Last weekend, we all celebrated the most important women in our lives…our mothers. In honor of the person who brought each of us into this world, I wanted to focus on the top health issues that affect women every day.

It is extremely important that each woman take charge of her health. It is her life after all. It is important to be fully versed in family medical history and learn the subtle nuances that our bodies use to communicate with us. Education and access are also keys to success. Learning about the different health issues that are found in your family’s health history (especially the female lineage – your mom and grandmother) will help in preparation for what your weak links might be health-wise. Finding a medical professional that will talk WITH you and not AT you is essential.

Heart Disease

This is the biggest reason for death in adults regardless of gender. According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control), it is responsible for approximately 29% of all adult female mortality.

Historically, women have either been under-diagnosed or diagnosed too late because some of the symptoms were misconstrued as not warranting further medical attention. According to the American Heart Association, the risk factors for heart disease for women are:

• High blood pressure
• High blood cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Increasing age
• Genetics/Heredity: Check your family history. People of African, Mexican, Native American, Hawaiian, and Asian descent have higher risk.
• Smoking
• Physical inactivity
• Obesity (30 pounds overweight)

The best way to reduce the risk of heart disease is to make lifestyle changes – the earlier, the better. Adding or increasing exercise and eating a well-balanced diet will do wonders and add years to your life.

Breast Cancer

More women have breast cancer than any other type of cancer, and it is second to only lung cancer as the leading cause of death for women.  It is imperative that all women learn how to do a breast self-examination, and then do it regularly.

There is a concern from experts that women tend to avoid screening or treatment.  This is due to the concern that the testing itself exposes your breast tissue to radiation and essentially creates more of a health risk.  Nothing can be further from the truth.  If you have a history of breast cancer in your family and you are female, it is essential to follow the advice of your trusted health practitioner and take this issue seriously with regards to having a true picture of the image of your breasts. 

At this point in time, in 2012, women have choices as to the types of imaging and some imaging is better for one group of patients than another.  I will be discussing different types of imaging in our next article.  For now, I just wanted to broach the subject so it is on your mind and a reminder to not  put this off.  It could be the issue of life or death if not taken seriously. 

 According to the American Cancer Society the following are risk factors for breast cancer:

• Family history of the disease
• Personal history of the disease
• Race. It has been documented that white women are at more risk of getting it, but women of African descent have a greater chance of dying from this disease.
• Increasing age
• Genes. Nearly 5% to 10% of breast cancer is linked to mutations in certain genes (most commonly, the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes – most commonly found in Ashkenazic Jews and people of Norwegian, Dutch or Icelandic descent).
• Earlier incidence of an abnormal breast biopsy
• Early onset of menstruation (before age 12) or menopause after age 55
• Medication use, such as diethylstilbestrol (DES)
• Too much alcohol
• Obesity

A healthy lifestyle, such as that involving exercising, a healthy diet, weight control and quitting smoking are all recommended. A consultation with a health professional who is dialed into the evolution of research in this area in reference to screening and risk is  essential. Some of the best health professionals who are really familiar with holistic care for approaching this issue are: nurses, nurse practitioners, acupuncturists, homeopathic doctors, chiropractors and nutritionists – not just MD’s folks!

There are some great gynecologists out there, and my belief is you should see a gynecologist for all the essential yearly tests, such as pap smears , blood work for hormones and mammograms/breast checks. However, when it comes to treatment of gynecological conditions – you may also do yourself a world of good to research other therapies and be informed when making decisions to accept any type of care.  Ask questions and also combining therapy of your gyenecologist with those of a nutritionist or acupuncturist will be a great dividend towards resolving or allieviating the issue altogether.

Two examples of this are night sweats and hot flashes that are common with menopausal symptoms.  After researching options, a woman may decide that it is too risky based on her health history to undertake a regimen of hormones, and opt instead for herbal therapy and/or homeopathy.  I just wanted to level the playing field a bit due to my experience with these other professionals that get great results and offer safe and effective alternatives to medicine and medical care in general.  Many medical practitioners are onto what I am saying, and also heartily refer out to these practitioners as well, once they see the results work well with their patients.   So there is room for both..allopathic and naturopathic in your life.

Osteoporosis

According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, Osteoporosis affects 44 million Americans, of which, 68% are women. The amazing thing is that this condition can be prevented.

The human body builds bone mass until around the age of 30. At that point, the body goes into a kind of maintenance phase. With proper education and a change in fitness and eating behaviors, osteoporosis can be delayed and in some cases, avoided entirely.

 The following are risk factors for osteoporosis:

• Family history
• Ethnicity. White and Asian women have the greatest risk.
• Increasing age
• Erratic or infrequent menstrual cycles and estrogen loss due to menopause .
• Anorexia
• Small, thin-boned body frame
• Diet low in calcium and vitamin D
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Smoking
• Excessive alcohol
• Lack of  weight bearing exercises

Increasing vitamin D and calcium in your diet is one quick way to start building bone, maintaining bone density and keeping away from this disease. Be sure to talk to your health care provider about your personal plan of action to defeat succumbing to this condition.

Depression

The National Institute of Mental Health states that this condition affects twice as many women as men, with approximately 12 million documented depressive disorder cases reported each year. Much of this is due to the fact that women are more comfortable and used to reporting their feelings and symptoms to a health provider than men are.  Part of this disparity in statistics then, is simple gender differences for how men and women perceive their emotions and physiology and how they express that to their practitioner.  Men may get just as depressed a women but are not inclined to discuss this with their doctor.  So it never gets reported, lowering the statistics but not necessarily telling the truth about the real incidence.   

 If a man assumes it is natural to feel stress due to his lifestyle, he may not feel inclined to report what a health provider would determine is “depression”.  For women, the flux in hormones creates a veritable nightmare of emotions as estrogen wanes, and the symptoms of menopause itself cause women to feel older, tired, moody and just not themselves.  Younger women and women who are pregnant or just gave birth, have documented hormonal changes that are responsible for postpartum depression.  We have witnessed severe cases where women have injured themselves and/or family members when the levels of hormones rose and became so unbalanced that she was declared mentally insane by committing terrible acts of cruelty upon her child or others.

With others – the emotional flux could be something as simple as a lack of connection in life. It is documented that the healthiest adults are those with significant caring relationships. This does not necessarily mean romantic ones. They could be with a parent, sibling, other relative or even a very close friend. The importance is that the relationship itself is strong and a fundamentally important  in their life. The typical risk factors for depression include:

• A previous depressive episode
• Family history of depression
• Serious chronic illness
• Marital problems
• Substance abuse
• Use of drugs that could trigger depression, such as medicines for high blood pressure or seizures
• A stressful life event, such as job loss or death
• Diseases that could trigger depression, such as vitamin B12 deficiency and thyroid disease
• Recent serious illness or surgery
• Childhood history of physical or sexual abuse
• Being a worrier or being overly anxious
• Having an eating disorder or an anxiety disorder

 While not medically documented, caring for a pet has shown to help relieve depression. Finding something to care about, such as a hobby or charity can also fill the void that depression resides in.  And get physical however you want to do it.  Moving and exertion physically with exercise can dramatically boost endorphins and you will forget you ever were blue.

To all the mothers out there, we love you and want you to take care of yourselves. Consult with a health professional if you have any questions about what is discussed here and a belated Happy Mother’s Day to you all.

 Feel free to join my mailing list for more articles that empower your health at http://www.lynnkerew.com/blog.

Unlike Southern California, in most areas of the country, there are actual seasonal weather changes. There is nothing better than to be able to roll your car window down on the way home from work for the first time when spring hits our fair city! Opening the windows in your home to let out the stale air of winter is another refreshing moment that signifies the beginning of spring. So too is the tell-tale sign of green pollen all over your vehicles.

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases states that 35 million Americans suffer from seasonal allergies each year. Imagine runny noses with raw nostrils from blowing, sunken, watery eyes and coughing and sneezing until your throat is on fire. That isn’t fun for anybody and allergy sufferers deal with this daily.  This is while the rest of us marvel at the beauty of blossoming flowers and spring’s re-birth. When that first tulip pops, there is a mad rush to the pharmacy to fill prescriptions of Singulair, Allegra, Sudafed and Flonase among others.

Claritin is popped like Tic Tacs, but these medications, while helping to fight against the allergies, have other side-effects. The active ingredients in these medications could cause blurred vision, drowsiness, a racing heartbeat, constipation, erectile dysfunction and confusion to name a few.

What is one to do in order to avoid these problems? Here are a few ideas:

Flush Your Nose – Neti pots are used by many allergy sufferers for symptom relief. They look like little tea pots and can be purchased at any local drug store or pharmacy. Fill these pots with a warm salt-water solution and pour it up the nostril – there are directions in the box for you to lay on your side as you do this. The saline in the water floods the nasal cavity and thins out mucus which would otherwise hold onto pollen, allergens and allow bacteria to grow. It feels a little weird at first, but can be a very helpful tool. Nasal irrigation is a part of the daily hygiene routine in parts of India and Southeast Asia, just like brushing your teeth.

Add Some Spice To Your Life – Spicy food also helps loosen and thin mucus. This could provide some allergy relief, so add some extra wasabi to your sushi or habanero to some Mexican food.  Horseradish is also great if you are still celebrating Passover!

Get HEPA To IT – Having the windows open may be refreshing, but pollen and other allergens do get into the house that way. A HEPA filter running in the bedroom constantly will catch any pollen floating in the air. Changing the filters in central air conditioning units monthly will also help.

The Allergen Is Coming From Inside The House – The average home may contain at least as many inside as outside indoor pollutants. Certain paints, cleaning products and materials that are part of synthetic carpets are some of the guilty parties. They hold onto pet dander, dust mites and pollen.  Air filters can help here, but sometimes it is not so easy. For someone who suffers from allergies, removing the carpets and replacing with wood floors can help tremendously. Vacuuming and mopping twice a week will not remove all allergens, but will help. Dusting all fans and any other flat surface will keep the dust down. A wet paper towel can be used to pick it up. A negative ionizer may also help in that it grounds out dirt particles and sends out negative ions. This is good for the lungs

Go Herbal – It is important to consult with your health practitioner before exchanging a medicine used for allergies to an herb you would like to work similarly with symptom relief to allergies. That being said, two herbs that have shown anti-flammatory and anti-histamine properties are Perilla and Butterbur. You can get the herb and make a tea or purchase the capsule.  Again, always check the medicines you are taking with the herbs you are considering. No matter how “natural” herbs are, they contain strong chemicals and can act even stronger than over the counter or prescribed medication. Contact your local pharmacist to see if there are any contra-indications for taking the herb as you would not want to have an adverse effect while trying to reduce allergy symptoms.

Patience is Key – Natural remedies do not provide immediate relief. It takes time, and an occasional adjustment in lifestyle, to see major results, but it will be a huge benefit in the long run. The key here is increasing the body’s ability to adapt to the stress – in this case, the allergen. The body produces an allergic response when there is a runny nose, watery eyes and sneezing. The body works hard to get rid of the allergy toxin. When an herb is taken, it works with the body to produce the natural response to an allergen as stated above. When a drug is taken, it decreases the body’s ability to respond, so it does the opposite – dry out the nose and eyes and the toxin stays in the system because it was not sneezed, coughed or blown out.   

Obviously comfort is what is sought, but we all must be smart about how we deal with allergens. Improving the immune system will help improve the body’s adaptability to the allergen. When the symptoms get overwhelming, consider the herbs Perilla and Butterber. They will decrease the symptoms by allowing the body to remove the toxin while helping you to feel better.

As always, consult with your healthcare provider before you stop taking your prescriptions or try something new. This may be a situation where you can slowly ween off of the medications to a more natural life.

Feel free to join my mailing list and blog for more articles that empower your health at  http://www.lynnkerew.com/blog.

I recently had a physical and my doctor told me that the results of my blood work showed a low Vitamin D level.  I was a bit perplexed as I drive around quite a bit, and live in sunny Southern California.   He prescribed 50,000 IU (International Units) of Vitamin D a week for four weeks and told me not to worry about the amount.  It was for a short time and we would monitor it through another blood test in a few weeks. 

It was a super mega-dose, and knowing that Vitamin D was fat soluble, I knew it would not be easily excreted by my body if I took too much. I will also add that I had no known symptoms of anything that Vitamin D is supposed to treat, but I do tend to have dry skin and am in an age bracket where osteoporosis is a factor. I agreed and began the supplements immediately.

In relaying my story to some friends, I found it odd that 3 others were told that they also needed Vitamin D supplementation.  It is not a usual blood test ordered and I wondered if a recent quorum from the American Medical Association (AMA) began a quest of getting every American tested and treated for Vitamin D deficiency. I went off to do some research, and here is what I found…

Nutrition Basics

Vitamin D is one of the 4 fat soluble vitamins (the others being Vitamins A, E & K) also known as a “super vitamin”.  It is called this because of its ability to clinically do a bit of everything metabolically in your body. It can be considered the “sunshine vitamin,” as it is produced in your body in response to sunlight. It is also found naturally in certain foods like egg yolks, fortified dairy and grain products and fish. People who avoid the sun, are lactose intolerant or are strict vegetarians could be at risk for a vitamin D deficiency.

The “Big D” helps your body use the calcium in your diet to develop strong bones. One disease associated with a vitamin D deficiency is rickets. People with this disease have soft bones or skeletal deformities because their bone tissue doesn’t properly mineralize.  One might think of this as a disease that is prominent only in developing countries. It can be found in the poorest regions of the US however, due to malnutrition and malabsorption syndrome

The latest research however, shows that vitamin D could play a significant part in protecting you against many more health problems. The organic or alternative health community will tell you that the vitamin can help against everything from cancer and hypertension, to diabetes and multiple sclerosis. The institutional medical community will argue that there is not enough research to make that claim at this time.

Despite the wariness of the medical community to admit the potential uses for vitamin D, they are prescribing “super-doses” regularly like they did with me. The question is why? Where is this coming from? The answer is from a research letter published in the October 26, 2009 issue of the American Medical Association Journal Archives of Internal Medicine.

Written by doctors and researchers from the Boston University School of Medicine including Michael F. Holick, PhD, MD, a well-known authority on vitamin D, it revealed that treatment with 50,000 international units (IU) of vitamin D per week was safe and effective over an 8 week period, and could also be safe to use every other week as maintenance. To put this in perspective, the FDA recommends a daily dose of 400 IU, or 2,800 per week.

 There are several potential negative side effects from taking these mega-doses with regularity:

•  Hypercalcemia – This is the term for having excess calcium in your blood. Rarely do symptoms show, but if they do, they could include constipation; diminished appetite; nausea; vomiting and stomach pain; kidney dysfunction, which may manifest as mid- and low-back pain; excessive thirst and urination; weak and twitchy muscles; psychological changes like depression, irritability, loss of memory and dementia; and skeletal problems, such as bone pain and fractures, and bowed shoulders.
• Hyperphosphatemia – This is when you have excess phosphorous in your blood. Taking mega-doses of vitamin D directs the intestine absorbing more phosphorous from ingested food than normal, resulting in elevated blood phosphorous. The extra phosphorus in the blood combines with the excess calcium, forming a salt called calcium phosphate, which is deposited in certain internal organs. The kidneys are the most common organ to be affected by deposition of calcium phosphate, leading to the damaging calcification of the organ.
• High Blood Pressure – Another possible side effect of mega-doses of vitamin D is high blood pressure. Over time, high blood pressure can damage the blood vessels and the heart. Although chronic high blood pressure can ultimately cause death, it is often not associated with any symptoms.

These side effects are definite possibilities, but through prolonged use of these mega-doses. If you have questions, you should talk to your doctor before using vitamin D in this way.

If you have questions or need further information about this topic, please go to http://www.lynnkerew.com. Other great articles about the spine and body can be found on our fantastic blog (that you should join!) at http://www.lynnkerew.com/blog. If you wish to contact Dr. Lynn Kerew directly, you can email her at lynnkerew@gmail.com.

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and for those that are diet-conscious, this can be a very intimidating time. Chocolate here, chocolate there…I see chocolate everywhere!!! Did you know that you don’t necessarily have to run every time that candy comes around? It might not be as bad as you think.

I know you are sitting there saying “how could something that tastes so good actually be healthy for you?” It’s all about the flavonoids. These things with the interesting name are found in plant-based foods. They give plants protection by shielding them from environmental toxins. When we eat foods that are plant-based and rich in flavonoids, we also benefit from this “antioxidant” shield it creates.

The University of Scranton conducted research that showed that both the quantity and quality of antioxidants found in chocolate are much higher when compared to other high-antioxidant foods. Cocoa powder was found to have the highest, followed by dark chocolate and then milk chocolate. The Chocolate Manufacturers Association actually states that dark chocolate contains approximately eight times the antioxidants found in strawberries.

What Exactly Is A Flavonoid?

Flavonoids are naturally-occurring compounds found in plant-based foods that have been found to offer certain health benefits. There are over 4,000 different flavonoid compounds and they can be found in various foods and beverages such as peanuts, apples, cranberries, chocolate, onions, tea and red wine.

Flavanols are a type of flavonoid found specifically in cocoa and chocolate. Research has also indicated that flavanols can lower blood pressure by producing nitric oxide and improve blood flow to the brain and heart. They also help make blood platelets less sticky and able to clot, balance certain hormones in the body and lower cholesterol. These compounds give cocoa that pungent taste and can be destroyed during cocoa processing. Chocolatiers are currently studying ways to maintain high levels of flavanols in their products while still producing good-tasting chocolate.

Are All Types Of Chocolate Healthy?

The short answer is no. The cocoa content varies in the different types of chocolate. The more the chocolate is processed (by fermentation, alkalizing, roasting, etc.), the more flavanols are lost. Most commercial chocolates have been highly processed. The best choices in terms of health will be dark chocolate over milk chocolate. It has, at a minimum, 65 percent more cocoa content. Milk chocolate tends to be loaded with other fats and sugars, which negate some of the positive effects of the flavanols. Also, the milk can prevent your body from absorbing the antioxidants. Cocoa powder that has undergone Dutch processing (treated with an alkali to neutralize the natural acidity) will also have less flavanols than other chocolates.

Isn’t There A Lot Of Fat In Chocolate?

The fat in chocolate comes from cocoa butter, which is made up of equal amounts of oleic acid (a heart-healthy monounsaturated fat also found in olive oil), stearic acid (a saturated fat that has a neutral effect on cholesterol) and palmitic acid (a saturated fat that does raise cholesterol and heart disease risk). So only one third of the chocolate you consume is actually bad for you.

This doesn’t mean you should sit down and eat an entire Toblerone in one sitting. Moderation is still important here.  Chocolate is still a high-fat, high-calorie food. There is no standard serving size, but most published studies used 100 grams, or about 3.5 ounces, of dark chocolate a day. 

For the best results, pure dark chocolate or dark chocolate with nuts, orange peel or other flavorings are the ones you want to look for. The caramel, nougat, coconut or any other fillings just add sugar and fat. They also erase many of the benefits you get from eating the chocolate in the first place.

So enjoy this romantic holiday and don’t be too scared of that candy. Your heart may benefit from more than one thing this year.

If you have questions or need further information about this topic, please go to http://www.lynnkerew.com. Other great articles about the spine and body can be found on our fantastic blog (that you should join!) at http://www.lynnkerew.com/blog. If you wish to contact Dr. Lynn Kerew directly, you can email her at lynnkerew@gmail.com.

Magazines extol them. Women want them, but are they really worth it? Ask the 1 million women who have big breasts and you might be surprised at the answer you get. Large breast sizes have been linked to a number of physical complaints including neck and back pain, and numbness in the fingers. They can also cause migraines and in some cases, shortness of breath. Women have avoided doing everything from aerobic exercise to picking up their children and even sitting at a desk. These women are at risk for spinal deformity and other repetitive stress injuries to their shoulders and upper extremities due to their large breast size.

The excess weight of the breast combined with weak muscular support, create these problems by changing the normal anatomical structure of the woman’s body. Some women try to hide them by rolling their shoulders forward. This is not a normal posture and will create undue pressure on an area in the upper body near their shoulders, known as the “thoracic outlet”. The pressure then compresses a bundle of nerves and blood vessels, which causes pain and discomfort down her arms to her fingers.

These large breasts that are worshipped in the media, in print and on TV can also affect the natural curve of a woman’s mid to upper back, potentially causing severe lower back pain. If the upper vertebrae of the spine are altered in an attempt to compensate for the extra weight up front, the lower vertebrae pick up the slack and assume more of the load. Proper posture is imperative to these women.  Finding that correct pose can be found through proper strengthening and “CORE” stabilization exercises.

Exercise is Killing Me

Imagine the pressure on the spine of a woman who is small in stature and is carrying around exceptionally large breasts. Those muscles in her back bear a tremendous burden attempting to support the top-heavy weight during vigorous exercise. In addition, the constant movement from any high-impact exercise can create intense pain due to muscular oxygen deprivation and fatigue.

Customized or sports bras that are built to distribute the weight across a larger area are often recommended. This could help in reducing muscle strain and improving the overall positioning of the breasts.

Exercise May Just Save Me Though

Before a woman begins an exercise program that is built to address her back pain, it is imperative that she has a full physical assessment. This diagnostic exam will document any postural dysfunctions and their associated muscle imbalances. This will help generate the right exercise regimen that is needed specifically for her issues.

In many cases, lower back pain is a type of chain reaction where several things occur to create the pain. There is no specific machine that can diagnose each problematic area. A Doctor of Chiropractic focuses on balancing the entire body and can follow the dysfunctional areas of the spine to the source.

These physical assessments are critical to the overall health of the spine. From there, a comprehensive plan can be created to eliminate those muscle imbalances. This may not be the type of exercise program a woman is used to, but it can help her get back to a more balanced state where her body can support the extra stress, throughout the rest of her life.

A Possible Last Resort

An increasing number of women are opting to use breast-reduction surgery to deal with their back pain. This article is not an approval or denial of this option, but does want to introduce the topic as a conversational piece. As with any surgical procedure, there are many potential risks and possible negative side effects from this operation.

Both external and internal scarring can occur from this procedure. There are arguments both for and against the surgery in terms of how it can interfere with a mammogram. Some doctors are concerned that the scarring could affect the accuracy of the exam, increasing the risk of breast cancer. On the other hand, other doctors have expressed concern that it may be more difficult to spot any small lesions in a woman with very large breasts.

Breast-reduction surgery could affect the sexual response in the breasts due to a lack of sensitivity in the nipple. For women considering the procedure and still looking to have children, they should be aware that there could be a significant reduction in milk supply after the reduction. For some women, their ability to breastfeed has completely gone away.

Please seek the help and guidance of a medical doctor before making such a life altering decision. It may be the right one for you, but spending the time to confirm that can never hurt. If surgery is not an option, find a local Chiropractor and try a spinal adjustment program combined with specific exercises to restructure the thoracic spine and  have the low back take on its proper weight and not distribute it to the neck and upper back.

 If you have questions or need further information about this topic, please go to http://www.lynnkerew.com. Other great articles about the spine and body can be found on our fantastic blog (that you should join!) at http://www.lynnkerew.com/blog. If you wish to contact Dr. Lynn Kerew directly, you can email her at lynnkerew@gmail.com.

For some people, pets are a natural extension of themselves. They are parts of the family and held in high regard. They are companions, protectors, sleep partners and in many cases, a child. What happens though, when you find that you are allergic to your pet? 10 percent of the population in the United States has some sort of pet allergy, with cat allergies being the most common.

For someone looking for a low-maintenance pet, or a cat lover specifically, this could be a bit of a problem. Many people don’t even realize they have a cat allergy. The symptoms are similar to many other allergies and they stay with you even after being away from cats for an extended period of time.

The allergic reaction to a cat is not caused by its hair, as one might expect. It is actually caused by its dander, or the dead skin cells that are contained in the hair when it sheds. Dander is produced by a protein that a cat secretes. These allergens can be airborne, and can hide in your carpet, clothes or furniture for months. It can take up to a month of being dander-free before you stop having the symptoms. This is why in many cases, something else is blamed for the reaction.

A person suffering from cat allergies can experience coughing, sneezing, a runny nose, itchy eyes, wheezing and more dangerous respiratory issues depending on the level of the allergy. There are over-the-counter and prescription allergy medications that help battle the symptoms of cat allergies, but there are also preventative measures, herbal remedies and nutritional supplements as well.

Preventative Measures

This may seem like a no-brainer, but we all know pet owners that don’t listen to reason. At the very least, keep the cat out of your bed. Shower and put on clean clothes before retiring to bed to limit the amount of dander that gets in your bed. Keeping the cat out of the bedroom completely is an even better option. It will provide one location in your house that should be dander-free.

HEPA filters are worth the investment for everybody, but especially for somebody allergic to cats. These filters will cut down the amount of cat dander in the air and should reduce the severity of your cat allergy. Regular cleaning and/or replacement is required to keep them working properly. Vacuuming your carpet daily can also help reduce the dander in the house. Vacuums with HEPA filters are now available that can also be used to keep the furniture dander free.

Herbal Remedies

Here are a few herbal remedies that can help fight that nasty cat allergy. These can all be found at your local health food or organic store. Eucalyptus is one of those natural wonder-drugs. In this case, it is an excellent natural allergy tonic. It soothes coughs and alleviates nasal congestion. It can also be used as an antiseptic on cat scratches.

The following herbs work well in treating coughs, runny noses, itchy eyes and preventing congestion: alfalfa, licorice root, red clover, apple cider vinegar, cayenne, lobelia, fenugreek, eyebright, horehound, and dried mullein leaf. Take 500 milligrams, or one to two capsules every four hours when symptoms are prevalent. Aloe vera, witch hazel, fish oil, flax seed and evening primrose oil have all been used for relief itching from allergies. When you go to your local health food store, you may find combinations of some of these or each packaged individually.

Nutritional Supplements

Many nutritional supplements can help boost your body’s natural immunity to cat dander. These can also be purchased at health food or organic stores. To start, a basic multi-vitamin with minerals might be enough to reduce allergy symptoms. Pick one that is sufficient in Vitamin A, selenium and zinc which all boost the immune system naturally. Take one multi-vitamin a day

Vitamin B5 helps produce adrenal hormones, which can reduce allergic reactions to cat dander. Take 500 milligrams at least three times a day.  Vitamin C can be used as an antihistamine and also to help relieve itching. High doses should be taken throughout the day. Try to take at least 6,000 milligrams, but not all in pill form. Use fruits and juices to get as much in your system. Vitamin E produces antibodies and can be taken daily to help combat cat allergy symptoms.

Pine Bark Extract can act as an antihistamine against cat allergy symptoms. Take 300 milligrams a day. Curcumin is similar to prescription strength cortisone without the risks of high blood pressure and heart disease. It can be taken up to three times a day in 500 milligram dosages. Bromelain can help reduce any inflammation throughout the body caused by the allergy. Take up to 1,500 milligrams a day. L-Histadine is an amnio acid that blocks the production of histamine in your body. It can be taken up to three times a day in 500 to 1,000 milligram dosages.

There are many other ideas out there that could work and we’d love to hear about it. If you have something that works for you, please share it with us so we can spread it to those that need it.

Disclaimer: These are suggestions for allergies and as everyone has unique health histories and concerns, it is essential that you use this as a guideline and not as advice directly for you for this condition.  Please consult with your health care provider prior to undertaking any of these therapies.

If you have questions or need further information about this topic, please go to http://www.lynnkerew.com. Other great articles about the spine and body can be found on our fantastic blog (that you should join!) at http://www.lynnkerew.com/blog. If you wish to contact Dr. Lynn Kerew directly, you can email her at lynnkerew@gmail.com.

If you’ve paid attention at all to the national weather announcements, you have heard a lot about that four letter word that many dread. That word is SNOW. Yes, the skiers and the businesses that depend on it are loving life right now, but the entire Southeast has had more than enough at this point. The Northeast has had over four feet of snow so far this year.

According to the National Weather Service (NWS), there is snow on the ground in 49 of 50 states, with Florida being the only holdout (Yes, even Hawaii has received some snow). Just under 71% of the country is covered in the white stuff right now. While this is not a statistic they keep regularly, the NWS has confirmed that in December, the average was less than half what it is now.

Considering how many people across the country are affected by this, we thought it important to discuss how to stay warm when you have to venture outside. Keeping warm is vital, because if your body temperature drops, you are at a greater risk for heart attack, stroke or breathing problems.

Obviously the easiest way to stay warm is to not go outdoors at all, but we all can’t hide away from the cold. We have jobs, school, etc. Here are a few ideas on how to get through before the spring thaw.

Feed Your Furnace

In order to keep your body running and your energy level up, you should try to eat five small meals through out the day. Eat at least one of these meals should be hot and hot beverages will help keep your body temperature up throughout the day. You want these meals to have energy building foods such as proteins, fruits and vegetables. There is a reason why chicken soup or even chili is so good this time of year.  I like Oatmeal and Cream of Wheat for these choices.

One contrast to this though is what you should do just before heading out into the frozen tundra. One thing you can do to keep warm is to actually drink a COLD beverage. Drinking a cold caffeinated beverage will increase your heart rate. This will speed up the blood flow throughout your body. The reason for the caffeine is that it helps to speed up the blood flow, which in turn generates warmer blood through your body at a much faster rate.  This sounds counter-intuitive, but it is true! When your body is cold, it will turn on the mechanism to activate shivering, increasing body temperature to maintain homeostasis – so you actually are and feel warmer.

It’s All About Layers These Days

You would be surprised how often this is handled incorrectly. Layers are extremely important, but going out looking like the boy from “A Christmas Story” won’t necessarily make you warm and you will be incredibly uncomfortable. It is much better to wear several thin layers of clothes rather than one thick layer. Layering light clothes made of cotton, wool or some sort of fleece-like synthetic under a thick coat is ideal.  I still like what skiers often wear…thermal underwear.

Make sure to wear gloves (preferably water-proof) and put something on your head. Without a hat, the majority of your body temperature will escape without you even noticing.  Insulated, non-slip shoes or boots that will keep some sort of grip on icy pavement is ideal.

One mistake people make is they keep their jackets and boots near the front door to be put on just before leaving. They hang out by the fireplace as long as possible with the idea that it will keep them warm outside. The reality of it is that warmth only lasts a minute at the most. There is a better way to conserve some body heat. Try putting on your jacket and boots five minutes prior to going out. Doing this gives your body a chance to warm up inside.

A Rolling Stone Gathers No Cold

Constant motion keeps your blood circulating and will help maintain your body temperature. Whether it is pacing while waiting for a bus or jiggling your feet while riding that 10 minute ski-lift, keep your body moving while outdoors. Also remember to keep hydrated. Despite the cold, your body will sweat and the dry air can suck the moisture right out of you. If you are skiing, shoveling or just playing outside, keep the fluids going just as if you were sweating at the beach.

Spring is just two months away folks. Use these tips to get through, and as always, if you have tips of your own, don’t be shy and please share them with us!

If you have questions or need further information about this topic, please go to http://www.lynnkerew.com. Other great articles about the spine and body can be found on our fantastic blog (that you should join!) at http://www.lynnkerew.com/blog. If you wish to contact Dr. Lynn Kerew directly, you can email her at lynnkerew@gmail.com.

The holidays have come and gone. The decorations are coming down and both work and school schedules are back in full swing. Like me, many of you most likely have gone into your closet and were unable to comfortably fit in your clothes!  They used to fit well…what happened?!!   That last latke or glass of egg nog changed that one though, hasn’t it?

Don’t despair. Here are 10 ways to help you get back on track.

Take Baby Steps. We discussed this last week in our post about New Year’s Resolutions (link here). Focusing on the entire goal when it comes to weight loss can be very overwhelming…and eventually dooming. One way to avoid that is to try breaking the goal down in increments of five or ten pounds.

Live in Reality. Nobody is going to lose 50 pounds between now and Valentine’s Day. While most people get a good kick start in the first week or two of a diet, one and a half to two pounds is what should be expected weekly for women. Men can add up to a pound a week in weight loss. Using this logic, a person who is looking to lose 50 pounds should plan on working for just over 6 months.

Your Turkey Doesn’t Have to be Cold. People who give up everything at once are bound to crack and go back to those tasty treats. Instead of trying to spend the rest of your life eating rice cakes, try adjusting parts of your diet at a time. Maybe you could start by not drinking soda anymore.  After a week or two, you could add eating at least one piece of fruit a day.

Have Something to Look Forward To. In general, if you were good for 19 meals (based on a 3 meal per day diet) throughout the week, the other two would not cause major harm to your weight loss. That doesn’t mean going to the buffet for three hours, but you could have dessert or an extra serving. You will feel less deprived and it will give you something to look forward to each week.

Hydrate. Water is very important to your overall well-being. It helps flush the system, keeps your body strong and can fill you up. Thirst can be mistaken for hunger. The next time you get that mid-afternoon craving, grab the water bottle first and make sure it has electrolytes in it.

Spread the Wealth. You may be that person who doesn’t eat breakfast. Then you get so busy at work you miss lunch. You get home and either stuff yourself before dinner or have a huge meal to make up for lost meals. Your body holds onto the fat longer this way because it recognizes the patterns of starvation and it is trying to protect itself. Spreading your diet over five light meals will help curb your appetite, boost your energy, improve your mood and even speed your metabolism, since the process of digestion itself burns calories.

Give Yourself a Time Out. Studies show that the average craving lasts approximately 10 minutes. The next time you get that urge for a cookie, give yourself 10 minutes. Even set an actual timer if you have to. Use that time to work on a project or sit down and call a friend. It will take your mind away from the craving and develop your social life.

Take Advantage of your Own Laziness. Protein takes more calories to digest. Like water, your body will take the path of least resistance and process fats before proteins if given the chance (thus the Atkins Diet). Studies in Sweden, Denmark, Scotland and England found that people who ate a high-protein breakfast or lunch were less hungry at their next meal. That doesn’t mean you can stuff yourself with steaks and ribs, etc. Focus on lean meats.

The Party Escape Hatch. Next month, when you go to that Super Bowl party, offer to bring something. You will win points with the host and you will insure that there will be something you can eat without feeling guilty. A platter of chopped fresh veggies and a low-fat dip will be more popular than you think.

Frankie Said Relax! A Yale University study found that women who secreted high levels of cortisol (a hormone released during stress) also binged on high-fat foods after stress. As discussed earlier, the combination of cortisol and insulin tells your body to store fat for a possible starvation. Everybody has some sort of stress in their lives. The key is managing it. Yoga, meditation, or simple breathing exercises may help. So will a punching bag with your boss’ (or spouse, sibling, colleague, etc) face taped on it.

There are many other ideas out there that could work and we’d love to hear about it. If you have something that works for you, please share it with us so we can spread it to those that need it.

If you have questions or need further information about this topic, please go to http://www.lynnkerew.com. Other great articles about the spine and body can be found on our fantastic blog (that you should join!) at http://www.lynnkerew.com/blog. If you wish to contact Dr. Lynn Kerew directly, you can email her at lynnkerew@gmail.com.

If you have read any of our articles in the past, than you know that Chiropractic is not “just about your back & neck – it’s about your life!” Overall wellness is extremely important, and this time of year, everybody is looking to make a brand new start.

You see it every year. Gyms and athletic clubs are filled the first week of January with people in brand-new work out clothes, with new mp3 players and memberships. These individuals attack the treadmills and elliptical machines with vigor and should be applauded for trying to create new healthier lifestyles for themselves. The truth of the matter though, is that the weight rooms and running tracks usually empty out by Valentine’s Day.

The hardest part about keeping resolutions in the world of exercise and nutrition is how overwhelming the change can be. Instead of looking at this daunting task of true lifestyle change, let’s focus on breaking it down in incremental steps. For a healthy 2011, change truly begins with the first step:

Nutrition

1. Life is Not Always What it Seems. One would think that eating a salad would be a step in the right direction. The truth is that it depends on what you put on the salad. A late night talk show host recently had a contest where you had to guess what was worse for you. A salad from a mid-range restaurant was put up against a specialized hamburger, fries and soda from a fast food chain. The salad blew the burger away in terms of calories and fat because the chicken was fried, the honey mustard dressing was full of fat and it was loaded with things like cheese and croutons. Chicken is a great source of protein, but go grilled instead of fried. Using a vinaigrette-style dressing over the creamy versions will also help.
2. It’s About Power Combinations. Lean protein, good fats and complex carbohydrates are food groups that your body needs. Separately, they are good for you, but when eaten together, research shows that the sum is greater than the individual parts. It gives your body nutrition it craves while also making you feel fuller for longer periods of time. An apple and almonds as a snack is a great example of this.
3. Dear Diary… Wholesale changes in your diet may not be completely necessary. The only way to be sure of that is to keep a food journal. Take a 7 day period and write down everything you eat and drink. This will help uncover patterns such as if you are an afternoon snacker or a late night binger, etc. You must be honest in filling this journal out though, or it will not help you. Once you have completed your week, do some research and see what you have put in your body. Look up the caloric value of the foods you have been eating. There may be minor adjustments that could have dramatic effects on your health.

Exercise

1. Crawl Before You Run. Running the NYC Marathon is a truly daunting task, one in which many people balk.  Let’s try getting around the block first. There is always an ultimate goal in mind, but focus on smaller achievable chunks. This gives you something to celebrate and a purpose to drive you forward when you reach one of these mini-milestones. Instead of trying to lose 50 pounds, focus on 10 pound intervals. Better yet, take an outfit or pair of jeans you really want to get into and use that as your motivation. When running, you just can’t walk out your door and go for 26 miles. Start with a mile. Then work toward a 5K run, etc. Doing this with a friend where you both hold yourself accountable is really perfect too!
2. Share Your Goals and Your Frustrations. As above, whether it is a spouse, parent or co-worker having the support of others can both inspire you and hold you accountable. Some people have used blogs or Facebook to track their progress. A friend started his “Fit Before 40” program and kept updating his Facebook friends with pictures and statuses. He has lost over 100 pounds and we have all been there to applaud every step. You never know who or what will inspire you during this process. Others may even be inspired to join you on your journey.
3. Do What You Like and Like What You Do. You want to exercise, but hate running. Maybe it bothers your knees. You are never going to stick to that exercise regimen if you hate doing it or really fear re-injuring or hurting yourself. If you love to swim, however, there’s no reason why you can’t get your exercise that way. Maybe you like to dance. There are all sorts of dance/aerobics classes out there from Zumba to pole dancing (whatever floats your boat). Maybe what you really need is to get some tension and aggression out. A punching bag, boxing training or even the increasingly popular mixed martial arts could be a good option.

Whatever you do, take your resolutions one day at a time. There will be moments when you just want to give up. If you stick it out, you will be amazed at the results.

If you have questions or need further information about this topic, please go to http://www.lynnkerew.com. Other great articles about the spine and body can be found on our fantastic blog (that you should join!) at http://www.lynnkerew.com/blog. If you wish to contact Dr. Lynn Kerew directly, you can email her at lynnkerew@gmail.com.

Happy New Year!!!

While snow is not a factor in Southern California, most of the country has to deal with it, at least from time to time. White Christmases can actually be a treacherous thing. Forget the driving as a causing factor, it is actually that the body has been dormant for several months that is the issue.  When a person has to go out and shovel heavy, cold snow and ice, that is putting a major stress on the core muscles, extremities and the heart muscle.  Recreational activities and chores that involve snow and/or ice can pose major problems for anybody, but especially those who are not in condition. Skiing, snowboarding, skating and the dreaded sledding can be quite exciting and fun. They can also be the cause of back pain of all kinds, muscle spasms, strains or tears and even broken bones. Snow shoveling, walking through thick snow and slipping on icy surfaces are also activities that can cause major pain.

Many people go out in the freezing weather completely unprepared. This can result in more than just a chill. For those with joint problems already, the cold air can aggravate the problem and cause a tremendous amount of pain. Low temperatures cause your muscles and blood vessels to contract in an attempt to conserve internal body heat. Those with tightened joint spaces such as Arthritis patients know when the cold weather or snow is coming…they can literally feel it in their bones.  When muscles contract, it makes the joints come closer together.  As a result, the blood supply to your fingers and toes is diminished, which will reduce the overall ability of your muscles to work with strength and flexibility. Maybe Mom was always right after all. We need our scarves and our mittens.

Just like summer sports and activities, warming up is essential for these winter versions as well. It may be even more imperative because of the need to get your blood running throughout your body in those cold temperatures. A good warm-up can be completed in 15-20 minutes and may be the difference between jumping and crawling out of bed the next day.

As with most warm-ups, light aerobic activity such as jogging or fast walking is a great place to start. Once you get the heart rate going with a good 10 minute burst, it’s time to get those muscles stretched out. Here are some suggestions to finish off your warm-up:

• Sledding – In order to fight compression injuries associated with the constant bouncing, knee-to-chest stretches help loosen the body. This can be done either sitting or lying on your back. Your knees should be pulled to your chest and held there for up to 30 seconds.
• Skating – Lunges will help loosen your legs for focused activity that this activity represents. Take an exaggerated step forward with one foot. Bring your back knee down to the floor while your shoulders are kept in position over your hips. Repeat the process with your other foot.
• Skiing/snowboarding – Squats are a great exercise to get ready to attack the slopes. Stand with your legs shoulder width apart. Slowly lower your buttocks as you bend your knees over your feet. Stand up straight again.

Please do not forget the ever important cool-down. Your body is shocked by the sudden changes in temperature when you go in and out of the cold into a warm room. A good stretch will help your body adjust.

Shoveling snow is not only one of the most tedious things to be stuck doing, it can also be extremely dangerous. Here are some tips on avoiding the back pain that always seems to follow:

• Be sure to layer clothing in order to keep your muscles warm and flexible.
• Stretching can help avoid straining the muscles between your shoulders, in your upper back and lower back, buttocks and legs.
• This is not an Olympic event. Take your time and do not throw it for distance. Push the snow straight ahead or carry it to the snow bank. Try to avoid any sudden twisting and turning motions.
• The muscles in your legs are the biggest and strongest in your body. Let them and your arms do all of the work, not your back. Bend your legs when you lift.
• STOP IMMEDIATELY if you suddenly feel any chest pain, or have shortness of breath. This may require immediate professional attention.

If you wake up the next day and feel soreness or stiffness, an ice bag should be applied to the affected area for 20 minutes. Wait a couple of hours and then repeat throughout the next day or two. If it does not go away, contact your local Doctor of Chiropractic. They can get you back up and running in no time.

If you have questions or need further information about this topic, please go to http://www.lynnkerew.com. Other great articles about the spine and body can be found on our fantastic blog (that you should join!) at http://www.lynnkerew.com/blog. If you wish to contact Dr. Lynn Kerew directly, you can email her at lynnkerew@gmail.com.