12.04.17
by

Are Your Legs Ashy?

ashy

ashyMost people will just assume that they are getting dehydrated and need to up the water intake or shop for a better quality moisturizing lotion. The thing is if found in conjunction with other signs and symptoms ashy itchy legs may indicate an underlying venous deficiency.

Dry Skin or Venous Insufficiency?

If this problem only rears its ugly head in the drier fall and winter seasons as the temperatures drop and the humidity leaves the air you may just be experiencing dry winter skin. It is recommended to raise your water intake as well as eat healthy fats daily. Lotion should be used right out of the shower to retain as much moisture as possible.

On the flip side, if you also find your legs to be achy, swollen, itchy, red, or you can visibly see bluish or purple veins through the surface layer of your skin you may need to consult with a vein specialist such as those at The West Floria Vein Center. 

Screening procedures allow the specialists to tell if you have vein issues and to what extent. Once properly diagnosed recommendations can be made as to the best course of treatment will help you the most.

Ashy skin may be unsightly, but it also can indicate an underlying issue and it is important to have yourself checked. Stop leg pain, varicose and spider veins in their tracks before it is too late. Life is meant to be lived in health and with mobility. Living in pain isn’t necessary.

Most procedures that help alleviate the pain and appearance of varicose and spider veins are done in an outpatient setting under local anesthesia. Patients report very little discomfort and have a very high level of satisfaction with many remarking that they only wish they had done it sooner.

If you are in the Tampa, Florida area please consult with The West Florida Vein Center (727) 712-3233 www.westlforidaveincenter.com

12.04.17
by

Lose Weight with SHAPE ReClaimed™

Shape_Reclaimed

If you haven’t yet been able to lose weight and keep it off, we guarantee you haven’t been introduced to the SHAPE ReClaimed™ Program. It is now offered right here in Bonita Springs, Florida. If you are seriously interested in losing weight stop what you are doing right now and read this.

The SHAPE ReClaimed™ program is backed by over 30 years of clinical experience using homeopathy as bio-regulatory medicine.

The SHAPE ReClaimed™ is a practitioner monitored program that has been producing extraordinary results. It is an effective, safe, homeopathic glycoprotein complex formula created to decrease total body inflammation, enhance immune function, detox and cleanse–all while reducing excess weight.

 SHAPE ReClaimed™ is transformative

The synergistic combination of ingredients in SHAPE ReClaimed™, along with our total wellness program, is having astounding transformative health benefits. The result, in addition to weight loss, is a re-energized, revitalized you!

SHAPE ReClaimed™ is not a “magic bullet” but when incorporated into the program’s protocol, along with sound lifestyle choices, the results have been found to be transforming.

With Shape ReClaimed™ food becomes not only fuel but medicine to heal the body.

The Benefits of SHAPE ReClaimed™ that have been reported by those completing the program:

  • Reduce Inflammation
  • Enhance Immune Function
  • Detox & Cleanse
  • Enhance Metabolism
  • Safely Release Excess Toxic Weight
  • Decrease Pain
  • Improve Digestion
  • Increase Energy
  • Improve Sleep
  • Decrease or Eliminate Rx Dependency (With Practitioner Supervision)
  • Improve Blood Sugar, Blood Pressure and Blood Lipids
  • Improve Mood and Mental Clarity
  • Create and Maintain a Healthy Relationship with Food.

What you can expect 

  • Lifestyle Modification – Health Restoration Program
  • Healthy Anti-Inflammatory Nutritional Plan
  • SHAPE ReClaimed™ Professional Homeopathic Formula
  • The Complete Patient Guidebook
  • Consistent Monitoring Appointments for Urine Evaluation
  • Patient Education Tab at WWW.SHAPERECLAIMED.COM
  • Access to Facebook “OFFICIAL SHAPE ReClaimed™ Support Group”
  • Safe, Affordable and Sustainable Lifestyle that Supports Healthy Weight

 What is included?

  • Initial Consult and Evaluation for SHAPE
  • Discussing Your “WHY” for Choosing SHAPE
  • Customizing the Program Based on Your Health History, Progress, Symptoms and Laboratory Results
  • Regular Monitoring, Which is Important for Your Long-Term Success

If you are feeling frustrated at failed attempts to diet or lose weight, you are not alone. The problem is that unless you have the right macros and nutrition combined with proper supplementation for your body losing weight for many can be an uphill battle. Stop fighting and let Dr. Gendron help you by introducing you to the Shape ReClaimed™ program.

Give us a call today to get started on the new healthier you. Call 239-947-1177 or visit us online at www.chiropractorbonitasprings.com. We look forward to being a part of your transformation!

  • Disclaimer: Independent SHAPE Practitioner’s Website is not owned or operated by SHAPE ReClaimed, LLC. Any content outside SHAPE ReClaimed webpage is not an acknowledgment or expressed position of SHAPE ReClaimed, LLC. 

 

12.02.17
by

Are You Working Out Correctly?

working out

working outIf you look around in any gym you will see a great bunch of well-meaning motivated people working out to get in shape. The problem is that many of them are simply doing it all wrong.

What do I mean?
They, by the standards of proper body mechanics, have very bad. Bad form not only will not produce the results you are looking for, it also can very easily lead to injury. It can also cause additional wear and tear on other body parts.

When starting any exercise program it is a good idea to first visit your chiropractor. Allow them to get you in proper alignment. They can make sure you have no limitations that should be looked out for. This is very much along the lines of the same train of thought that says you should go get an alignment on your car before taking a long road trip so you don’t wear your tires or other mechanical parts unevenly.)

Additional to spinal alignment we can also get you set up on a nutritional plan to make sure you get the maximum results from your workouts.

Many gyms do offer an introductory personal training session. It is a good idea to take this one session at the very minimum. You can talk with them about your goals and ask questions about machines and weight-bearing exercise. If it is in your budget, schedule a few more sessions until you feel you have the hang of it.

Once you feel the way to do an exercise properly you will realize the difference from an incorrect movement. The right way will allow you to focus on the muscle or muscle group being worked. When done incorrectly you are overcompensating with other body parts to complete the movement.

A great thought to go by is – when in doubt? Ask. It will save you time, frustration, wasted effort and even possibly save you from an injury.

If you are in the Southwest Florida area we invite you to visit the offices of Dr. Jason Kaster, D.C. before starting your exercise program. 239-332-2555. www.drkasters.com.

11.02.17
by

Is Your Heart Healthy?

heart

Is your heart healthy? Unless given reason to believe otherwise, we all go on the assumption “yes”.

There are some basic tests you can do to monitor your heart and make sure it is staying healthy without much effort or cost.

Check your blood pressure. Though one single reading won’t give you a full picture, keeping a chart of readings can establish a baseline. If you are generally within a good range, wonderful. If your numbers are often higher than they should be or consistently lower it may be time to visit your physician.

What’s normal range?

“Normal” for a resting adult is 120 over 80 or less. Hypertension begins at 140/90 or higher. You may not think a high reading is a big deal but what happens over time is that adding that extra pressure can stiffen and even narrow the artery walls blocking natural blood flow to and from the heart. This can lead to heart attack or heart disease.

Your blood pressure is a reading of the pressure in your arteries every time your heart pumps and relaxes. Systolic is the contracted measurement and Diastolic measures the relaxation between beats.

Take a blood test

A blood test is a great way to monitor health. Your doctor can look at your levels of potassium, sodium, albumin, and creatinine. Abnormal levels can signal heart problems including failure as well as other issues with cholesterol, liver and or kidneys.

Get some exercise

Getting regular exercise strengthens the heart muscle as well as the rest of your body. It is important to note that cardiovascular exercise shouldn’t make your chest hurt. If it does, check with your doctor before continuing any exercise program.

Monitor your heart rate

Your heart rate is the number of times your heart beats within one minute. When monitored by using a stethoscope the opening and closing of your heart valves can also be heard and checked for abnormalities. The normal range goes from 60 to 100 beats per minute. If yours is higher – it may be a sign your heart is working too hard.

If you are in the Tampa, Florida area and in need of a Cardiovascular Physician please think of Tampa Cardiovascular Associates www.tampacardio.com. Give us a call at 813-975-2800.

11.02.17
by

As Within So Without – Beauty is not just skin deep

beauty

Outer beauty is a direct result of inner health and wellness.

If you feel like you are starting to look run down or just lackluster, here are a few tips that can boost your health and in turn change that reflection in the mirror for the better. We are a product of our own choices and lifestyles.

  1. Drink lots of fresh clean water. Try to consume one gallon of water per day. It may seem like a lot at first, but you do quickly get used to it. Water is the universal solvent, it cleans and purifies the body on a cellular level. Proper hydration helps all of your organs including your skin. For a more radiant glow – drink water.
  1. Dry Skin – While hydration and water are a part of that, good fats are also a very likely culprit. Your body needs fat to run properly. Without enough your skin will be dry, you may experience brain fog, and if long-term you may run into other health issues. Good fats to eat regularly include coconut oil, nuts, avocados, and oily fish.
  2. Dull not so white eyes? – if you aren’t sleeping well, you work too much staring at a computer screen, smoke, drink, or even have nutritional deficiencies they can be reflected in the eye. Destress, get rest, stop smoking, cut back on the drinking, and take outdoor breaks away from the screen as well as your portable devices. Additionally, the old wives tale about sliced cucumbers over your eyes is actually based in science. Placing chilled cucumber slices on your eyes for 15 minutes a day reduces puffiness and redness. Rosewater works as well. dab on cotton balls and place over the eyes the same way you would with the cucumber slices.
  3. Great hair can be yours – Your hair requires protein, iron, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A, selenium, and zinc. Folic acid also helps strengthen hair growth. Making sure you have a well rounded healthy diet can boost the look and feel of hair as well as its ability to grow without splitting or breaking off.
  4. Muscle tone – Exercise is key to feeling and looking better. Muscle mass doesn’t just help us lift and move things, it helps to support your entire skeletal body frame. It all works in conjunction to support our organs and hold us together.

As within, so without. When you feel good, health becomes radiant. If you are feeling dull and lifeless or have targeted health issues you want to work on improving call the offices of Dr. Jason Kaster, D.C. he can work with you through the use of chiropractic, massage therapy, alternative complementary therapies as well as nutrition to get you on the road to being the very best healthiest possible version of you that you can be.

Chiropractor in Ft Myers, FL, and Naples, FL

Fort Myers Chiropractor, Dr. Jason B. KasterChiropractic care is a safe, alternative treatment when applied appropriately. Chiropractic treatments help in dealing with the symptoms of many conditions. Are you going to wait for your symptoms to be felt, or are you going to prevent it as soon as possible?

Dr. Jason B. Kaster, a chiropractor in Fort Myers and Naples, can help you and your family achieve their optimal health.

      SCHEDULE NOW!   239-332-2555    
11.02.17
by

Anti-Inflammatory Pineapple Smoothie Recipe

smoothie

“Let food be thy medicine.” – Socrates.

Nature has given us all of the tools to help our bodies heal naturally and without medication.

This inflammation fighting beverage is not only tasty and refreshing it can help your body naturally lessen inflammatory response leaving you with less pain.

INGREDIENTS

1 ½ cups chunks of pineapple (fresh or frozen) (if you use fresh make sure to freeze them after cutting up the pineapple.)

1 peeled orange

1 cup coconut water (any brand or fresh)

1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh ginger (or 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger)

1 teaspoon chia seeds

1 teaspoon Ground Turmeric

1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

DIRECTIONS:

Add all ingredients to a blender.  Pulse until smooth.

Serve immediately, garnished with extra chia seeds if desired.

HOW IT WORKS

Every ingredient serves its purpose. They all work together to form a powerful blend disguised as an amazing breakfast beverage.

Pineapples contain an enzyme called Bromelain which is a documented anti-inflammatory agent.

Oranges – Oranges contain beta-cryptoxanthin, which has been shown to decrease the development of inflammatory joint conditions.

Coconut Water – contains tannins, which are known to lessen inflammation response.

Ginger – Though primarily touted for digestive properties it is also a helpful anti-inflammatory.

Chia Seeds – Chia seeds supply a high dose of Omega 3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein. All of which adds to the anti-inflammatory benefit of this drink.

Turmeric – One of the most potent of the anti-inflammatory spices. It has been shown to work just as well as many NSAID over the counter pain relievers when used on a regular basis.

Black Pepper – Black pepper is an important part of the mix. When combined with food and or other spices it vamps up the ability of the body to absorb nutrients, vitamins and minerals making this an, even more, power-packed beverage.

So grab your ingredients next time you hit the supermarket and get that blender going!

For more great recipes and health tips visit www.chiropractorbonitasprings.com or call 239-947-1177. Let Nutrition Specialists of Florida be your source for healing in Southwest Florida.

10.31.17
by

What Can Blood Tests Reveal?

blood tests

blood testsBlood tests help your physician discover potential underlying health issues. It is recommended to have a blood test done yearly in order to check levels. The question most of us have is “What are they looking for?”

What a blood test can tell you

An Enzyme test may be ordered. The enzyme levels will indicate disease or damage to organs such as kidneys and liver. This test is also helpful in adjusting medication levels.

Complete Blood Count (CBC)  is the most often ordered. It will take count of the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, iron, and platelets. It is used to diagnose infection, blood disorders, inflammation and even detects anemia (iron deficiency). It will show how well your thyroid, heart, and other organs are performing and if there is an infection such as HIV/AIDS where your body is working against itself in an autoimmune response.

Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP)  This is run on the plasma in your blood. It measures electrolytes, minerals, glucose, and calcium and can detect issues like cancer, diabetes, bone disease and kidney disease.

These are all incredibly valuable tools diagnostically.  It is, however, important to note that all tests are fallible. If you get a positive for a major illness it is vital to do the test a second time to confirm before deciding on and proceeding with any form of treatment.

Whether you are looking for a specialist or a general practitioner if you are in the Lee County Florida area we would like to invite you to visit IPALC (Independent Physicians of Lee County) and use their FREE physician referral service www.ipalc.org/find.

10.04.17
by

What is a Colposcopy?

Colposcopy

ColposcopyIf you have had a routine pap smear exam, which is suggested for women every three years, and it has come back repeatedly with a result of abnormal cells, your Gynecologist may suggest that you have a colposcopy done to further examine the situation and get a better gauge of your cervical health.

A colposcopy is a term used to describe a cervical biopsy. A tissue sample may be taken from either outside or inside the cervix, occasionally both are needed for the exam. A typical colposcopy takes only 10-15 minutes at the most.

What you will experience

Much like your yearly wellness exam or pap smear you will be asked to put on a paper gown and lay flat on the exam table, knees up, heels in the stirrups so the doctor can examine you. This position is necessary to be able to clearly see the cervix.

A speculum is inserted and a vinegar-like solution is used to wash the area to be biopsied. The physician will use an instrument called a colposcope (it looks like stand mounted binoculars attached to a light). It is used to examine you visually from several inches away. If at that time abnormal cells are visible a small biopsy is taken.

The colposcopy itself is nearly pain-free. Only the normal pressure of the speculum sliding in is felt and a possible slight sting of the vinegar solution. If you do need the actual biopsy expect slight discomfort. It is described as a sharp pinching which brings on a cramp like you have during a menstrual cycle. Bleeding and dark discharge is to be expected for the next 24 to 48 hours.

While it is often told to patients that they can simply return to work following the procedure, the fact is that this is actually a trauma to the body, however minor, some people do not feel so hot afterwards so if at all possible on the day you have this done, have the rest of the day off to go lay down and rest, just in case. With that said, many feel just fine afterward – it is just better to err on the side of caution.

Following a colposcopy do not have sex, use tampons or use any medication vaginally for a full 24 hours in order for the biopsied area to have time to heal. Your doctor’s office will let you know when the lab results are back and call you to let you know how to proceed based on the findings.

If you are in need of a gynecologist or oncologist in the Lee County, Florida area we invite you to utilize our free resource www.ipalc.org/find. It is a listing of Independent physicians in Lee County who provide the finest health care in Southwest Florida putting the value back in the doctor-patient relationship.

10.03.17
by

Spider Vein Myths – Busted

spider vein

spider veinWe were amazed to find just how much misinformation is floating around out there on the world wide web. No wonder everyone is so confused. Allow us to clarify.

Myth #1: Only overweight people get spider veins.

While weight may be a risk factor for developing spider veins, being overweight alone does not guarantee that you’ll develop them. They’re more often the result of genetics, hormone changes, aging, and other factors.

Myth #2: You can only get spider veins on your legs.

Totally false. While they’re more common on the legs and ankles, spider veins can also develop on your face. Spider veins appear as tiny wiggly lines of red, blue, or purple blood vessels. Individuals with fair skin who don’t take steps to protect themselves from the sun’s harmful ultra-violet rays can develop spider veins on their cheeks.

Myth #3: Topical creams that contain high doses of Vitamin K can help reduce the appearance of spider veins.

It’s true that without Vitamin K, our blood would have trouble coagulating and uncontrolled bleeding could occur. Vitamin K is also an important nutrient for heart health. But while Vitamin K has been used over the years to treat bruising and to reduce rosacea, there’s no scientific evidence to suggest that it improves vein health when applied topically.

Myth #4: Drinking ginger tea with honey or diluted cayenne pepper in hot water are two natural, effective treatments for getting rid of spider veins.

Some home remedy or homeopathic websites suggest that ginger can help improve circulation and dissolve proteins that build up in damaged veins. Others suggest cayenne pepper is rich in bioflavonoids, which can increase blood circulation and ease the pain associated with swollen veins. However, neither cure-all carries much weight, and there’s no scientific evidence to suggest that either alternative approach works.

Myth #5: “I don’t need to see a doctor for spider veins because they’re not like varicose veins. They’re just a sign of old age.”

When the skin above spider veins grows tender and warm to the touch, or when veins become painful or bleed, it’s time to see a vein specialist. Spider veins can be associated with other more-serious conditions, such as skin ulcers or phlebitis, the inflammation of a vein caused by a blood clot.

For more myths and half-truths about vein health check out the article five common myths about varicose veins as well as common spider vein myths.

Get the truth about varicose veins, spider veins, and treatment options from the trusted professionals at West Florida Vein Center, a division of Surgical Associates of West Florida. To request a consultation or for more information, visit www.westfloridaveincenter.com or call 727-712-3233.

10.03.17
by

Naturally Boost Your Immunity

immune system

immune systemBecause of the media and social conditioning, many of us have come to consider yearly colds and flu’s just par for the course and even expected. The truth is that there is nothing normal about being sick all of the time. Health is our natural state.

If you or your kids are constantly catching colds, it means your immunity is lower than it should be and ideally could be.

One route many never consider or even know about is Chiropractic.

Did you know that regular chiropractic visits help to keep your immune system going strong throughout the year?

The nervous system works in conjunction with your immune system. Spinal misalignments cause neural dysfunctions. This is stressful on the body. Stress causes immunity breakdown over time. Chiropractic helps to correct the subluxations and get the nerves functioning and communicating properly to your cells and organs once again.

Adjustments boost your immune system

Here are some interesting facts coming out from the latest scientific studies on the subject

In one study, blood was taken from 15 patients before an adjustment. Another blood draw was done on the same subjects’ post adjustment. What was found was that the immune response was significantly higher after they had been adjusted. [1]

It has been noted that those coming in with a cold or flu recovered faster than those who do not receive chiropractic adjustments. [2]

Children under chiropractic care required less use of antibiotics and other medications. [3]

Chiropractic has even been shown to help those living with HIV. The central benefits chiropractic offered were a reduction of stress and removal of nervous system interference as well as education on living an immunopositive lifestyle.[4]

Your immune system plays a major role in your health and overall well-being. It can affect every cell in your body, every system and every organ. Along with eating well, getting fresh air and sunshine daily, make sure you don’t limit Chiropractic in your mind to just a cure for aches and pains. If you do not feel well or have a diagnosis of any kind go visit your chiropractor and see if they may be able to help.

Chiropractor in Ft Myers, FL, and Naples, FL

Fort Myers Chiropractor, Dr. Jason B. KasterChiropractic care is a safe, alternative treatment when applied appropriately. Chiropractic treatments help in dealing with the symptoms of many conditions. Are you going to wait for your symptoms to be felt, or are you going to prevent it as soon as possible?

Dr. Jason B. Kaster, a chiropractor in Fort Myers and Naples, can help you and your family achieve their optimal health.

      SCHEDULE NOW!   239-332-2555