Tag: el paso

Gut Health El Paso TX
A New Perspective On The Gut, Nervous System, and Chiropractic Care

The human body is more complex than scientists understand. Constantly, new research is being conducted and published that dives deeper into the bodies of multiple systems, uncovering new thought-provoking information. As of late, a lot of research is being conducted revolving around the human gut/gastrointestinal system. Originally thought, the gut was made to store and digest food. However, now we see that the gut is the real mastermind behind everyday bodily functions. The gut has now been linked to headaches, inflammation, and autoimmune disease. 

Background 

The digestive tract is one of the essential immune support organs. In fact, it is the immunological powerhouse that houses more than 80% of our antibody-producing cells. This means that our gut is the first line of defense when it comes to unwanted antigens. The gut is so powerful that researchers began to question and test its true abilities. 

The Gut 

The thought of the body having two brains sounds fictional, but scientists have begun referring to the gut as the body’s “second brain.” Researchers found that the brain in the human skull, working with the Central Nervous System (CNS) and the gut working with the Enteric Nervous System (ENS), can function separately. Although the two use the same “hardware,” the ENS can manage every aspect of digestion and is a nearly self-contained network of neurotransmitters and proteins. 

Just throughout the small intestine, there are more than 100 million nerve cells. If you combine the number of nerve cells in the human GI tract, you will find that there are more nerves in the gut than there are in the human spine. This allows the ENS the capability to help with ION transport and GI blood flow. 

Nearly every substance the body contains to control the brain can simultaneously be found in the gut. One of these substances being serotonin. 95% of serotonin is housed in the gut. A cell referred to as the enterochromaffin squirts serotonin into the wall of the gut, which then communicates with the nerve cells to get things moving. 90% of communication occurring is from the gut to the brain. When we take this into consideration with chiropractic care, we see how it is all connected. Chiropractic care focuses on the musculoskeletal system. The musculoskeletal system includes bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and soft tissue. All of these work together to support your body’s weight and help you move to perform daily functions. Injuries, disease, and aging can cause pain, stiffness, and other problems with movement and function. The muscular system is an organ system that consists of skeletal, smooth, and cardiac muscles. Smooth muscle is what lines the interior of the gut. As we know, the muscle systems in vertebrates are controlled through the nervous system. In fact, studies have shown that chiropractic care helps to reduce constipation, low back pain, and overall well-being. This study shows how the gut and digestive systems are directly connected to chiropractic care.

Inner Defense System 

As previously mentioned, the gut is our inner defense system. The mucosal layer that is associated with lymph node tissue is our primary source of immunological function. Gut-Associated Lymphoid Tissue (GALT) is the first to see foreign invaders and put up a fight. GALT produces two levels of defense, the most abundant being secretory IgA. Secretory IgA binds to antigens to provide protection against microbes. 

It is important to note that secretory IgA in itself is NON-Inflammatory. However, when secretory IgA is fighting, it sends off signals for help from other immune cells, such as IgG and IgM, which do produce an inflammatory response. 

Most individuals who have an autoimmune disease have worn-out IgAs. The goal of the gut and its defense system is to keep nutrients in while bouncing antigens off. In the case of autoimmune diseases, we see nutrients leaking out and antigens coming in.

InBody

In order to gain a better understanding of the health of our patients, we use the InBody 770. This allows us to assess health down to the orthomolecular level. With the use of the InBody, we can see phase angle, visceral fat (higher visceral fat has an association with type 2 diabetes, heart attack, and stroke), intracellular water, extracellular water (this is related to inflammation and swelling), lean muscle, and percent body fat. These numbers are critical when considering a health condition, especially if the extracellular water is high. We see a direct overlap in risk profiles with excess extracellular water to other inflammatory diseases and markers. 

With more research shining a light on these, we see the true the gut and how it comes into play with autoimmune disease and inflammation. 

[embedyt] www.youtube.com/watch?v=_6_sG_JV-0Q%5B/embedyt%5D

THE GUT IS GENUINELY SO POWERFUL AND HIGHLY OVERLOOKED. I CAN SPEAK FROM EXPERIENCE IN HAVING AN AUTOIMMUNE CONDITION WHERE NOT A SINGLE DOCTOR MENTIONED MY DIET OR MY GUT! NOW, KNOWING THIS INFORMATION AND BEING SURROUNDED BY PATIENTS WHO SUFFER FROM A DISEASE SIMILAR TO MINE, IT IS THE FIRST PLACE WE LOOK. THE GUT IS THE POWERHOUSE AND SHOULD BE TREATED AS SO. -KENNA VAUGHN, SENIOR HEALTH COACH 

References 

University, Functional Medicine and Ronald Grisanti , directors. Physiology of the Gut Associated Lymphoid Tissue, Enteric Nervous System and Mucosal Barrier. Functional Medicine University – The Leader in Online Training in Functional Diagnostic Medicine, 2010,.

Rédly M. (2001). The effects of chiropractic care on a patient with chronic constipation. The Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association, 45(3), 185–191. 

Read more

Read more

Read more

Epigenetics: Stress In Relation To Chronic Disease | El Paso Health
How Stress Impacts Phase Angle

The endocrine system is very delicate and precise in the human body. The endocrine system is responsible for helping to control mood, growth, development, metabolism, how our organs work, and reproduction. The critical factor of the endocrine system is regulating how much of each hormone is released. This depends on how much of the hormone is already in the bloodstream and other substances like calcium. 

Cortisol

One of the main hormones the endocrine system is responsible for is cortisol. Cortisol is the primary stress hormone and also increases blood sugars, enhances the brain’s use of glucose, and increases the substances that repair tissue. Additionally, cortisol is the primary hormone in control of our flight-or-fight response. However, the circadian rhythm of cortisol should always be considered. Cortisol is one of the hormones that is released in cardigan rhythm. Cortisol is usually highest first thing in the morning, drops, and will plateau for most of the day until evening time before bed, where it will drop again. Performing lab work to assess cortisol levels is beneficial as cortisol is responsible for many daily functions. Cortisol is produced by the Zona fasciculata of the adrenal cortex and is regulated by several factors. It is influenced by sleep patterns, light/dark exposure, and mealtimes. Cortisol also helps with widespread tissue damage like inflammation, illness, or an infection as well as plays a role in mental and emotional stress. To test our patient’s cortisol levels and patterns, we use a test from DUTCH. This test is called DUTCH Plus, and a sample report is shown below. This test allows us to track a patient’s rhythm for 24 hours as well as other hormones. 

 

Stress 

As previously stated, cortisol is the main hormone for controlling stress. While stress is necessary for the human body to function, chronic stress puts your health at risk. The body’s stress response system is normally self-limiting, and once the threat is gone, the stress levels reduce, and the body syncs back into a level of homeostasis. However, when chronic stress is around, cortisol remains on and pumps into the system at a high rate. This long-term activation of stress overexposes the body to cortisol and other stress hormones that lead to problems such as: 

Anxiety 
Depression
Digestive problems
Headaches
Heart disease
Sleep problems
Weight gain
Memory and concentration impairment 
Phase Angle

The phase angle is how health care professionals can monitor the integrity of cellular membranes. If the phase angle begins to decline, it has been linked directly to a decline in overall health. Similar to if phase angle increases, overall health is increasing. The integrity of cellular membranes is essential as cell survival depends on solid membranes. When the cellular wall is weak, it can collapse. From here, it is difficult for the body to take up the proper nutrients it needs. Additionally, with a weak cellular membrane, the cell is left with little to no protection from outside invaders. Stress impacts phase angle by causing individuals to gain weight and decreasing overall health.

We monitor a patient’s phase angle with the use of the InBody 770. This advanced machine allows us to not only track the phase angle of our patients but many other areas of their health as well, including but not limited to intracellular and extracellular water. 

[embedyt] www.youtube.com/watch?v=WwbIsPNUYqs%5B/embedyt%5D

STRESS CAN BE MORE DEBILITATING THAN INDIVIDUALS REALIZE. A GREAT WAY TO COMBAT STRESS AND HELP PROTECT YOUR PHASE ANGLE IS TO PRACTICE GOOD SLEEP HYGIENE, EAT PROPER NUTRIENTS, REGULAR EXERCISE, AND MEDITATION. -KENNA VAUGHN, ACSM-EP SENIOR HEALTH COACH

References: 

Keller A, Litzelman K, Wisk LE, Maddox T, Cheng ER, Creswell PD, Witt WP. Does the perception that stress affects health matter? The association with health and mortality. Health Psychol. 2012 Sep;31(5):677-84. doi: 10.1037/a0026743. Epub 2011 Dec 26. PMID: 22201278; PMCID: PMC3374921. 

Mayo Clinic Staff. “Stress Management Resources.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 26 Feb. 2021, www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/resources/hlv-20049495.   

Additional Online Links & Resources (Available 24/7)



 

Online Appointments or Consultations:  https://bit.ly/Book-Online-Appointment



 

Online Physical Injury / Accident Intake Form: bit.ly/Fill-Out-Your-Online-History



 

Online Functional Medicine Assessment: bit.ly/functionmed

 

 

 

Disclaimer

 

The information herein is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional, licensed physician, and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make your own health care decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified health care professional. Our information scope is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, sensitive health issues, functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from a wide array of disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the musculoskeletal system’s injuries or disorders. Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support, directly or indirectly, our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies available to regulatory boards and the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.  Read More…

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, CTG*

email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com

phone: 915-850-0900

Licensed in Texas & New Mexico

Read more

Read more

Read more

detox el paso
Detox To Improve Phase Angle

Detox

Detoxification is part of the body’s response to environmental stressors. In order for the body to properly detox, protein is essential. Physiologically speaking, detoxification is a secondary function in terms of protein allocation. In a proper detox, there are multiple phases/steps. 

Step 1: mobilization from fat-based storage sites 

Step 2: metabolism (phase 1 and 2 enzymes in the liver) 

Step 3: elimination via kidneys and GI Tract (phase 3) 

Lifestyle

The first lifestyle change that occurs along with a detox is to reduce environmental stressors. This ensures the body is not working overtime when it does not need to. Ways to reduce environmental stressors include: 

Reduce toxic exposure 
Reduced processed foods
Reduce proinflammatory foods
Reduce caloric intake 
Reduce excess worry and stress 

Next, patients will begin to introduce habits into their daily lifestyle. These introductions are critical for detoxification success. 

Quality, whole foods 
Meditation, yoga, exercise, music, etc. 
Sleep 
Other healthy habits that reduce stress and worry 

Detoxification has both a physiological goal as well as a biochemical goal. Biochemically speaking, the goal is to mobilize toxins we have stored in fatty storage deposits (heavy metals, etc.) and eliminate them via the bile (from the liver) through the stool or urine (from the kidneys).  Additionally, a detox will help to reduce inflammation and improve mental clarity. 

It is important to note that the nervous, endocrine, and immune system are all vastly connected and the stimulation of one can commonly trigger responses in all. 

By decreasing the inflammation and toxic load in the body, individuals’ phase angle may benefit. Phase angle is how health care professionals can monitor the integrity of cellular membranes. If the phase angle begins to decline, it has been linked directly to a decline in overall health. Similar to if phase angle increases, overall health is increasing. The integrity of cellular membranes is essential as cell survival depends on solid membranes. When the cellular wall is weak, it can collapse. From here, it is difficult for the body to take up the proper nutrients it needs. Additionally, with a weak cellular membrane, the cell is left with little to no protection from outside invaders. 

InBody

We monitor a patient’s phase angle with the use of the InBody 770. This advanced machine allows us to not only track the phase angle of our patients but many other areas of their health as well, including but not limited to intracellular and extracellular water. 

[embedyt] www.youtube.com/watch?v=WwbIsPNUYqs%5B/embedyt%5D

PHASE ANGLE IS ONE OF THE BEST WAYS TO GET AN INSIDE PERSPECTIVE OF WHAT IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING INSIDE THE PATIENT’S BODY. THERE ARE MANY PATIENTS WHO APPEAR HEALTHY BUT HAVE A LOW PHASE ANGLE. BY SEEING THIS, WE ARE ABLE TO MAKE PREVENTATIVE LIFESTYLE CHANGES. -KENNA VAUGHN, ACSM-EP, SENIOR HEALTH COACH

References: 

Bosy-Westphal A, Danielzik S, Dörhöfer RP, Later W, Wiese S, Müller MJ. Phase angle from bioelectrical impedance analysis: population reference values by age, sex, and body mass index. JPEN J Parenter Enteral Nutr. 2006 Jul-Aug;30(4):309-16. doi: 10.1177/0148607106030004309. PMID: 16804128.  

Klein AV, Kiat H. Detox diets for toxin elimination and weight management: a critical review of the evidence. J Hum Nutr Diet. 2015 Dec;28(6):675-86. doi: 10.1111/jhn.12286. Epub 2014 Dec 18. PMID: 25522674. 

Additional Online Links & Resources (Available 24/7)



 

Online Appointments or Consultations:  https://bit.ly/Book-Online-Appointment



 

Online Physical Injury / Accident Intake Form: bit.ly/Fill-Out-Your-Online-History



 

Online Functional Medicine Assessment: bit.ly/functionmed

 

Disclaimer

 

The information herein is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional, licensed physician, and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make your own health care decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified health care professional. Our information scope is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, sensitive health issues, functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from a wide array of disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the musculoskeletal system’s injuries or disorders. Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support, directly or indirectly, our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies available to regulatory boards and the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.  Read More…

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, CTG*

email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com

phone: 915-850-0900

Licensed in Texas & New Mexico

Read more

Read more

Read more

El Paso Metabolic Syndrome
The Impact of Metabolic Syndrome on Phase Angle

Phase Angle is a helpful tool for health practitioners to identify the cell membrane’s integrity and dysfunction. In recent years, studies show an increase in patients with Metabolic Syndrome. Aside from the other health issues that metabolic syndrome induces, it increases oxidative stress and inflammation throughout the body. Oxidative stress promotes cellular damage. 

Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic Syndrome is a condition in which multiple health conditions occur together. Metabolic Syndrome increases an individual’s risk for heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. The conditions that make up metabolic syndrome include: 

Increased blood pressure (>130/85mmHg)
High fasting blood glucose (>110mg/dL)
Excess body weight (men >40in, women >35in)
Low HDL (men <40mg/dL, women <50mg/dL) Hypertriglyceridemia (>150mg/dL) 

Although many individuals experience all of the conditions listed above, you only need to have three out of the five in order to be diagnosed with metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is often correlated with age, inflammation, obesity, and diabetes. The risk of developing metabolic syndrome increases the older you get and your rate of physical activity. If you become less active, your risk of developing metabolic syndrome will rise. 

[embedyt] www.youtube.com/watch?v=deH1uzXA1ik%5B/embedyt%5D 

Phase Angle 

Phase angle is how health care professionals can monitor the integrity of cellular membranes. If the phase angle begins to decline, it has been linked directly to a decline in overall health. Similar to if phase angle increases, overall health is increasing. The integrity of cellular membranes is essential as cell survival depends on solid membranes. When the cellular wall is weak, it can collapse. From here, it is difficult for the body to take up the proper nutrients it needs. Additionally, with a weak cellular membrane, the cell is left with little to no protection from outside invaders. 

We monitor a patient’s phase angle with the use of the InBody 770. This advanced machine allows us to not only track the phase angle of our patients but many other areas of their health as well, including but not limited to intracellular and extracellular water. 

[embedyt] www.youtube.com/watch?v=WwbIsPNUYqs%5B/embedyt%5D 

Increasing Phase Angle & Decreasing Metabolic Syndrome

There are simple steps individuals can take every day to begin to improve their phase angle as well as decrease their risk of developing metabolic syndrome. These lifestyle changes include: 

Exercising for a minimum of 30 minutes a day (as simple as walking) 
Adding in a vegetable and fruit to every meal or snack 
Getting adequate protein and whole grains
Limiting saturated fat and salt intake 
Not smoking 
Maintaining a healthy weight 
Adequate sleep for proper cellular healing 

IN THE RECENT YEAR, THERE HAVE BEEN MORE PATIENTS WHO ARE DIAGNOSED WITH METABOLIC SYNDROME. WHEN CAUGHT EARLY, THERE ARE MULTIPLE WAYS TO COMBAT THIS DIAGNOSIS HOLISTICALLY AND NATURALLY. WITH THE ABILITY TO CREATE PERSONALIZED TREATMENT PLANS INVOLVING EXERCISE, DIET, AND NATURAL SUPPLEMENTS, WE SEE AN INCREASE IN PATIENT’S OVERALL PHASE ANGLE. -KENNA VAUGHN, ACSM-EP, SENIOR HEALTH COACH

References: 

de Luis DA, Aller R, Romero E, Dueñas A, Perez Castrillon JL. Relation of phase angle tertiles with blood adipocytokines levels, insulin resistance and cardiovascular risk factors in obese women patients. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2010 Jun;14(6):521-6. PMID: 20712259. 

Huang PL. A comprehensive definition for metabolic syndrome. Dis Model Mech. 2009 May-Jun;2(5-6):231-7. doi: 10.1242/dmm.001180. PMID: 19407331; PMCID: PMC2675814.  

Additional Online Links & Resources (Available 24/7)



 

Online Appointments or Consultations:  https://bit.ly/Book-Online-Appointment



 

Online Physical Injury / Accident Intake Form: bit.ly/Fill-Out-Your-Online-History



 

Online Functional Medicine Assessment: bit.ly/functionmed

 

Disclaimer

 

The information herein is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional, licensed physician, and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make your own health care decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified health care professional. Our information scope is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, sensitive health issues, functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from a wide array of disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the musculoskeletal system’s injuries or disorders. Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support, directly or indirectly, our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies available to regulatory boards and the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.  Read More…

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, CTG*

email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com

phone: 915-850-0900

Licensed in Texas & New Mexico

Read more

Read more

Read more

The Importance of TMAO and BIA El paso Texas
The Importance of BIA and TMAO

The world of medicine is continually advancing and growing. Research is being published every day on new ways to measure health. In recent years, the importance of Phase Angle has come to light.

Phase angle 

When reviewing InBody scans, there is one number we pay exceptional attention to. This number is the phase angle. The phase angle can be summed up as the quality and quantity of the health of a cell. Essentially, a GPA of an individual’s overall health. Phase angles measure oxidative stress, the aging stress on a cell, and the nutritional status. If cell membrane integrity begins to decline, so will the phase angle reported and vice-versa. Keeping track of this number will allow practitioners to determine if the patient responds to the therapeutic exercises, treatments, and lifestyle changes the clinic is implementing.  

It is important to remember that when we exercise, we damage the cells and muscles. The act of building muscle is breaking down the muscle we have and recovering. This is why rest and nutrition are key. 

Body Impedance Analysis (BIA) 

At our clinic, we use the InBody 770. This technology provides beneficial information like muscle mass, fat mass, segmental fat, intracellular water, extracellular water, phase angle, visceral fat, and more. To learn more about BIA and phase angle, a video is provided below. 

[embedyt] www.youtube.com/watch?v=MUCalp2SkNE%5B/embedyt%5D

TMAO 

Adding on to new research coming to light. It has been shown that TMAO is another significant factor to consider when looking at an individual’s overall health. TMAO is trimethylamine N-Oxide. Every individual has a unique microbiome comprised of healthy bacteria. However, microbiomes are full of unhealthy bacteria as well. As we eat, we consume TMA from red meat, egg yolk, and full-fat dairy products. TMA is later converted to TMAO in the liver. High levels can reduce the removal of bad cholesterol from the arteries and increase your heart attack and stroke risk. To remove TMAO, it is recommended that individuals eat a Mediterranean diet and limit red meat. 

[embedyt] www.youtube.com/watch?v=-pTXvrPTmeI%5B/embedyt%5D

At the clinic, we have the capability to test for TMAO using Cleveland Heart Lab. Below is a sample report from Cleveland Heart Lab. Under the metabolic section, you can see the TMAO levels. 

RESEARCH IS CONSTANTLY UNCOVERING NEW WAYS TO HELP PATIENTS PROTECT THEMSELVES FROM INFLAMMATION. BY PERFORMING THESE TESTS, WE CAN SEE IF AN INDIVIDUAL IS MORE SUSCEPTIBLE TO AN UNDERLYING CONDITION AND HAVE THEIR LEVELS TESTED APPROPRIATELY. THIS ALLOWS US TO CREATE A PERSONALIZED TREATMENT PLAN FOCUSED ON BRINGING THEM BACK TO OPTIMAL HEALTH. -KENNA VAUGHN, SENIOR HEALTH COACH 

References

Publishing, Harvard Health. “Red Meat, TMAO, and Your Heart.” Harvard Health, www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/red-meat-tmao-and-your-heart.  

Additional Online Links & Resources (Available 24/7)



Online Appointments or Consultations:  https://bit.ly/Book-Online-Appointment



Online Physical Injury / Accident Intake Form: https://bit.ly/Fill-Out-Your-Online-History



Online Functional Medicine Assessment: https://bit.ly/functionmed

Disclaimer

The information herein is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional, licensed physician, and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make your own health care decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified health care professional. Our information scope is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, sensitive health issues, functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from a wide array of disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the musculoskeletal system’s injuries or disorders. Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support, directly or indirectly, our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies available to regulatory boards and the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.  Read More…

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, CTG*

email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com

phone: 915-850-0900

Licensed in Texas & New Mexico

Read more

Read more

Read more

Healthy Metals vs Toxic Metals

Metals in the body are essential for proper cellular function. That being said, in order to ensure the metals you are ingesting are good for you and what the body needs, you need to know whole sources to obtain them from and what each metal does. On the other hand, there are toxic metals as well. Toxic metals are an issue that can mimic many other serious health conditions. We are able to assess metal levels in the body and create a treatment plan that safely detoxes individuals from these toxic metals. 

Healthy Metals
Calcium 

There are different types of calcium. Dietary calcium and Erythrocyte calcium. In the human body, there are around 179 biological functions of calcium. Each and every cell in the body needs ionic calcium. This is what you find in teeth and bones as well as what we need to move our muscles. Additionally, it is needed for the rhythmic action of the heart and intestines. However, Erythrocyte calcium is associated with heart disease and stroke. Studies show that erythrocyte calcium is elevated in hypertension patients. 

Chromium 

Chromium accumulates in the spleen and in heart tissue. On top of this, there have been many studies done that show chromium impacts sugar metabolism through its role in uptaking insulin. 

Copper 

Copper is very important as it is a co-factor in lipid metabolism, detoxification in the liver, and neurological control. In the body, copper is found in the liver, brain, hair, and other tissues. To get whole sources of copper in the diet, it is best to eat nuts, seeds, whole grains, beans, and shellfish. Copper binds to superoxide dismutase and protects our cells from oxidative damage. If there is not enough copper obtained through the diet we begin to see the reduced function of enzymes. 

Magnesium 

Magnesium is a cofactor to about 300 enzyme systems in the body. If an individual does not have proper magnesium levels, we see hypertension and diabetes. Studies done have also shown magnesium to be used in heart failure treatment. The symptoms we most often see in patients who have magnesium deficiencies are neuromuscular tremors, fasciculations, and muscle spasms. The relationship between magnesium and the nervous tissue is close. Due to this, one of the earliest ways to catch a magnesium deficiency is if the patient has nausea, loss of appetite, hair loss, and tremors. For whole magnesium sources, including nuts, beans, and dark green leafy vegetables into the diet. 

Manganese 

Manganese is involved with a number of enzymes that control metabolism, connective tissue maintenance, and the Krebs cycle. If deficient, we see glucose intolerance. Some of the best foods to keep manganese at a healthy level in the body are fruits, whole grains, leafy green vegetables, pecans, peanuts, pineapples, avocado, and hazelnuts. 

Potassium 

The nervous and muscle system strongly rely on potassium. Without proper potassium levels, the body will suffer from hypertension, heart arrhythmias, and muscle weakness. To increase potassium levels in the body, vegetable juice, citrus juice, and bananas will help. 

Selenium 

One of the main reasons we need selenium is to activate glutathione peroxidase. Mainly, we need this to activate the enzymes that protect our cells from oxidative damage. 

Vanadium 

This metal is in the liver and bone. It is shown that this lowers cholesterol synthesis and may also lower triglycerides. A great way to include this metal in your diet is by eating parsley, black pepper, dill, and mushrooms. 

Zinc

Zinc is incredibly important as it activates the cofactors for DNA/RNA polymerase. Additionally, it helps with healing cuts and skin disorders. Zinc is essential for normal immune function as well. 

Toxic Metals
Aluminum 

Aluminum can cause impaired memory, convulsions, and characteristics of EEG changes. Aluminum is found in many items consumers use daily. These products include antiperspirants, soda cans, baking soda, and toothpaste. There are many aluminum-free deodorants on the market that patients can switch to. 

Arsenic

 Arsenic has been linked to vascular disease and certain cancers that appear in the skin, bladder, and lungs. Unfortunately, arsenic is found in contaminated water supplies, paint, wood preservatives like outdoor decks, and playground equipment. 

Cadmium 

This metal competes with zinc down at the cellular level and impacts binding sites. This negatively affects the body as it causes a loss in enzyme activity. If an individual is exposed to cadmium for long-term exposure, we see damage to the kidneys. Common symptoms patients complain of are hypertension, femoral pain, and osteopenia. Individuals can be exposed if they are around engine exhaust emissions, canned evaporated milk, cigarette smoke, and paint pigments. A great way to combat exposure is to increase dietary fiber and eat items like beans, cooked vegetables, oatmeal. 

Lead 

If an individual has lead toxicity they experience pain in extremities due to axonal degeneration. Lead affects the inhibiting factor on enzymes in the biosynthesis pathway. Patients also report having kidney damage and nausea. Additionally, lead toxicity commonly affects sensory, visual, and auditory functions. This is due to the fact that it negatively impacts the nervous system. One thing patients can do is increase dietary calcium to help lower the amount of lead absorbed through the intestines. Lead can be found in newsprint, tea, art supplies, bullets, soils, balance weights, and drinking water from lead plumbing. 

Mercury 

Mercury has a tendency to form very stable bonds with amino acids. This makes it hard to detox from the body. One of the most important protective agents is dietary selenium. If someone has high mercury levels we typically see them have emotional disturbance and a lack of mental concentration. 

As one can see, there are many metals that benefit the human body and are essential for proper cellular function. However, we can also see that there are metals that can cause many problems. We are able to offer toxic metal testing to see the levels of these metals in your system. From here, we can provide a one-on-one plan to help your body safely detox. 

Read more

Read more

Read more

Leaky Gut What Is It | El Paso Texas Chiropractor
Anti-Inflammatory Diets

The link between inflammation and many diseases was made less than 15 years ago. With that being said, there is still so much we are constantly finding out about the connection. Inflammation and disease can be thought of as a circle, the relationship is complex and goes both ways. Inflammation is not always felt by the patient. Majority of inflammation happens in the gut and digestive tract. This leads to something we call “Leaky Gut” or Intestinal Permeability. 

Contributing factors to systemic inflammation include:
Smoking 
Environmental pollutants 
Overweight
Sedentary lifestyle 
Stress
Diet

It is important to keep in mind that not all inflammation is bad. In fact, we need inflammation. Inflammation is a natural and normal response within the body to help repair damaged areas. However, when the inflammation gets excessive, we begin to see problems arise. The first steps we take is to eliminate and reduce the contributing factors of systemic inflammation. Smoking includes second hand smoke as well environmental pollutants. These create excessive inflammation in the body and we are unaware of what we are truly breathing in. A sedentary lifestyle and being overweight typically go hand in hand. Adipose tissue or fat cells produce inflammatory chemicals at a faster rate than lean muscle mass. When we live a sedentary lifestyle and begin to carry around added weight, we are adding fuel to the inflammatory fire. Lastly, stress can add unnecessary inflammation to the body by causing cortisol to release into the adrenal pathways.  

Nutrition

Anti-Inflammatory diets are constantly circling around. There have been studies with benefits linking to diets that include healthy fats, low glycemic, wheat-free, Mediterranean, ph-balanced, and antioxidants. One thing that all healthcare providers seem to have in common is agreeing that nutrition is linked to inflammation and pro-inflammatory foods include trans fats, SFA, ARA, and high glycemic loads. 

In order for a patient to be on a true anti-inflammatory diet that helps recover their gut and reduce inflammation, lab work is needed. The reason is that one food that is anti-inflammatory in one individual, might be causing major irritation and inflammation in another. 

Labs 

To start off, we run a Food Sensitivity Test from Vibrant America. This tests to make sure they do not have any specific IgG reactions to foods consumed, like wheat, vegetables, fruits, and more.

Read more

Read more

Read more

Antigens and Autoimmune Disease

There are over 80 different autoimmune diseases. An autoimmune disease is when the body is so inflamed from the inside, it begins to turn on itself and begins to attack its own cells. What the body attacks determines what autoimmune disease an individual has. Some diseases that are associated with autoimmune conditions are Rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and fibromyalgia.
Causes
There are different events and circumstances that bring on an autoimmune disease. It varies from person to person. However, it has been shown that environmental exposures are linked. Environmental exposures occur when we breathe in poor quality air and eat food that has been sprayed with pesticides and chemicals. It is referred to as an antigen overload.
Antigens
An antigen is a substance that enters the body. However, when this antigen enters the body the body reacts by producing antibodies. Similar to what happens when you get a vaccine. However, these substances that enter the body are not ones that we want a reaction to. Antigens can include things like toxins and bacteria.

Read more

Read more

Read more

hypertension | El paso health coach
Hypertension : A Functional Approach

Part of natural healing and using functional medicine as an approach to discover the underlying reasons for health conditions involves evaluating possible causes. To find what is causing a patient’s hypertension, functional practitioners need to consider:

Magnesium deficiency 
Depressed testosterone
Bacterial infections
Viral infections
Mercury toxic exposure
Detoxification compromise
Taurine deficiency 
Fatty acid imbalance 
Kidney dysfunction 
Antioxidant insufficiency 

Read more

Read more

Read more

mediterranean diet
Irregular Heartbeats: How Nutrition & Chiropractic Can Help

many people suffer from the occasional racing heart, pounding heart, skipping a beat, flipping, and irregular tones. More often than not, these symptoms have specifics that make them better or worse.
Dr. Heather Wolfson and Dr. Jack Wolfson found that when they combine appropriate nutrition, many of these symptoms disappear. Food is one of the best medicines there is. Properly fueling the body shows a dramatic difference in health. For example, vegetables are loaded with rich vitamins and minerals that replace many deficiencies that are a leading cause for these irregular heart rhythms. Free-range meats and fish have omega-3s while eggs contain choline and healthy fats. 

Read more

Read more

Read more

Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia and Inflammation LIVE WEBINAR

Fibromyalgia is anything but simple. It is classified as a neurologic health condition. The factors of this condition include pain and widespread tenderness throughout the entire body. The widespread pain that individuals experience affects the mitochondria, leading to mitochondrial dysfunction, systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, and DNA damage.

Read more

Read more

Read more

Stress, Hormones & Health
Stress, Hormones & Health LIVE WEBINAR

There is so much more to stress than some people realize and what our body needs most often is a helping hand. Under times of stress, our body is looking for a leader that can safely and effectively bring our levels back to a happy place. Stress, Hormones, and Health are all related and all work off of one another to create the perfect balance. Sometimes what we need is a doctor who is educated, willing to listen, and most importantly, a doctor who cares. Health issues can cause more stress, but having clarity of these health issues and a personalized treatment plan can go a long way. Learn how to address stress, hormones, and obtain better overall health with an approach that is geared towards your body and your specific lifestyle all while keeping the focus on what your body is capable of.

Read more

Read more

Read more

Nutrigenomics and Traits Between Generations| El Paso, TX Chiropractor
Health & Wellness: Genetics and Nutrition Part 4 of 4

Nutrition is one of the most important aspects of life. Everyone eats at least one time a day and how we digest, taste, break down, and utilize that food is where our genetics come into play. Once we receive the test results from a patient, we review the genetic factors and predisposition they have. This allows us to create a science-baked personalized medicine program. This includes diet suggestions along with supplements. However, there are three potential diets that we recommend the most. Mediterranean, Low Carbohydrate, and Low Fat. 

Read more

Read more