Steven Schram DC on YouTube

Potassium – Valuable mineral for the body

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 22:56:08 -0400

We have heard about making sure we get enough potassium to help our bodies. We might hear someone tell us this if we are having muscle cramps or seem to be experience fatigue more than normal. There are a number of reasons our bodies need potassium and several sources we can obtain this mineral from. Keep in mind that our body doesn’t produce potassium, so we need make sure we pay attention to obtaining it for our bodily functions.

Potassium assists with several operations in the body. It is both a mineral and an electrolyte. It helps with muscle contractions, heart rhythm, digestion, water balance, pH balance, blood pressure, and nerve impulses. Because it is an electrolyte, is also conducts electrical impulses throughout the body. Keeping a normal range of potassium in the body is regulated by the kidneys, but having too little or too much can have health consequences. There are also natural supplements available if necessary.

The best food sources to get potassium include whole grains, beans and nuts, and lean meats. Other great foods include bananas, kiwi, organs, pineapples, and apricots. Vegetables with potassium include carrots, potatoes, and leafy greens. If absorption issues or digestive issues are an issue, supplementation would be the next best choice.

Signs of low potassium might be experiencing muscle cramps, spasm, or weakness. Feeling very fatigued might also happen. Having an irregular heartbeat could cause constipation, nausea, or even vomiting. Hypokalemia is the term for potassium deficiency. Temporary potassium deficiency usually regulates itself shortly after. For example, after a hard workout with lots of sweating, then after you eat or drink, your levels normalize. Some health conditions cause hypokalemia which include kidney disease, ongoing use of diuretics, taking some antibiotics, being deficient in magnesium, and sometimes after excessive sweating diarrhea, and vomiting.

Having too much potassium, called hyperkalemia, is rare but possible. This could be caused by chemotherapy, diabetes, cocaine use, and severe burns. There are medications to help excrete more potassium. A doctor might also recommend taking glucose or insulin because they transport potassium from the blood cells so it can be removed. There’s also a device called an albuterol inhaler that can lower high levels.

Eating a healthy, balanced diet typically takes care of the nutritional needs our body requires for optimal performance. However, our likes, dislikes, medical conditions, and lifestyle, all come into the equation. Having our regular physical examination with blood panels done is essential to know what’s taking place on our inside. Our body communicates to us as well when something is not balanced, so it is our responsibility to be proactive rather than reactive, even it comes to something like having enough potassium.

Potassium and Health – PMC (nih.gov)

Physiology and Pathophysiology of Potassium Homeostasis: Core Curriculum 2019 – American Journal of Kidney Diseases (ajkd.org)

Potassium intake is associated with nutritional quality and actual diet cost: a study at formulating a low sodium high potassium (LSHP) healthy diet – PMC (nih.gov)

Update on management of hypokalaemia and goals for the lower potassium level in patients with cardiovascular disease: a review in collaboration with the European Society of Cardiology Working Group on Cardiovascular Pharmacotherapy | European Heart Journal – Cardiovascular Pharmacotherapy | Oxford Academic

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Gimmie dem beans!

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 22:48:44 -0400

The more you eat, the more you lower your risk of certain cancers.

Beans have more servings of fiber than any other vegetable. One single serving will give you 20 percent of your daily recommended fiber.

Researchers in Japan did a seven-year study. They studied more than 43,000 people between the ages of 40 and 79 that had high cancer rates and ate little fiber. The more fiber they got from beans, the lower the risk of colon cancer, especially in men, became. It was the bean fiber that impacted the colon cancer statistics more than any other source of fiber.

Other research indicates that the fiber in beans like garbanzo’s actually keep your body from absorbing carcinogens. When you take in less carcinogens, the less damage is done to your cells, tissues, and other organs. Less damage equates to lower cancer risk in the long run. It’s too bad that the same cannot be said for ingesting flesh foods.

Beans contain phytochemicals, which naturally fight cancer and free radicals, which ruin your cells and tissues through oxidation. The phytochemicals neutralize the free radicals before they do damage.

Greek researchers tested extracts from 11 different legumes (beans are legumes) and found that all of them neutralized free radicals. Not only that, but most of them also protected DNA from oxidative damage, which more or less explains the key to beans’ anti-cancer potential.

What about beans helping women thwart breast cancer? In a study of 90,000 young nurses, the ones who ate beans or lentils at least twice a week were less likely to develop breast cancer.

The experts assumed that the flavonols, again phytochemicals, block the free radicals, prevent oxidative damage to the cells, and encourage cancerous cells to die. All you have to do is to work at least two servings of beans and lentils into your weekly diet.

We all know there’s quite a fad about cutting carbs. If you are concerned, at all, about colon cancer, fagetaboutit.

The carbs in beans are a unique kind that the body cannot digest. As such, they wind up fermenting in your colon, thanks to the bacteria living in your gut. The fermentation produces a compound called butyrate that basically squashes inflammation and the abnormal cell growth that can lead to cancer. In addition, the indigestible carbs help give beans a low glycemic index, meaning a low risk of colon cancer. This is the super benefit of eating low glycemic index foods.

Theory leads to subjectivity. The researchers decided to put their theories to work. They took people that previously had colon polyps removed, changed their diets to include more cooked, dry beans, and after four years, those that ate the most beans were 65 percent less likely to see their polyps return.

All beans work, be it baked, pinto, kidney, navy, white, black, garbanzo, human (only kidding), or lima – all cut colon cancer risk. The more legumes that men eat the less likely they are to get prostate cancer. Three major studies found that eating lots of legumes, including beans, lentils, and split peas, dropped prostate cancer risk between 29 and 38 percent. If flesh foods are eliminated altogether, those percentages climb incredibly.

Another weapon against cancer is the folate found in B vitamins, which beans are a great source of. Eating high-folate foods reduces the risk of pancreatic and colon cancer. In addition, the folate helps to build and repair DNA. Too little leads to DNA damage and supplements will not provide the protection that folate-rich foods do.

Aloha!

Sources:

www.verywellhealth.com

www.medicalnewstoday.com/articals/320192#benefits

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Is it safe to eat apple cider vinegar?

Sat, 20 Apr 2024 01:42:59 -0400

For ACV to be really beneficial it is essential that it is organic, unfiltered and the apples used, fully ripened. If the ACV is distilled, enzymes are destroyed as is the potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, sulfur, iron, copper, silicon, trace minerals, and essential amino acids. Distilling also destroys natural acids that fight body toxins and inhibit unfriendly bacteria.

The fact that ACV is so potassium rich is incredible as this one chemical is responsible for preventing hair loss, brittle teeth and nails, sinusitis, runny noses and toxic waste in the body, for openers.

The reality is that most people are potassium deficient and this is reflected throughout their entire bodies. Factually, ACV let’s you look younger as you get older.

Interestingly enough, with ACV being sulfur based, many illnesses associated with a potassium deficiency can be eliminated with a daily regimen of ACV or organic sulfur crystal ingestion.

Some of those illnesses are autistic symptoms, arthritis pain, kidney stones, atrial fibrillation, adrenal insufficiency, celiac disease, high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, ulcerative colitis, hypothyroidism, irritable bowl syndrome, Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, Crohn’s disease, lupus, atherosclerosis, diabetes and stroke.

So how would one know that they are potassium deficient?

If you experience bone and muscle aches, if you get shooting pains or feel dizzy when straightening up after bending over, experiencing morning dull headaches when you wake up, dull looking hair, dandruff or itchy scalp, itchy, bloodshot or watery eyes, loss of mental alertness, failing memory, easily irritable or impatient, or if your hands and feet are cold in warm weather, you are potassium deficient.

One of the incredible things about ACV is that it detoxifies not only the bloodstream but the various organs of the body as well. It also will break down mucus and phlegm, prevent your urine from becoming too alkaline, and promote healthy blood flow to the heart and brain.

Today, what you find in supermarkets is vinegar made from coal tar and not fully ripened apples. If you think that ACV is harmful to the body you are mistaken It’s the distilled, pasteurized, filtered, synthetic, and dead vinegars that must be avoided.

Bear in mind though that ACV is in itself not the panacea for optimum health but a necessary tool that goes along with a clean, synthetic chemical and processed free diet along with ample hydration of non-fluoridated water, and avoidance of sodas, and sugar rich sports drinks.

Also keep in mind that if you are ingesting anything that had a face or a mother that is allegedly “range free”, you are still eating GMOs due to the fact that this is what’s fed to the animals. As far as fish goes, mercury anyone?

So, here’s a simple recipe: 3 – 5 tablespoons of organic, unrefined ACV, like Bragg’s, 4 – 5 drops of stevia or a bit of honey in 16 ounces of water. In time you will feel the difference.

Oh yeah, you can only get this ACV in natural food stores. After I make it, I stick it in the fridge to get it colder and usually drink 2 -3 a day.

Aloha!

Sources:

www.gerson.org

www.healthline.com

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White vinegar – So many uses & purposes

Sat, 20 Apr 2024 01:41:42 -0400

We hear a lot about apple cider vinegar and the various health benefits it has for us, but what about plain white vinegar? Some people call this type distilled or spirit vinegar. It doesn’t get the same attention. It is very versatile, and during the COVID-19 pandemic, it was sold out at stores because of its cleaning uses. Most everyone has it in their pantry because at any time you might need some for cooking, baking, and cleaning. Drinking it by itself tastes much too harsh so it is always an ingredient used for something else. It is made of 4–7% acetic acid and 93–96% water. It is made by undergoing the fermentation of grain alcohol.

There are health benefits associated with white vinegar. Although more research is needed, it has been shown to reduce cholesterol as well as being able to lower blood sugar level and insulin levels after eating. It also has antimicrobial properties so it can help with burns and skin infections. It can also help with nail fungus and ear infections. These same antimicrobial properties are why it is popularly used for cleaning. White vinegar is good for cleaning countertops, floors, dishes, mirrors, toilets, coffee makers, and taking stains out of laundry. People who enjoy gardening like to use vinegar to kill weeds. It also can be put in water to keep fresh cut flowers longer.

White vinegar is used for cooking too. It is used to make many sauces and marinades. It is used to make baked good rise. Some cheeses can be made from vinegar and milk. It is most well known for being used in pickles, eggs, and fruits. Some people put it on their salads too. Having too much white vinegar can cause gastrointestinal problems such as heartburn. Eating too much food with white vinegar in it can also cause teeth problems with enamel erosion.

White vinegar is a kitchen staple for many, and it gets little credit for all it does. It has a long shelf life, so most people don’t buy it too often. It’s certainly a “just in case” or because “I might need it” item to have in the house. It isn’t too expensive either. For all it can do and help with, white vinegar is worth keeping around.

Knowledge Domain and Emerging Trends in Vinegar Research: A Bibliometric Review of the Literature from WoSCC – PMC (nih.gov)

Vinegar: A potential source of healthy and functional food with special reference to sugarcane vinegar – PMC (nih.gov)

Vinegar: Medicinal Uses and Antiglycemic Effect – PMC (nih.gov)

Functional Properties of Vinegar – Budak – 2014 – Journal of Food Science – Wiley Online Library

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My blessing from Hawaii

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 02:39:31 -0400

Learning the Aloha Spirit?

Every time we pick up a newspaper or watch the news, the lead story is always about some person-to- person horror with the foundation being centered around race, culture or religion always resulting in bloodshed, mayhem, chaos or oppression.

Seeing this we become fearful and anxious and struggle to remain optimistic and positive. Somehow, in Hawaii, we seem to find a way through this with tolerance, civility and being observant.

Coming to Hawaii in the 70’s, in the laid back town of Lahaina, which has now been burned down by a**holes to remodel it, I was definitely the new kid on the block. I was haole (Caucasian), had long hair and a beard, and stood out like a sore thumb.

Every day I would go to the town tennis court, watch 3 guys playing 2 against 1, and never say a word. After about an hour I would leave. This scenario was repeated for 4 days. On the 5^th day the 1 guy said, “You like play”?

My game was good and my vibe was easy. In no time we all became friends. When that happened, I was asked, “Why you say noting every day”?

I explained that I didn’t want to push myself on anyone and I respected their right to play the way they wanted to.

My feeling was that Hawaii was a “melting pot” of ethnicity and for the most part they were here a lot longer than me.

That’s the reality. For nearly 200 years, people from all over the world have come here to form a community where our differences defined us rather than divided us.

We have no majority race and diversity is readily accepted. This is counter to other parts of the world where things are looked at as majority or minority.

Our cultural philosophy leans away from the more, the better. So, our foods, language, traditions and actions morph into chop suey. But the one thing that has its defining moment is the condition of our heart. No one says they are better, or tries to show anyone up. It’s like we are all family. We walk down the street, look a stranger in the eye, smile and say, “Howzit”? They smile back.

Recently, a program was started here called, Pillars of Peace. The program is designed to bring global peace leaders here to learn of our unique culture and see if it can be replicated worldwide.

The first to come was the Dalai Lama. His intent is to spend quite some time here to learn about why we have what we have and why we take it for granted as the way it is supposed to be.

Does he hold audiences in large churches, auditoriums, or stadiums? No! He visits schools, interacts with the kids and says he wants to use Hawaii as the example to create a society where peace is built on a foundation of aloha.

We are not in the illusion that the aloha spirit will endure without a conscious effort to preserve it as we undertake the same effort to preserve our unique physical environment.

As islanders, we are all linked and dependent upon each other’s actions, so much so that it is impossible to separate the notion of environmental or economic sustainability from the notion of personal and communal interdependence.

Why can’t we all be “pillars of peace”? How hard is it to promote a just and equitable society that meets its challenges head-on with mutual respect for differences in race, color and creed and the grace to find common ground?

If people would see the person as a car with a driver, everything would be simple. The car comes in different sizes, shapes, colors and accessories but it cannot move without the driver. The car is material. The driver is pure spirit. So, if you look beyond the car and view the driver you will see that all the drivers are spiritual and eternal in nature, all having the same Father. As such we are all related.

When the driver leaves the car, everything is still present on and in the car. So, why can’t it move? Because the driver has gone back home or has found a new car to drive.

Accepting this and devoting ourselves to it opens the door to a bright future devoid of hate, prejudice and animosity. Rather than seeing different colors or religions we see “family”, with each member having their right to choose their own path.

This unique “spirit of aloha” is our contribution to the world and our most precious resource. It’s just too bad the politicians and Monsanto don’t see it the same way.

As a final note, the literal translation of the word aloha is, “I see the spirit within you”.

Aloha!

Sources:

www.robertshawaii.com

www.skylinehawaii.com

More about me:

I had been doing a weekly radio show in Honolulu from 1981 to 2008 called “Health Talk”.

In 2007 I was “forced” to get a Masters degree in Nutrition because of all the doctors that would call in asking for my credentials. They do not call in anymore.

Going to www.healthtalkhawaii.com enables you, among other things, to listen to the shows. I am an activist. In addition, I espouse an organic vegan diet for optimum health.

I am strongly opposed to GMOs, vaccines, processed foods, MSG, aspartame, fluoridation and everything else that the pimps (Big pHarma, Monsanto/Bayer and the large food companies) and the hookers (the doctors, the government agencies, the public health officials, and the mainstream media) thrust upon us, the tricks.

After being vaccinated with the DTP vaccine as a child I developed asthma. After taking the organic sulfur

crystals (they are harvested from the pine trees in Louisiana) in November of 2008 for 3 days my asthma reversed and has not come back in 5 years.

Twenty two cases, so far, of autism have been reversed, as has cancer, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, osteoarthritis, joint pain, astigmatism, and gum disease. There are many cases of increased sexual activity, heavy metal and radiation elimination, parasite elimination, free radicals elimination, faster athletic recovery time, increased blood circulation, reduced inflammation, resistance to getting the flu, reduction of wrinkles, allergy reduction, reduced PMS and monthly period pain, nausea, migraines, erectile dysfunction, and so much more.

And it’s only possible because of the oxygen the sulfur crystals release that floods the cells of the body.

The sulfur, as proven by the University of Southampton in England, enables the body to produce vitamin B12 and the essential amino acids. You can find out more about this incredible nutrient also on my website – www.healthtalkhawaii.com -.

My books, “A Sane Diet For An Insane World”, and “Treat the Cause. Not the Symptom, which has been published. and can be viewed at www.asanediet.com., will explain simply why what you eat, for the most part, is designed to keep you in a state of declining health.

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IBS – Irritating foods to avoid

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 02:30:55 -0400

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affects somewhere between 5-10% of the population. This digestive condition is uncomfortable and intrusive upon daily living. Those who suffer from IBS must be careful of certain foods that trigger disruption to digestion. Although having a complete list of possible foods to avoid for a person with IBS is practically impossible, at least eliminating foods that could pose problems is a proactive measure to keep IBS at bay. Attempting an elimination diet is a way to pinpoint what does and does not strike IBS issues to occur. The goal is to maintain regular bowel movements, have less bloating, and have less stomach cramping.

The most common foods that bring upon IBS symptoms are any processed foods, dairy, gluten, caffeine, and insoluble fiber. For others it can be fried foods and alcohol. Here are several foods that cause IBS flare ups:

1. Processed foods – These are foods like frozen pizza, chips, cereals, hot dogs, fish sticks, granola bars, and sugary beverages. There are a lot of added sugars, fat, salt, and additives. Most of these are foods you don’t prepare yourself and come in a package.

2. Cruciferous vegetables – These include brussels sprouts, cauliflower, broccoli, and cabbage. Most people have trouble with gas and bloating after eating these.

3. Chocolate – The fat and sugar can be the IBS culprit. Typically, vegan options help with chocolate digestion.

4. Garlic and onions – These have fructans and oligosaccharide which are good for flavor but not easy for intestines to break down. Gas and cramps may result.

5. Caffeine – Coffee and caffeinated drinks have stimulants that activate diarrhea for people with IBS.

6. Beans and legumes – Although they are a great source of fiber and some protein, they do have oligosaccharides which are resistant to digestive intestinal enzymes. Constipation may result from eating them.

7. Sugar free sweeteners – Common triggers are foods and drinks that have aspartame, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, sorbitol, and sucralose. A lot of items that say “zero calories” have these sweeteners, and they can cause gas and laxative issues.

8. Alcohol – Sometimes these do have gluten while others contain a lot of sugar. They can also cause dehydration which isn’t good for digestion either.

9. Diary – Many of these items are high in fat and many people with IBS are also lactose intolerant.

10. Fried foods – When food is fried, it changes its chemical makeup so it’s hard to digest. Baking is the better option.

11. Insoluble fiber – There are 2 types of fiber. These include soluble fiber which is mainly in beans, fruits, and oat products. What needs to be avoided is insoluble fiber that is found in whole grain products and vegetables. Really highly concentrated fiber filled foods are hard for IBS.

12. Gluten – Barely, wheat, and rye are the grains to be cautious of. Gluten intolerance and celiac disease worsen IBS symptoms.

IBS can limit food choices considerably. Food might taste good going down, but there can be a consequence to pay for the momentary enjoyment. Eating lean proteins and natural foods with soluble fiber and no sweeteners is the route to steer clear of IBS symptoms. Individuals vary in what they can tolerate and there is no cure all remedy for IBS. It’s a learned process of what can be eaten and successfully digested. We need all the nutrients we can get from our foods and our diet should help us feel better, not feel worse. Food is fuel for our bodies, but sometimes the body can be picky. Think of it as having a special diet, not a restrictive one.

Diet in irritable bowel syndrome: What to recommend, not what to forbid to patients! – PMC (nih.gov)

Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Dietary Interventions – PMC (nih.gov)

5 Foods to Avoid if You Have IBS | Johns Hopkins Medicine

ACG Clinical Guideline: Management of Irritable Bowel Syndro… : Official journal of the American College of Gastroenterology | ACG (lww.com)

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The Energizing Power of Community at Summer Festivals

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 23:29:32 -0400

In an era where our interactions are increasingly digitized and our social circles can feel cramped by the walls of our own minds, the vibrancy and pulse of a summer festival can be a great antidote.

The Pull of Shared Passions

Festivals are the embodiments of shared passions, diverse yet united under a common thread, and an undercurrent of belonging. Be it the melodic hum of a music festival where genres transcend barriers and time, or the breathing chants of a yoga retreat that connect breath to movement and hearts to one another, the power of a collective passion is undeniable.

In these moments, we don’t just hear music, we become one with it. In the silence of meditation, we hear the universe’s inner workings. And through the shared laughter and sweat of a dance floor, we redefine solitude as a choice, not a circumstance.

Finding and Connecting with Your Tribe

The true magic of festivals lies in the connections we forge. The strangers who become friends, the vendor who shares a slice of wisdom, the spirited stranger who shares a dance but not a name – these people can become a part of your extended family.

Communing for a Better World

These gatherings represent a collective yearning for a better world. They are expressions of hope, of a belief that community can be fledged, not fled. They show us that in a society seeking connection, tolerance, and understanding, it is only our inflexibility that prevents us from achieving it.

Rights of Passage

In the end, summer festivals are rites of passage, opportunities to shed the skin of our digital selves and reconnect with what is fundamentally human. They are the life rafts we throw ourselves when we feel most adrift in the loneliness of modern life. They’re catalysts for personal growth and testaments to the power of perspective, a reminder that we are part of a rich, intricate web of shared experiences and emotions much larger than ourselves.

Finding your tribe and immersing yourself in summer festivals isn’t just about having a good time; it’s an investment in the most fundamental of our human needs – the need for a supportive community. It’s about committing to the idea that belonging, however fleeting, can be as simple as swaying to the beat of music that moves more than just your feet. And, ultimately, it’s a celebration of the ties that bind us, and the joy that comes from simply being present and connected in the grand performance of life.

Looking for a Festival This Summer?
The Top Suggestions:

The Bend Yoga Festival | Oregon 06/06-09, 2024 www.bendyogafestival.com
The OM Festival | Vermont | 07/24-28, 2024 www.TheomFestival.com
Dirty South Yoga Festival | Atlanta 08/23-25, 2024 www.dirtysouthyogafest.com

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Respiratory Issues in Dogs: Understanding and Addressing Your Canine’s Breathing Problems

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 23:27:58 -0400

Respiratory issues in dogs can be a cause for concern for any pet owner. Just like humans, dogs can suffer from a variety of respiratory conditions that affect their airways and lungs, which are essential for breathing.

Some of the common respiratory problems in dogs include infectious diseases like kennel cough, inflammatory conditions like bronchitis, and even more serious ailments such as pneumonia.

It’s important for dog owners to recognize the signs of respiratory distress and seek veterinary care promptly.

Recognizing the symptoms of respiratory issues in dogs is key to providing timely treatment and ensuring a quick recovery.

Clinical signs can range from mild to severe and typically include coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, rapid or labored breathing, and changes in appetite or energy levels.

While some symptoms may resolve on their own or with minimal intervention, others could indicate a serious health problem requiring professional veterinary attention.

Key Takeaways

Respiratory issues in dogs require prompt attention for effective management and treatment
Symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, and lethargy are common indicators of respiratory distress
Regular veterinary check-ups and vaccinations are important in preventing respiratory diseases in dogs

Common Respiratory Problems in Dogs

Respiratory issues in dogs can span from mild irritations to severe infections, all of which require attentive care. It’s important for dog owners to recognize the symptoms and understand the causes to ensure prompt treatment. Below are some of the common ailments affecting our canine companions.

Kennel Cough

Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious respiratory disease complex, is a highly contagious illness characterized by a robust, hacking cough.

It’s a term that describes a complex of infections—viral and bacterial—which includes the likes of Bordetella bronchiseptica. This condition can lead to pneumonia in severe cases, so early detection and treatment are vital.

Canine Distemper

A serious viral disease, canine distemper affects a dog’s respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems.

Symptoms often start with an infectious cough, progress to pneumonia, and can sometimes lead to fatal outcomes. There is no known cure, but vaccination is an effective preventive measure.

Canine Influenza

Canine influenza, or dog flu, has two identified strains, H3N8 and H3N2, both of which can lead to significant canine respiratory illness.

It typically manifests as a persistent cough and can include a runny nose and fever. Most cases are mild, but some dogs can develop secondary bacterial pneumonia, which warrants careful monitoring and treatment.

Symptoms and Clinical Signs of Respiratory Issues

When their dog starts showing signs of respiratory trouble, pet owners might notice symptoms like persistent coughing or sneezing, difficulty breathing, or an unusual nasal discharge. Understanding these symptoms can be key to recognizing when it’s time for a vet visit.

Coughing and Sneezing

Coughing in dogs can range from a dry, hacking cough to a more moist cough that suggests phlegm may be present.

Sneezing in dogs is often a response to irritation of the nasal passages, and while it can be harmless, frequent sneezing coupled with other symptoms may indicate a respiratory issue.

Coughing
- Dry, hacking cough
- Moist cough with phlegm
Sneezing
- Occasional vs. persistent sneezing
- Accompanied by nasal discharge

Labored Breathing

Labored breathing, or dyspnea, indicates that a dog is struggling to breathe.

Pet owners may notice their dog breathing with more effort, faster than usual, or even appearing to use their abdominal muscles to help them breathe.

Signs of Dyspnea
- Increased effort to breathe
- Abdominal breathing
- Fast breathing

Nasal Discharge

Nasal discharge is another sign of potential respiratory issues in dogs.

The discharge may be clear or may have color, such as yellow or green, which can suggest an infection. Consistency can also vary from watery to thick mucus.

Characteristics of Nasal Discharge
- Clear, watery discharge
- Colored (yellow or green) discharge
- Thick mucus

Causes and Risk Factors for Respiratory Diseases

Respiratory diseases in dogs can stem from various sources, ranging from pathogen infection to environmental triggers. Understanding these factors is crucial in protecting our canine companions from such illnesses.

Infection from Viruses and Bacteria

The culprits in many respiratory diseases in dogs are viruses and bacteria.

A common viral cause is canine distemper which affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems of dogs. On the bacterial side, Bordetella bronchiseptica is a significant pathogen responsible for kennel cough, a highly contagious respiratory disease.

Because these microbes can easily spread from one dog to another, especially in crowded environments, they present a substantial risk for our pets.

Environmental Factors

Environmental irritants play a role in the health of a dog’s respiratory system.

Dogs exposed to secondhand smoke, pollutants, or chemical fumes may develop respiratory issues due to the continual irritation of their airways. Seasonal allergies can also prompt respiratory problems when dogs inhale allergens like pollen.

Underlying Health Issues

Underlying health conditions, such as a compromised immune system, can make dogs more susceptible to respiratory diseases.

Dogs with pre-existing afflictions or chronic diseases may lack the strength to efficiently fight off pathogens, rendering them vulnerable to infections and complications.

Identifying and managing these underlying causes is essential for maintaining respiratory health.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Canine Respiratory Issues

When a beloved pet starts coughing or shows signs of breathing difficulties, it’s time for a trip to the vet. Modern veterinary medicine offers a number of diagnostic tests to identify the cause, and a range of treatments to help a dog breathe easier and recover from respiratory issues.

Veterinary Diagnostic Tests

Veterinarians use a variety of diagnostic tests to pinpoint the specific cause of respiratory troubles in dogs.

Blood tests can reveal signs of infection, while x-rays and ultrasound may visualize abnormalities in the lungs or airways.

In some cases, bronchoscopy—a procedure where a tiny camera is introduced into the airways—helps to directly assess the extent and nature of any damage or obstruction.

Physical Examination: Listening to the lungs with a stethoscope for abnormal sounds
Chest X-rays: For a visual assessment of the lungs and heart
Complete Blood Count (CBC): To check for signs of infection or inflammation
Tracheal Wash: Collecting fluid from the trachea to look for pathogens
Bronchoscopy: A detailed look at the trachea and bronchi using a camera

Medications and Supportive Care

Once the problem is diagnosed, veterinarians can prescribe specific medications.

Antibiotics are often used if a bacterial infection is confirmed. In cases where breathing is difficult, bronchodilators might be given to relax and open up the air passages.

Corticosteroids may also be used to reduce inflammation in the airways.

Antibiotics: For bacterial infections – (e.g., Doxycycline or Amoxicillin)
Bronchodilators: To widen the airways and ease breathing
Corticosteroids: To reduce inflammation in the respiratory system

Supportive care is just as important in the healing process.

Providing a calm and stress-free environment, along with sufficient hydration and proper nutrition, plays a significant role in recovery.

Vaccinations can be crucial in prevention, especially against contagious illnesses like kennel cough, ensuring the well-being of the pack as a whole.

The veterinarian may also recommend rest and a temporary reduction in physical activities so the dog can recuperate fully.

Prevention and Management

When it comes to our furry friends’ health, preventing respiratory issues can save lives and spare them from discomfort. Management strategies ensure they bounce back swiftly if they do catch a bug.

Vaccinations and Immunization

Vaccinations are a pet parent’s frontline defense against respiratory diseases.

By fostering a strong immune system, vaccines significantly reduce the risk of severe illness.

Core vaccines protect against canine distemper and adenovirus, both of which affect the respiratory system.

Additionally, the bordetella vaccine is recommended for dogs frequently visiting boarding facilities or dog parks, where kennel cough easily spreads.

Recommended Vaccines:
- Canine Distemper
- Adenovirus Type 2
- Parainfluenza
- Bordetella (Kennel Cough)

Regular veterinary care, including booster shots, is vital to maintain immunity over the years.

Talk to the vet about the best vaccination schedule for your dog—they’re there to help!

Hygiene and Environmental Control

Keeping a dog’s environment clean is crucial for respiratory health.

Regular cleaning of bedding, bowls, and toys helps prevent the spread of pathogens.

Tips for Hygiene and Control:
- Sanitize bowls and toys weekly
- Replace or wash bedding frequently
- Use air purifiers to reduce airborne contaminants
- Avoid smoke or strong fumes around pets

If a dog is diagnosed with a respiratory illness, isolation from other pets can prevent transmission.

For those who board their dogs or use doggy daycares, choosing facilities with strict hygiene practices can reduce exposure to airborne illnesses.

The post Respiratory Issues in Dogs: Understanding and Addressing Your Canine’s Breathing Problems appeared first on NaturalNewsBlogs.

Cryotherapy – Cold never felt so good

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 23:26:09 -0400

Cold therapy, termed cryotherapy, has become a popular form of self-care for the body. It can be done in one or more areas of the body and some people have it done on their whole body. The idea behind cryotherapy is that immersing the body in cold temperatures produces several benefits. The most popular approach is called WBA, which means whole-body-cryotherapy. This is when the person puts their whole body in a chamber that has an opening for the head and the water is nearing 200–300°F. The process is quick and lasts only two to four minutes. For best results, this should be a repeated process. Some people even go for 10 days in a row. Some people even go twice per day. Most people use cryotherapy for overall pain alleviation. It numbs nerve pain, so chronic and acute injuries feel better.

There is evidence to back the benefits of cryotherapy. Many people like it for its reduction in arthritic pain. Because of the pain reduction, people feel an increase in mobility and improvement in the physical therapy exercises they are doing to help with arthritis. Cryotherapy has also been shown to help reduce migraine symptoms. Very cold ice packs can be placed on the carotid arteries on the neck which will cool the blood passing through the vessels in the neck area (intracranial vessels). It can also help treat dry and itchy skin. This is called Atopic dermatitis. It improves antioxidant levels in the blood, so inflammation is reduced.

Another purpose of cryotherapy is to help treat cancer. Patients benefit from cryosurgery, which freezes cancer cells that have crystals. It is currently mostly used for prostate cancer. Cryotherapy is also used for dementia and Alzheimer prevention. It helps reduce the inflammatory effects of oxidative stress that occur with Alzheimer’s. Research has also shown its ability to help with mood disorders, particularly depression and anxiety. This is because the hormonal responses following the release of endorphins, adrenaline, and noradrenaline.

After cryotherapy, some people experience redness of the skin, tingling, or stinging. It should never be done for long periods of time in one session, nor should you ever ice one area for more than 20-minute intervals. Anyone who has nerve damage or diabetes shouldn’t do cryotherapy. It is also recommended to wear socks and gloves to help protect against frostbite. Wearing loose fitting clothes after, such as sweats, is a good idea to travel home in. Individual results vary. Sessions can range from $50 to $80 each time.

Some people just don’t like cold, while others can take a polar plunge no problem. There are health and self-care approaches suited for everyone. At some point we have all iced an injury, so we are aware of the effects of cold therapy. Cryotherapy taps into the benefits of cold treatment even more so. Natural remedies to naturally help ourselves feel better, can help us live life with more quality and less interruption.

Use of Cryotherapy for Managing Chronic Pain: An Evidence-Based Narrative – PMC (nih.gov)

Full article: Whole-body cryotherapy: empirical evidence and theoretical perspectives (tandfonline.com)

Cryotherapy duration is critical in short-term recovery of athletes: a systematic review – ScienceDirect

The Effect of Post-Exercise Cryotherapy on Recovery Characteristics: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis | PLOS ONE

The post Cryotherapy – Cold never felt so good appeared first on NaturalNewsBlogs.

What if . . .

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 23:58:34 -0400

What if someone or a group of someone’s wanted to keep the people in a state of ill health?

How do you suppose they might go about that?

What about producing and strongly promoting high fat, highly processed, high caloric, devitalized, highly chemicalized, and genetically modified foods? That would work, wouldn’t it?

Do you think that if the land and the oceans were raped and left barren to feed livestock and overfishing, if the air was polluted and the drinking water was poisoned with fluoride, that that could contribute to ill health as well?

If hypothetically, someone or a group of someone’s wanted to participate in these activities, who might that be?

Maybe the large food manufacturers to make and sell food designed to keep people eating more and more?

Maybe the medical profession to be assured of a steady “customer” base by continually treating symptoms and not the cause?

Maybe the pharmaceutical industry by creating synthetic chemical drugs to treat those symptoms and create more symptoms from the ingested synthetic chemicals?

Maybe the brain-washed public health officials by insisting that infants be vaccinated with hepatitis B vaccines due to the fact that they might have shared needles within the womb?

Maybe the physician hookers advocating that boys get the HPV shots despite the fact that HPV relates to females?

Maybe the dentists who insist that fluoride is “safe and effective” when all the peer reviewed studies on fluoridation are to the contrary?

Maybe the dentists that advocate root-canals despite the fact root-canals deteriorate and poison the inside of the tooth canal as well as the entire body?

And what about the mainstream media that makes a lot of money in advertising all of the above or the different “societies” and “associations” that have spent countless numbers of years trying to find cures for heart disease, cancer, diabetes, etc., while all the while paying high administrative salaries to those that push these “trying to find the cure” schemes?

Assuming there is some note of reality in answering affirmatively to all of the above, what can you do as an individual to be free from the bonds of ill health as foisted by those that would hypothetically make money off of your illness?

Remember this: the main goal of a publicly traded corporation is to maximize profits.

For one, you become a vegan immediately. If you insist upon ingesting dairy products, you had better eat only those dairy products that are certified organic and raw otherwise the chances of you consuming Bayer/Monsanto’s genetically modified artificial bovine growth hormone is a likelihood, and only ingesting liquid fat is reality. But wait, there’s more!

According to Dr. John McDougall, in his March 2008 newsletter, even if the dairy products are “organic”, the prions for mad cow disease as well as the bovine leukemia virus will be there as well.

Next, your consumption of fruits, vegetables, grains and legumes should be from those that are certified organic to avoid the ingestion of highly toxic pesticides, herbicides, insecticides, rodenticides and aerial sprays.

Next, you must not eat deli meats due to the fact that they are being sprayed with viruses to kill the bacteria which proliferates within or any processed foods, even if they come from the natural food stores, because they all contain MSG and aspartame, euphemistically labeled as natural flavors, natural spices, autolyzed yeast, yeast extract, modified anything, textureized anything, maltodextrin, hydrolyzed vegetable protein, soy protein isolate, calcium caseinate, sodium caseinate, carrageenan, whey protein, barley malt, pectin or enzymes anything.

Realize this, there is no money to be made by the “someome” or “someones” indicated above if people eat food the way it comes from the Earth.

The question you must ask yourself is whether or not your good health is worth the extra time spent preparing eatables from scratch?

The other health saving blessing is the Organic Sulfur Crystal powder that releases oxygen which heals the cells in the body. Go to my website, which is www.healthtalkhawaii.com, and go to Products for more information.

Aloha!

Sources:

www.healthline.com

www.ssmhealth.com

The post What if . . . appeared first on NaturalNewsBlogs.

How do you respond to what's happening in the world? You can practice #compassion for yourself and others.

Sat, 06 Jun 2020 15:33:24 -0400

How do you respond to what's happening in the world? You can practice #compassion for yourself and others. 👉 Click here to learn more about practicing compassion in the face of adversity: bit.ly/2XAG1wQ

Maintaining calm in moments of confusion can help you cultivate peace and harmony - for yourself and for the world

Thu, 04 Jun 2020 20:00:00 -0400

Maintaining calm in moments of confusion can help you cultivate peace and harmony - for yourself and for the world 🌎 - when you need them most. #RT to help spread #peace and equanimity. pic.twitter.com/Om73A5xBZj

Thank you, @LalahDelia. Here's 4 of our favorite ways to energetically #cleanse and mentally #restore in difficult times:

Wed, 03 Jun 2020 20:00:00 -0400

Thank you, @LalahDelia. Here's 4 of our favorite ways to energetically #cleanse and mentally #restore in difficult times: 🙏 Loving-kindness #meditation 💨 Parasympathetic Breathing technique ✍️ Free-write journaling 🍃 Get outside pic.twitter.com/KMNhQtBm1a

Thank you for sharing your reflection. You are appreciated!