Keeping Cool in the Summer Heat Acupuncture & Hydration (Shoulder, Arm, Hand and Back Pain)

June 19, 2012

Yes, the air conditioner is a wonderful invention for humans when the temperature outside is nearing 100 degrees. However, every summer I see an influx of patients coming in with pain in their shoulders, neck, back, and hands. Quite often these pains can simply be alleviated by simply drinking more water. If you are hot and sweating your body is depleting of water. Which many think is good, because they are “losing weight”. However, you are actually depleting you body of it’s ability to perform normal everyday functions. Your body is made up of at least 70% water. This water allows you r body to conduct electricity and function properly. When you are not drinking water you body begins to literally dry out and causes body aches, headaches, pain and in extreme conditions death.

Besides water to help cool off. Most people in the western world use some type of air conditioning or fan to aid in cooling. This is the most common cause of pain I see in my clinic each summer. If you are sleeping with a fan blowing on you STOP! If you and your partner argue over room temperature and you have no other choice. Put a light shirt on the cover you exposed joints. The fan or air conditioning vent (even in your car) can blow cold air (“wind”) into your body and cause pain and discomfort. Acupuncture, Infrared therapy, physical therapy and herbal topical and internal treatments work quite well at alleviating the pain and healing your body much quicker! The best therapy for you would have to access by coming into our office for treatment. Feel free to give us a call.

Categories: Chronic Pain, Health Care, Pediatrics, Physical Therapy.

Cough, Cold, Flu, Norovirus, Painful Joints, Constipation, Gas and Bloating, Bronchitis, Sinusitis, Sore Throat and Headache??? How do this symptoms all fit together?

February 26, 2012

This year we have had a very mild winter here in Chicago. However, with the mild weather comes many more viruses and bacterial infections. The cold below zero “normal” Chicago winter weather kills off all the “germs” we have been seeing run rampant this year. The result for us are lingering and deep seeded illnesses.

This year I have been seeing a profound increase in the amount of viral and some bacterial infections. Many of the above title assembled together into one horrible illness or in small separate ilnesses. However, the catch is to not only boost your immune system, but also heal your body and release the viral and bacteria from your body.

Acupuncture and herbal treatments directly individualize your treatment for you to get better the fastest and most successful way possible. We have been seeing antibiotics have very little affect on this seasons ailments, resulting in more gi related issues after 3 weeks of unsuccessful z-pac use.

Whether your illness is a bacterial or viral infection, we are able to successfully treat both without the sides effects many medications can have on your body. Our herbal pharmacy literally has over 100 different formulas for the above illness. We are able to individualize each of these formulas to address your specific ailments. We also have a full supplemental pharmacy that we personally and professionally have found to be the MOST successful high quality supplements available.

If you or someone you know or love has been ill or is feeling “not right” please feel free to call us to set up an appointment. Though we cannot diagnose over the phone we would love to help them get better as quickly and successfully as possible.

Categories: Auto Immune Disorders, Health Care, Pediatrics.

Face & Brow Lifts, Cosmetic Surgery, Botox- Natural Facial Rejuvenation and Cosmetic Improving Acupuncture

September 11, 2011

Have you been looking in the mirror and wondering how you suddenly look much older than you actually feel insides? Do you have a job or lifestyle that you are required to not only look younger, but want to for your own peace of mind and well being? Or do you simply want to look your best every day?

There is hope! Not only is facial rejuvenation and cosmetic acupuncture affordable, but it is also quite long lasting!

Depending on what you currently look like and want to achieve. Cosmetic acupuncture usually consists of 10-12 (sometimes more- if needed) treatments. The first month treatments are 2-3 times per week. Then 1 time per week for 1 month or until you are satisfied with the results.

Results usually seen after the first couple treatments – Fine Lines Diminished, Sagging Jowls and Eye Lids Less Puffy and Droopy, Dark Circles and Facial Color Increased.

You will look less stressed and youthful!

Treatments are full body face up treatments – if there are other issues that need to be addressed at the time of treatment. these can be treated also. However, this usually costs a bit more money. There are several different fine needles used in cosmetic acupuncture. Though like all my treatments relatively pain free! There cna be hundreds of tiny needles used if you have a lot of sagging and fine lines, but this enables the results to be quicker and much more long lasting!

I personally have been studying and practicing cosmetic acupuncture and facial rejuvenation acupuncture for 12+ years. I have studied under all the major facial acupuncture professors including Virginia Doran, Martha Lucas, Elizabeth Wakefield. I have also studied Japanese and chinese facial massage including Anma. I love the results I have been able to achieve. I also give dietary and lifestyle suggestions to help the results last longer. Most my patients will come in as a refresher once every 6 to 12 months for 1-2 treatments in order to maintain their youthful appearance.

Facial rejuvenation acupuncture costs $150 for the initial treatment and $130 for follow up appointments. We prefer the 12 treatments to be paid in full after the first treatment. However, we can work out a payment plan for you if need be. I try to keep my prices low to keep it affordable for all people. In the past, our facial rejuvenation acupuncture cost has been $250 for initial and $200 for follow ups. Due to this HUGE reduction in my pricing to accommodate all income levels, I no longer offer packages. Our current prices are lower than any packages we have offered in the past!

If you would like to achieve the most optimum results of Facial rejuvenation acupuncture by adding Amna or Chinese Facial massage the cost is $250 for your initial treatment (about 1 1/2- 2 hours long) and $230 for follow ups. Anma and Chinese Massage have been used for 1000’s of years throughout Asia to ensure youthful appearances!

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or would like to set up a consult to see if I could help you.

Categories: Anxiety & Stress, Cosmetic Acupuncture, Health Care, Uncategorized.

Allergies, Cough, Cold, Asthma or Pneumonia?

August 26, 2011

Ok, so it is a little broad of a title, but seriously in the last couple weeks I have seen a HUGE increase of allergy cough related illness. Many of these have been weeks long and can be triggered by both allergies and viruses. My best suggestion cut down on the dairy. ALL dairy- cheese, ice cream, milk etc. Dairy creates more dampness in your body and the last thing you need is to add more phlegm (dampness). I would also cut out refined sugars as much as you can. You should NOT put anything in your body you can not only pronounce, but also anything not derived from natural. With the FDA approving ingredients like antifreeze in our foods do we really feel not reading ingredient labels?

I would also try to keep the upper chest and lung region of your body warm. Air conditioning and windy weather have been making these lung related illnesses worse. Cupping (a vacuum-like technique done in Oriental medicine) works marvelous at relieving cough. We have been doing this technique on many of our patients this week! Cupping has been around for thousands of years in most cultures through the world, not just Asia.

There are many different herbal formulas specific to what you are experiencing to aid in your wellness. Depending on the color of your phelgm, cough, fatigue, wheezing, pain level, fever or no fever, digestion and many other issues there are dozens of formulas that can be specifically altered for you to regain your health and well being.

Acupuncture works great to aid your body into wellness, by helping stop the cough, boosting your immune system, transporting the fluids (phlegm, water etc), alleviating aches and pains including headaches and helping relax your mind and body relieving stress and anxiety often caused in our daily lives, but usually elevated when we are not feeling 100%.

Feel free to call us if you or anyone you know could benefit from our services!

Categories: Anxiety & Stress, Auto Immune Disorders, Health Care, Pediatrics.

Tags: allergies, asthma, cough, pain, pneumonia, seasonal alleriges, sinus headache

Chronic Miscarriage Preventing and Aiding in a Healthy Pregnancy

August 1, 2011

For many women trying to get pregnant is difficult enough, but staying pregnant can be just as difficult. I often see women who have had 2-4 +miscarriages in just as many or less years. For some it as simple as increasing their progesterone along with weekly and biweekly acupuncture. For others it can be more complex. They may get pregnant, but the sperm may not be function properly. If the DNA of the sperm is not correct, the pregnancy will not take and /or hold to term.

Many women feel their infertility is only their issue, but it can affect the entire family. Whether it is a on the go fast food diet lifestyle, work related stress, relationship stressors or simply not getting enough sleep. There are things you can do to help aid in your fertility. However, it GREATLY helps if both you and your partner are both receiving treatments and focusing on these changes together. I see an overall much higher success rate in couples who complete their lifestyle and work together over those who simply feel fertility is all about the woman.

There are many steps you can do to ensure that you not only can get pregnant, but can stay pregnant. These can be quite often life changing. I often recommend patient specific dietary, exercise and lifestyle changes to help ensure that you are in optimum health during your pregnancy.

Some dietary recommendation may be removing all dairy, gluten or non natural sugars from your diet completely. I also have patient specific herbs and supplements that over the last 20+ years I have had incredible success with. I highly recommend specific exercises also. I cannot reiterate enough the importance of couple coming in together to ensure the growth of a family over those who simply look at it as a woman’s only issue or journey. though, I treat both views in my clinic. It is nice for me to get the whole picture.

I usually ask that you give 6 months of treatments without ARM (assisted reproductive means). However, being that I often see couples at their wits end and at the beginning stages of IVF or other ARM for fertility. Acupuncture, meditation, herbal and nutritional counseling can help during all levels of fertility issues. Before you give up and feel alone and barren give us a call. There is hope. I personally have seen cases in which patients were told they would NEVER get pregnant by western physicians and they now have healthy children of all ages. This is a common occurrence in our office.

Categories: Anxiety & Stress, Auto Immune Disorders, Fertility, Health Care, Pediatrics, Uncategorized.

Abdominal Bloat Weight Loss, Indigestion, Infertility, Urinary Incontinence, IBS and Impotence… Yes, We Have Successfully Treated Them!

January 24, 2011

We see a wider range of abdominal related disorders in our clinic than many people are aware of. Whether you are trying to lose weight, regulate digestion or simply get your sexual and reproductive life back on track these are all VERY common disorders that we see daily in our office. We have a VERY successful protocol for treating these abdominal related disorders. Most treatments are 2-3 times a week for 6 weeks and then 1-2 times a week for 6 weeks. The issues mentioned here require a specialized abdominal protocol. Please contact us to see if it would work for you. Depending on the severity, length of your illness, dietary, herbal and exercise responsiveness your healing time will be much quicker. This ultimately depends on you. We will happily do our part and if you do your “homework” your results will be much quicker!

Weight Loss & Abdominal Bloating- It is very important as a patient for you to be proactive in your wellness. Therefore, we require patients to keep a dietary intake and output journal. We also suggest that in your journal you address your emotional state before, during and after you eat to address any issues that may arise emotionally. We treat the whole body to ensure that you heal and not only lose the weight, but keep it off! We also will help with exercises and all others areas of concern that may arise in your path to wellness.

IBS and Digestive Disorders- We also required a food journal for any chronic digestive complaints. We want to work with you to better your health and enhance your dietary “allergies” and concerns. In eastern medicine a healthy body can digest anything in moderation. Our goal is to get you to that state! It is not uncommon for a healthy person to have well formed bowel movements after each meal. In fact this is actually a WONDERFUL sign of great overall health.

Urinary Incontinence- We have been seeing this quite often in the last couple years. Our abdominal protocols help bring blood flow and energy to the bladder and help it function properly. We treat all aspects of urinary and bowel incontinence and will sometime require a food, lifestyle journal. However, we often are able to treat this in 6- 12 treatments.

Male & Female Fertility Issues and Concerns- For many couples trying to conceive we are their last resort. I wish we were their first. Eastern Medicine is a wonderful way to regulate your body and get it back in optimum health. Treating any issues of fertility we require a dietary journal. We also require a 3-6 month treatment regiment. Though, often a couple will conceive quicker than this. We are open to all Assisted Reproductive Means and are VERY comfortable working with a variety of Fertility clinics in the midwest & western United States, Canada and Europe. We have a had MANY successful pregnancies and live births over the last 10 years and Love working with couples trying to conceive. We require that both the partners get treated at least in the beginning to help ensure and enhance your success.

Impotence- There are MANY factors we take into consideration as to the causes of impotence and diminished sexual desire. Some reasons can be chronic kidney disease, menopause, prostate cancer or High PSA levels. We have successfully treated all levels and stages of Prostate related issues in our clinic. Menopause related diminished sexual desire and high PSA levels are quite easy to treat with acupuncture and herbal medicine. Our abdominal protocol for these issues helps to increase the blood and energy flow to the genitals and ensure your ability and desire to not only get aroused, but to function successfully. This can be a very emotional and sensitive subject for many patients and honestly, you are NOT alone. You would be surprised how often we treat this in clinic in both males and females.

As always all information you share with us is confidential. We do not discuss with anyone, not even your partners. Please feel confident that your concerns are safely your concerns and not something we will share. We leave this up to you, if you so desire.

We hope we helped answer some of your questions. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions or concerns. We would be happy to discuss with you personally how we could be of some help in you achieving your optimum health.

Categories: About us, Anxiety & Stress, Fertility, Health Care.

Seasonal Affect Disorder, Depression and Post Holiday Exhaustion

January 6, 2011

Whether you have been running around helping others or simply trying to get all your “chores” done on your list, there are many ways to treat exhaustion, depression and Seasonal Affect Disorder (SAD). For those of us who are lucky, long vacations are always a great answer. However, for most of us … we have work life, home life and quite often family and friend life that seem to over rule our vacation and relaxation time. Burning the candle at both ends can cause in extreme cases adrenal fatigue (look at previous posts). However, in mild cases you may be tired, “stressed out”, angry or even despondent. These can be a difficult phases to come out of. I see ALL of them in my clinic daily. In the winter months here in Chicago, a turn in for an emotional worse in many patients occurs in January, February and March. The excitement of a seasonal change has worn off, the holidays are behind us, everything takes a little long than warmer months and honestly we are all cold and tired of it!

It is important to remember to take time off. you deserve it . Even if it is a few minutes in the day that you allow yourself to clear your mind of tasks you have to do. This allows you to be able to achieve those tasks and finish them MUCH quicker than you would if you were stressed out and worried about them. A clear mind will allow them the room they need to finish. I have many patients who come to my office each week to be able to achieve this peace of mind. Some also do yoga, mediate, run, bike, swim or lift weights. We all have a different way of decompressing if you do not allow yourself that time you will continue to be stressed and unable to literally “move”. This is a perfect example of how the mind can truly affect the body and how stress can honestly bring you down. Acupuncture works well when you just do not seem to be able to get to that point on your own or you have several issues you may feel you need to address in order to feel better.

Eating well is also quite important during the winter. Whole organic foods, stews, soups, vitamin D rich foods, oatmeal with cinnamon and walnuts and herbal teas are just a few basics for a healthy midwest winter diet. Though, depending on your body type these may need to be adjusted. I would be happy to help you with this!

For those who are truly in the dumps.. I honestly have found acupuncture to have profound effects on one’s emotional well being. Often in conjunction with herbs, but acupuncture itself has great results in balancing out one’s emotional state by correcting the flow of energy in one’s body. Whether it is an over joyous (though seriously sad inside) or a more obvious sadness that others question about. I see a VERY broad spectrum of emotional well being and am VERY confident that with acupuncture, the correct diet and supplemental or herbal medicine you will be on track to a healthier happier you. I have had many patients throughout the years who have wanted to get off or avoid anti depressant drugs and I can honestly say I have personally seen wonderful results in their health and well being both physically and mentally.

Categories: Anxiety & Stress, Chronic Pain, Health Care.

Cough, Headaches, Congestion- Allergies, Acid Reflux, Common Cold, Flu or Simply Run Down – How Acupuncture, Diet, Lifestyle and Nutrition Can All Help Heal Your Pain!

June 19, 2010

I have been seen a huge influx of patients coming in with allergies…. no longer just 1 season, but constant. This is often due to the climatic changes in our environment, as the ozone layer is literally disintegrating our weather pattern has changed and will have profound effects on our health. Keeping your body “clean” is a great way to purify and get rid of unwanted environmental toxins and allergens.

Some great ways to Purify your body are:

Use a neti pot daily (twice- morning and night)
Decrease the amount of cow based dairy
Avoid non- organic foods
Avoid organic grown in Mexico (no regulation)
Drink fresh veggie and fruit juices on a daily or bi-daily basis to cleanse the intestines (helps get rid of stored toxins)
If you eat dairy try to find fresh raw organic cheeses, milks and yogurts
Avoid White Flour
Avoid ALL processed sugars, evaporated cane juice, corn syrup, fructose etc.
Avoid food colorings, dyes and chemical additives
Avoid Formaldehyde based furniture, carpets and household items (fiber board etc)
Use low VOC paints
Cook with extra virgin olive or coconut oil
Close your windows at night – when most bug spraying and environmental toxins are high
Read labels – ALL labels including your lotions and shampoos (you may be surprised at what chemicals are unknowingly put in and on your body!)

By doing at least some of these, you will begin to feel remarkably better. The above suggestions in adjunct to acupuncture and herbal medicine will usually get rid of your allergies, congestion, headache and reflux completely. I have personally seen a remarkable improvement in patients depending on the severity and length of discomfort be reduced completely within just a few acupuncture treatments. There are cases when one has a more toxic environment or years of ailments where I have seen them for several months, but they usually ALWAYS get better and as a result no longer have “seasonal allergies each year” . Some maintenance may be required (a couple treatments during peak season). Overall, the exhaustion, allergens, congestion and headaches are better to gone.

I have several other posts that relate to this subject, please feel free to view them. If you have ANY questions feel free to contact me. Thanks!

Categories: Auto Immune Disorders, Chronic Pain, Health Care, Pediatrics.

Acupuncture and Holistic Alternative Medicine Treating Overworked, Stress, Anxiety & Adrenal Fatigue

June 3, 2010

Burning the candle at both ends, wake up feeling like you have not slept at all or simply feel like you need a vacation …. yesterday.

We can help, by looking at your diet, lifestyle and receiving acupuncture and/ or regular massage you can get your adrenals and kidneys to function normally again. I have chosen to write this article, because you are NOT alone. I have seen a dramatic increase in adrenal dysfunction this year. So much so that it is beginning to concern me when it is simply ignored. Below are some things you can do at home to aid in feeling better and eating better to increase your adrenal function and decrease your stress and anxiety. By adding these modalities to your life you will notice a decrease in how your body reacts to stressful situations all around.

Causes of Adrenal Dysfunction:

Excessive Stress

Mental

Emotional

Spiritual

Working too much

Chronic illness or infection

Nutritional Deficiencies

Low protein diet

High carb diet

Inadequate and poor quality food and water

B-complex, Vitamin A, C, E, Zinc, Manganese, Chromium, Selenium Deficiency

Speed Eating ”on the run” or in the car

Food allergies especially wheat and dairy

Toxic Chemicals and Metals

Mercury dental fillings

Poor air quality

Poor food and water quality

Medications

Stimulants

Caffeine

Sugar

Alcohol

Medications/ Recreational Drugs

Rage

Anger

Hatred

Loud Music

Violence in life, news or movies

Arguing

Addiction- Sexual, exercise or drug use.

Congenital Adrenal Weakness

Mother is deficient in minerals and passes this to Baby (can easily be corrected)

Symptoms of Adrenal Stress:

Fatigue

Weakness

Depression

Craving sweets

Low blood pressure

Low blood sugar

Low energy

Poor digestion

Recurring infections

Chronic illness

Chronic pain

Apathy

Suicidal tendencies

Emotional instability

Mood swings

Bipolar disorder

Anxiety

Irritability

Compulsiveness and obsessive disorders

Abnormal reaction to life’s stressors

Treatment of Adrenal Stress:

Acupuncture

Massage

Herbal Medicine

Whole food supplements

Whole organic foods (see previous postings)

Lightly steamed foods (no frying, little raw)

Drink 2 Quarts of distilled or fresh spring water upon arising in the morning

Drink another 8-12 glasses of water throughout the day (hydrating your body will help removed the toxins that build up and increase over all organ functioning)

Taking your time eating 3 full meals per day with healthy snacks in between

No processed foods

No refined sugars

Sleeping at least 7-8 hours per night (9pm-5am is ideal)

Please feel free to contact me if there are any questions you may have. I will happily help you gain your “life” back. I look forward to hearing from you!

Categories: About us, Anxiety & Stress, Chronic Pain, Fertility, Health Care, Pediatrics.

Breast Feeding- Increasing Milk Production & Eating Right For You and Your Baby!

April 13, 2010

Over the last couple months I have had a number of new and seasoned moms ask me how to increase their milk production during the weeks, months and for many, years they have chosen to breast feed their children. There are a number of prepackaged milk producing products on the market today. Which tells you, you are obviously not alone! Most of these products are quite effective, however, many of them can be avoided by simply adjusting your diet and drinking raw herbal tea.

Foods to add to your diet that help increase milk production:

Barley, Oats, Carrots, Dandelion Greens (greeks traditionally boiled/steam these and add lemon to taste), Green Beans, Peas, Parsley, Watercress, Raw Pecans, Raw Almonds, Raw Macadamia Nuts, Sweet Potatoes, Asparagus, Fennel, Beet Greens, Lotus, Coconut, Kale, Chard, Brown Rice, Millet & Chicory.

Try Cooking with Coconut or Olive Oil rather than heavy fatty oils or butters that are hard to digest.

Drink at least 2-3 quarts of water a day.

Eat small meals throughout the day. Do not wait until you are hungry! Eat as much warm easy to digest food as possible. This is what helps your body produce the milk you need for your baby.

No Food + No Water = No Milk

Herbs to add in your menu or to drink as a tea:

Raspberry Leaf, Comfrey, Nettle, Alfalfa, Red Clover, Fennel, Borage, Hops, Basil, Dill, Anise & Blessed Thistle

Beverages to add:

Beer (Though I do not directly condone drinking while breast feeding drinking a hops heavy home brew beer can also increase milk production…. VERY quickly! Or simply drinking hops tea), Warm Teas from the above Herbs, Barley Congee (watery soup) and LOTS of Water!

Some nice and quick working store bought items are Traditional Medicinals Mother’s milk tea and Weleda Nursing Tea. I have seen and used these in my practice for years for those moms who need an easy quick way to increase milk supply. Especially if they are working.

Things to do to increase milk supply:

Relax, Think of your baby, Enjoy feeding them and Visualize you having more milk than they could ever need.

Telling yourself you can’t, won’t and don’t can directly decrease your ability to feed your baby.

YOU CAN! YOU WILL! YOU HAVE EVERYTHING YOUR BABY NEEDS TO THRIVE! (Positive Thinking Really works- I see it in my practice daily!)

Some foods to avoid during Lactation which can cause colic and for both parents and baby a VERY unrestful nights sleep (especially in young and preterm infants):

Tomatoes, Garlic, Peppers, Most Nightshades, Eggplants, Chocolate, Coffee, Peanut Butter (seldom, but can be an issue with allergies especially in preterm babies), Sugar, Fructose, Corn Syrup, Carbonated Soda Pop, White Flour, Cabbage Plants, Brussels Sprouts, Radishes, Turnips & Cauliflower.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions. Via email or phone. I hope you feel better soon!

Categories: Anxiety & Stress, Health Care, Pediatrics, Uncategorized.

Acupuncture Weight Loss, Allergy Relief, Dry Itchy Skin & Eyes in Libertyville & Lake County

April 5, 2010

Finally, we can bring out our spring and summer clothes and put the winter jacket away…. we hope! However, if you have let yourself go literally all winter long you are now paying the price! Whether it is losing the weight, dietary and overall health concerns or simply refreshing and rejuvenating your body and face, I can help. For years I have helped 100’s of people lose excess weight.Acupuncture is a wonderful way to get your body back on track. Combined with dietary advice and exercise you are sure to drop those extra pounds and fit into your summer clothes again.

Facial Rejuvenation:

I have also had a large influx of patients seeking my facial rejuvenation services. Whether you are trying to get rid of puffiness and sagging skin, reduce fine lines of simply look refreshed I can address all these and more in each facial rejuvenation session. Though, most sessions are $250-$350 per session, my Facial rejuvenation sessions will remain at $150 for the initial and $130 for follow up sessions. This is because I want to remain affordable to all people.

Allergy Relief:

Along with spring and all her flowers and glory come allergies. Acupuncture and herbal medicine are a wonderful way to get ahold of your life and allow you to regain the clarity you need to function on a daily basis. I have had 10+ years of experience successful treating allergies to where they NEVER come back. This is one of my specialities. Imagine being able to breathe all year long, without any inclining of a headache, itchy eyes or sinus congestion. Why wait until you are in pain and discomfort, when you can prevent allergies completely. The sooner you get in the better.

Dry Itchy Skin Relief and Solutions:

Dry Itchy Skin from our neglectful winter… April’s special is a relaxing, exfoliating, hydrating lavender salt glow full body massage. This is a wonderful way to rejuvenate and refresh your body and skin after a long winter. The cost is $100, which is a $20 savings! I will be having monthly specials in every newsletter. Please let me know at the time of making your appointment in order to ensure you receive each special!

Categories: Anxiety & Stress, Health Care, Pediatrics, Uncategorized.

Acupuncture, Weight Loss, Eating Right & Nutritional Counseling In Libertyville

March 28, 2010

Organic verses non organic, sugar free, gluten free what do we eat and how do we prepare it. Over the next few weeks I will be not only giving suggestions for specific foods, but I will also be providing some of my favorite recipes. Most of which can be modified to your dietary needs and concerns. While the weather is suddenly turning nice, I have been asked by several of my patients if growing and eating organic produce really is that important. My answer, is yes. In previous posts I have explained why organic is so important. Today, I will state which foods you should absolutely buy organic and which you can go conventional with.

I know that cost is an issue for many people when going organic. However, the list below are foods I would definitely add as organic to your diet. These foods organic will greatly reduce the amount of pesticides and hormones you will ingest. Many of these foods are ones that have thin or no skin and easily absorb the pesticides that are used on them. Organic Hormone Free meat is the ONLY meat you should ingest if you are trying to control your weight. There has been so little research done on the effect growth hormones can have on humans. However, in my experience I have seen first hand the adverse effects of ingesting them, this is the number one reason why kids are so much heavier and grow so much earlier and larger than 20+ years ago.

Top Organic Eats:

Celery

Peaches

Coffee

Apples

Strawberries

Blueberries

Cherries

Kale

Lettuce

Spinach

Tomatoes

Grapes

Carrots

Potatoes

Milk Based Dairy Products

Meat

Non -Organic Foods:

These would not be as dangerous to eat non -organic because they have a thick skin or are layered enough to peel several to use the core. However, I highly recommend eating as much organic foods as possible. Why not take as much control of your health. Hormones, antibiotics, pesticides and herbicides are a recent (last 40-50 years) addition to our food supply. Like most new foods…. do we really want to be the guinea pigs again? Only to find out the abnormal body growth, cancers or serious health concerns are directly related to our diet.

Avocado

Pineapple

Mango

Watermelon

Papaya

Onion

Potatoes

Beets

Eggplant

Corn

Peas

Categories: Anxiety & Stress, Fertility, Health Care, Pediatrics.

Acupuncture for Infertility, Alternative Reproductive Modalities, IVF and All of Reproductive & Fertility Health & Wellbeing

February 21, 2010

Whether you are trying to get pregnant for a week, a month, a year or a decade. Eastern medicine has proven as an extremely beneficial and pertinent aspect of one’s child bearing process. Diet is a huge factor in why so many Americans are unable to conceive children naturally. Stress and anxiety play a huge role in one’s ability to conceive. Predetermined western abnormalities and challenges also can play an important role, all of the above can often be remedied with Eastern Medicine. I have personally had much success in all areas of reproductive concern in both men and women.

I often see coupes who are faced with no other option than adopt if they want to have a family and can say I have seen success in anywhere from 1 treatment to 24 months. Treatment time varies with ones compliance to a fairly strict diet, exercise and stress reduction regiment. If these areas of a couples life are addressed their life together also gets better. They tend to enjoy each other and their time together much more also.

A few basics you can do are follow the weight loss and dietary concerns post from February of 2010. You can also start taking yoga, tai chi or meditation classes. If you are more high energy and need a more active way to regulate your aggression, try dancing or working out. These classes and activities are great to do with your partner if you have one. This is a journey you are going through together why not start now. I HIGHLY recommend acupuncture and herbal medicine both prior to and during pregnancy. I have had HUGE success personally in this area. I have studied with many of the TOP educators and practitioners in these fields in both the US, China & Japan. I am also certified in Mind and Body Medicine from Harvard Medical School and have seen first hand how success reducing stress, increasing our nutritional imbalances and enjoying life can bring on health, wealth, fertility and a joyful and more peaceful existence overall.

Please feel free to call me if you have ANY questions and concerns. I also work with several fertility clinics in the area treating patients before and after IVF treatments.

Categories: Anxiety & Stress, Fertility, Health Care, Pediatrics.

Acupuncture for Weight Loss, Nutritional Aides, Healthy Dietary Consiousness

February 15, 2010

We are what we eat. A phrase we have all heard a thousand times, but many of us have never really thought about it. As we stuff our faces with toxic chemicals, hormones and pesticides I feel we would not readily ingest if we were aware of their consequences. Yes, meat is a staple in many people’s diets today. Organic meat is not. Many of the hormones used to fatten up our non organic meat, when ingested conduct the same function in the a human being. This is also true for the non organic dairy products we ingest. This allows you to gain weight and gain weight and no matter how much you exercise you will not lose the weight. I hear this complaint DAILY by many of my patients.

What can you do:

Eat only Organic Meats and Dairy- I prefer California organic. Their laws are some of the strictest in regards to organic!

Eat only Organic Produce- Again I prefer California Organic. I do not recommend and organic foods grown in Mexico as their laws are not as strict. Many of the pesticides that have been banned for US agricultural have ended up being sold to Mexican companies.

No Refined White or Brown Sugars- There are many substitutes in cooking and baking that you can successfully use, such as Maple Syrup or Honey.

Eating small Protein snacks throughout the day- Do not allow yourself to get overly hungry- eat a handful of organic almonds or other nuts every few hours. This will help you curb your appetite and not crave heavy fattening snacks and meals.

Keep you blood sugar up by eating several fresh servings of fruit throughout the day.- Apples, Pears, Bananas, Dates, and Grapes are all great ways to do this.

Avoid fast food- Make a sandwich or salad in the morning and bring it with you to work or at school. -Egg Salad, Salmon Salad, Veggie, Fried Egg or organic cold cut sandwiches are great options.

Drink water- not coffee, not tea, not sugar flavored water or juice, but plain water!

Last, but not least….. chew your food. Take your time. Enjoy every little bit. If you are wondering what I mean, take a raisin (1 raisin ) and taste every aspect of it as you place it in your moth, taste it with your tongue and slowly begin to chew the raisin. This whole process believe it or not should take about 2 minutes. This is a whole new way of eating. Most Americans usually eat their entire meal in a matter of minutes! Not chewing your food puts undo stress on your organs to do work that they are not always capable of. Thus allowing you gas, indigestion and pain while they try to literally chew (churn) your food into a form in which they can collect the nutrients your body needs.

Categories: Anxiety & Stress, Health Care.

Shingles, Chicken Pox & Cold Sores- Pain Relief, Sleep & Healing

January 10, 2010

With the blistery cold windy Chicago winter in full force. I have been seeing a lot of herpes related diseases. If you have never had any herpes related virus you are one of few.

Many people suffer from cold sores on their lips or face every tie the weather changes or they become stressed. Some great ways to avoid them DO NOT drink from other people’s glasses, use straws in restaurants, wipe down forks and spoons at restaurants. Also, increase your D3 vitamins as well as L-Lysine during times of stress and challenges. Keep your face and lips protected. Use an L-lysine lip balm, lotion or heavy cream they are all great ways to topically protect your skin from the elements.

Whether you had chicken pox as a child or not, it is looking as though the traditional view of once you get chicken pox you never get shingles is becoming challenged. Over the years I have seen a VERY large number of shingles cases in the US, many of those patients did in fact have chicken pox as a child. Many years ago while working in China, I worked in a clinic that solely treated shingles. I was amazed at the LARGE patient base and the excruciating pain these patients were in. I NEVER thought I would treat more than a handful of cases here in the US. I was proven wrong. Shingles is on the rise. It is VERY contagious. Although there is no cure for it in the eyes of western medicine, I have first hand experience treating it successfully. By receiving acupuncture and taking herbs, I have been able to reduce the pain, prevent reoccurrence and reduce the stress that interferes with ones ability to sleep. I have a great source for herbal formulas and tinctures that have been proven VERY successful in healing the initial sores and initiating a VERY quick healing time. These are not western medicines that mask the ailments, but natural sources of herbs and fungi which actually heal your body. The acupuncture and herbs are also great for residual nerve pain and discomfort that can at times be debilitating! It does not matter if you have had pain for years or a few days. Acupuncture and herbal medicine work great at treating all forms of shingles.

Some important things to remember are that all herpes viruses are extremely contagious. I have seen first hand elderly people with Shingles giving the virus to their children , grandchildren and co workers in the forms of both chicken pox and shingles. Many western doctors will tell you once the sores are dried they are no longer contagious. This is incorrect, sores must be gone COMPLETELY gone to ensure you are not contagious. Not just dried, but gone. To ensure the health of all my patients, I do not treat patients in my office with open lesions. I will gladly make house calls. You should be resting in order for you to heal quicker and to regain your health anyway. There are many natural pain relievers and supplements to treat all forms of herpes. I have treated all forms both active and inactive in my practice. Whether you or someone you love has been suffering from chicken pox, shingles, cold sores or genital herpes, there are MANY natural cures available. Acupuncture and herbs work incredibly well at successfully treating and reducing the chance or reoccurrence. Please contact me with ANY questions you may have.

Categories: Anxiety & Stress, Chronic Pain, Health Care, Pediatrics.

Staying Healthy and Avoiding the Flu

November 26, 2009

With so much flu hype surrounding us many people do not know where or who to turn to. Some of my health hints:

At first sight of feeling ill (achy, sore throat, exhausted or just stressed out)

1- Use a Neti pot – if you can both morning and night

2- Increase Vitamin C (levels vary with state of ill being)

3- Echinacea- Take for no more than 10-14 days at a time

4- Vitamin D3- Taken every day has been proven to great boost your immune system. In a recent study where immune suppressed patients were directly exposed to the H1N1 virus, none of them acquired the virus when taking Vitamin D3.

5- Rest- Plenty of it- We need at least 7-8 hours of sleep a night… at night!

6- Water- Helps not only hydrate, but also moves toxins out of your body

7- Acupuncture- Believe it or not acupuncture is not only great with the aches and pains, stress, sinus and bronchial congestion, nausea, vomiting, coughing, and exhaustion but it helps boost your immune system to ensure that you do not get sick in the first place!

Categories: Health Care.