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What You Need to Know About Diabetic Neuropathy

What You Need to Know About Diabetic Neuropathy

by | Jul 28, 2020 | Advice, Diabetes, Informational, Injury

What Is Diabetic Neuropathy

When complications arising from diabetes occur, they may result in the disruption of blood flow. This interruption causes fewer nutrients (oxygen and minerals) to reach most body organs, leading to a type of nerve damage known as diabetic neuropathy.

Neuropathy itself is a nerve disease caused by nerve cell damage or dysfunction, hampering communication between the cells and the brain.

There are four main types of diabetic neuropathy:

  • Autonomic Neuropathy: Affects mainly the nerves that control digestion, but it can also affect the nerves controlling heartbeat, sex organs, and blood vessels.
  • Mononeuropathy: This can occur in any specific nerve.
  • Peripheral Symmetric Neuropathy: Affects mainly the hands, arms, legs, and feet.
  • Proximal Neuropathy: Affects the thighs, buttocks, hips, and legs.

Diabetic neuropathy progresses over time, with symptoms getting worse with time. Here’s all you need to know about neuropathy’s causes, symptoms, and management.

Diabetic Neuropathy Causes

Uncontrolled high blood sugar damages the nerves over time, which is thought to be the number one cause of diabetic neuropathy. Anyone with diabetes stands a high risk of developing neuropathy. Although there is no precise reason why or how this happens, there are factors that make you susceptible to diabetic neuropathy, including:

  • Uncontrolled or Excessive Blood Sugar Levels: Excessive blood sugar levels put you at risk of all complications that arise from diabetes, including nerve damage.
  • Kidney Damage: Kidney damage inhibits proper excretion of some toxins, leading to nerve damage.
  • Smoking: Smoking results in reduced blood flow to the legs and feet because it causes the narrowing and hardening of arteries.
  • Diabetes History: The longer you have had diabetes, the more likely diabetic-related neuropathy can occur.

Diabetic Neuropathy Symptoms

The symptoms depend on the type of neuropathy and the nerves affected, but in general, they include:

  • Gastrointestinal symptoms like constipation, bloating, nausea, or even diarrhea
  • Difficulty standing up after sitting for long
  • Ulcers
  • Infections
  • Tingling, muscle weakness, numbness, or pain
  • Loss of feeling in the arms, hands, or feet
  • Double vision
  • Aching behind one eye
  • Deformities
  • Bone and joint pain

A reputable chiropractic clinic can offer relief for most, if not all, of these symptoms, allowing you to get back to your normal duties.

How to Treat Diabetic Neuropathy

As mentioned earlier, anyone with diabetes can get diabetes-related neuropathy, so the first and best thing to do is monitor and manage your blood sugar levels.

Unfortunately, there is no known cure for the condition, and treatment only aims to slow down its progression. It includes using:

  • Anticonvulsants: These include Pregabalin prescriptions to ease the pain. Gabapentin and Sodium valproate may also be given when other effects, such as weight gain, are present.
  • Antidepressants: These include Duloxetine or Amitriptyline to reduce unpleasant sensations.
  • Opioids: These include Oxycodone, Dextromethorphan, Tramadol, and Morphine. However, these are rarely prescribed because they have a high risk of rendering someone dependent after prolonged usage.
  • NSAIDs (painkiller): Common painkillers such as paracetamol to ease the pain.
  • Spinal Cord Stimulation: A spinal cord stimulator is a pacemaker-like device implanted between the epidural gap (space between the spinal cord and the vertebrae). It delivers electrical pulses to the spinal cord to help manage chronic pain when other medications fail to provide relief.
  • Chiropractic Care: Administering reputable chiropractic care can help patients suffering from peripheral neuropathy manage pain and other discomforts. Chiropractic care is the most effective method because it goes beyond covering the symptoms by addressing their underlying cause.

Diabetic neuropathy is a painful condition that causes many discomforts and can even be debilitating. However, by taking the correct measures to manage blood sugar levels, you can prevent it from getting worse.

Why is Neuropathy Worse at Night

Why is Neuropathy Worse at Night

by | Jul 25, 2020 | Advice, Informational, Sleep

3 Ways to Find Nighttime Relief

Peripheral neuropathy affects more than 20 million Americans. This condition involves damage to one or more nerves, including those responsible for walking and pain perception. Its symptoms range from mild to severe and can develop over days or years.

But why is neuropathy worse at night? A possible explanation is that there are fewer distractions around. As a result, you may become more aware of your surroundings.

Stress, cooler temperatures, and some medications may worsen nerve pain during sleep. Certain lifestyle habits, like smoking and alcohol consumption, may contribute to this issue too.

Interested to find out more? Here’s what you should know about managing nerve pain at night so you can enjoy better sleep.

Why Is Neuropathy Worse at Night?

Neuropathy symptoms vary from one person to the next and depend on which nerves are affected. Some people experience numbness and tingling in the limbs, while others report shooting or stabbing pain. What most sufferers have in common is that their symptoms tend to get worse at night.

Individuals with nerve damage are more sensitive to external stimuli than the average person. Cooler temperatures, for example, may worsen their pain.

If your neuropathy is due to diabetes, you may also experience sleep apnea. A 2009 study has found that more than one-third of subjects with diabetes had moderate obstructive sleep apnea, a condition that may lead to awakenings at night.

Physical and emotional stress can further worsen nerve pain during sleep. Even simple things, such as worrying over an upcoming exam, may increase stress and amplify your symptoms.

Luckily, there are ways to address nighttime neuropathy without resorting to sleeping pills. Consider using these strategies to prevent or reduce nerve pain and get proper rest.

1. Change Your Sleeping Position

Many sufferers find relief from nerve pain by sleeping in a different position than usual. Sleeping in a recliner with a pillow underneath the thighs may reduce neuropathic symptoms in patients with spinal stenosis.

If you’re sleeping on your side, place a pillow between the thighs. Stomach sleepers, on the other hand, may benefit from placing a pillow under their bellies to maintain the spine in proper alignment.

2. Reduce Your Stress Levels

As discussed earlier, stress may worsen nerve pain and other symptoms of neuropathy. It also contributes to anxiety, depression, and other conditions that can further affect your sleep.

Chamomile or valerian tea may help — just make sure you drink it at room temperature. Any beverage that’s too hot or too cold can make your symptoms worse.

Consider getting a massage after work to relax your mind and body. Massage therapy helps lower the stress hormone cortisol levels. At the same time, it promotes the release of serotonin and other “feel-good” hormones.

3. Try Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care can make it easier to manage the symptoms of neuropathy. Early treatment may reduce the severity of nerve damage and prevent complications.

This form of therapy targets your body as a whole. Over time, it may help improve nerve function and decrease pain, leading to a better night’s sleep. When combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise, its benefits are even greater.

Restore Your Sleep and Energy Levels

Still wondering “Why is neuropathy worse at night?”

At Amazing Life Chiropractic and Wellness, we can identify the cause of your symptoms and help you restore your sleep naturally. We use a holistic approach to neuropathy treatment, which involves good nutrition, chiropractic care, and other non-invasive therapies.

Contact us today and start your journey to better health! We’re here to discuss your needs and answer any questions you may have.

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.