Natural Family Medicine

Healthy Food Can Be Affordable

nfm — Fri, 18 May 2012 04:15:07 +0000

I love this article that explains the fallacy that junk food is cheaper than healthy fruits and vegetables. The myth was born when comparing cost per calorie not cost per serving. There is also a perception issue regarding what we are will to spend on a bag of chips vs. on a bag of fruit. I also recommend to patients to buy fruits and vegetables that are in season–they tend to be less expensive as well as local!

HDL May Not Be as Beneficial as Hoped

nfm — Fri, 18 May 2012 04:11:03 +0000

Research is showing that elevated levels of HDL may not carry the beneficial effect of reducing cardiovascular events that many believe. For patients with cardiovascular risks (including high blood pressure, elevated lipids, even family history, etc.), I am now running an advanced evaluation for lipid levels and particle sizes. Often, the “good” HDL is not functioning very well and is as great a risk factor as the “bad” LDL (by the way, the terms “good” and “bad” should be banned!). Genetic testing for risk factors is also beneficial for many. Please schedule an appointment if you have elevated cholesterol, high blood pressure, a family history of heart disease, or other concerns.

Hydrotherapy Hay?

nfm — Wed, 16 May 2012 16:03:45 +0000

This article reviews an interesting approach to pain relief and supports the use of hydrotherapy. (Note, though, that osteoarthritis is not considered rheumatic. )

Birth Control and Hormone Replacement Considerations

nfm — Wed, 16 May 2012 16:01:54 +0000

This article summarizes great information regarding oral birth control (OBC) and hormone replacement therapy (HT). Please read this if you are considering using either hormone approach so that you may understand both the benefits and the risks of these treatments. Also know that there are many natural options available.

Exercise to Reduce Blood Pressure

nfm — Wed, 16 May 2012 15:56:07 +0000

If you have a family history of hypertension or are already experiencing it yourself, be sure you are including exercise in your daily health care. This article includes even more research on the relationship between physical fitness and your blood pressure.

Essential Fatty Acid Results

nfm — Wed, 16 May 2012 15:52:52 +0000

This article may get a little more technical than you’d like, but it is exciting proof of the benefits of including essential fatty acids–specifically omega-3 fatty acids–in your diet. Include your cod liver oil and wild caught salmon in your diet! Read article here.

Reduce Allergies–Start with Nature

nfm — Wed, 16 May 2012 15:47:13 +0000

Recent findings are that those raised in rural environments are less likely to develop environmental allergies. This may be due to colonization of healthy and diverse microorganisms in our bodies preventing future allergic reactions. Let’s help our children reduce their risks: go hiking and camping frequently–or move to the country if possible! Getting back to nature is good for us all!! Read more here.

Top-Rated Sunscreens

nfm — Wed, 16 May 2012 15:42:05 +0000

The Environmental Working Group has just posted ratings for 2012 sunscreen options and their relative safety. Click for there report here.

Osteoporosis in Men

nfm — Fri, 11 May 2012 15:14:22 +0000

While we hear a lot about osteoporosis in women, little is circulated about this condition in men. Certainly, osteoporosis seems less prevalent in men, but about 20% of men over 65 develop this condition. A study recently compared different levels of exercise with bone health. The drum beat continues: exercise for your health!! Read more here.

Health Benefits of Fish

nfm — Fri, 11 May 2012 15:06:33 +0000

A review of prior studies has revealed another favorable impact of eating fish. Including even a small amount of fish in the diet seems to the reduce risk of colon and rectal cancers. Yet another reason to eat fish!! Read more here.