Sleep Archives - Amazing Life Chiropractic and Wellness
The Five Types of Headaches

The Five Types of Headaches

by | Sep 6, 2021 | Advice, Hormone Balance, Pregnancy, Sleep

The pain of a headache can range from mildly irritating to completely unbearable.

You may rush for the medicine cabinet reaching for a pain reliever, assuming it’s just another migraine. You must educate yourself on the five types of headaches to know how to treat them best. Continue reading for more information.  

Migraine Headache

A migraine headache can be described as a throbbing headache, often affecting one side of the head. This type of headache may be accompanied by blurred vision or nausea. 

Migraine headaches are hereditary, with certain traits passed down from your parents. The debilitating pain that accompanies a migraine headache can last a span of hours to days. Some people may experience an aura or visual disturbances before a migraine attack begins. 

Cluster Headache

A cluster headache often reoccurs over a series of weeks, usually affecting one side of the head. The pain associated with a cluster headache is notably severe.

The exact cause of cluster headaches is unknown, though genetics, lifestyle choices, and habits play a role.

Sinus Headache

Sinus headaches often feel like a sinus infection or sinusitis.

You may experience pressure around your forehead, cheeks, and eyes. Additionally, these symptoms could be accompanied by throbbing pain.

This type of headache may also be associated with migraine headaches. The majority of sinus headaches are not caused by sinus infections and do not always require antibiotic treatment. 

Tension Headache

A tension headache is the most common type of headache. You may feel mild to moderate pain, often described as a sensation of tightness around your head. 

Tension headaches can be brought on by physical or emotional stress. To prevent tension headaches, try relaxation exercises and meditation. 

Mixed Headache

A mixed headache, also known as transformed migraine, is a mix of tension and migraine headaches. 

In this type of headache, you may experience pain on one or both sides of your head. Sensitivity to light and sound may trigger episodes of nausea or vomiting. 

 

Chiropractic Treatment Options

Chiropractic care can be a valuable treatment option in relieving headaches. Understanding the types of headaches and what triggers you experience is equally important in regards to prevention. A few potential headache triggers include:

  • Dehydration
  • Caffeine withdraw
  • Hormonal changes
  • Stress
  • Anxiety
  • Food Sensitivity

Chiropractic care is used to treat migraines and headaches with the use of manipulating and realigning the neck and spine, along with manual therapies. At Amazing Life Chiropractic and Wellness, a customized holistic treatment plan will also educate on the importance of proper nutrition and adequate hydration. 

Relief for All Types of Headaches

Amazing Life Chiropractic and Wellness offers a variety of services to help you feel your best.

If you live in the Millcreek, WA area and suffer from headaches, natural and reliable pain relief is a phone call away. Give us a call today for more information or to schedule an appointment. Let us help you, providing education on the types of headaches and how to treat them best.  

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5 Reasons Why Your Pillow Matters (and How to Pick the Right One!)

5 Reasons Why Your Pillow Matters (and How to Pick the Right One!)

by | Mar 3, 2021 | Advice, Sleep, Wellness

A good night’s rest is important to keep yourself active during the day. However, if you sleep with the wrong pillow, you may not be getting the kind of rest you really need.

What are the reasons why your pillow matters and how can you choose the right one for you?

Using the wrong pillow can have a myriad of effects on your body and mind. Here you can understand the importance of your pillow and how to pick the best pillow for you!

1. The Wrong Pillow Can Create Back Pain

Your pillow can strain your neck, spine, and shoulders if it is incompatible with your sleep position. If you sleep too high or too low, this can create severe back pain.

Those who sleep on their backs should have a low-rise pillow to keep their neck and spine in line. Side sleepers or those who sleep on their stomach may benefit from a thicker style of pillow.

2. Avoid Getting Sick

Your pillow stores an astounding amount of sweat and saliva in it. After years of use, this can become a breeding ground for bacteria. 

You should make sure you buy a new pillow every few years to keep yourself healthy. That way you won’t have to deal with that disgusting bacteria buildup!

3. Reduce Snoring

The wrong pillow can leave your head in strange positions during the night. This can affect your breathing during the night, meaning your pillow may be making you snore more!

If your partner constantly complains about night noises, you may want to get a pillow that keeps your head in place. This is especially true for those who sleep on their back!

4. Keep Allergies at Bay

Bacteria isn’t the only thing your pillow will build up over the years. Pollutants such as pollen and dust particles can also weave themselves into the fabric of your pillow. If you have allergies, your pillow may cause nightmarish symptoms.

If you wake up in the morning feeling your usual allergy symptoms, it might be time for a new pillow.

5. Sleep Soundly Through the Night

The wrong pillow can leave you tossing and turning throughout the night as you try desperately to get comfortable. When choosing a pillow, it’s important to find one that is to your desired firmness or softness so that you can get a full night’s rest. No more thrashing around during the night!

Why Your Pillow Matters

Now that you understand why your pillow matters, you can go out and select the best pillow for you with confidence! Remember to consider your sleeping style while choosing a pillow to find the best option for you.

Are you struggling with severe back pain due to poor sleeping arrangements and don’t know what to do?

We’re here to help. Contact us with any questions or concerns you have about our chiropractic or massage therapy services and continue reading our blog for more helpful tips.

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Understanding Neuropathy

Understanding Neuropathy

by | Jul 22, 2020 | Advice, Sleep, Weight-Loss, Wellness

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. 

 

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The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Right Protein Shakes

The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Right Protein Shakes

by | Jul 20, 2020 | Advice, Nutrition, Sleep, Wellness

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.

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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 | Fun, 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. 

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Creating a Meal Plan for Diabetes

Creating a Meal Plan for Diabetes

by | Jul 15, 2020 | Fun, Nutrition, Orthotics, Sleep, Wellness

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. 

 

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