STROKE in Younger Women

Middle aged women are too young to be suffering from strokes!

New research shows an increase of strokes in women between the ages of 35 and 54. In a survey done between the years of 1988 and 1994, 0.5% of women in the above age bracket reported to have suffered a stroke. In a more recent survey, conducted from 1999 to 2004 an astounding 2% of women between 35 and 54 reported to have had a previous stroke.

Two percent may seem like a small number, but remember, we are talking about young and middle aged women. Traditionally it was thought that women’s risk of stroke increases 5-10 years after menopause, so why are we seeing strokes in younger women? The researchers attribute this finding to increased abdominal fat, higher BMI (or body mass index) and higher blood sugar.

It is never too early to assess your cardiovascular and stroke risk factors. Eating a healthy diet consisting of lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, fiber, essential fats and an abundance of vegetables is a great way to reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke. Exercising 4 days a week and not smoking are crucial to maintaining the health of your heart and blood vessels.

At Aletris Center of Integrative Medicine, we use progressive lab tests and imaging to assess risk factors associated with current and potential heart disease which may lead to strokes. It is never too late to engage yourself in your own health care and seek the help of a well-trained naturopathic physician.

ALETRIS Center of Integrative Medicine is a Scottsdale, AZ wellness center serving Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Phoenix, Glendale, Arrowhead, Peoria, Sun City, Chandler, Tempe, Ahwatukee, and Mesa, AZ with specialties in naturopathic medicine, natural hormone therapy, women's health, acupuncture, colon hydrotherapy, natural skincare and sugar hair removal.

The contents of this blog, including text, graphics, images and other material, are for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek the counsel of an ALETRIS physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment.

CELEBREX Causes Irreguar Heartbeat?

Researchers have just discovered that Celebrex, a popular drug used to treat arthritis, has been shown to promote arrhythmia, or abnormal heart rhythms. Researchers at University of Buffalo made this unexpected discovery while conducting simple research on potassium channels in the heart.

They found that in animals, very small amounts (corresponding to prescription doses) induced pronounced arrhythmias by inhibiting potassium channels in the heart. This research comes on the heels of more extensive research linking this class of pain killers to other forms of heart disease. Vioxx, the sister drug of Celebrex, was taken off the market in September 2004.

Sohat’s the bottom line? All medications come with side effects and researchers are always discovering new ways that drugs inhibit normal functions in the body. At ALETRIS Center of Integrative Medicine, our goal is to reduce or eliminate the number of drugs on which our patients must rely. Using botanical medicines, vitamins, or food to achieve the same results is always preferable.

ALETRIS Center of Integrative Medicine is a Scottsdale, AZ wellness center serving Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Phoenix, Glendale, Arrowhead, Peoria, Sun City, Chandler, Tempe, Ahwatukee, and Mesa, AZ with specialties in naturopathic medicine, natural hormone therapy, women's health, acupuncture, colon hydrotherapy, natural skincare and sugar hair removal.

The contents of this blog, including text, graphics, images and other material, are for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek the counsel of an ALETRIS physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment.

Inflammation & HEART DISEASE

Inflammation is inflammation is inflammation. Naturopathic physicians have understood this principle for years, yet conventional researchers are just starting to investigate how inflammation in different parts of the body is connected. For example, a Mayo Clinic study published in the February 2005 issue of Arthritis and Rheumatism details the link between rheumatoid arthritis (an inflammatory arthritis) and increased risk of unrecognized heart disease and cardiac sudden death.

Inflammation anywhere in the body will ultimately travel through the blood vessels and damage them. Therefore, we can make the assumption that increases in inflammation anywhere in the body will increase our risk of the number one killer in the US: Heart Disease.

What exactly is inflammation? On a biochemical level, inflammation means the production of free radials, which are unpaired electrons that bounce around and damage any other molecules in their path. In the bloodstream, inflammation nicks the inside walls of blood vessels and causes plaque and calcium build up there. This causes sclerosis, a closing of the arteries, which can ultimately lead to stroke or heart attack.

At ALETRIS Center of Integrative medicine, we evaluate levels of inflammation in each and every patient. Allowing excess inflammation in our patients would ultimately lead to an increased risk of heart disease. Please visit us or give us a call to learn how simple blood tests can help you assess your individual risk for inflammation and heart disease.

ALETRIS Center of Integrative Medicine is a Scottsdale, AZ wellness center serving Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Phoenix, Glendale, Arrowhead, Peoria, Sun City, Chandler, Tempe, Ahwatukee, and Mesa, AZ with specialties in naturopathic medicine, natural hormone therapy, women's health, acupuncture, colon hydrotherapy, natural skincare and sugar hair removal.

The contents of this blog, including text, graphics, images and other material, are for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek the counsel of an ALETRIS physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment.

Healthy Weight for FERTILITY

According to recent research published in Human Reproduction, as a woman’s BMI (or body mass index) increases, her fertility decreases. The study found that for every BMI unit over 29 kg/m2, the probability of pregnancy was reduced by 4 percent. Very obese women with a BMI between 35 and 40 had a pregnancy probability that was 26-43% lower than those with a BMI below 29.

The researchers postulate that being obese disrupts the endocrine system. One hormone which is produced by fat cells called leptin may be the culprit, as evidence shows that leptin may influence sex hormone production directly from the ovaries.

A healthy weight is essential for having an easy pregnancy and birthing experience, and weight loss is a key component of naturopathic fertility treatment in women with elevated BMI levels. Regular moderate exercise, diet modification and customized supplementation is still the healthiest way to lose weight for long term results.

Want to know your BMI? Use this handy tool from the Department of Health and Human Services. BMI CALCULATOR

ALETRIS Center of Integrative Medicine is a Scottsdale, AZ wellness center serving Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Phoenix, Glendale, Arrowhead, Peoria, Sun City, Chandler, Tempe, Ahwatukee, and Mesa, AZ with specialties in naturopathic medicine, natural hormone therapy, women's health, acupuncture, colon hydrotherapy, natural skincare and sugar hair removal.

The contents of this blog, including text, graphics, images and other material, are for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek the counsel of an ALETRIS physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment.

HPV and STRESS

It is estimated that 75% of all sexually active women have been exposed to human papilloma virus (HPV) at some point in their lives. Although this infection can be cleared over time, common HPV subtypes can lead to cervical cancer. The overall health of our immune system is a good indicator of potential disease resolution or progressive cervical dysplasia.

It is well known among naturopathic physicians that stress, diet, exercise and overall lifestyle patterns can immensely affect the health of our immune system. New research conducted by Fang et al., looked at perceived daily life stressors among women and its effect on HPV resolution. A total of 74 women were questioned with regard to their daily life stressors, and those with more perceived daily stress were linked to lowered immune responses to HPV. Interestingly, there was no association found with regard to immune response to HPV and a single major stressful event.

Naturopaths believe that chronic stress can have adverse affects on the digestive, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular and endocrine systems in addition to the immune system. It is also notable that women who have an abnormal pap do not necessarily need to resort to cryotherapy or LEEP procedures, as HPV can be cleared through natural therapies. At ALETRIS, we provide comprehensive medical testing, naturopathy and acupuncture to clear HPV, bring balance to the body and alleviate the response to daily stress.

ALETRIS Center of Integrative Medicine is a Scottsdale, AZ wellness center serving Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Phoenix, Glendale, Arrowhead, Peoria, Sun City, Chandler, Tempe, Ahwatukee, and Mesa, AZ with specialties in naturopathic medicine, natural hormone therapy, women's health, acupuncture, colon hydrotherapy, natural skincare and sugar hair removal.

The contents of this blog, including text, graphics, images and other material, are for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek the counsel of an ALETRIS physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment.

27 ORGANIC Fruits & Veggies

"Buying organic produce is so expensive," We often hear, and it's certainly true that organic produce is often two to three times more expensive than regular fruits and vegtables.

To help you decide when to be frugal and when to splurge, we want to share a list of produce most contaminated with high levels of pesticides and herbicides. We urge you to purchase these fruits and vegetables organically at any cost.

FRUITS
Strawberries
Raspberries
Apples
Grapes
Raisins
Peaches
Nectarines
Apricots
Pears
Cherries
Lemons
Limes
Bananas
Kiwis
Cantaloupes
Tomatoes

VEGETABLES
Potatoes
Carrots
Corn
Celery
Cucumber
Spinach
Green & Red Bell Peppers
Lettuce
Green Beans
Squash

We recommend copying or printing this list to carry with you while grocery shopping.

The contents of this blog, including text, graphics, images and other material, are for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek the counsel of an ALETRIS physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment.

Coming Soon! Saliva Test for Breast Cancer

Scientists in Houston are developing a saliva test to identify specific proteins found in breast cancers. In the future, this could provide us with an inexpensive and non-invasive tool to detect early cancers of the breast.

Cancerous tumors produce proteins that affect cell growth, cell metabolism and cell death. According to an article in the journal Cancer Investigation, “breast cancer triggers a change in the type and amount of proteins in secretions from the salivary glands.” The authors studied 30 women, 10 healthy, 10 with benign breast tumors and 10 with malignant breast cancer. After testing the samples, they identified differences in proteins among the three groups. Future studies are necessary in order to assess the reliability of saliva testing for breast cancers.

Naturopathic physicians educate women on the importance of maintaining their breast health and reducing risks associated with breast cancer. At ALETRIS, we offer a variety of progressive lab testing and imaging in order to analyze a woman’s breast health. As with other cancers, early detection of breast abnormality is conducive to more effective natural treatments.

ALETRIS Center of Integrative Medicine is a Scottsdale, AZ wellness center serving Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Phoenix, Glendale, Arrowhead, Peoria, Sun City, Chandler, Tempe, Ahwatukee, and Mesa, AZ with specialties in naturopathic medicine, natural hormone therapy, women's health, acupuncture, colon hydrotherapy, natural skincare and sugar hair removal.

The contents of this blog, including text, graphics, images and other material, are for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek the counsel of an ALETRIS physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment.

Acupuncture for FERTILITY

A recent study out of the University of Maryland investigated the effects of combining acupuncture with in vitro fertilization (IVF) in the treatment of infertility. Researchers found that women who received traditional acupuncture before and/or after IVF were 65% more likely to become pregnant than those who received random needling, or sham acupuncture. Additionally, the rate of live births was twice as high among women treated with traditional acupuncture than those who were treated with sham acupuncture.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treats infertility by restoring balance, whether the underlying cause is due to organ deficiency, stagnant energy, or inadequate blood and qi. Acupuncturists place needles along specific meridians in order to promote the smooth flow of energy and treat imbalances within these meridians and organs. Treatment plans are individualized according to patient symptoms and pulse and tongue observation.

If you would like to schedule an acupuncture treatment or complimentary 15-minute consultation with our naturopathic acupuncturist, please call ALETRIS at 480-443-7168 or email info@aletriscenter.com.

ALETRIS Center of Integrative Medicine is a Scottsdale, AZ wellness center serving Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Phoenix, Glendale, Arrowhead, Peoria, Sun City, Chandler, Tempe, Ahwatukee, and Mesa, AZ with specialties in naturopathic medicine, natural hormone therapy, women's health, acupuncture, colon hydrotherapy, natural skincare and sugar hair removal.

The contents of this blog, including text, graphics, images and other material, are for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek the counsel of an ALETRIS physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment.

The BIG 3 Skincare Ingredient Offenders

Skincare products labeled "organic" or "natural" are popular for good reason, but many of these products are not actually good for our skin. Parabens, sodium laurel sulfate (SLS) and propylene glycol are skin irritants often found in even the most luxurious product lines.

PARABENS are preservatives commonly listed as methylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben. Allergies, skin irritation, biochemical changes, neurotoxicity and endocrine disruption are symptoms linked to these ingredients.

SLS is a cleansing agent found in shampoos, facial and body cleansers, toothpastes and other foaming products. This ingredient is linked to skin irritation, developmental/organ system/reproductive toxicity and cancer.

PROPYLENE GLYCOL is an inexpensive, mass-produced petroleum derivitave often found in skin and haircare products, deodorants and toothpastes. Irritation, gastro-intestinal disturbances, nausea, headache, vomiting, and central nervous system depression are possbile side effects of long-term exposure.

Remember: Just because you find it at the local natural foods or luxury department store doesn't mean you don't have to check the label!

The contents of this blog, including text, graphics, images and other material, are for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek the counsel of an ALETRIS physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment.

CHANTIX Alternatives

The FDA recently issued a warning that the smoking cessation drug Chantix may increase mood swings and suicide. The FDA has already confirmed 39 suicides of patients taking the drug. The smoking cessation drug also accounts for 420 individuals reporting mood changes such as anxiety, nervousness, tension, suicidal behavior, and suicidal thoughts.

Chantix works by partially blocking nicotinic receptors in the brain. This receptor is where nicotine from cigarettes acts, causing a release of dopamine. Dopamine is the main neurotransmitter involved in the pleasure/reward pathway. It also plays a role in other brain functions like sleep, mood, attention, and learning.

From a naturopathic perspective, the plant Lobelia inflata works the same way Chantix does without the side effects of mood disturbance or suicide. Naturopathic physicians also work with patients on cognitive and behavioral changes, lifestyle modifications, and encourage patients to use the patch.

Acupuncture has also shown to be very effective for smoking cessation. It works by stimulating points that control cravings. At ALETRIS, we perform acupuncture in conjunction with a holistic plan to help our patients quit smoking for the final time.

ALETRIS Center of Integrative Medicine is a Scottsdale, AZ wellness center serving Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Phoenix, Glendale, Arrowhead, Peoria, Sun City, Chandler, Tempe, Ahwatukee, and Mesa, AZ with specialties in naturopathic medicine, natural hormone therapy, women's health, acupuncture, colon hydrotherapy, natural skincare and sugar hair removal.

The contents of this blog, including text, graphics, images and other material, are for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek the counsel of an ALETRIS physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment.

Birth Control Options

Birth control pills can cause a variety of problems.

Today, there are many safer birth control options available.

The male and female condom not only prevents pregnancy if used correctly, but also prevents the transmission of HIV. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Latex condoms, when used consistently and correctly, are highly effective in preventing transmission of HIV and the correct and consistent use of latex condoms can reduce the risk of other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).” When used correctly, latex condoms are 98% effective in preventing pregnancy from occurring. If cost is an issue, you can check your local Planned Parenthood for male and female condoms at lower costs.

Another option for birth control is the FemCap and the diaphragm. The FemCap is a non-latex, non-allergenic silicone rubber cap that is placed over the cervix to prevent sperm from going into the uterus. The dDiaphragm is a natural rubber cup with a flexible rim. Both the FemCap and the Diaphragm must be used in conjunction with a spermicide. When used perfectly, the FemCap is estimated to be up to 98% effective in preventing pregnancy. The diaphragm is estimated to be 80-94% effective when used consistently and correctly. Neither the FemCap nor the Diaphragm prevent the transmission of HIV or other STIs. They should be used along with a condom when having sex with multiple partners or a partner who has not been recently tested.

Fertility awareness is another option to avoid pregnancy if you are in a monogamous relationship and if you have regular menstrual cycles. Fertility awareness involves charting your menstrual cycles, your basal body temperature and monitoring your cervical mucus. This information is used as a guide to predict fertile and unfertile days of the month. For more information, please visit gardenoffertility.com and the book Taking Charge of Your Fertility: The Definitive Guide to Natural Birth Control and Pregnancy Achievement by Toni Weschler.

At Aletris Center of Integrative Medicine, we provide patients with comprehensive information regarding natural forms of birth control and fertility awareness practices.

The contents of this blog, including text, graphics, images and other material, are for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek the counsel of an ALETRIS physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment.