Author Archives: dzadmin

04.05.18
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Could you be Magnesium Deficient?

magnesium

magnesiumMagnesium deficiency can cause a whole host of issues in the body that can mimic other ailments and is often missed. If you are feeling under the weather and can’t figure out why it’s important to find a good nutritionist who really understands physiology and nutrition who can work with you.

Though you can become deficient in a multitude of minerals today lets focus on magnesium.

Magnesium is sometimes referred to as the “Master Mineral”. It has earned this nickname because it is responsible for several hundred metabolic processes in the body.

Having a deficiency in magnesium can cause health issues that can masquerade as other problems so you might not figure it out easily.

Why is Magnesium important?

Magnesium is necessary for the proper transportation of calcium throughout the body. Calcium needs other nutrients such as Magnesium, Silica, Vitamin D, Vitamin K that help allow it to become one with bone. Excessive calcium intake has been linked to heart health issues because it stays in the blood rather than being absorbed into the bone as intended and ends up calcifying into arterial plaque.
Magnesium plays a part in numerous parts of the body. It is an anti-inflammatory mineral, which offers protection against illnesses like Alzheimer’s, arthritis, high blood pressure, respiratory issues, diabetes and more. In many cases, just raising magnesium levels can have a profoundly positive effect.

Are you showing Magnesium Deficiency Symptoms?

You may experience the following alone or in combination as signals:

  • Inability to sleep or insomnia
  • Irritability
  • Sensitivity to noise
  • Mental disturbances
  • Anxiety, depression or restlessness
  • Muscle soreness or spasms
  • Infertility or PMS
  • High levels of stress
  • Headaches
  • Heart “flutters” or palpitations
  • Fatigue or unusual tiredness
  • Coldness in extremities
  • Fuzzy brain or difficulty concentrating
  • Allergies and sensitivities
  • Lack of appetite
  • Back pain
  • Body odor
  • Bad short term memory
  • Poor coordination
  • Insulin resistance
  • Carbohydrate cravings
  • Constipation
  • Frequent cavities or poor dental health
  • Gut disorders
  • Kidney stones
  • Thyroid problems
  • Confusion
  • Dizziness
  • PMS symptoms

What causes a magnesium deficiency?

Because of modern farming methods, our soils are depleted of not only magnesium but also many other trace minerals that used to be present. The Recommended Daily Allowance for magnesium is 240 to 420 milligrams. *Some doctors feel it should be nearly double the RDA.

Your doctor can test your Magnesium levels by using an Exa Test™. Blood tests alone are not generally accurate because magnesium works inside your cells, not just in the bloodstream.

Even if you are not able to visit a doctor, paying attention to your body can alert you to the need for extra magnesium supplementation.

Other causes of depletion can include:

  • Eating processed food (depleted of minerals)
  • Drinking alcohol
  • Drinking fluoridated water
  • Sugar
  • Caffeine
  • Drugs like birth control pills, hypertension medicine, diuretics, insulin, and certain antibiotics

So you think you might have a deficiency… Now what?

There are a few options!

1. Up the amount of magnesium-rich foods, you eat in your diet.

  • Almonds
  • Squash
  • Spinach
  • Cashews
  • Black beans
  • Sunflower seeds
  • Sesame, Pumpkin, Sunflower seeds
  • Brown Rice
  • Okra
  • Avocados
  • Bananas
  • Dried Figs
  • Dark Chocolate

2. Supplement – Magnesium Citrate is among the most readily absorbed forms of Magnesium. *If you experience an irregular heartbeat, slowed breathing or diarrhea lower the dosage. (This is rare and usually will only happen if you consume a great deal of magnesium, but its good to be aware).

3. Transdermal Magnesium (absorbed through the skin) – Magnesium Chloride, also known as Magnesium Oil, is not actually oil but a slippery brine solution taken from sea beds. It comes in a handy spray bottle and is very good for your skin as well.
Magnesium applied directly to the skin alleviates chronic pain and muscle cramps.

*A note on using this: If you are deficient, it can actually sting a little bit after or during application. It is very salty and can leave a white chalky film on your skin and a funny feeling residue. It is advisable to either use it before bedtime or to spray it on, leave for a good 20 minutes to allow it to soak in, then re-shower before getting dressed.

If Magnesium Deficiency is indeed causing you physical issues, once you begin supplementing you should begin to notice a difference within a matter of days.
If symptoms persist even though you are getting more Magnesium, you may want to seek medical advice.

If you happen to be in the Fort Myers, FL area please call the office of Dr. Jason Kaster, D.C. at 239-332-2555 or visit www.drkasters.com for more great health information!

04.04.18
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Could your RLS Be Caused by Underlying Vein Issues?

RLS

RLSIt’s late. You are exhausted. You want nothing more than a good nights rest.

If you deal with Restless Leg Syndrome you know trying to get to sleep at night can be nearly impossible.

In RLS your legs move on their own accord. It may feel like small electrical pulses as if you are hooked up to a TENS unit. Restless Leg Syndrome is a neurological disorder where the person has a consistent uncontrollable urge in which their limbs twitch.

RLS symptoms can either become worse over time or better, depending on the patient, and the severity of symptoms also varies strongly from patient to patient. While RLS can appear in a person at any age, it is considered both a progressive disease and a spectrum disease.  RLS can also be classified as either a primary condition – one that appears independent of other conditions – or a secondary condition – one that appears as a result of another condition or disorder that is already present.

Has a cause been determined?

While the most common cause of RLS remains an iron deficiency many cases occur as a result of varicose veins or venous reflux.

Varicose veins are not only physically unattractive, but they can also cause severe discomfort and pain in the afflicted area, a discomfort that, like in RLS, can only be alleviated by activity and movement. Fortunately, as more is becoming known about the correlation between RLS and vein disorders, many patients are finding relief for their RLS symptoms through treatments of their veins.

One such treatment for varicose veins is endovenous ablation therapy, a procedure that uses heat in either lasers or radio frequencies to seal off and close affected veins. Many patients report immediate relief in their symptoms, and, because the procedure is minimally invasive and relatively painless, most patients are able to resume their normal activities almost immediately and experience no interruption in their work or home life as a result.

RLS itself cannot be prevented except by attempting to uncover and heal its root cause. In terms of varicose veins and venous insufficiency, the best things that someone can do to help prevent this neurological disorders is to remain active, exercise frequently, maintain a healthy diet and weight, not smoke cigarettes, and to elevate the legs when sitting or laying down. While these actions cannot prevent all the underlying causes of RLS, they can at least help to prevent those instances where RLS is caused by venous insufficiency.

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of Restless Leg Syndrome, seeing a physician that specializes in vein disorders could be the most important step you take towards alleviating your symptoms. While there is no cure for RLS, no one should have to suffer through daily and nightly discomfort, and treatments are available through most insurance policies. Dr. Magnant of Vein Specialists is always available for a consultation and diagnosis and is here to help whether your RLS is simply a minor annoyance or a major disruption in your quality of life.

If you are living with RLS visit www.eveinscreening.com and start today with a FREE online screening and talk with a professional Vein Specialist.

04.04.18
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Oregano – Nature’s Super Healer

oregano

oreganoOregano is a member of the mint family. It has often been nicknamed nature’s most potent antiseptic and described as one of the strongest known anti-inflammatory substances. Oregano oil has powerful anti-viral properties. In terms of reversing pain and inflammation; it has nearly the same power of morphine. Yet it remains relatively unknown. 

Oregano oil has been certified by the FDA as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe); however, it is a very “hot” oil, so dilution is a carrier oil is recommended, especially for ingestion. You can purchase Oregano Oil capsules over the counter at any grocery or drugstore.

Numerous studies have shown it to be highly destructive to a multitude of viruses including Staph, E-Coli, Listeria and even MRSA. It has been demonstrated to be 99% effective at reducing airborne bacteria as well and is an excellent lymphatic stimulator even fighting off fungal infections. A recent medical journal study compared the anti-candida effect of oregano oil to that caprylic acid.  The results indicated that oregano oil is over 100 times more potent than caprylic acid against candida.

Oregano is a must have for every first aid kit and not a bad idea to keep in your medicine cabinet either.

What is oregano good for?

-Fungus and athlete’s foot infections (pop open a soft-gel and apply 2x daily)

-Respiratory ailments

-Colds

-Flu

-A sore throat

-Asthma

-Bronchitis. 

-Congestion, loosen phlegm and quiet coughs.  Either applying it topically (diluted, unless applied to the bottom of the feet) or diffused, it offers you excellent benefits.

-Intestinal infection

-Digestive issues

–Diffused into the air for its antiseptic and anti-bacterial properties, to clear the air of pathogens (for this method oregano oil must be pure – not mixed with a carrier oil)

How to use oregano medicinally:

As with any antibiotic if you are choosing to use a natural antibiotic for an infection make sure that you do a full course. In other words… don’t just use it until you feel better. Keep going for a minimum of 5-10 days. As with all antibiotics, if you quit taking them just when you begin to feel better, the bacteria that remain may actually rally and come back stronger giving you less of a chance to be able to fight them off should you choose to start again.

Interested in homeopathy, chiropractic, natural wellness, nutrition and overall health? Contact the office of Dr. Jason Kaster, D.C. of Fort Myers, Florida. 239-332-2555.

03.12.18
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Moringa – The Miracle Supplement

moringa

moringaHave you tried moringa yet? It comes as both a capsule or a powder or if you are very lucky, fresh.

The leaves, flowers, bark, fruit, and root, and seeds can all be used medicinally.

 Moringa contains 4 times the Vitamin A of carrots, 7 times the Vitamin C of oranges, 4 times the calcium of milk,  and two times the protein of yogurt and 3 times the potassium of bananas.

Moringa is an important food source in many parts of the world as it can be grown inexpensively, and the leaves retain vitamins and minerals when dried, moringa is used in Africa and India to fight malnutrition.

The immature green pods are prepared similarly to green beans, while the seeds are removed from more mature pods and cooked like peas or roasted like nuts. The leaves are cooked and used like spinach, and they are also dried and powdered for use as a supplement and condiment. It will, however, only grow in tropical and subtropical climates.

The oil from moringa seeds can be used in foods, perfume, and hair care products, and as a machine lubricant. The seed cake remaining after oil extraction can even be used as a fertilizer and also to purify well water and to remove salt from seawater.

Moringa’s Many Benefits:

WHEN TAKEN ORALLY 

    Anemia.

    Arthritis.

    Asthma.

    Cancer.

    Constipation.

    Birth control. (please do further research on dosage and timing)

    Diabetes.

    Diarrhea.

    Epilepsy.

    Stomach pain (gastritis).

    Stomach and intestinal ulcers.

    A headache.

    Heart problems.

    High blood pressure.

    Kidney stones.

    Swelling (inflammation).

    Thyroid disorders.

    Infections.

    Increasing breast milk production.

    As a nutritional supplement.

    Stimulating immunity.

    Increasing sex drive.

TOPICALLY

    Athlete’s foot.

    Dandruff.

    Warts.

    Skin infections.

    Snakebites.

    Gum disease (gingivitis).

    Astringent.

    Wounds

Directions: Follow the directions on the label. BUT I will add this – Please start slowly with Moringa. Everyone’s body is different. If it says 2 spoonfuls daily, trust me – start with ½ of a spoonful and work your way up. Moringa in too high of a dose can cause nausea, vomiting and even explosive diarrhea.

With the right dose, you should feel good, have more energy and notice a daily improvement.

Special Precautions & Warnings:

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: It’s UNSAFE to use moringa if you are pregnant. Chemicals in the root, bark, and flowers can make the uterus contract, and this might cause a miscarriage.

It’s also best to avoid moringa if you are breastfeeding. There isn’t enough information to know whether it is safe for a nursing infant.

Because of our tropical climate here in SW Florida, you can actually grow your own Moringa tree right in your yard. Make sure to plant it somewhere you do not mind a large tree growing because they do grow rather fast. To use it fresh you can pick branches right off the tree and eat the leaves.

For more amazing health information you may not know about by visiting the blog of Dr. Jason Kaster, D.C. Chiropractor and Nutritionist in Fort Myers, Florida www.drkasters.com | 239.332.2555

03.08.18
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What Exactly IS a Vein Specialist?

The only credentialing body for the treatment of veins in the office setting is the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission or the IAC.

IAC - Vein specialist

You may have heard that if you are dealing with venous insufficiency you will need to consult with a Vein Specialist. 

Are all Vein Specialists created equal? Unfortunately, the answer is No. This is where you need to look for an accredited office and physician.

 

The IAC is made up of representatives from 9 medical societies including:

  • Society for Vascular Surgery
  • Society for Clinical Vascular Surgery
  • American College of Surgeons
  • American Venous Forum
  • American Academy of Dermatology
  • American College of Phlebology
  • Society for Vascular Ultrasound
  • Society for Vascular Medicine
  • Society of Interventional Radiology

These societies have joined forces to stop the dangerous practice of treating veins by unqualified doctors thereby establishing national standards of patient safety.

For your own protection and peace of mind, please only choose a vein doctor with this national certification. There are many “med spas” that pop up around the country and tend to be fly by night operations. Though, yes they are actual doctors who run them, they are not specialists in the true nature of the word and may have only taken a weekend class certification in venous issues.  It takes years to master the art. You do not want to be someone’s practice piece.

Magnant
While there are now several routes to becoming a “Certified Vein Specialist” if you want your health entrusted to the best, choose a doctor, such as Vein Specialists very own Dr. Joseph Magnant, who is a Vascular Surgeon with over 26 years of experience. They are the only specialists who have focused their practice solely to vascular disease.

True excellence comes from experience and this proficiency develops from treating damaged veins day after day, year after year, one patient, one case at a time.

Vein Specialists www.weknowveins.com holds the IAC seal as it is displayed right on the website itself.

If you are in the Fort Myers | Bonita Springs, Florida area we would love to work with you to get you on your way to the best vein health possible. The first step can be taken right now, right here online by going to www.weknowveins.com and clicking the Confidential FREE vein screening button at the top the page or by calling 239-694-VEIN (8346).

03.06.18
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Are You Delaying Vein Treatment Simply Because of Price?

varicose-veins

varicose-veinsSticker Shock may hold many patients back from getting the medical help they so desperately need. The thing is, vein treatment isn’t a cosmetic procedure. It is deemed by most insurance companies as medically necessary. Because of this, it is generally paid for under most policy inclusions.

Before writing it off as an expense your budget simply can’t withstand take the time to talk to a Vein Specialist and make that call to your insurance provider.

Nothing is more important than your health. What do insurance companies look for in order to deem your condition as medically necessary?

There are 11 standard symptoms that must fit in order for it to be considered non-elective.

  1. Aching legs
  2. Leg heaviness
  3. Painful legs
  4. Burning sensations
  5. Cramping
  6. Itching legs
  7. Throbbing sensations
  8. RLS (Restless Leg Syndrome) Your legs twitch involuntarily at night as you are trying to fall asleep.
  9. Leg swelling and edema
  10. Darkening of the skin and discoloration
  11. Ulcerations on the legs caused by venous insufficiency

Vein issues start with a smaller onset and gradually over time progress. 

Over time vein disease spreads because the weakened veins cannot contain the blood due to pressure and they are unable to help pump it back up to the heart normally. As the blood pools, the veins stretch and weaken, even occasionally bursting leading to blood bruises and ulcerations and yes, more varicose veins and more associated health risks which can even lead up to blood clots and DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis) – this can put you at risk for pulmonary embolism, stroke, and heart attack.

While varicose veins are generally covered, spider veins are often not. It is best to check with your insurance provider before scheduling treatment to confirm specific coverages.

Let West Florida Vein Center help. We work with many major insurance providers and can do the legwork for you, no pun intended. Give The West Florida Vein Center a call today (727) 712-3233 or visit online by going to www.westfloridaveincenter.com.

 

03.05.18
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How to Support Blood Pressure, Naturally

high blood pressure fort myers

high blood pressure fort myersIt is scary to think that in this day and age one-third of all adults live with higher than desired blood pressure.  Life has become a go go go society. it’s a high-pressure world and our health is reflecting that. 

It can be tempting to simply ignore high blood pressure readings, but it isn’t in the overall best interest of your health. It can result over time in damage to the arteries, heart failure, ruptured blood vessels, kidney issues, vision problems, drop in cognitive function, metabolic syndrome and even life-threatening aneurysm.

The medical community seeks out pharmaceutical remedies to treat the symptom while those of us in the natural health world would rather find options that help to heal and treat the root cause.

Before reaching for the phone to get a prescription for high blood pressure medication, consider some of the more natural approaches which have been shown to work on many who experience higher than desired blood pressure readings.

Take a look at possible reasons for hypertension

Emotional taxation

Alcohol

Caffeine (soda, coffee, teas)

Smoking 

Being overweight or obese 

Lack of activity

Birth control pills are taken for lengthy amounts of time

Excess table salt

Heavy metal toxicity

What you can do 

Boost your diet – the foods you eat energize and run your body. Adding in items like olives and flax seeds, lots of fruits and vegetables, fish high in omega-3 and healthy fats like coconut and olive oils. Reduce grains.

Take Magnesium – helps to relax blood vessels. It can immediately impact blood pressure. 500 mg a day is a great starting place for most people.

Take Potassium – coconut water, bananas, melons, and avocados are just a few of the potassium-packed foods that can help with hypertension.

Take CoQ10 – This antioxidant helps to support heart health. 200-300mg a day is great for blood pressure support.

Take Fish Oil – 1,000-2,000mg daily. Inflammation of the arteries is a prime cause of high blood pressure. Fish oil is high in EPA, DHA, and Omega’s. It helps control and reduce the inflammatory response and can, in turn, help to reduce how hard your heart is having to work.

Get Chiropractic Adjustments & Massage – When your body is in proper alignment your nervous system works at top speed. This gives your body the best chance at regulating itself, which after all is the ultimate goal in health. Massage is not only relaxing, which can help bring down hypertension, it is therapeutic and helps the body release toxins and stress as well as tension.

Before reaching for that medicine bottle – consider some of these tips. They may just change your life.

If you are in the SW Florida area visit www.drkasters.com Dr. Jason Kaster, D.C. of the office of Dr. Jason Kaster. or call 239-332-2555 and make an appointment today. 

02.09.18
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Venefit™Targeted Endovenous Therapy

Venefit

VenefitDon’t resign yourself to a life of leg pain with unsightly varicose veins.

Consult a Vein Specialist. While there is a myriad of treatments available one of the most popular today is the Venefit™ procedure. Venefit™ is minimally invasive and designed for varicose veins as well as Chronic Venous Insufficiency.

A Covidien ClosureFast™ endovenous radiofrequency ablation catheter will be inserted during the procedure. This will close enlarged damaged leg veins. When damaged areas of veins are sealed shut, the blood then naturally is forced to reroute itself to the surrounding healthy veins.

When compared to traditional laser treatment

  • Up to four times faster improvement and healing
  • Less pain
  • Less bruising
  • Fewer complications

Studies have shown that patients undergoing the Venefit™ procedure returned to work much faster than those who had vein stripping done.

The procedure

A catheter is inserted into the vein through a small incision just below the knee. The catheter is guided through the use of ultrasound imaging. During the procedure, the doctor treats each 7 cm segment of vein with a quick 20-second blast of radiofrequency energy. This causes the vessel to shrink around the catheter. This is repeated and continued along the vein for the length of the damage. The treatment is quite fast.

This procedure can be performed in a clinic setting and does not require hospitalization.  This method of catheterization delivers a consistent source of heat to each area. The result is less bruising and rapid patient recovery. Venefit™ is minimally invasive and eliminates the need for general anesthesia. It leaves little to no scarring.

The Results Speak for Themselves

The Venefit™ procedure is performed only as a medical necessity as diagnosed by a trained vein specialist. While it is not intended to fix cosmetic issues the successful treatment of CVI using the Venefit™ procedure can produce improvements visually.

As with any medical procedure, you should consult your vein specialist and review all safety information associated with any procedure.

If you are interested in learning more about this procedure we invite you to speak with our specialists at The West Florida Vein Clinic in Tampa, Florida. 727-712-3233 or visit online at www.westfloridaveincenter.com

02.08.18
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My Legs Hurt, Why?

legs hurt

legs hurtThe aches and pains of daily life seem to increase as we age.

We feel a little less spry and a little stiffer when we wake up. It may take us longer than it used to in to get going about your day, but if your legs actually hurt and you are in pain that is not attributable to the normal aging process.

If you have ongoing leg pain, achy legs, feelings of heaviness, feeling like your legs are fatigued without much activity and even swelling (edema), experience restless leg syndrome or visible varicose or spider veins these are all potential signs of venous insufficiency/vein disease.

If left undiagnosed and untreated it can progress and lead to the onset of changes in the skin such a thickening, discoloration and ulcerations. Legs may become discolored and red as well as splotchy. The good news is that this is mostly reversible with proper treatment. The sooner you seek medical treatment, the faster and more successful your recovery can be.

Treatments offered:

• Diagnostic Evaluations

• Conservative Therapy

• Injection Sclerotherapy

• Foam Sclerotherapy

• Laser Sclerotherapy

• Microphlebectomy

• Endovenous Ablation

• Vein Gogh

All of which can be performed by finding a Vein Specialist through www.eveinscreening.com‘s online search. You can also reach them by phone by dialing (239) 288-6203.  At eveinscreening.com, their goal is to educate you regarding venues disease and empower you by offering a confidential venous evaluation form the comfort and privacy of your home.

Once treated, the risk of bleeding and ulceration is lessened significantly. The most dramatic changes can be seen in patients who have chronic venous insufficiency which is secondary to superficial venous dysfunction. Once the underlying problem has been treated the skin changes can be stopped in their progression and even reversed in some patients allowing healing to occur.

Thanks to the technology of today’s medical field there are many safe options which your Vein Specialist can help you decide what is the best course of treatment for your specific case.

Let eveinscreening.com  YOUR on-ramp to finding the solution to your vein problems.

02.08.18
by

Avoid a Heart Attack with These Key Tips

heart

heartStress has a horribly negative effect on your body.

The physical manifestation may begin as anxiety but it can quickly lead to high blood pressure, heart palpitations and even chest pains. Any discomfort centered in the chest is disarming and can make you worry. Rightly so, but it is important to know how to distinguish a possible heart attack from acute stress or a panic attack. 

Prevention is the best medicine. 

  • Eliminate things and people that cause you stress. Avoid it as much as you can even if it means saying no to people or events you would normally agree too.
  • The heart is a muscle. WOrking out and getting cardiovascular exercise can help your body deal more easily with stress.
  • Stop smoking.
  • Check your cholesterol.
  • High Blood Pressure left unregulated can wear out the heart and valves. Monitor your blood pressure. If it’s consistently high, talk with your doctor.
  • Eat lots of grains and fruits
  • Get omega-3’s in daily
  • Avoid trans fats
  • Talk. Venting is healthy for your mind, soul, and body.
  • Too much sugar can damage arteries. Monitor your blood sugar levels.

If your chest feels weird – like it’s under pressure, aches, has pain, heart palpitations or other uncomfortable sensations or just sense that something may be wrong, never ignore it and just hope it will go away. Visit Tampa Cardiovascular Associates. Worrying about your health and the unknown can also cause undue amounts of stress, when one visit and a checkup could very well put your fears to rest.

If you are in the Tampa, Florida area we invite you to give us a call today 813-975-2800 or visit www.tampacardio.com. Our expert staff can help you get a clear picture of what is going on with your heart and your health and set you on the course to the best possible stress free mindset and healthy body possible.