Why Do Fibromyalgia Patients Feel So Awful and Have So Many Symptoms?

Fibromyalgia

FibromyalgiaWhy Do Fibromyalgia Patients Feel So Awful and Have So Many Symptoms?

This question is a little more complicated but the answer makes sense when you put all the information together. Before this question is answered a part of the nervous system needs to be identified/defined.

One component of our nervous system is called the “Autonomic Nervous System”. This nervous system is divided into two divisions:

  1. Sympathetic division (fight or flight)-when our environment threatens us our body has to respond and this aspect of the nervous system kicks in. For example, if you are being chased by a tiger your adrenalin will be activated and blood flow to all parts of your body will increase. Most likely you will not fall asleep or feel relaxed while being chased by a tiger.
  2. Parasympathetic Division (rest and digest)-when our environment is relaxing our body will respond accordingly and this aspect of the nervous system will kick in. For example, if you had a large dinner and you sit down next to a warm fire most likely your body will rest/relax and digest.

There is so much more to Fibromyalgia than most medical doctors would have you believe and there is help and hope.

Visit the site of Dr. Jason Kaster, D.C. Chiropractor and Nutritionist in Fort Myers, Florida to read the real scoop and what you can do to help heal your body.  http://drkasters.com/conditions/fibromyalgia/

How Chiropractic Can Help Ankle Pain

ankle pain

ankle painChiropractic can help reduce ankle pain without prescribing medication which may come with unwanted side effects.

Daily life is made far more difficult when you suffer from ankle pain.

Ankle issues can easily limit mobility. Lack of mobility puts a damper on lifestyle as well.  No more cute high heels or dress shoes to go out in – you are stuck in flats if walking is an option at all.

Our ankles take on a lot of pressure every single day. They support the weight of our entire body. On top of that, you may add pressure from climbing stairs, walking, running, jumping, and carrying heavy objects. It is vital that your body be in proper alignment with your ankles correctly supported.

In the United States each year more than 25,000 people per year visit a doctor specifically for ankle related pain. Studies have shown that despite this, close to 40% of sprains are not diagnosed or treated correctly. This misdiagnosis can lead to improper treatment or no treatment at all, leaving the patient in chronic pain and even risking disability later on in life.

The standard treatment for a sprained ankle is Rest Ice Compression Elevation (R.I.C.E.) The newer more widely accepted version of the protocol replaces “Rest” With “Movement”, making the acronym now M.I.C.E. The movement portion of the protocol should be done with a qualified physical therapist.

Chiropractic has shown tremendous benefit in relieving ankle pain. Your Chiropractor will use the same methods for diagnosis as would your medical doctor. Once the exact cause is pinpointed a treatment can be recommended and started.

Severe ankle injuries such as breaks and tears may require pain medication and anti-inflammatories. X-ray and MRI imaging may be used in the diagnosis.

Chiropractic is highly effective and completely non-invasive. It allows a natural approach to healing allowing the body to mend itself over time. Regular adjustments can help to strengthen the ankle increasing stability and even range of motion. It helps facilitate blood flow and circulation speeding healing and recovery. Diet and exercise change recommendations may be made if additional weight is being put on your ankles as well.

As normal motion is restored to the joint the inflammation will subside. As the inflammation dissipates so will the associated pain.

While chiropractic isn’t an instant fix, over the course of a few appointments you should notice a significant improvement in the state of your ankle as well as your overall wellbeing.

If you would like to find relief from pain call us today. 239-332-2555. Now serving Fort Myers, Florida, and all surrounding areas.

Chiropractor & Nutritionist in Fort Myers, 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 them before they start?

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

Is Osteoporosis Affecting Your Health?

Osteoporosis

OsteoporosisWhat is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a disease which causes the bones in the body to weaken and become brittle over time increasing the risk of fracture and breaks.

Bone is a living mesh of tissue, not just calcium.

Collagen plays a big role in how sturdy bone is constructed. When collagen and calcium are lacking, the bone becomes weak. Bone consistency regenerates itself by building new cells and releasing old ones.

As you age, bone becomes more brittle.

In the USA low bone mass affects more than half the population 55 and up.1 in 5 men and 1 in 3 women, ages 50 and older may at some point have a broken bone because of osteoporosis. 

Causes of bone weakening include Medication use, Adrenal Fatigue, metabolism imbalance, Vegan Diets, Copper deficiency,  Hyperparathyroidism, Eating Disorders,  Smoking, Excessive Alcohol use, family genetics, and a small bone frame.

How do you test for bone density?

The main reason someone would suspect Osteoporosis would be family history if they are not experiencing any symptoms. A bone density test may be given by your physician.

Physical Symptoms: Back pain (which can be caused by a fractured or collapsed vertebra), a stooped forward lean in your formerly straight posture, loss of height as you get older, and even breaking a bone without a super hard fall or impact.

Drug companies produce several pharmaceuticals which have been formulated to increase the density of bone. The problem is that they all come with the potential risk for side effects. Thinking about bone health while you are still young is the best possible protective measure.

BE PROACTIVE!

Drop the Stress – Chronic stress can not only spoil your mood and mental health it can wreak havoc on your physical health. Be nice to yourself, rest, treat yourself occasionally, do what makes you feel joyful and relaxed.

Nutrition
– Eat a diet of fresh fruits, vegetables, and grass-fed meats. Avoid refined sugar, white flours, and processed foods. The soil much of our food is grown in these days has been severely depleted of the minerals we need. So much so that supplementing may be necessary. The best way to determine what you are missing is with Nutritional Response Testing. Magnesium, Calcium, Vitamin K2, Vitamin D3 and Strontium all have shown benefits to bone strength.

Lift – Strength training builds bone as well as muscle. Consult a personal trainer if you need a little direction to get started.

Use Essential Oils – Helichrysum and Cypress can be applied topically to areas can help with bone repair and healing if a break occurs or a weak spot is shown to exist.

Chiropractic Care – Keeping your bones in alignment on a regular basis helps the entire body function properly.

If you are in the Southwest Florida, Fort Myers area, Cape Coral, Naples, Estero, or Lehigh, please visit www.drkasters.com or call the office at 239-332-2555. 

Fort Myers Auto Accidents – What to Do if You Have Been Injured

Auto accidents

Auto accidentsNo matter if you have totalled your vehicle or if you were just in a fender bender the severity of the accident doesn’t always determine if you have been injured.  You may have no visible broken bones, scrapes, cuts or even bruises, but that doesn’t mean you aren’t hurt.

Over half of people who are involved in auto accidents report some level of pain in their lower back when the crash is a rear impact crash. When side-impact crashes occur the number rises even higher to nearly 75%. Stiffness and neck pain are the next two chief complaints most reported. 

Alongside of back and neck pain auto accidents often leave you at first feeling ok. You can get up and walk away from the accident and feel mobile.  The reason is that your body releases dopamine and other naturally produced chemicals into your bloodstream in order to keep you going in emergency circumstances.

Once the initial shock has worn off you often begin to feel the effects of the impact. This usually occurs a good 24 hours later. You may begin to experience headaches or neck pain where it was not present before. It is vital to get them checked out as they could be a sign of neck, brain, or head injury.

Whiplash is the number one injury associated with car accidents. Whiplash can be serious and have lasting effects. Whiplash requires a proper medical diagnosis. Tingling and numbness in the arms and hands are also symptoms of whiplash.

Back pain could be a sign that ligaments or muscles have become misaligned or bruised. If the pain is sharp and severe you may also have pinched or damaged nerve.

In a rare few cases, personality changes or even the way you are able to physically function may be modified. These can include movement problems, memory issues, vision issues, depression, and mood changes. If these happen, you may have a brain injury and its important to be seen as soon as possible.

Thought you don’t hear much about it PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) can also be also linked to major auto accidents. Flashbacks or nightmares may be experienced over and over again by drivers and or passengers. Those involved in major accidents may be very uncomfortable driving or riding in a car for some time after the accident.

In Florida, you have 13 days to seek treatment in order for it to be covered under your automobile’s PIP insurance (personal injury protection). If you have been in an accident give the office of Dr. Jason Kaster, D.C. a call at 239-332-2555. www.drkasters.com.

Natural Help for Women Going Through Menopause

menopause

menopauseThough generally thought of as an older woman’s plight, menopause can begin as early as 35.

What is menopause?

Menopause is the period in a woman’s life when she when a woman stops being able to procreate. Menstruation stops. The average age begins around 45-50 but it can start as early as 35 in some. Night sweats, hot flashes, sleep disturbance, missed periods, emotional swings, irregular periods, hair thinning, and even changes in sexual response are all signs you are in menopause. These are all symptoms that can be alarming. Most women site that all they want is to feel like themselves again. All you want is to feel normal or back to your old self again. The question is how… The TV ads would have you believe that your only option will come through hormone replacement therapy. This is simply not the truth.

There are many natural things you can do. It is not reasonable to expect all of the symptoms in their entirety. But you can learn the triggers and take supplements that can dampen them and make them less troublesome.

Triggers can include a hot environment, hot hair dryers, hot food or drinks, stress, exercise, smoking, alcohol, sugary foods, spicy foods, and hormonal changes.

COMBAT HOT FLASHES

-Wear lightweight, absorbent cotton clothing, and pajamas at night.

-Grab a cold drink when you start to overheat, turn on a fan or go into a cooler room, try to relax with meditation or deep breathing if you feel nervous or anxious, dress in layers so you can remove them as you start to feel warm.

-Proper nutritional support is key as well and can actually do the most good toward keeping your body in balance.

HERBAL SUPPORT

Black Cohosh

Though beneficial for both men and women in supporting healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels, Black Cohosh is an excellent herb for women. It supports relief from women related issues. Supports a healthy respiratory system. CAUTION: Should not be used during pregnancy or in the presence of chronic illness.

Dong Quai

Don’t Quai is a good herb for women supporting their monthly health issues. It nourishes the reproductive organs and is great for the blood. It also supports relaxation. CAUTION: Should not be used during pregnancy. Should not be used by diabetics, or persons who are light-sensitive.

Kudzu

Kudzu is rich in isoflavones and supports increased bone strength.

Wild Yam

Contains progesterone-like substance that helps support women health issues. Also supports healthy joints. CAUTION: Should not be used during pregnancy.

Chaste Tree

An excellent herb for women, Chaste Tree supports healthy hormone levels and is beneficial for women’s health issues. CAUTION: Should not be used by children or pregnant women.

Red Clover

Red Clover supports healthy lungs. Helps strengthen the immune system. Phytoestrogens contained in Red Clover support healthy bones in women during menopause. It is also good for skin disorders.

Licorice

Wonderful for the stomach and digestive system. CAUTION: SHOULD NOT BE USED BY THOSE WITH DIABETES, HEART DISEASE, HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE, SEVERE MENSTRUAL PROBLEMS OR HISTORY OF STROKE.

Damiana

Damiana supports the delivery and flow of oxygen to the genital area; this benefits both men and women. Also supports the overall energy level. CAUTION: Can interfere with Iron absorption when used internally.

These herbs may very well offer relief for many from menopausal symptoms. While the list of side effects/risks from pharmaceutical hormone replacement therapies range from stroke, blood clots, breast cancer, gallstones, ovarian cancer, dementia, headaches, nausea, vaginal discharge, fluid retention, weight gain, breast tenderness, spotting on your skin, and even in rare cases, uterine fibroids or endometriosis the natural route has no known side effects.

Come in and work with Dr. Kaster, D.C. – He is not only a Chiropractor but a Nutritionist and overall Wellness Doctor. His goal is your health, naturally. www.drkasters.com 239-332-2555

The Benefits of Probiotics for Gut Health

probiotic

probioticAre you getting enough probiotics in your diet?

Probiotics are the good bacteria that help to build your immune system and support digestive health. These stomach dwelling microorganisms create these benefits. They create a balance between the wanted and unwanted bacteria that reside in the gut. They are necessary for digestive health to exist as they help in moving food through the digestive tract by way of affecting the nerves in control movement.

Health benefits, along with a stronger immunity, can include:

 

Inflammatory bowel disease

Irritable bowel syndrome

Eczema

Diarrhea

Allergies

Get more probiotics in your daily diet

Yogurt

Eating grass fed organic Greek yogurt ensure that your yogurt is the best possible source of probiotics. If you happen to like the taste of sheep or goat milk yogurt, all the better as it has even more live cultures that are good for you.

Fermented Vegetables

Sauerkraut and kimchi are both up there in probiotics that support the flourishing of friendly bacteria. They also are high in digestive enzymes.

Kombucha

This fizzy Japanese drink with a weird name is gaining ground in popularity and is now sold in nearly every supermarket. Kombucha is fermented black tea containing good bacteria and yeast. It touts the benefits of increased energy levels, improved digestive health, and detoxification of the liver.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a mixture of diverse probiotics. Studies have shown that apple cider vinegar can help to control your blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes. Use sparingly, a little goes a long way. 1 spoonful a day is enough. Mix with water and drink or use on foods and salads.

Miso

This Japanese spice is used in dishes such as the popular miso soup. It’s made of fermented soybeans, brown rice or barley and mixed with a fungus known as koji.

Supplementation

Probiotic supplements are available at any health food or grocery store. They can be a great addition to your daily regimen though getting what you need through real whole foods is always the best idea.

Looking for more great natural health advice to keep you feeling your best? Visit www.drkasters.com. 

Chiropractor & Nutritionist in Fort Myers, 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 them before they start?

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

What IS Fluoride? – A History Lesson

fluoride

fluorideWater fluoridation is the addition of fluoride to the general water supply under the guise of helping to prevent tooth decay.

What IS fluoride?


Fluoride is a salt of hydrofluoric acid compound containing fluorine, as methyl fluoride, CH 3 F.

For those of us that didn’t excel in science class that definition did not help on clarity. This just leads us to yet another question. What is Fluorine? It is the most highly reactive nonmetallic element on the chart. It is a pale yellow toxic gas that is corrosive. This leads me to the next logical question. Can a toxic gas really be good for us and where and what exactly does the fluoride we are adding to our water supply come from?


The idea of adding it to the water supply was proposed based on the idea that fluoridated water works on tooth surfaces: inside the mouth it creates low levels of fluoride in saliva, which reduces the rate at which tooth enamel de-mineralizes. It also increases the rate at which it remineralizes in the early stages of cavities leaving fewer cavities overall.  Sounds good right? Of course, it does. We bought it hook line and sinker up until recently.

According to the National Health Federation as well as the New York State Coalition, they are both highly opposed to Fluoridation. Though yes, Fluoride exists in nature and is found in rock it is also laced with an industrial waste product known as fluosilicic acid. Fluoride is a pollutant.

Fluoride is a by-product of copper, iron and aluminum manufacturing. The problem became how to legally dump fluoride. One of America’s largest aluminum companies founded a study and suddenly the problem was solved in the 1930’s. The outcome was found that fluoride helped prevent tooth decay.

Now the marketing began

A successful public relations effort along with government agencies resulted in the propaganda being spread far and wide: this miracle chemical, when added to water supplies, will give everyone healthy teeth.

The fertilizer industry may have solved their issue of what to do with their toxic waste product, but public health and safety took a hit. This claim that this fluoridated water was healthy for teeth is false. Evidence shows fluoridation does not reduce tooth decay. A tooth decay epidemic is rampant in the U.S. today, reports the Surgeon General and cavity crises are occurring in many, if not all, fluoridated cities and states in 2018. Many cities are now rethinking and removing fluoride from their water supplies.

The first experimental city to accept fluoridated water happened in 1945 in Newburgh, New York. The study was originally slated to last 10 years but ended at only 5, and was somehow falsely declared a success.

No adults were studied. Children sick two weeks before examination were excluded – eliminating the very children who might have been exhibiting fluoride’s adverse effects. In this study, they used sodium fluoride, which is not the fluoride chemical used by over 91% of U.S. fluoridating communities today – Silicofluorides.

According to www.fluorideinfo.org they state that  “While the opponents to community water fluoridation may be well-intentioned, there is no scientific basis on which anti-fluoridationists base their claims.” This is simply not the truth.

This missmatches findings by Dr. Barry Groves, Ph.D. who dedicated himself to exposing dietary misinformation, the very studies were done by the WHO (World Health Organization) were greatly exaggerated and even falsified. It has been shown in countries such as Denmark, Finland, and Sweden when fluoride was removed from the water, the incidence of cavities actually reduced.

Fluoride is a highly toxic substance, which before named a cavity fighter, was used in rat poison and insecticides. If all of these years we have been duped, what has all this fluoride we have been consuming really done to our bodies?

Ironically, when you consume too much fluoride your teeth can actually discolor and crumble.  In lab tests on animals, fluoride has been shown to enhance absorption of aluminum, which has been shown to cause Alzheimer’s. It has also been linked to osteoporosis, damage of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems, leading to limited joint mobility, ligament calcification, muscular degeneration and neurological deficits. But worst of all fluoride has been linked to as many as 10,000 cancer deaths per year (the majority in bone cancer, primarily in men).

Fluoride has also been shown to lower intelligence in children. In one study 907 children age 8-13 were measured in retrospect to the amounts of fluoride in their environment. The developmental intelligence appeared to be hampered severely the younger the child was when high doses were administered.

Fluoride has also been shown to calcify the pineal gland.  It regulates the production of melatonin, which regulates the onset of puberty as well as protecting us from damage on a cellular level from free radicals. In some cultures, the pineal gland is also believed to be what is thought of as the third eye, and our source of visualization and imagination.

We can only suggest limiting your continued exposure to fluoride as much as possible.

There are many good high-quality fluoride free toothpaste available, as well as opting to drink distilled or fluoride filtered water from a system that utilizes a special filter or reverse osmosis, is a huge boost for your health, no matter your age.

***Please read the information provided before purchasing any water filter. Most do not actually remove fluoride. Placing a filter on your showerhead is also a tremendous help as your skin when showering opens up its pores and allows fluoridated and chlorinated water to penetrate and absorb into your system.

There are also ways to remove fluoride from your body through internal cleanses, heavy metal detoxifications and chelation

It’s up to you to decide if you feel fluoride is ok for you to ingest, we suggest you do some research and make up your own minds.

Chiropractor & Nutritionist in Fort Myers, 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 them before they start?

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

Skincare, Naturally!

skincare

skincareYour skin is the largest organ in your body.

Just because it’s on the outside as wrapping doesn’t mean you don’t need to care for it just as you do the rest of you.

When we are young our skin is filled with collagen making it feel very elastic and well hydrated. That is what gives the youthful appearance. As we age, lifestyle and environmental factors, as well as genetics, begin to take a toll on our skin and in turn can age us visually.

60% water. That is the makeup of the human body. It only stands to reason that if you are dehydrated, much like a raisin – you start to shrivel or wrinkle. Your skin is filled with pores acting as a filter allowing you to rid your system of toxins and to sweat when necessary in order to cool down. Keeping your skin clean and moisturized play a vital role in caring for your body.

Directions to keep your skin its best, even as you age.

#1Hydration – Drinking water and staying away from sugary drinks and artificial sweeteners, as well as moderation in caffeinated beverages, is a great step.

#2 Eat a well-balanced diet.  Temporary supplementation of vitamins and minerals you are lacking can also prove to be very healing. Your skin is a reflection of how healthy you are on the inside.

#3 Cleansing the skin on a daily basis. There are a multitude of creams, soaps and cleansers on the market today and everyone has their own opinions on what works and what doesn’t. Choose a cleanser that is suited for your skin type whether it is oily, dry, combination or sensitive there are many quality products on the market. The more natural the better – many soaps and shampoos these days are made with the same ingredients as your floor cleaner so read the labels! A good rule of thumb is – if you trip over the words trying to pronounce them, chances are it’s not in your best interest to rub it on your body!

#4Toning – The purpose of a toner is to wash away any residual dirt or soap left from washing your face. A good toner, sometimes called an astringent, cleanses and shrinks your pours in a sense “toning” your skin.

#5 Exfoliating – Exfoliation helps your skin to shed the dead outer layer of cells through the use of scrubs, loofah sponges, bristle brushes and towards the more extreme – peels or laser.

#6 Moisturizing. Surface moisturizers are designed to add hydration from the outside of the body by applying a layer of viscous cream or lotion to be absorbed into the skin. Again, read your labels and see what it is you are rubbing on and soaking into your body. Just because it smells good doesn’t mean it’s good for you. This is a vital step.

#7 Sun protection.   It has been shown in recent studies that retinyl palmitate, an ingredient in most sunscreens, was shown to accelerate cancer in lab animals. The other problem with wearing a sunscreen all of the time you are outside is that exposure to the sun creates Vitamin D in our bodies which is vital for good health. Vitamin D plays a role in supporting healthy bones by proportioning the absorption of calcium, lowers your blood pressure, and is one of the most potent inhibitors of cancer cell growth! Additionally it helps to regulate your immune system so while sunburn is dangerous and repeated sunburns are extremely dangerous some sun on your skin is needed and very healthy for you. Use your best judgment. If you are going to be outside for an extended period of time cover up with hats and clothing, and if you choose to use a sunscreen make sure it does not contain retinyl palmitate.

#8 Quit Smoking – Smoking makes your skin dull and contributes to wrinkles giving you the appearance of advanced age.

#9 Reduce Stress Stress is a huge contributing factor to skin condition and appearance. We know its easy for us to tell you to eliminate stress, and not always so easy to put into practice. Don’t worry, we will give you some amazing tips in an upcoming article – so keep an eye out!

Caring for your skin doesn’t need to be a time-consuming hassle. Once you get your skin care products and regiment together, it becomes like second nature. And after all… aren’t you worth it?

Come in for a nutrition appointment and get your diet on track – it could boost not only the look and feel of your skin but your overall health as well.

Chiropractor & Nutritionist in Fort Myers, 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 them before they start?

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

Are You Getting Enough Nutrients?

nutrients

nutrientsFruits and Vegetable additions to your daily meals are one of the quickest ways to add needed nutrients to your diet plan.

We live in a prepackaged pre-made food kind of society. Most of which consists of carbohydrates, sugars, and preservatives. 

Rather than reaching for cookies, crackers, or even bars that have been processed and compressed, as you cruise down the grocery isles grab canned, frozen, and fresh fruits and vegetables.

Start your day with a piece of fruit added to breakfast. An ideal mix of protein, carbohydrates, and a piece of fruit will get your body moving.

School Lunches allow you to get creative. Ants on a log are a favorite and often traded treat. Cut up celery, add peanut butter, and sprinkle raisins. Voila! Ants on a log. Sweet, salty, crunchy and very healthy. Packed with protein and iron they can keep your kiddos going.

When packing snacks: carrot sticks, broccoli, cauliflower, even bell peppers, all are great grab, pack in a bag and go treats. Think of party trays – you can even add a little yogurt or sour cream dip if plain vegetables don’t appeal to your pallet.  Fruits come in their own wrappers. Apples, plums, bananas, oranges, tangerines, and many more are all grown to grab and go, very easy to reach for on the run no matter how busy your day is and even if you don’t happen to have refrigeration.

Hosting friends?– you may be tempted to take the easy way out and fill bowls with the traditional chips and dips. Sure every one like them, but health is on the forefront of many peoples minds these days and having healthy alternatives available makes you a great host.

Ideas

  1. Let Your Cravings Lead The Way – unless it’s for absolute junk food, your body may be trying to tell you that you are missing something. ie. if you have a weird craving for liver you may be iron or copper deficient. If you are craving Brazil nuts you may be missing selenium. Food is intended to be our fuel.
  2. Fondu – Who doesn’t love cheese? Rather than dipping bread and chocolates, offer apples, carrots, cauliflower, pineapple, banana, mangos, and more.
  3. Fire up the grill! – Fat drips away from the meats while cooking naturally and you can even grill vegetables like Portabella mushrooms in place of burgers as well as skewers of veggies and fruits! Amazingly most have never tried grilling fruit and things like peaches, pineapples and kiwis are simply delicious and decadent.
  4. Dried fruits are always a hit and packed with vitamins.

One of the most important takeaways from this article is to eat a wide variety of foods. Don’t get locked into the same old same old. Stepping out of your box can not only increase your interest in healthy eating, it can add vitamins, minerals, and nutrients you may be missing, therefore increasing your health!

Natural Help for High Blood Pressure

high-blood-pressure

high-blood-pressureBlood pressure defined

Blood pressure is the measure of pressure created by your heart beating, forcing the blood into your arteries and throughout your body. There are two numbers in the reading. The top number is known as systolic – it defines the maximum pressure inside your arteries as your heart beats. The bottom number known as diastolic is the amount of pressure inside the arteries between beats.

If you take your blood pressure and its over the recommended 120/80 it is important to pay attention and start tracking it. Heart disease doesn’t set in overnight. It takes time and can creep up on you till suddenly you are ill and dont even know what happened.

What’s “high” vs. Whats considered normal blood pressure

120/80 mm Hg. is ideal.

140/98 mm Hg signals possible Hypertension (high blood pressure)when the measurement is sustained for at least 2 consecutive readings.   Elevated blood pressure can present a problem because puts adds additional pressure to your entire cardiovascular system including your heart which must then work even harder to move the blood around your body. A continued reading at or above that level means you have hypertension.

What causes high blood pressure?

So far no exact cause has been pinpointed in high pressure for the majority of patients. This is known as primary high blood pressure. Secondary hypertension can come from the use of birth control pills, excessive alcohol intake, or even renal or thyroid disease. 

Other Factors That Can Come Into Play

  • Age
  • Level of physical activity (too sedentary of a lifestyle)
  • Obesity
  • Diabetes
  • Smoking
  • Heredity
  • High Salt Intake
  • Drinking alcohol excessively
  • Get your thyroid blood levels checked

I have high blood pressure – what do I do?

There are several natural things that can help for you to try before resorting to pharmaceutical blood pressure medications which, while they may bring your numbers down to normal levels and be beneficial for your cardiovascular health have the high-risk potential for a wide range of very dangerous side effects which can affect your health physically and emotionally.

Natural Alternatives to Help Lower Blood Pressure

If you know you have high blood pressure and would like to consider some alternatives outside of medication we would love the opportunity to work with you to get your health to where it should be so you can live the best life possible.

Chiropractor & Nutritionist in Fort Myers, 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 them before they start?

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