protein Shakes

by | Jul 20, 2020 | Advice, Informational, Nutrition, Weight-Loss

The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Right Protein Shakes

Your body is 17% protein, and that protein is essential to the functioning of your cells, tissues, and organs. For fitness enthusiasts, it’s also important for getting the best results from your work out. 

It’s no wonder that protein powders and protein shakes have taken over store shelves. With so many to choose from, it can be hard to know which is right for you. 

Read on to learn more about what makes a good protein powder and which you should be using in your smoothies. 

What Is Bioavailability?

You can’t choose the right protein powder without understanding bioavailability. Bioavailability is how easily and how much of something that you consume actually absorbs into your body.

In other words, the bioavailability of a food or nutrient is what determines how beneficial it is to your health. Eating extra supplements won’t do you any good if your body isn’t actually absorbing them. Some of the most important micronutrients like vitamins and minerals can be the hardest to absorb completely. 

Your stomach acid can also destroy some of the nutrients you digest before they’re absorbed into your bloodstream. This is why the greater the bioavailability of food, the better it is for you. 

Why It’s Important When Choosing a Protein Powder

So why does bioavailability matter when it comes to choosing your protein shakes?

Well, there are many types of protein powders available, and not all of them are as bioavailable as the rest. For your protein smoothie to really do its job and not go to waste, you want to absorb as much of that protein as possible. Not only is it better for you, but you get more out of your money. 

Studies have shown that whey protein powders are the most easily absorbed, and therefore, the most effective. They also help you feel full for longer, which means it helps in the weight loss category as well!

Which Protein Powder Is the Most Effective

When looking for a premier protein powder, you should consider the source of protein, the amount of sugar, and the excess ingredients. All-natural products without added sweeteners are the best for your body. 

You should also choose powders with whey protein because of its bioavailability and because it’s a complete protein. A complete protein is a protein that contains all of the essential amino acids your body needs. 

For many, Solutions4 is the best premier protein option. Not only is it whey protein, but it’s zero sugar, 100% all-natural,  gluten-free, soy-free, lactose-free, and contains extra digestive enzymes to boost bioavailability. 

Where to Find Solutions4 Nutritional Shakes

If you’re wondering where to find Solutions4 premier protein shakes, you can get them at the Amazing Life Chiropractic office.

Nutrition is just as important to your health as chiropractic care, so Amazing Life Chiropractic offers a variety of nutrition services including vitamin and mineral supplements. 

Get the Perfect Protein Shakes for You

Everyone’s body and needs are different. What doesn’t change from person to person is the importance of bioavailability when it comes to your supplements. 

When choosing a protein powder, make sure to choose one with whey protein, so you know you’re doing what’s best for your body.

If you want to optimize your health, check out our collection of services for a better body and life.

Nutrition and Chronic Disease: This Is What You Need to Know

Nutrition and Chronic Disease: This Is What You Need to Know

by | Jul 17, 2020 | Informational, Nutrition, Sleep, Wellness

Nutrition and Chronic Disease: This Is What You Need to Know

Nearly half of the adults in the U.S. have at least one preventable chronic disease. 

It’s an unfortunate reality that many of us deal with life-long struggles due to a lack of education about behavioral and dietary choices. As a result, many people turn to exercise and medication in hopes of treating or preventing these illnesses.

What’s often ignored and is a main component of health is nutrition. Keep reading to find out the relationship between nutrition and chronic disease so that you can make informed decisions for your well being. 

Can Poor Nutrition Lead to Chronic Diseases?

One of the four main risk factors for chronic diseases is poor nutrition. The others include excessive alcohol consumption, tobacco use, and insufficient exercise. 

To understand why this is, it’s helpful to think of our bodies as if they were machines. Just like a car needs a certain type of gas and regular maintenance, our bodies need proper nutrition and exercise. 

Poor nutrition is malnutrition, which can be broken up into three categories:

  • Undernutrition (i.e. not getting enough macronutrients)
  • Micronutrient-related malnutrition (i.e. getting too much or not enough minerals and/or vitamins)
  • Overweight, obesity, and diet-related diseases

If your machine (your body) doesn’t get what it needs over time, it can lead to the following chronic diseases.

Chronic Diseases Associated With Poor Nutrition

While the scope of chronic diseases linked to poor nutrition may be wider, these are some of the illnesses that are linked to not eating a proper diet:

  • Arthritis
  • Brain dysfunction
  • Cancer
  • Dental disease
  • Diabetes
  • Heart diseases (as well as high blood pressure and cholesterol)
  • Obesity
  • Osteoporosis

Luckily, we have the education and power to make good nutritional choices to reduce the risk, progression, and symptoms of chronic diseases.

Using Nutrition to Fight Chronic Diseases

As it’s said, “we are what we eat”. To work towards our healthiest selves, we can integrate balanced nutrition into our diets to improve our lives.

Rather than thinking of it as a diet or a short-term goal, think of working towards good nutrition as a life-long journey. Start with one area at a time to make a smooth transition.

One thing you can do is start cutting out processed foods. Processed foods are any ingestible items that have been altered before reaching your hands (and mouth). Sometimes, this is a good thing, as processing allows for long-term storage while killing off harmful bacteria.

However, when foods are processed, essential nutrients are often destroyed or removed. This can lead to nutrient deficiencies, which can lead to chronic diseases over time.

Work towards creating an organic, fresh, and balanced diet. This includes eating plenty of whole fruits and vegetables (roughly 5 portions per day), reducing added sugars, and eating plenty of nutritious carbohydrates and polyunsaturated fats (i.e. walnuts, seeds, or fish). 

Good nutrition isn’t always about counting calories, but it’s always about making calories count. 

Nutrition and Chronic Disease Go Hand-in-Hand 

By investing in your nutrition, you can prevent and reduce symptoms of chronic diseases to strive towards wellness.

Keep learning about nutrition and chronic disease so that you can make informed decisions. Then, take things day by day and make small changes for a better future.

For guidance, consider using our nutrition services to help you in your journey. 

Creating a Meal Plan for Diabetes

Creating a Meal Plan for Diabetes

by | Jul 15, 2020 | Advice, Diabetes, Informational, Nutrition

Creating a Meal Plan for Diabetes: A Quick Guide

As of 2018, 10.5% of the U.S. population has diabetes. In fact, more than one million Americans get a diabetes diagnosis each year. 

If you’ve had a recent diabetes diagnosis, know that you’re not alone. It’s a condition that you can manage with exercise and a healthy diet. 

Transitioning to a new diet can be frustrating, especially when you have to cut back on your favorite foods. 

Luckily, the right diabetic diet plan can keep you feeling your best. Read on to find out why proper nutrition is important and how to create a meal plan for diabetes.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes affects the pancreas, which is the organ that regulates blood sugar using a hormone called insulin. It happens for one of two reasons: your body can’t make the right amount of insulin or your body doesn’t use it correctly. 

Roughly 90-95% of diabetics have Type 2, which makes it the most common type of diabetes. It happens when your body can’t effectively use insulin. Extra body weight and a lack of exercise can lead to Type 2.

Type 1 happens when the pancreas doesn’t make enough insulin. It’s a less common type and often appears during childhood. 

How Nutrition Can Impact Diabetes

Any time you eat too many calories or fat, your blood sugar can spike which can lead to complications. Luckily, you can keep your blood sugar levels in a safe range by eating the right foods. That’s why a healthy diet is critical to managing diabetes.

It’s also important to form good habits like eating at the same time every day and sticking to three meals. 

Creating a Meal Plan for Diabetes

A Type 2 diabetes diet should revolve around complex carbs, healthy fats, and plenty of fiber. Since you need to limit the amount of calories and carbs you eat, it’s important to make everything in your nutrition plan count.  

The best diet for diabetics includes these foods:

  • Fresh fruits and vegetables
  • Whole grain bread and pasta
  • Nuts and legumes (unsalted almonds and walnuts, beans, peas)
  • Low-fat dairy (Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, milk)
  • Fish with omega-3 fatty acids (salmon and tuna)
  • Lean protein (chicken and turkey)
  • Healthy fats in moderation (avocados, olive oil)

You should avoid foods with a lot of sodium, saturated fat, and overly-processed foods. If you’re going to indulge, enjoy in moderation and choose the healthiest option. Here are some examples of what to avoid:

  • Red meat (beef and pork)
  • Hot dogs, bacon, sausage
  • High sodium foods (chips, crackers, canned food, some frozen entrees)
  • Highly-processed foods (packaged snack cakes, cookies, baked goods)

Transition to a Healthier Diet

A meal plan for diabetes doesn’t have to deprive you of your favorite foods. The important thing is to enjoy everything in moderation and choose a healthier option when it’s available. Plus, don’t forget to exercise, drink water, and check your blood sugar level. 

At Amazing Life Chiropractic and Wellness, we offer a 5-week program to help people with diabetes transition to a healthier diet. To learn more or book an appointment for chiropractic care, contact us today. 

Guide to Treating Diabetic Neuropathy

Guide to Treating Diabetic Neuropathy

by | Jul 13, 2020 | Advice, Informational, Nutrition

A Guide to Recognizing, Diagnosing and Treating Diabetic Neuropathy

A recent study showed that in 2018, over 10% of the American population was diagnosed with diabetes. Couple that with the fact that there’s a proven correlation between rising obesity levels and Type-2 diabetes, and it’s clear this number will only rise from here.

However, there are a lot of extra problems that pop up thanks to diabetes. One of the worst among them is diabetic neuropathy. But how can you recognize and treat this condition in tandem with “normal” diabetes?

Well, look no further! We’re here to give you the guide to recognizing, diagnosing, and treating diabetic neuropathy! So without further ado, let’s jump right in.

Recognizing Diabetic Neuropathy

So what exactly is neuropathy? Well, neuropathy is a condition that results from the nerves in the body becoming damaged. Diabetes causes this thanks to the high levels of blood sugar damaging nerve sensors over time.

Neuropathy appears in four different types to boot. Peripheral neuropathy deals with pain and numbness in the arms and legs. Autonomic neuropathy targets your stomach and other organs, causing discomfort and bloating.

Proximal neuropathy involves pain located on one side of your body. Finally, focal neuropathy goes after specific nerves in the torso or head.

Some obvious symptoms of neuropathy include numbness and a tingling or burning feeling in your appendages. Differences in touch sensitivity are also common with this disorder.

Other symptoms include vomiting, bladder problems, dizziness, diarrhea, and bloating. In certain cases, erectile dysfunction and vaginal dryness have also been signs of neuropathy.

Diagnosing Diabetic Neuropathy

If you believe you have diabetic neuropathy, your doctor will perform a reflex test. This involves checking your touch sensitivity and the reflexes of your tendons. From there, your doctor can order a variety of different tests to ensure that their diagnosis is accurate.

One of these tests (sensory testing) involves seeing how your nerves respond to different temperatures. Filament tests involve brushing soft nylon over your skin to get an even clearer picture of how much touch sensation you have.

In some cases, your doctor will even recommend an autonomic test. This determines how your blood pressure flows when you sit or stand in different ways.

Treating Diabetic Neuropathy

One of the main ways doctors slow the progression of the disease is by making sure your blood sugar levels stay at healthy levels. The general guideline for fasting blood sugar levels is to stay below 100 milligrams per deciliter.

Different types of pain medication will also help treat the painful sensations that come with diabetic neuropathy. But what about the individual symptoms caused by diabetic neuropathy, at Amazing Life Chiropractic and Wellness we treat the neuropathy with a proper nutrition plan that targets nerve regeneration!

A Brighter Tomorrow

So now that you have this guide on how recognizing, diagnosing, and treating diabetic neuropathy works, you’re ready to tackle this disease head-on! If you or someone you know is suffering from neuropathic disease, contact us, and see how we can help!

How to Read Nutrition Labels

How to Read Nutrition Labels

by | Jul 10, 2020 | Informational, Nutrition, Wellness

Understanding Nutrition: A Guide on How to Read Food Labels

In the U.S., 67% of the food we eat comes from a trip to the grocery store. Shopping at a supermarket rather than ordering takeout gives us control over the food we eat and helps us make healthier choices.  Eating a healthy diet can help you control your weight, improve your brain health, lower your risk for disease, and help you live a longer life.  The trouble is, flashy product packaging makes it tough to see which products are healthy. Luckily, understanding nutrition labels can help. Read on to learn how to read nutrition facts labels and how they can help you make better food choices.  

Read the Ingredient List

Manufacturers list ingredients by weight, from the highest amount to the least. In other words, the first ingredient makes up most of the product, while the last makes up the least amount. 

Look for wholesome ingredients like whole wheat. Avoid ingredients like artificial flavorings, hydrogenated oils, and added sugars. 

You should also aim for short ingredient lists. The fewer ingredients there are, the less processed the food is. Whole foods are an important part of nutrition and wellness.

Look for the Serving Size and Calories

The serving size is at the top of the nutrition facts, along with the servings per container. This information helps you compare similar products and tells you how many calories you can expect from one serving.

It’s not necessarily the amount you should eat or drink, it’s the amount of food that the nutrition information is measuring. For example, if you eat half a serving you’d halve the calories and nutrients, and for two servings you’d double it. 

Check Out the Percent Daily Value

The Percent Daily Value tells you how many nutrients and calories are in a serving compared to a standard 2,000 calorie diet. It takes the total recommended daily value of a nutrient (like vitamin C or sodium) and tells you how much the product fulfills. 

For example, the federal guidelines say Americans should consume 2,300 mg of sodium or less per day. If a serving of chips had 300 mg of sodium, that is 13% of the daily value. To make a healthier choice, pick a snack with a lower percent daily value. 

Notice the Nutrients 

Nutrition Facts separates nutrients into two categories: the ones you need more of and the ones to consume in moderation. 

You should watch how much sodium, added sugars, and saturated fat you eat. Too much can lead to heart disease, weight gain, and high blood pressure. 

Try to hit the recommended daily amount of calcium, dietary fiber, potassium, iron, and vitamin C. These are all important nutrients that can keep you regular, strengthen bones, prevent high blood pressure, and protect your immune system. 

A Healthy Lifestyle Starts with Understanding Nutrition

Understanding nutrition labels is a step towards making better food choices. The next time you’re at the grocery store, don’t forget to read the nutrition labeling before you buy. 

If you want to start living a healthier life but don’t know where to start, Amazing Life Chiropractic and Wellness can help. We offer nutrition plans in addition to our chiropractic care that will help you thrive.  

Contact us today to learn more or make an appointment.

Contact us to see how we can help!