Flu Frenzy

  As every news outlet carries 24/7 coverage of the swine flu, you've no doubt become aware of the symptoms associated with it and how quick it can spread.  There are reports that a vaccine is in the works, and speculation is it won't be ready for several months.  To understand the vaccine, you must first understand the flu.  Genetic material within the influenza virus constantly mutates, and by the time a vaccine has been created for a certain strain of the virus, the virus itself has already mutated into a different strain.  Despite this continuous game of catch up, there are several preventative measures we provide our patients to maintain a healthy immune system to resist the flu virus:

1. Vitamin and Mineral IV therapies
   
2. Homeopathic Virus Treatments- remedies to aide our defense system that combat viral   and bacterial infections.
3. Proper diet-  to keep blood sugars stable and incorporate foods that support a healthy     immune function.
4. Exercise-  20-30 minutes a day stimulates the immune system.
   
5. Rest/Sleep- 7-8 hours a day is required for proper rejuvination
   
6. Proper Hygiene-  regularly wash your hands under warm water at least 30 seconds.
   
7. Osteopathic Manipulation and Lymphatic Massage have been researched and published as powerful modalities to boost the immune system.

  If you have questions regarding the flu and preventative treatments available, call us at 562.795.5180.  Ask about our special Flu IV only $50.

  In addition, we hope you can join us at the clinic on Wed., May 20th at 6 pm as our monthly workshop topic will focus on Supporting a Healthy Immune System.  We will have multiple speakers covering several aspects on this topic, see you there.

Heart Health

  According to a study in the European Heart Journal, a blood marker called apolipoprotein B (apo B) may be a better way to predict a fatal heart attack than a cholesterol test. Here's why: while standard cholesterol test measure the number of LDL (bad cholesterol), an Apo B test takes it a bit further and measures the density of LDL. This is important because, small, dense LDL particles, as measured by apo B, are more commonly present in persons with coronary artery disease (CAD) than an increased LDL cholesterol level.
 

  Cholesterol is not quite the villain it's made out to be and turns out to be useful and necessary in the body. When lowered with statins, you increase your risk for a host of other problems: decreased function of liver and kidneys, muscle aches, dizziness, upset stomach, and more. This could result from the following nutrients being depleted while on the medication: CoQ 10, Vitamins A, B12, D, E, K, Beta-Carotene, Folic Acid and Iron.
  

  If you are concerned about your heart health, contact the clinic at 562.795.5180 and request an Apo B test. If you or someone you know are on statins or considering statins, please consider increasing your exercise, and reducing the saturated fat in your diet to lower your cholesterol.  Please call the office with any questions.