Hormones are responsible for many functions throughout the body. The body depends on these levels to be stable and released at the proper time. For…
Iodine is a substance that can be found in salt and food. Due to contrary belief, iodine deficiency is very much alive, and over 96% of people are deficient. Hypothyroidism is very common, and the highest concentration of iodine is in the thyroid. Simply put, you can not make thyroid hormone without iodine. However, by treating the thyroid with iodine, the cysts also improve. It is essential to acknowledge that thyroid cancer is one of the fastest growing cancers.
Iodine
Iodine has many functions, but one of the most prevalent is to maintain the typical architecture of glandular tissue. These tissues include the thyroid gland, ovaries, uterus, breasts, prostate, and pancreas. Cysts are the first thing to appear on these tissues when iodine deficiency is present. Iodine used to be very present in food; however the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey that is done by the United States every ten years that measures the vitamin, mineral, and toxicity level has shown that iodine levels declined over 50%. Throughout this time, when iodine levels are low, we have seen an increase in thyroid illness, hypothyroidism, and Hashimotos.
Thyroid
The thyroid gland is located in the neck. It is part of the endocrine system and is a butterfly-shaped gland that is responsible for hormone release. These hormones are associated with metabolism and the way the human body uses energy. The hormone released is Thyroxine (T4) and consists of four atoms of iodine. The other hormone released is triiodothyronine (T3) which contains three atoms of iodine. These hormones become biologically active and influence the cells and tissues throughout the body.
Common problems associated with T3 and T4 include too much or too little production. Too much is referred to as hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism symptoms include weight loss, heat intolerance, anxiety, and sore or gritty eyes. Too little is known as hypothyroidism. Those impacted by hypothyroidism suffer from tiredness, feeling cold, weight gain, poor concentration, and depression. Hypothyroidism is a more common disorder.
Phase Angle
Phase angle is an overall snapshot of cellular health. The higher the phase angle, the more robust an individual’s cellular membrane is, indicating they are able to fight off inflammation and infection better. Those with a poor phase angle tend to have overall poor health and are more susceptible to inflammation, metabolic syndrome, and infections.
Phase angle can be impacted by thyroid disorders if the hormones are not balanced. For example, hypothyroidism causes weight gain, depression, and tiredness. These three combined can lower phase angle. The more weight an individual carries, the more cortisol and fat cells they create. These cells breed inflammation, reducing phase angle. Depression and tiredness make it extremely hard for individuals to exercise and want to live a healthy lifestyle. The reduction of exercise and increase in unhealthy food causes more weight gain, inflammation and can lead to joint pain if left untreated.
We monitor phase angle and inflammation with the InBody 770. This machine uses bioelectric signals to create a report showing an individual’s body composition. The report shows crucial numbers such as intracellular water, extracellular water, percent body fat, lean muscle mass, and more.
[embedyt] www.youtube.com/watch?v=WwbIsPNUYqs%5B/embedyt%5D
THE HUMAN BODY IS AN EXTREMELY DELICATE SYSTEM THAT CAN BE THROWN OFF WITH THE SMALLEST CHANGE. IODINE DEFICIENCIES ARE PREVALENT, AS WELL AS THYROID PROBLEMS. DIETARY CHANGES, EXERCISE, AND POSSIBLE SUPPLEMENTATION (AFTER SPEAKING WITH YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER) COULD HELP INDIVIDUALS WHO SUFFER FROM LOW PHASE ANGLE AND THYROID ISSUES. -KENNA VAUGHN, ACSM-CEP, SENIOR HEALTH COACH
References:Â
Brownstein, David. “Iodine: The Most Misunderstood Nutrient.†Functional Medicine University. 18 May 2021.Â
Triggiani V, Tafaro E, Giagulli VA, Sabbà C, Resta F, Licchelli B, Guastamacchia E. Role of iodine, selenium and other micronutrients in thyroid function and disorders. Endocr Metab Immune Disord Drug Targets. 2009 Sep;9(3):277-94. doi: 10.2174/187153009789044392. Epub 2009 Sep 1. PMID: 19594417
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Disclaimer
Â
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
What is Adrenal Stress/Fatigue?Â
Adrenal fatigue has been applied to individuals who suffer from a group of symptoms. These symptoms include body aches, restless sleep, digestive problems, nervousness, lightheadedness, and overall fatigue. Individuals with these symptoms are recommended to do a diagnostic test to determine their level of adrenal hormones. A test we use is a Stress & Adrenal Hormone Panel from ZRT Laboratories. A sample report is shown below:Â
Â
Natural Ways to Combat Adrenal Stress
Over time, adrenal stress impacts the body by raising cortisol levels and causing fatigue. There are many areas to be considered when dealing with adrenal stress. The first step is to identify the sources of stress. Stress can be caused by exogenous and endogenous factors. An example of exogenous stress could be from grains if one has an intolerance. This causes an inflammatory response on the adrenal axis. Other examples include family, financial, or work. Endogenous stress is typically a side effect of a medication or oxidative stress. Once the main source of stress has been discovered, remove as much as possible.Â
The second crucial factor for proper adrenal function is adequate sleep. Sleep hygiene is often overlooked when in reality, it should be a priority. Below is a page of suggestions on how to improve sleep quality. *include living matrix sleep hygiene sheet*. The human body utilizes the hours we sleep to physically repair. Without a restful full night’s sleep, the body is not able to regenerate itself.Â
Thirdly, reduce the amount of coffee and tea as they interrupt the sleep pattern. Anything with caffeine should be limited and avoided before bed.Â
Maintaining glycemic control is another important factor for adrenal health. By improving cortisol balance, the insulin level will not spike rapidly and drop drastically after meals. To maintain glycemic control, individuals need to eat complex carbohydrates like sweet potatoes. Excess carbohydrates have an adverse effect on blood sugar levels by excessively raising the levels of insulin. This puts a significant amount of stress on the adrenal glands.Â
Exercise is a great component in relieving adrenal fatigue as it oxygenates the body. Regular exercise reduces depression, increases blood flow, normalizes levels of cortisol, insulin, growth hormone, and thyroid. Interval training and resistance training are highly recommended.Â
Finally, eating a well-balanced diet, especially breakfast, will reduce blood sugar spikes. If the body is low on glucose and breakfast is skipped, the body will react by secreting cortisol. Cortisol activates gluconeogenesis to increase sugar levels.Â
Phase AngleÂ
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 release cortisol, be under adrenal stress, gain weight and decrease their 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.Â
[embedyt] www.youtube.com/watch?v=WwbIsPNUYqs%5B/embedyt%5D
“IT IS IMPORTANT NOT ONLY FOR PHASE ANGLE BUT FOR THE OVERALL REDUCTION OF INFLAMMATION TO REDUCE STRESS. THOSE WHO ARE CONSTANTLY STRESSED AND UNDER ADRENAL FATIGUE ARE MORE SUSCEPTIBLE TO GETTING SICK, AMONGST OTHER DISEASES. IF YOU DO NOT KNOW WHERE TO START, IDENTIFYING STRESS AND STARTING TO EXERCISE IS A GREAT STEP IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION. -KENNA VAUGHN, ACSM-EP, SENIOR HEALTH COACHâ€Â
References:Â
 Yancey JR, Thomas SM. Chronic fatigue syndrome: diagnosis and treatment. Am Fam Physician. 2012 Oct 15;86(8):741-6. PMID: 23062157.Â
inbodyusa.com/products/inbody770/Â
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Disclaimer
Â
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
Hormones are mainly thought of in regards to menstrual cycles, puberty, carrying a baby, and sex drive. However, in reality, hormones are much more than that. Hormones create a delicate balance in homeostasis and with too little or excess, many problems arise.Â
There are different types of hormones in the body. The most commonly referred to hormones are sex hormones. These include Estrogen (estrone, estradiol, and estriol), progesterone (differentiation), testosterone, and DHEA. Estrogens primary role is growth. When evaluating estrogen, practitioners take into account the Estrogen Quotient. This is used by dividing the sum of estrogen plus estradiol. The lower the estrogen quotient, the higher the risk of breast cancer. Â
Progesterone helps the cells become what they were meant to be and how to function the way they are intended to function. Progesterone is critical as it promotes healthy sleep patterns, improves insulin resistance, burns fat for energy, is an antidepressant, and is the primary hormone in pregnancy. Although progesterone has many benefits, too much of a good thing has repercussions. Too much progesterone turns into estrogen dominance (seen in reproductive years, PMS, and menopause). Elevated levels of progesterone manifest in symptoms such as anxiety, irregular periods, mood swings, breast cancer, postpartum depression, weight gain, heavy periods, food cravings, and headaches.Â
DHEA is secreted by the adrenal glands. This is a prohormone for testosterone and estradiol. DHEA increases with age and can be elevated in women who have insulin resistance. The primary roles are libido, motivation and wellbeing, improves immune function, REM sleep, and memory.
Diagnostic Testing
It is clear that these hormones are essential and their balance is crucial. In order to determine if individuals’ hormones are off-balance, the clinic uses the DUTCH PLUS test from DUTCH. This test is a urine and saliva sample that is collected throughout a 24-hour time frame, allowing us to track hormone and cortisol levels. A sample report is shown below:Â
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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. 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.Â
[embedyt] www.youtube.com/watch?v=WwbIsPNUYqs%5B/embedyt%5D
Phase Angle can decline if the hormone levels are not accurate. For example, if an individual is estrogen dominant, they will have irritability, mood swings, risk of blood clots, weight gain, food cravings, etc. Weight gain and food cravings (leading to more weight gain) cause the phase angle to decrease.Â
HORMONES ARE A MUCH LARGER UMBRELLA THAN MANY REALIZE. THEY ARE CRITICAL TO SO MUCH MORE THAN A MENSTRUAL CYCLE AND PUBERTY. THE LACK OF PROPER HORMONES CAN BE MORE DEBILITATING THAN INDIVIDUALS REALIZE. A GREAT WAY TO COMBAT YOUR HORMONES 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:Â
Hiller-Sturmhöfel S, Bartke A. The endocrine system: an overview. Alcohol Health Res World. 1998;22(3):153-64. PMID: 15706790; PMCID: PMC6761896.Â
Dr Lylen Ferris. “Moodiness, Madness, or Menopause.†Funcitonal Medicine University (FMU).Â
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Online Functional Medicine Assessment: bit.ly/functionmed
Â
Â
Â
Disclaimer
Â
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
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.Â
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.Â
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StressÂ
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:Â
AnxietyÂ
Depression
Digestive problems
Headaches
Heart disease
Sleep problems
Weight gain
Memory and concentration impairmentÂ
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.Â
[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:Â
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.Â
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.  Â
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Online Appointments or Consultations:  https://bit.ly/Book-Online-Appointment


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


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Online Functional Medicine Assessment: bit.ly/functionmed
Â
Â
Â
Disclaimer
Â
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
Nutritional assessment has the primary purpose of evaluating the patient to provide the best dietetic advice and lifestyle changes. However, a crucial part of this…
Anthropometry is the science of obtaining systematic measurements of the human body. The anthropometry history dates back to the 19th century, and it was previously…
The predictive quality of the whole body phase angle makes it a vital measurement of the anthropometric assessment. Furthermore, conditions like protein-energy wasting assessment within…
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.Â
Step 1: mobilization from fat-based storage sitesÂ
Step 2: metabolism (phase 1 and 2 enzymes in the liver)Â
Step 3: elimination via kidneys and GI Tract (phase 3)Â
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:Â
Reduce toxic exposureÂ
Reduced processed foods
Reduce proinflammatory foods
Reduce caloric intakeÂ
Reduce excess worry and stressÂ
Next, patients will begin to introduce habits into their daily lifestyle. These introductions are critical for detoxification success.Â
Quality, whole foodsÂ
Meditation, yoga, exercise, music, etc.Â
SleepÂ
Other healthy habits that reduce stress and worryÂ
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
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.Â
[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:Â
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. Â
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.Â
Additional Online Links & Resources (Available 24/7)


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


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


Â
Online Functional Medicine Assessment: bit.ly/functionmed
Â
Disclaimer
Â
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
Dietary patterns are part of the treatment plan for multiple conditions. The Mediterranean diet, rich in fresh fruits, nuts, oils, and complex carbohydrates, is an…
Bioelectrical impedance analysis allows an integrative, complete, duplicable, and easy body composition assessment that provides in-depth information about the patient’s nutritional status. This process makes…
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.Â
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:Â
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)Â
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.Â
[embedyt] www.youtube.com/watch?v=deH1uzXA1ik%5B/embedyt%5DÂ
Phase AngleÂ
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.Â
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.Â
[embedyt] www.youtube.com/watch?v=WwbIsPNUYqs%5B/embedyt%5DÂ
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:Â
Exercising for a minimum of 30 minutes a day (as simple as walking)Â
Adding in a vegetable and fruit to every meal or snackÂ
Getting adequate protein and whole grains
Limiting saturated fat and salt intakeÂ
Not smokingÂ
Maintaining a healthy weightÂ
Adequate sleep for proper cellular healingÂ
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:Â
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.Â
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. Â
Additional Online Links & Resources (Available 24/7)


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


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


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Online Functional Medicine Assessment: bit.ly/functionmed
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Disclaimer
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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
Anthropometric Assessment Anthropometric measurement plays a principal role in the patient’s health assessment. Anthropometric measures are an essential part of our clinical findings; body composition…
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 angleÂ
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. Â
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.Â
Body Impedance Analysis (BIA)Â
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.Â
[embedyt] www.youtube.com/watch?v=MUCalp2SkNE%5B/embedyt%5D
TMAOÂ
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.Â
[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.Â
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 COACHÂ
References
Publishing, Harvard Health. “Red Meat, TMAO, and Your Heart.” Harvard Health, www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/red-meat-tmao-and-your-heart. Â
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:Â 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