Maximized Health Chiropractic

8 Steps to Maximized Health during Seasonal Changes

2010-09-02T12:57:00.000-06:00

Do you have a strategy or a plan for avoiding health problems associated with seasonal changes? I sure hope it’s not simply getting the flu shot, putting your primary care doctor’s phone number on speed dial, or stocking up with over the counter medications.

I have always been told that ‘a man without a plan is on a fast track to failure’. I don’t know about you, but when it comes time for the seasons to change I don’t plan on getting sick – I plan on getting through without a scratch. I literally have a plan for accomplishing this. Do you? If not, feel free to copy mine:

1.Take advantage of natural health care. It is well known that chiropractic care improves immune system activity. Some chiropractic adjustments are more powerful than others, i.e. upper neck adjustments can dramatically stimulate the nerve-immune system connection. I always try to get adjusted more frequently during seasonal changes, and because of this I feel confident putting my hands on sick people all day long. Keeping the body lined up and tuned up just makes sense!!

2.Increase high quality nutrient intake. Your immune system needs fuel to function properly. Healthy, high quality foods and supplements can keep your body healthy in a room full of sick people. You should be extra cautious about nutrient and supplement intake during seasonal changes. Increasing your efforts in this department could mean the difference between laughing all day vs. coughing all day. If you need help in this department – please ask us!

3.Get some extra exercise. Regular exercise stimulates the body in so many healthy ways you can’t believe it. A body that moves well, and often, is a body that is better able to adapt and remain symptom free – and, has a longer shelf life! Schedule 3-5 workouts a week and stay committed.

4.Increase water intake. A chronically dehydrated body is a breeding ground for illness. If you care about increasing bodily function than you need a daily strategy for monitoring water intake. At lunch time and at dinner time I know exactly how much water I have consumed and therefore how much more I should consume by the end of the day. Formulate a strategy and stick to it!

5.Decrease your sugar intake. It is well known that a diet high in sugar can suppress the immune system and create chaos throughout the body. Decrease your sugar intake during seasonal changes and you will increase your ability to adapt and thrive during this period.

6.Get enough sleep. During seasonal changes the body is slightly more stressed than usual as it is forced to adapt to a changing external environment. Adequate sleep gives your body the opportunity to repair, regenerate, build resistance and rise to the challenge without complications.

7.Maintain a positive attitude. We can not maintain a strong healthy body if we are chronically stressed out, stuck in a state of negativity, or have nothing to look forward to. Find several positive influences (people, books, hobbies) and cultivate a positive outlook on life. The body has a strong tendency to follow the mind.

8.Take time to relax. Out of all the things you have to get done during the day, taking time to relax and recharge should be the most important. Take a 60 second time-out at your desk whenever you get stressed out and say a prayer, meditate, read a passage, or just take some deep breathes. Resetting ‘the system’ (mind – body connection) now and then keeps the system from breaking down.

9.I have saved my “SECRET WEAPON” for the upcoming seminar entitled, How to Build a Titanium Strength Immune System. Stay tuned in for more details later.

Do you see the value in having a plan for avoiding health problems associated with seasonal changes? Your plan should always be a work in progress – continuously evolving and improving. Do a little research on your own, and share your findings with others. Too many people nowadays think that being sick is a matter of bad luck. The truth is… you can stack the odds in your favour if you just put a little work into doing so.

Speak Up and Educate Others,
Dr. Craig Burns

The “Scary Truth” About Getting Sick with Seasonal Changes

2010-09-02T12:45:00.006-06:00

Ever wonder why so many people get sick when the seasons change? There is a “scary reason” for this and a very important lesson to be learned here…

Our body’s ability to adapt to seasonal change is a reflection of how stable our health profile really is. Therefore, monitoring how well a body adapts is a good measuring stick for how healthy a child or an adult is at that moment in their life. Unfortunately, we are not taught to think like this – but, we should be!

A healthy, well balanced body can adapt to changes in the environment. An unhealthy, unbalanced body can not! Signs i.e. symptoms of imbalance of an unhealthy body that can not adapt well to seasonal changes would be increased sinus problems, headaches, elevated joint pain and stiffness, fluctuating mood, frequent onset of cold and flu-like symptoms, decreased immune system activity, inflammatory responses, etc.

We are taught that the body reacts this way for external reasons (bugs, germs, the weather, etc). The TRUTH is… there is a problem or weakness inside the body that is causing it to react in an abnormal manner when challenged. When our body behaves this way we should immediately ask ourselves “WHY is my body doing this, what is the weakness or imbalance, and what do I need to do to fix it?” If we don’t learn to focus on the cause, the weakness, it will surely get worse with time. And, perhaps lead to a larger state of illness in the future.

There is always a reason for our body to manifest a symptom and it is NEVER the result of too little Tylenol, Lipitor, Prozac or Benadryl in the diet. It is incredibly empowering to understand that health and disease is primarily an internal event brought about by our very own lifestyle choices.

Long ago a Doctor told me to make up my mind... to take control of my body and be proactive or give up control and be reactive. I am forever grateful for that man’s advice.

Since that time I have stopped blaming external circumstances for being sick and relying on external factors to make me healthy again. From that day on I have been the steward of my own health, on a journey to find and foster health from the inside-out.

The care we provide, the newsletters we write, and the seminars we conduct are all done with one PURPOSE in mind – to point others in a more positive direction. We want people to realize, sooner rather than later, what it is like to be INDEPENDENTLY HEALTHY.

We know that if we can help someone change the way they think about symptoms, their body and their health – then we can drastically change that person’s life forever!

It is with this great purpose in mind that I ask for your help in getting this message to other members of our community. One way you can do this is to forward this newsletter to friends, family and co-workers. Another way is to tell people what you are learning in this office in regard to health and disease – tell everyone!

I truly believe that every person in our office is moving closer and closer to taking control of their health and their body, and knowing what it is like to be INDEPENDENTLY HEALTHY. By changing the way you think about your body you are committing to a better you, and a better future for your family!

Yours in Health and ON PURPOSE,
Dr. Craig Burns

Who Is the Colorado Wellness Foundation

2010-07-28T08:38:00.003-06:00

Actually it is all of us! A couple of years ago we discovered that many of our local businesses and friends were not getting the “Big Idea” (see page 1 of this newsletter for more details about the “Big Idea”). This was very troubling to us because these people are our friends and neighbors. We decided to do something about this problem and founded the Colorado Wellness Foundation.
What exactly is the Colorado Wellness Foundation (CWF) you may ask? This is a group of top-notch healthcare professionals dedicated to educating our communities about health and wellness. Members of the CWF pledge to speak a number of times per year in our communities, at no charge, for the sole purpose of educating those around us.

The Colorado Wellness Foundation’s success has always depended on help from the communities that we serve. Members receive ideas for speaking and teaching engagements from their respective patient families.

It is a true win-win situation; our community helps us create a stronger community!

So how can you get involved?

Now that you know about the “Big Idea” the next logical step is to share that knowledge. Next week will be your chance to help to find audiences in our community to hear from the Colorado Wellness Foundation. We will roll out the details next week… in the mean-time thank you in advance for your willingness to make our community a better place by sharing the “Big Idea”!

More to come next week…

Yours in abundant health,

Dr. Judd

Read Page 1 of this newsletter: CLICK HERE...So What Is the "BIG IDEA"?

P.S. Don’t forget to visit www.MaximizedHealthNews.com and watch the short video entitled the Big Idea. This video will only be up till the end of July!

… Go watch it now, don’t wait any longer!

Health Literacy Leads To A Longer Life

2010-07-13T15:11:00.011-06:00

lit·er·a·cy /[lit-er-uh-see] a person's knowledge of a particular subject or field.

Higher health literacy is directly correlated with a longer life, according to a new study published in Archives of Internal Medicine. A health literacy level would refer to a person’s knowledge base of health and disease, including their ability to read and understand health information.

The researchers speculated that people with poor health literacy may be more likely to die not only because they are more likely to become sick, but because they also have a harder time managing illness when it arises.

So, what does this mean to you? Basically, your ability to be proactive (think and act for yourself) about health and disease can greatly impact how long you live!

In regard to increasing your ability to better care for yourself, here are some things to work on:

Find places where you can get credible health awareness information on a regular basis.
Find people you can share ideas and thoughts with, and receive advice and counsel.
Develop a deeper appreciation and understanding for the needs of your own body.
Observe the health habits of people you admire and emulate them.

I know that many of you inherently want to know more, do more, and be more… when it comes to your health, and how your body feels and functions on a daily basis. I also know how hard it is when you don’t know where to start, who to turn to, who to trust, etc. Even though it may be a difficult task to undertake, you must come to terms with something very important…you are responsible for your own health!

Too many people nowadays think that they can neglect their health (examples = no chiropractic, poor diet, minimal exercise), and when things get tough a Doctor will come to the rescue and fix them. This line of thinking is not only irresponsible, but it’s also quite costly. When I say costly I am referring to the medical bills and prescription medications that unhealthy people must pay for because they neglected their health for way too long. But, more importantly I am also referring to the cost of life that is lost.

The cost of life that is lost refers to all the things that compromised health prevents a person from being able to do and experience. Examples of life that is lost might include refraining from social activities or hobbies, inability to travel and get outside, time lost with children / grandchildren / great-grandchildren, or perhaps time lost with a spouse, etc. Can you put a price on any of these things? Of course not! But, this is the cost that is paid when one does not INVEST time and energy in maintaining health and preventing disease. If you are not engaged in the process of taking control of your health and increasing your health literacy- start now!

At Maximized Health Chiropractic we go to great lengths to empower every patient with a higher level of health literacy, and motivate you to avoid the heavy cost(s) associated with compromised health.

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig

Read More..."Hey, What's the "Big Idea"?" CLICK HERE

Pet Allergies: Is There A Cure?

2010-06-08T12:08:00.002-06:00

Pet Allergies: Is There a Cure?

How Do Most Pet Allergies Work?
Pet allergies typically occur when your immune system overreacts to certain animal proteins contained in the urine or saliva. This reaction can trigger inflammation in the lining of the nasal passages (allergic rhinitis), causing sneezing, runny nose and other signs and symptoms usually associated with hay fever. For some people, a pet allergy may be the primary cause of inflammation and contraction of airways of the lungs (asthma), resulting in wheezing, shortness of breath and other breathing difficulties.

What is the Research Telling Us?
New research from the U.S. National Institutes of Health shows that cats are the single biggest trigger for asthma, causing reactions in 29.3% of asthmatics. A Swedish study, meantime, found 40% of kids with asthma reacted to cats, 34% to dogs, and 28% to horses. For the kids who got runny noses and itchy eyes, 49% reacted to cats, 33% to dogs, and 37% to horses.Dr. Jeffrey Davidson, an allergist in San Francisco and a clinical professor at the University of California San Francisco, says it’s fair to expect that as the incidence of allergic disease grows, so does the number of people reacting to animals. And while cat allergies are by far the most prevalent, people can be sensitized (allergic) to any animals with feathers and fur, including dogs, guinea pigs, mice, birds, and ferrets.

What is Considered Traditional Treatment?
The traditional solution to pet allergies is to avoid contact with cats or dogs. Keep the pets out of the house, and avoid visiting people with pets. Avoiding cats and dogs may seem easy, but in reality, avoiding all people who have a cat or a dog makes an avoidance strategy nearly impossible.

You'd be surprised to know how many people, with non-life-threatening allergies, live with pets despite having allergies to them! However, in many cases the situation is much worse: people are forced to live on medications that help manage their symptoms, or worse yet, are forced to get rid of their beloved pet forever.

For many of us our pets are like our children and we cannot imagine a life without them. So what should we do in a case where our “furry” children make us miserable? Perhaps, it is time to find a better way to understand and treat these symptoms?

Is There a Better Solution to Pet Allergies?
Yes, a new solution is emerging, and boy is it long overdue!

There is a group of trusted and well respected health care practitioners that have a new and improved way of looking at, and addressing pet allergies. A BioVeda Health and Wellness Practitioner is a type of health care provider that is equipped to offer real, long lasting relief.

A BioVeda Wellness Practitioner is focused on the #1 factor missing in most other forms of treatment for pet allergies:

Instead of trying to control the symptoms, the concern is trying to control the cause of the symptoms, the over active immune system or hypersensitive stress response.

Does this sound like a more logical, more direct approach to treating the patient and not just the symptom? You bet it does.

As a BioVeda Wellness Practitioner, we are seeing success where other treatments have failed. To their surprise, the patients we are treating are astounded by what we are doing for them, and so thankful it brings many to tears. Now, that’s real health care!

Where Can I Learn More?

To learn more about the BioVeda Wellness approach to eliminating allergy symptoms, visit our website at www.biovedaofeastcentennial.com. If you want to experience “real health care” call or speak with any member of our staff to learn more about how to schedule your consultation and assessment.

Read the 1st Page of This Newsletter HERE: "6 Ways to Avoid Medically Induced Bankruptcy"

Gluten Sensitivity: Treatment, Avoidance or Both?

2010-05-26T09:51:00.006-06:00

In my professional opinion, Gluten Hypersensitivity is severely misunderstood, misdiagnosed and often times mistreated. What follows is a brief explanation of another way of understanding and therefore addressing the health concerns associated with gluten.

Important information:

Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, barley, buckwheat and oats.
Gluten hypersensitivity is made worse by the increasing consumption rate of grains, breads, cereals, pastas, corn, rice and potatoes.
The inability to properly metabolize this protein, which often leads to a vast array of symptoms, is called celiac disease.
This condition is commonly misdiagnosed as (IBS) irritable bowel syndrome or lactose intolerance.
Common symptoms of gluten sensitivity include but are not limited to diarrhea, gas, bloating, reflux and constipation.
Misdiagnosis and mistreatment is so common, it has been reported that gluten insensitivity can go for an average of 11 years before properly diagnosed.
Ten years ago it was estimated that this problem affected 1 in 10,000. A 2004 report estimates that number to be a staggering 1 in 133.
Atypical symptoms can include problems with skin, brain function, energy levels, fertility, depression, weight loss or gain, osteoporosis, and various organs and glands. (Most physicians don’t know this!)
Gluten can be hidden in many foods including soups, soy sauce, candies, cold cuts, and various low- and no-fat products so you will need to be sure to check the labels before you eat it. Also watch out for malt, starches, hydrolyzed vegetable protein (HVP), texturized vegetable protein (TVP) and natural flavoring. Some pharmaceuticals, vinegars and alcohol can also contain gluten.

Let’s think it through…
When a person, with said hypersensitivity, eats gluten the immune system triggers an autoimmune reaction. This reaction inevitably damages healthy tissue in the process, specifically the villi of the small intestine. The villi are small hair like projections responsible for nutrient absorption: proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, and even water in some cases. Can you imagine not being able to absorb all of the nutrients you put into your body? This is a harsh reality for many people. It may even be a health problem for you, and you don’t even know it.

If we want to fix the problem and strengthen the body, wouldn’t it make sense to do something to address the cause(s), i.e. the exaggerated immune system reaction? Of course it would! If we could normalize the immune system, even a little bit, by reducing stress within the system, would that strengthen the body internally and help reduce symptoms naturally? Again, of course it would.

I know that mainstream medicine does not acknowledge this line of thinking as valid, but that’s not important. What is important is what YOU think is valid, logical, and in the end - a better course of action.

In many cases an avoidance strategy may be necessary, especially when you consider that the average diet is completely overloaded with grains already. In many cases, too much is just too much. So, it just makes sense to reduce and or eliminate gluten for a healthier lifestyle. But, consider the possibility that another issue needs to be addressed. That issue being an overly sensitive immune system, i.e. a weakness in the body. There are ways to address these weaknesses. If you or someone you know has a problem with gluten I suggest doing some research on what a BioVeda Health and Wellness Practitioner can offer. You can do more research by going to www.BioVedaofEastCentennial.com.

Stay tuned for Part 2: "Insights into Gluten and You"

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig Burns

Read the 1st page of this newsletter HERE - "Over 2000 in Colorado, How Do You Choose?"

You Are Unconquerable...If You Choose To Be!

2010-05-19T15:23:00.004-06:00

Late last year a movie titled "Invictus" was released. It tells the story of Nelson Mandela using the national rugby team to unify and motivate a post-apartheid South Africa. Mandela's perspective is the true triumph of the story. He spent 30 years in prison, but upon his release he was ready to forgive and move forward. Could he have been bitter? Could he have taken retribution against his captors? Would any of these actions help rebuild a damaged society?
What can we learn from Nelson Mandela's sotry? We have the potential to be the master of our fate. We have been talking a lot lately about the fact that our choices determine the course of our lives and health. You can in fact change your genetic expression simply by choosing to live a healthy lifestyle. Simple things like eating more fruits and vegetables, drinking more clean pure water, and daily exercise will make dramatic changes in your life.
I hear all the time, "My parents had it so I am doomed into getting it too." Or, "I just have bad genes." This train of thought is just wrong! What would have happened to the people of South Africa if Mr. Mandela simply said, "I have been dealt a bad lot and there is nothing I can do about it"? Instead he found inspiration in a poem titled "Invictus" by William Earnest Henley that reminded him that no matter what the circumstances, he could remain unconquerable (by the way, invictus is Latin for unconquerable).

Below is the text for the poem:

Out of the night that covers me,
Black as the Pit from pole to pole,
I thank whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.

In the fell clutch of circumstance
I have not winced nor cried aloud.
Under the bludgeonings of chance
My head is bloody, but unbowed.

Beyond this place of wrath and tears
Looms but hte Horror of the shade,
And yet the menance of the years
Finds, and shall find, me unafraid.

It matters not how strait the gate,
How charged with punishments the scroll.
I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul.

You are unconquerable!!

Yours in Abundant Health,

Dr. Judd

Read the 1st Page of this newsletter HERE "Allergic to Amino Acids, and Don't Even Know It?"

Medical Doctors’ Thoughts About Chiropractic

2010-05-06T15:37:00.010-06:00

Not all doctors are created equal. May you find greater strength in your conviction for choosing the Chiropractic Lifestyle by the testaments of some of the great medical doctors in the world:

"I started out, as do most beginners in the medical art, to conquer the demon ‘disease’ with drugs. I too, often failed, as they all do... the more I studied and experimented, the more I was convinced that the real cause of dis-ease was impinged nerves, and that the chiropractic adjustment was the most scientific way to release them... results are what count, and chiropractic care, when scientifically given, brings them..."

- William A. Seeley, M.D.

"The contrast of osteopathy to chiropractic is as great as the contrast of an old-fashioned blunder-bus to a modern high powered rifle... this opinion is based on knowledge gained through my experience in drugless therapy, and is so firmly fixed in my mind that I no longer practice osteopathy at all."

- Dr. S.C. Wyatt, former osteopath

To Live Longer MD Recommends Avoiding MDs

“As a retired physician, I can honestly say that unless you are in a serious accident, your best chance of living to a ripe old age is to avoid doctors and hospitals and learn nutrition and other forms of natural medicine unless you are fortunate enough to have a naturopathic physician available, like a Chiropractor. Almost all drugs are toxic and are designed only to treat symptoms and not to cure anyone. Vaccines are highly dangerous, have never been adequately studied or proven to be effective, and have a poor risk/reward ratio. Most surgery is unnecessary and most textbooks of medicine are inaccurate and deceptive. Almost every disease is said to be idiopathic (without known cause) or genetic – although this is untrue. In short, our mainstream medical system is hopelessly inept and/or corrupt. The treatment of cancer and degenerative diseases is a national scandal. The sooner you learn this, the better off you will be.”

- A.Greenberg, M.D.

“Drugs never cure disease. They merely hush the voice of nature’s protest, and pull down the danger signals she erects along the pathway of transgression. Any poison taken into the system has to be reckoned with later on even though it palliates present symptoms. Pain may disappear, but the patient is left in a worse condition, though unconscious of it at the time.”

- Daniel H. Kress, M.D.

I know many people today still consider medicine to be mainstream, and chiropractic to be an alternative form of healthcare. I would challenge you to consider how this perception came to be, and whether it is truly accurate or not. Consider the word healthcare… do you honestly think that medicine(s) are the ultimate source of health and healing power? I would strongly answer NO and argue that the chiropractic profession, and especially this chiropractic office, strives to TEACH and TREAT the cause of illness and not merely focus on symptoms. Therefore, I would argue that our approach is a no-alternative approach to healthcare. Meaning everyone needs to care for the health of their spine, nerve system and immune system as if it were top priority. Everything after that should be considered secondary or alternative, and that would include drug therapy and surgery. The people around us at work and at home need to be taught that Chiropractic should be the first option when it comes to healthcare, and not last resort. After all, what is the alternative to maintaining your health naturally?

“Look well to the spine for the cause of disease.”

Hippocrates (460-357 B.C.), “The Father of Medicine”

Speak Up and Educate Others,

Dr. Craig Burns

Read Page 1 of this Newsletter HERE "Your Lifestyle Legacy & The Butterfly Effect"

Can Chiropractic Supercharge Genetic Expression?

2010-04-26T09:22:00.005-06:00

Chiropractic Influence on Oxidative Stress and DNA Repair

There is a growing body of evidence that wellness care provided by doctors of chiropractic may reduce health care costs, improve health behaviors, and enhance patient perceived quality of life. Until recently, however, little was known about how chiropractic adjustments affected the chemistry of biological processes on a cellular level. In a landmark study published this week in the Journal of Vertebral Subluxation, chiropractors collaborating with researchers at the University of Lund found that chiropractic care could influence basic physiological processes affecting oxidative stress and DNA repair. These findings offer a scientific explanation for the positive health benefits reported by patients receiving chiropractic care. The researchers measured serum thiol levels in 21 patients under short-term chiropractic care and 25 patients under long-term chiropractic care. The results were compared to those of a non-chiropractic treated control group of 30 subjects. Long-term chiropractic care of two or more years was shown to re-establish a normal physiological state independent of age, sex, or nutritional supplements. Symptom-free or primary wellness subjects under chiropractic care demonstrated higher mean serum thiol levels than patients with active disease, and produced some values that were higher than normal wellness values. Serum thiols are primary antioxidants, and serve as a measure of human health status. The test provides a surrogate estimate of DNA repair enzyme activity, which has been shown to correlate with lifespan and aging. Dr. Christopher Kent, one of the authors explained, "Going through life, we experience physical, chemical, and emotional stress. These stresses affect the function of the nervous system. We hypothesized that these disturbances in nerve function could affect oxidative stress and DNA repair on a cellular level." "Oxidative stress, metabolically generating free radicals, is now a broadly accepted theory of how we age and develop disease," Kent continued. "Oxidative stress results in DNA damage, and inhibits DNA repair. DNA repair is the mechanism which fixes the damage caused by environmental impact." Chiropractors apply spinal adjustments to correct disturbances of nerve function. "Chiropractic care appears to improve the ability of the body to adapt to stress," continued Kent.

Dr. Craig’s Comments:
Do you really understand what this means for chiropractic and for you? For over 100 years we have stated that removing stress from the spine, removes stress from the nervous system, and this improvement can affect health at the cellular level – even down to the genetic level. This is huge!

Many chiropractic patients are happy about their care on a symptomatic level, i.e. “my back feels much better”. That is just the tip of the iceberg. Understand that the Chiropractic Lifestyle has the power to change your life right down to the genetic level. The more stress-free your nervous system is (chemical, physical, emotional) the stronger and healthier your genetic expression. That is how the Chiropractic Lifestyle can supercharge your genetic expression. The result? The health and vitality you deserve. Spread the word!
At the Maximized Health Wellness Center, we promote a traditional, drug-free and non-invasive form of chiropractic as a means of correcting vertebral subluxations that cause nerve interference. In the end, our goal is to ensure that the nervous system is more stress-free and better able to express health in order to prevent disease.

Would you like to know more about why kids nowadays need chiropractic now, more than ever? Please ask any member of our team. We are happy to help!

Read Page 1 HERE "Innate Intelligence and Our Lifestyle Choices"

The Coming Cancer Explosion...

2010-04-13T15:07:00.004-06:00

Scientists and researchers claim that cancer may surpass heart disease as the number one cause of death worldwide in 2011.

Globally, about 12.4 million people will be diagnosed with some form of cancer this year, and 7.6 million people will die. The global cancer burden doubled in the last 30 years of the 20th century, and it will likely double again between 2000 and 2020 and nearly triple by 2030.

By 2030, 26.4 million people a year may be diagnosed with cancer, with 17 million people dying from it. In men, lung cancer leads new cases and deaths, while among women; breast cancer leads new cases and deaths.

Of those 7.6 million people who will die of cancer this year, it has been estimated that up to 4 million could have been saved just through healthy lifestyle changes. For example, avoiding sugar and increasing your water intake.

So that would bring the number down to 3.6 million deaths each year. Want to bring that down even further; to 3, 2 or even less than a million, in just one more step? If vitamin D3 levels from sun exposure were increased among populations worldwide, doctors believe that well over two million cancers could be prevented, especially in regions far from the equator.

By now you probably realize that the dangers of sun exposure have been greatly exaggerated, and the benefits highly underestimated. Not only is sun exposure not the major reason people develop skin cancer, but it will actually lower your risks of developing 16 different types of cancer, including pancreatic, lung, breast, ovarian, prostate, and colon cancers.

Those million remaining deaths could be prevented through just a few more easy steps. More deaths could be prevented by using natural health care methods, like chiropractic and a nutritional cleansing/replenishing program, instead of relying on medications and other unnecessary chemicals.

It is quite possible that a significant percentage of cancer is simply caused by physical and chemical imbalance – not a lack of prescription and over-the-counter medications. You may find that making other lifestyle changes, like quitting smoking, is easier when the body is in balance physically and chemically.

Another good way to keep yourself from getting cancer is to make sure you regularly get a good night’s sleep. And, what about exercise? Over 200 studies have linked physical activities to cancer risk. There’s another big chunk of the 7.6 million deaths suddenly erased.

Do the steps outlined above sound impossible? I don’t think they do. Eat a healthy diet, exercise, get some sun, get a good night’s sleep each night, and keep your body physically aligned and chemically balanced. A “cure for cancer” isn’t impossible - it turns out, it’s mostly just common sense!

But right now, things are heading in exactly the wrong direction. Instead of trending down from 7.6 million to zero, the number of deaths could increase to 17 million in just two decades. Don’t let yourself, your children or loved ones be one of those millions of people. Take responsibility for your own health.

Get yourself and every member of your family, especially your children, involved in an office like ours… a holistic wellness center armed with the tools and techniques to build health and prevent disease. If you need help finding an office like ours in another state for a loved one – please ask us anytime – we are happy to help.

Read Page 1 Here: "Are You Addicted To Your Emotions?"

Upcoming Seminars

Mark Your Calendars - RSVP as soon as possible!

* Allergy Elimination - Wednesday, April 14th, 2010 at 6:30pm

* Cleanse, Detoxify, Weight Loss - Wednesday, April 21st, 2010 at 6:30pm

* Kaizen Fitness - Wednesday, April 28th, 2010 at 6:30pm

What is the Underlying Cause of Seasonal Allergies?

2010-04-07T08:56:00.006-06:00

There are many reasons why people have allergy symptoms, but perhaps the most common of all is the substance association stress response. The substance association stress response is what takes place when a person eats, inhales, or absorbs something that they are hypersensitive to, i.e. allergic to. It is the trigger that initiates a cascade of events that inevitably leads to troublesome symptoms. It is the defining difference between the person that is “OK” during seasonal changes and the person that is “NOT OK”. Whatever you might be hypersensitive to, pollen or grass – you name it, is not the real problem. Instead it is the abnormal way in which your body “reacts” to the substance.

The substance association stress response is a neurological event that is orchestrated by the central nervous system, specifically the autonomic nervous system. To put it simply, it is a faulty wiring and timing issue within the body itself that if left uncorrected will always lead to the same outcome, i.e. symptoms and misery. To put it another way, it is an abnormal reflex response that the body has when it comes into contact with a particular chemical or substance.
Remember when you first touched something hot as a child and jerked your hand away? Probably not, but you do know the theory behind how your body learned to develop reflexes or habits that protect you. You also know that these reflexes eventually become unconscious and automatic. Well, interestingly enough, your body can acquire bad reflexes too. In short, the substance association stress response is a great example of an abnormal, unhealthy reflex.

What if you could break that reflex and establish a new one, a healthier reflex to trees, grass, and pollen – you name it! What if you could break the reflex that makes your body react to something that many other people do not react to? What if you could go from being “NOT OK” to being “OK” during seasonal changes like other people are? Would that be a better life, a more enjoyable life? You bet it would!!

What Should a Person With Seasonal Allergy and Asthma Symptoms Do?

To put it simply, stop treating the symptoms as if they are the condition. Try and find the true underlying cause of the condition, and fix it once and for all. Then and only then will your body be free from the substance association stress response, and thus be symptom free. Remember, reflexes and habits both good and bad can be easily built and easily broken. The key is finding the right doctor to help you do just that.

In my opinion, nearly every allergy and asthma patient has 2 choices:

To learn to live with their condition and rely on man made medications to manage symptoms, thus leaving the bodily dysfunction to worsen with time.
Or, to learn more about their body, to improve it for the sake of their future well being and allow it to work as God designed it to.
Where Can I Learn More?

If you or someone you know has allergy or asthma symptoms, we may be able to help. For more information visit www.BioVedaofEastCentennial.com. To attend a free Allergy Elimination Seminar on April 14th you can RSVP by calling the office at 303.462.4476.

Read Page 1: "Kaizen! Change Your Mind, Change Your Body"

Upcoming Seminars:

Mark your calendar - RSVP as soon as possible!

*Cleanse Detoxify Weight Loss Wednesday, April 21st 6:30pm

*Allergy Elimination Wednesday, April 14th at 6:30pm

*Kaizen Fitness Workshop Wednesday, April 28th at 6:30pm

The Kaizen Secret to Unlimited Success - Part 2

2010-03-22T16:12:00.005-06:00

How many big dreams and big goals have fallen to the way side because they seemed too lofty to accomplish, would take too much time to finish or just seemed too overwhelming? How many times have you said to yourself, “I’ll get to it later” or “Maybe someday” or “That’s just too much for me to handle right now”?

Nowadays, people are prone to setting lofty goals for change in their life. However, the majority of these big goals and lofty dreams are never realized. The mind is then conditioned to believe it is weak and incapable of creating big changes in life.

So, what’s the secret to changing your life for the better? The answer may be in the way your brain perceives change. Let’s refer back to the Japanese corporate world and its secret weapon for change - kaizen.

Kaizen can help us all rapidly and effectively accomplish the greatest and most important goals in our life. There are many dimensions to kaizen, but for the sake of increasing personal productivity, well being and success in life we will focus on its key element, which is making small, but consistent changes.

For most people, the brain is easily overwhelmed by the thought of big changes. For example, the typical fitness and weight loss goal: one day a person decides to stop eating all of this stuff, start eating all of that stuff, and tries to go from 0 - 100mph in regard to exercise. Demanding big changes in a short period of time is a recipe for failure. To say it another way, bite off more than your brain can chew and it will surely choke.

What is the net result? Things get put off till tomorrow, and the month after that, and the year after that. In the end we quit what we started or never even start in the first place. Life’s goals and dreams go unaccomplished and we are left with a life filled with regrets and what-if’s.

On the other hand, the brain is A-OK and actually enjoys small changes. Every day you unconsciously face small changes and they actually stimulate your brain. So, when it comes to important things in life like health and fitness why do we think big changes are the right course of action? Well, because many of us need to make big changes to get our life on track and our body in better shape. But, science and history say small changes toward a bigger goal is the Golden Ticket to creating change and consistent success.

Using kaizen to facilitate change in health and productivity is just one example. We should all learn to use kaizen in relation to life’s large scale goals and projects. We must learn to work with our brain, not against it, by employing the kaizen method to our advantage. With kaizen, less is more and smaller is better.

By breaking down our goals and dreams into smaller events, and then only focusing on the achievement of one small event after another, we will inevitably be surprised at what we can accomplish.

KAIZEN AND MAXIMIZED HEALTH

Our goal for every member of our office is a way of living that is both rewarding and limitless. We know this can only be accomplished with kaizen, continuous change for the better. Our care plans, newsletters, seminars and workshops are designed with this goal in mind. Take full advantage of ALL of them. The timing is right for you to create a better life - right here, right now – one small step at a time.
Read the 1st part of this newsletter by clicking HERE!

Speak Up and Educate Others,

Dr. Craig Burns

UPCOMING SEMINARS:
- Cleanse, Detoxify, Weight Loss Seminar: March 24th
- Eliminating Allergies and Asthma Seminar: April 7th
- Kaizen Fitness Seminar: April 28th

Surveys Indicate that 99% of Americans…

2010-03-16T12:07:00.003-06:00

Everyone wants to be well and healthy. Surveys indicate that 99% of Americans list health as one of the two most important aspects of their lives. The Chiropractic profession and the staff at Maximized Health have embraced the concept of health promotion, asserting that what we really do in Chiropractic care is to optimize Health. Toward that purpose we have been exploring ways to optimize our health and the quality of our lives in relation to wellness.

Wellness can be described as the full living of a healthy life at all levels: physically, emotionally, socially, intellectually and spiritually, as these dimensions of ourselves interact synergistically. You'll need to develop a road map that provides the vision and direction to successfully navigate this domain while finding joy in the journey.

Personal wellness planning provides a powerful individualized method that helps us transform the quality of our lives and achieve optimal wellness. Dimensions of wellness that you may incorporate in a personal wellness plan include: spinal and neurobiological balance, physical fitness, optimal nutrition, intellectual development, emotional and social wellness and spirituality. Goals set in each dimension should be simple, clear and measurable.

To help illustrate this for you, I will share my personal wellness plan below (my escape plan from the “sick care” system):

My Personal Wellness Plan
For a fit, 34-year-old, very active American male chiropractor and wellness fanatic, who teaches health empowerment.

Purpose: To empower myself in wellness so that, by the grace of God, I can serve others to a higher level of healthy living.

Chiropractic/Neurobiological Balance: I get checked for spinal and structural alignment/balance weekly; get adjusted as needed. Perform my stretching daily for my spine and traction when necessary.

Exercise Activity: I average 30-60 minute workouts, 6-7 days per week. I incorporate strength, endurance, flexibility and coordination/integration activities. My specific activities include running up to 15 miles per week and/or using other cardio-machines, free-weight and machine resistant training and stretching exercises. I work core musculature (abs, back, glutes, thighs) intensively at least three times per week. Because I have a physically demanding job and plenty of people that rely of my level of physical fitness, I am dedicated to maintaining my body.

Diet: I try to make healthy choices daily. I keep healthy and fresh food available around the home and office, and discard foods that tempt me when I'm low on energy. Usually, my daily diet includes fruit in the morning, fresh vegetables in salad or steamed with lean meat for lunches and dinners. I also ensure that I take in one to one-and-a-half liters of pure water per day. I also take high quality supplements rich in Anti-oxidants and especially omega-3 Fatty acids. I keep low quantities of starches, such as rice, pasta and rarely eat bread and potatoes.

Rest: I try to average 7-8 hours of sleep per day. Some days I get 6 hours and others I get 9 for balance. I go to bed early. Since the mind is programmed in the early morning and late evening, I read great things during that time. I also avoid the news which is mostly negative and is what people do first thing in the morning and last thing at night.

Intellectual Development: I explore new possibilities relative to health promotion ad self-improvement by reading newsletters, texts and journals or listening to thought provoking speakers and authors. Even with a busy day, I am able to incorporate about 20-60 minutes of reading and conducting research related to Chiropractic, wellness and health promotion.

Family: I affirm, love, honor and pray for my family members daily. I'll spend at least 1-3 hours of quality, one-on-one time with my wife daily.

Spirituality: I dedicate about 20-30 minutes toward my spiritual inspiration daily often times while getting ready for the day. I give thanks daily for the abundance that we have in this life. I live my purpose daily, helping others to achieve better health so that they can serve their life mission with better energy.

Try making a trial plan which fits you, uniquely. Go for it! Capture your own imagination, and then make it real. If you have any questions about wellness planning, e-mail me at drcraig@maximizedhealth.net

Speak Up and Educate Others,

Dr. Craig Burns

Read the 1st Page: " Will You Escape the Sick Care System?"

Health, Healing and Insurance for Life?

2010-03-08T17:07:00.004-07:00

Put it this way… your nervous system is a two way street. The brain tells the cells what to do then the cells report to the brain what has been done. In a typical healing process such as a skin abrasion, the ends of the nerves that are irritated by the abrasion send pain/damage signals to the brain. This is called the sensory path. Immediately after the brain receives this injury information, specific brain cells send electrical signals back down to the abrasion to create a perfect healing process. This pathway is called the motor pathway.

This same sensory and motor pathway to and from body to brain, and brain to body occurs billions of time a day throughout our bodies. In fact, even without injuries, body cells are constantly replacing themselves relative to the stress we place on them in our lives. This is why a callous forms after a blister, a tennis player’s forearm gets bigger, a marathon runner’s body becomes lighter or a sumo wrestler’s body becomes heavier. Within a wide choice of genetic options our life choices allow us to shape ourselves into the perfect healing being of our dreams.

For instance, people live with pinched nerves and don’t know it. Like a “silent killer” the compromised nerves continue to prevent the flow of life giving impulses from the brain to their destination body part. This is where Chiropractic maintenance is so important. The skills of a chiropractor can detect a pinched nerve even if the patient does not feel any symptoms. Through x-ray, leg length, postural evaluation, palpation etc. we correct these silent killers to allow the motor part of the nerve to function again. When the motor function of the nerve is restored then the innate intelligence which runs and governs our body is again restored. The “Wisdom from Within” as described in the textbook Gray’s Anatomy can again do its job and that is to heal.

Do yourself a huge favor and have your spine checked regularly, symptom or no symptom. Chiropractic is your best health insurance for life. When was the last time you’ve been in? Get going and allow your body to work, even if you may not feel pain or symptoms.

Weighing the Costs of Health Care $$$

Sometimes people need to see what declining health can cost them in order to decide to start taking better care of their body and their health. Hopefully, these statistics will help you do just that!

American Medical costs after developing Heart Disease: over $500,000
Medical costs after developing Cancer: over $300,000
Medical costs after developing Diabetes: over $250,000
Medical costs after developing High Blood Pressure: over $25,000
The cost of spinal surgery to repair a long standing problem: $25, 000 – $105,000
The cost of a bottle of Tylenol that destroys your kidneys, liver, and stomach: $6.99 for the bottle and $169,000 for the treatment required to repair damaged and destroyed organs.

What you get long term for your money on all of the above: The most expensive thing of all: Reduced quality of life and a shortened life span!

The cost of a proactive, natural health care program that improves bodily function, eliminates the cause of pain, and restores health: PRICELESS!

Speak Up and Educate Others,

Dr. Craig Burns

Read the 1st page of this newsletter "The Windsor Autopsy Studies" HERE

What's the Deal with GMO Foods?

2010-03-02T14:06:00.005-07:00

Eating genetically modified (GM) foods may cause disease

GMOs may be the greatest health disaster in the American diet. Within 9 years of their introduction in 1996, multiple chronic illnesses jumped from 7% to 13% of the population, food allergies doubled in less time, and many other ailments have been on the rise. Millions may already be suffering health problems caused by genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in their diet. The American Academy of Environmental Medicine has urged doctors to prescribe non-GMO diets for all patients, and cites animal studies that show how GMOs cause disorders such as vital organ damage, gastrointestinal and immune system problems, accelerated aging, infertility, and dysfunctional regulation of insulin and cholesterol.

GMO foods can be:

Allergenic (contribute to food allergies)
Toxic (possibly cause damage to your immune system)
Carcinogenic (cause cancer)
Anti-nutritional (create a nutritional deficit)

Despite claims by giant GMO manufacturers like Monsanto that genetically modified foods are no less healthy than non-GM foods, the research says otherwise.

The U.S. Is Behind the Curve in Rejecting GM Foods?

People around the world have joined forces to refuse GM foods and crops because of the dangers they present to your health and the future of your food supply. Europe, for example, eliminated GMOs from their food supply 10 years ago. In the United States, however, many of you are still not even aware you’re eating GM foods every day. That’s because an estimated 75% of foods in U.S. grocery stores contain GM ingredients. About 7 out of every 10 items in the average grocery cart have been genetically modified.

What can I do about GM Foods?

Examine produce stickers on the fruits and vegetables you buy. The PLU code for conventionally grown fruit consists of four numbers; organically grown fruit has five numbers prefaced by the number nine; and GM fruit has five numbers prefaced by the number eight.

Buy organic produce as often as you can. By definition, food that is certified organic must be free from all GM organisms. Stay away from processed foods. Most of these contain corn and soy products.

Additional Research: keyword search – “GMO corn dangers” or visit www.SeedsOfDeception.com

Speak Up and Educate Others,

Dr. Craig Burns

"How Much is your Body Really Worth?" - Click HERE to find out

Health Facts That Should Make You Go Hmm?

2010-02-22T13:49:00.007-07:00

Spinal stiffness was linked to visceral pathology with nearly 100% accuracy based upon sympathetic innervation. (Medical Times, 1921)
1,000 capsules of Tylenol in a lifetime doubles the risk of end stage renal disease. (New England Journal of Medicine, 1994)
The average time for a whiplash-injured patient to achieve maximum improvement is 7 months 1 week. (Spine, 1994)
93% of patients with chronic whiplash pain who have failed medical and physical therapy care improve with chiropractic adjustments. (Injury, 1996)
Taking the correct drug for the correct diagnoses in the correct dose will kill about 106,000 Americans per year, making it the 4th most common cause of death in the US. (Journal of the American Medical Association, 1998)
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for rheumatoid and/or osteoarthritis conservatively cause 16,500 Americans to bleed to death each year, making that the 15th most common cause of death in the US. (New England Journal of Medicine, 1999)
Glutamate and aspartame can cause chronic pain sensitization, and removing them from the diet for 4 consecutive months can eliminate all chronic pain symptoms. (Annals of Pharmacotherapy, 2002)
Chiropractic spinal adjusting has been shown to be over 5 times more effective than the NSAIDs pain drugs Celebrex and Vioxx in the treatment of chronic neck and low back pain. (Spine, 2003)
In patients suffering from chronic pain subsequent to degenerative spinal disease, 59% can eliminate the need for pain drugs by consuming adequate levels of omega-3 essential fatty acids. (Surgical Neurology, 2006)
Chiropractic adjustments have been shown to significantly lower blood pressure. (Journal of Human Hypertension, 2007)
The estimated incidence of chronic pain from whiplash trauma is 15-40%. (Jour of the Am Academy of Ortho Surg, 2007)
Meniere’s Disease has been linked to a disorder of the upper cervical spine facet joints. (International Tinnitus Jour, 2007)
Supplementing with vitamin D3 has the potential to reduce cancer deaths in America by 75%. (Ann of Epidemiology, 2009)
Potentially, the largest exposure of Americans to the neurotoxin mercury is through the consumption of products containing High Fructose Corn Syrup. (Environmental Health, 2009)
Those who consumed the highest amounts of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory pain drugs increased their risk of dementia, including Alzheimer’s dementia, by 66%. (Neurology, 2009)
The newest estimate for the incidence of autism is 1 in 91 US children. (Pediatrics, 2009)

Speak Up and Educate Others,

Dr. Craig Burns

Read Page 1 of this newsletter HERE: "Protein: Are You Getting Enough?"

Why You May Need to Eat More Protein

2010-02-09T17:06:00.007-07:00

(Part 1)
About 90% of all the individuals I’ve ever consulted with have been eating less protein than they need for optimal health and ideal results. Now, there are a number of reasons why I recommend a boost in protein intake in most patients and clients so I’d like to outline them for you.

Reason #1 Increased Thermic Effect of Feeding — While all macronutrients require metabolic processing for digestion, absorption, and storage or oxidation, the thermic effect of protein is significantly higher than that of carbohydrates and fat. In fact, protein requires 25-30% of the energy it provides just for digestion, absorption, and assimilation while carbs only require 6-8% and fat requires 2-3%. That means that eating protein is actually thermogenic and can lead to a higher metabolic rate. This means greater fat loss when dieting and less fat gain during hypercaloric diets.

Reason #2 Increased Glucagon — Protein consumption increases plasma concentrations of the hormone glucagon. Glucagon is responsible for antagonizing the effects of insulin in adipose tissue, leading to greater fat mobilization. In addition, glucagon also decreases the amounts and activities of the enzymes responsible for making and storing fat in adipose and liver cells. Again, this leads to greater fat loss during dieting and less fat gain during overfeeding.

Reason #3 Increased IGF-1 — Protein and amino-acid supplementation has been shown to increase the IGF-1 response to both exercise and feeding. Since IGF-1 is an anabolic hormone that’s related to muscle growth, another advantage associated with consuming more protein is more muscle growth when overfeeding and/or muscle sparing when dieting.

Reason #4 Reduction in Cardiovascular Risk — Several studies have shown that increasing the percentage of protein in the diet (from 11% to 23%) while decreasing the percentage of carbohydrate (from 63% to 48%) lowers LDL cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations with concomitant increases in HDL cholesterol concentrations.

Reason #5 Improved Weight-Loss Profile — Research from Layman and colleagues has demonstrated that reducing the carbohydrate to protein ratio from 3.5–1 to 1.4–1 increases body fat loss, spares muscle mass, reduces triglyceride concentrations, improves satiety, and improves blood glucose management.

Reason #6 Increased Protein Turnover — All tissues of the body, including muscle, go through a regular program of turnover. Since the balance between protein breakdown and protein synthesis governs muscle protein turnover, you need to increase your protein turnover rates in order to best improve your muscle quality. A high protein diet does just this. By increasing both protein synthesis and protein breakdown, a high protein diet helps you get rid of the old muscle more quickly and build up new, more functional muscle to take its place.

Reason #7 Increased Nitrogen Status — A positive nitrogen status means that more protein is entering the body than is leaving the body. High protein diets cause a strong positive protein status and when this increased protein availability is coupled with an exercise program that increases the body’s anabolic efficiency, the growth process may be accelerated.

Reason #8 Increased Provision of Auxiliary Nutrients — although the benefits mentioned above have related specifically to protein and amino acids, it’s important to recognize that we don’t just eat protein and amino acids — we eat food. Therefore, high protein diets often provide auxiliary nutrients that could enhance performance and/or muscle growth. These nutrients include creatine, branched chain amino acids, conjugated linoleic acids, and/or additional nutrients that are important but remain to be discovered. This illustrates the need to get most of your protein from food, rather than supplements alone.

More to come next week on protein intake… stay tuned…Looking over this list of benefits, it’s clear that for many individuals, an increase in protein intake would be advantageous for most people’s health and fitness goals? Since a high protein diet can lead to a better health profile, an increased metabolism, and improved body composition – it’s time to start asking: how much protein do I really need?

MORE to come next week on protein intake...stay tuned...

Speak Up and Educate Others,

Dr. Craig Burns

Read the 1st Page of this newsletter here : Did You Hear The News?

What is it like living with Asthma?

2010-01-19T16:02:00.004-07:00

-At the age of 30, I contracted severe Asthma and came close to dying from an asthma attack in 1995 when a near fatal asthma attack put me into full respiratory and cardiac arrest!!

-I was diagnosed with "adult onset asthma". For more than 15 years, my regimen included 3 different inhalers, steroid injections every 6 weeks and at the end I was taking 20 mg of prednisone twice a day just to breathe. I was using my rescue inhaler 10 times a day. Through the years I tried all the inhaled steroids, Uni-phil, Advair... the whole line up. My doctor had me on almost $600 worth of meds every month. Even so my asthma got worse every year.

-If you could rate Asthma from 1-10, I had it the worst and would categorize myself as a 10. My asthma didn’t start until I turned 30. After having at least a half dozen doctors tell me that I would have this condition the rest of my life, I resigned myself to trying to keep it under control. Numerous trips to the hospital emergency room where doctors tried to keep my airways from totally shutting down wore me out. I tried most of the things the doctors suggested but the condition never improved and the asthma was constantly out of control. During this period, I remember seeing a video documentary on public television about several people hiking the Appalachian Trail. I was a little sad thinking I would never be able to try anything like that again in my life.

-I was diagnosed with asthma around the age of 5 or 6. My early memories of asthma revolve around not being able to run as much as my friends, and worst of all not being able to horse-back ride without having an attack. There was also the constant threat of my pets being taken away because most of the doctors highly recommended that. At the time of my diagnosis, I was put on various oral medications that left me feeling either sleepy or jittery. Later on, an inhaler was added to my medical regime, but all of these medicines still left me extremely jittery. They did not seem to help much -- there were many times that we had to go to the emergency room for epinephrine injections during a severe attack. The worst period was when I was 11 to 13 years old. During one severe attack, I was actually afraid I might die.

Dr. Judd’s Comments:

Most of us take breathing for granted...in and out smoothly about 1500 times per day. But for someone suffering from asthma symptoms, life is totally different. I am shocked how many people have similar stories as the ones above. Asthma doesn’t just slow them down; it alters the course of their life! All of this suffering is unnecessary. Be sure to join us on Wednesday, January 27, 2010 at 6:30PM to explore the possibilities of a safe, effective, and affordable treatment for asthma symptoms using the BAX 3000! The time has come to regain control of your life!

Yours in Maximized Health,

Judd Wattenbarger, DC

Read the 1st page of this newsletter, click here:"2010 Can Be Your Best Year Yet!!"

Top 7 Food Allergies in Children (And Most Adults, Too!)

2010-01-12T14:30:00.005-07:00

Allergy to egg, milk, soy, wheat, peanut and tree nuts represents 90% of all food allergies in children. Fish and shellfish are two other commonly seen food allergies, usually more common in adults. Each of these individual foods is discussed, including the prevalence, severity and potential outgrowth of the food allergy.

1. Milk
Allergy to cow’s milk is common in children, affecting about 2.5 percent of all infants. These children tend to also react to other milks, such as goat and sheep milk. The allergy is usually directed against one or both major milk proteins, casein and whey. The sugar in milk, lactose, does not cause allergy, but can cause food intolerance.Being allergic to milk is a risk factor for developing other food allergies, as well as nasal allergies. Up to 10% of cow's milk allergic children will be allergic to beef.
2. Egg
Allergy to egg is the most common food allergy in children, affecting about 2.5 percent of young children. Children may be allergic to the white, yolk, or both. Many will outgrow the egg allergy by age 5, although these children are at increased risk of developing nasal allergies and asthma.
3. Soy
Soy is a legume, and related to peanut, although cross-reactivity rarely exists between the two. Allergy to soy affects approximately 0.3 percent of children, is usually outgrown at a young age, and rarely causes life-threatening reactions. Because soy is a common food allergy, and can occur in children also allergic to milk, infant formulas using hydrolyzed proteins are preferred in infants allergic to cow’s milk.
4. Wheat
Children and adults can experience a variety of immunologic reactions to wheat protein, only some of which are allergic. Wheat allergy is commonly outgrown at an early age, and it is rare for children with wheat allergy to be clinically allergic to other cereal grains (such as rice, oat and barley), although skin testing to these other grains may be positive. 5. PeanutAllergy to peanut occurs in approximately 0.6 percent of all people, and tends to cause a severe form of food allergy. Peanut allergy can be associated with life-threatening allergic reactions, particularly in children with asthma. Only about 20 percent of children outgrow peanut allergy, making it the most common food allergy seen in adults.
6. Tree Nut
Tree nut allergy occurs in approximately 0.5 percent of all people, tends to be severe and is less likely to be outgrown. There is a high likelihood that if a child is allergic to one type of tree nut, he or she will be allergic to another type of tree nut. While tree nuts and peanuts are unrelated foods, cross-contamination is a concern, so some experts recommend a complete “nut free” diet in children with either peanut or tree nut allergy.
7. Seafood
Allergy to seafood includes both fish and shellfish. While fish and shellfish are not related foods, these foods are usually found in the same place (restaurants). Reactions to seafood can be severe and potentially life-threatening. Allergy to either of these foods is less likely to be outgrown, and therefore is commonly seen in adults. Since patients with allergy to one shellfish are at a high risk of being allergic to other shellfish, complete avoidance of this category of foods is advised. The same is true for allergy to fish; however, exceptions exist for both.
Source: www.allergies.about.com

Dr. Judd’s Comments:
These are the “biggies” when it comes to allergies in children and most adults. If you looked at this list and said, “Those ingredients are in everything!”, you are right. That means we have two options, avoid all of these things for our whole lives or take steps to make our body OK with the foods on this list. The BAX 3000 technology trains the nervous system to not overreact to these substances thus preventing allergy symptoms (rashes, gas, bloating, etc.) Isn’t it time to take control of your life? Learn more at http://www.biovedaofeastcentennial.com/ and then experience the change for yourself!

Yours in abundant health,

Dr. Judd Wattenbarger

PLEASE click here to READ "Allergic Asthma, A Family's Story"

Do Drug Companies Have the Answer for Asthma & Allergy Sufferers?

2010-01-07T14:22:00.003-07:00

Let’s start with a list of drugs approved by the FDA in the last number of years for asthma and allergies:

Drugs Approved in 2008
Alvesco (ciclesonide); Nycomed; For the maintenance treatment of asthma as prophylactic therapy in adults and adolescents, Approved January 2008
Patanase (olopatadine hydrochloride); Alcon; For the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis, Approved April 2008
Drugs Approved in 2007
Xyzal (levocetirizine dihydrochloride); UCB; For the treatment of seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis and urticaria, Approved May 2007
Drugs Approved in 2003
Xolair (omalizumab); Genentech; For the treatment of asthma, Approved June 2003
Drugs Approved in 2002
Clarinex; Schering-Plough; Once-daily oral tablet for the treatment of allergic rhinitis and chronic ideopathic urticaria, Approved February 2002
Qvar (beclomethasone dipropionate); Ivax; For the treatment of asthma, Approved May 2002
Drugs Approved in 2001
Foradil Aerolizer (formoterol fumarate inhalation powder); Novartis; Bronchodilator for COPD, asthma and bronchospasm, Approved February 2001 (asthma, bronchospasm); September 2001 (COPD)
NasalCrom Nasal Spray; Pharmacia; Over-the-counter nasal spray for treatment of all nasal allergy symptoms, Approved April 2001
Tavist (clemastine fumarate); Novartis; Oral tablet for temporary relief of symptoms associated with hay fever, allergic rhinitis, and the common cold, Approved March 2001
Ventolin HFA (albuterol sulfate inhalation aerosol); GlaxoSmithKline; For the treatment or prevention of bronchospasm, Approved April 2001

Dr. Judd’s Comments:

Take a closer look at the list above. It seems that a number of these drugs are very similar and are designed to treat the same symptoms. This list accounts for hundreds of millions of dollars in research and development that pharmaceutical companies must recoup. Every few years they must come out with a new drug to keep the shareholders happy. Ever wonder why drugs are so expensive? Now you know. How about a better, less expensive, more effective treatment for asthma and allergies. Enter the BAX 3000 laser treatment. Treatment with the BAX 3000 is safe, effective and affordable. Join us for an informative seminar at the end of January or go to http://www.biovedaofeastcentennial.com/ to learn more about a better option!

Towards abundant health,

Judd Wattenbarger, D.C.

Read the 1st page of this newsletter click here: " Can Asthma Really Be Caused By Allergies?"

Neurological Stress Reduction Therapy, NSRT

2009-12-16T16:59:00.004-07:00

A Scientific Breakthrough That Could Potentially Change Health Care Forever

The big question nowadays is how does stress accumulation and stress reduction specifically correlate to the symptoms and conditions afflicting our society?

When stress or pressure is applied to the nervous system through exposure to specific substances, the nervous system begins to fight or expel the substance from the body. This response is referred to as an (ANS) Autonomic Nervous System Mediated Response which can be expressed by the body in the form of sinus pressure, skin irritations, headaches, upset stomach or any other manner in which the body can expel the substance it believes is harmful or toxic.

The ANS Mediated Response is the trigger for all of these symptoms which when diagnosed as chronic by the medical community become conditions we are all familiar with such as allergy, asthma, eczema, ADD, ADHD, migraine, IBS or Chronic Fatigue.

NSRTSM Neurological Stress Reduction Therapy uses laser technology to positively condition the brain or what we call neurological relaxation training to eliminate the ANS Mediated Response that triggers the symptoms and conditions that affect you on a daily basis. The nervous system triggers a reaction or series of events because of something it has sensed in your environment. By training the nervous system to NOT become stressed from a harmless substance during substance specific exposure we are able to stop the reaction or event before it becomes a symptom or condition.

The net result is that many of those conditions that people suffer from all their lives can be alleviated in just a few therapy sessions, with no drugs, no needles, no diets and no nutritional supplementation.

Through NSRT, inappropriate ANS mediated responses can be reduced or eliminated. These ANS mediated responses are the triggers for symptoms commonly associated with:

Allergies & Sinus Conditions
Asthma & Shortness of Breath
ADD, ADHD, Autism & Asperger’s Syndrome
Skin Irritations, Eczema & Rosacea
General Digestive Discomfort, Indigestion, Constipation, Swelling & Bloating
IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)
Erectile Dysfunction
Menstrual Irregularity
Headaches & Chronic Fatigue

To Learn More:
If you have any of the above symptoms or just want to know more about NSRT and how it can help you improve your health or avoid disease I strongly urge you to investigate a new form of treatment called the BAX3000 by BioVeda Technologies (www.biovedaofeastcentennial.com).

Speak Up and Educate Others,

Dr. Craig Burns

READ the 1st page of this newsletter by clicking HERE

Are You In the Spirit of Giving this Year?

2009-12-08T14:35:00.003-07:00

In the spirit of the holidays, and in the spirit of giving, Maximized Health Wellness Center pledges to gift over $10,000 in health and wellness services to those in need. Our goal is to help make 2010 a more symptom free year for as many people as possible. This is a very big number, but we are committed to it.

To achieve this goal we are going to need a lot of help. Will you partner with us this holiday season in the spirit of giving?

We are asking all members of our practice family to make a list, like Santa’s list (we won’t ask you for this list, it’s yours). For every person that makes your list we will give you a $250 gift certificate. This “Gift of Health” gift certificate can be used to make 2010 a healthier, more symptom free year for its recipient.

The $250 gift certificate applies to our Chiropractic & Physiotherapy Department as well as our Allergy & Asthma Department. The recipient can choose which department they need the most. The $250 can be applied to any testing or treatment procedure that they need.

This is an amazing opportunity for the people on your list to discover if we can help them enjoy a better year and a brighter future, one without symptoms, one that is filled with health and happiness.

MORE DETAILS…

More about the “Gift of Health” gift certificate:
The “Gift of Health” gift certificate comes in a Christmas envelope that you can personalize if you wish. You can request more than one gift certificate.

People who can make your list:
Family, friends, coworkers, neighbors, church members, etc

Symptoms for the Allergy Department:
Allergies, asthma, IBS, fatigue, skin conditions, food allergies, stress related disorders, etc.

Symptoms for the Pain Department:
Pain, stiffness, weakness, numbness, arthritis, disc problems, accidents, injuries, etc.

The World’s Largest Stocking Drawing & the “Gift of Health” gift certificate:
If you desire, for every gift certificate you give to someone you will receive an additional 5 entries in the drawing for the World’s Largest Stocking. You will also receive an additional 25 entries when a friend on your list uses their gift certificate before Christmas.

How do I participate?
Ask any member of the office for a gift certificate, or for more details. We would be happy to help you.

Speak Up and Educate Others,

Dr. Craig Burns

The Truth About Medical Asthma Treatment...CLICK HERE to read more!

"We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." - Winston Churchill

Good Doctoring is Evidenced in the Result!

2009-12-02T14:15:00.005-07:00

Below are just a few written testimonials of people who tried everything else, and finally found the right solution to their problem with the BAX3000 Laser Allergy System. A wise man once said, “Focus on the cause of the problem, not the symptom, and the body will amaze you time and time again… that is good doctoring.”

PATIENT SUCCESS STORIES:
"I suffered constantly from a sour stomach, bloating and nausea since 1993 and was diagnosed by a specialist with Irritable Bowel Syndrome. I had significant improvement after only two treatments and am now 100% symptom-free" ~ S. Steinman

"Milk and dairy used to give me stomach problems and cause vomiting. I couldn’t believe it when I ate pizza, with a lot of cheese, for the first time in over 20 years. Even more amazing when I ate ice cream... again with no problem. Eating is finally fun again." ~ T. John

"It's amazing, that's what I say - and you've got to remember, I was very cynical, I didn't think anything was going to work." ~ O. Holloway

"The proof of the pudding for me was when all those allergies disappeared." ~ E. Mendez

K. Scott
Symptoms: abdominal cramping before and after eating; avoided dairy for many years
Results: After 5 treatments; symptom free; able to eat dairy products

K. Mitchell
Symptoms: intestinal pain upon any ingestion of foods
Results: Eliminated entirely after treatments

G. Mohr
Symptoms: Bloating and acid reflux pain at night
Results: After 10 treatments to foods and digestive allergens; 100% symptom free

A. Diaz
Symptoms: 8 year old with infant onset of multiple food allergies; very limited diet which greatly limited activities
Results: Eliminated all food allergies and can now participate in all school activities

Dr. Craig’s Comments:

The BAX 3000 Laser Allergy System has much promise because it uses a revolutionary treatment technique, and many people are naturally skeptical. For those people, keep this in mind:

"The metaphysics of today is the physics of tomorrow. The physics of today was the metaphysics of yesteryear"

Don’t let the fact that many doctors and most patients have never heard of Laser Allergy Treatment deter you from finding the right solution to your problem. You can be symptom free if you choose to be!

Visit www.biovedaofeastcentennial.com for more information.

Read the 1st page of this newsletter "Misunderstanding IBS and Poor Patient Care"

Our Perception Really IS Our Reality

2009-11-18T11:21:00.003-07:00

Flubbing a field goal kick doesn’t just bruise your ego — new research shows it may actually change how your brain sees the goal posts. In a study of 23 non-football athletes who each kicked 10 field goals, researchers found that players’ performance directly affected their perception of the size of the goal: After a series of missed kicks, athletes perceived the post to be taller and more narrow than before, while successful kicks made the post appear larger-than-life.

Professional athletes have long claimed that their perception changes when they’re playing well — they start hitting baseballs as large as grapefruits, or aiming at golf holes the size of a bucket — but many scientists have been slow to accept that performance can alter visual perception.

Although many scientists are surprised, Witt says subjective perception is a concept most of us are already familiar with. For example, she said, when running around a track, you may know logically that the long, straight stretch is always a constant 100 meters — but by the end of a run, those same 100 meters appear to stretch on forever.

The researchers used a small, adjustable replica of a goal post to test players’ perception before and after attempting 10 kicks. While standing in front of the real-life goal, participants were asked to adjust the width and height of the model to scale.

The players’ pre-performance estimations didn’t correlate at all with their subsequent success rate. But after 10 field goal attempts, their perceived goal size was highly correlated with performance.

Interestingly, the change in players’ perception didn’t just depend on how many goals they missed — it also mattered how they missed their goals. Folks who failed because they didn’t kick high enough perceived the crossbar to be taller, while those who kicked to the side viewed it as more narrow.

Dr. Judd’s Comments:

It seems that our perception is indeed our reality. In this study those that had failed at the assigned task perceived that their goal was more difficult to attain. We are all guilty of that to some degree. So, was the goal in the study truly smaller than normal? No, of course it wasn’t. Those in the study chose to see it as smaller than normal. The state of our life is OUR choice. The world knocks us around sometimes, but the world will go on despite what we think of it. So we get to decide if we are a victim or a creator. I choose to create! I create a positive environment by seeing the world as a place full of potential. I decided many years ago to be a happy person. If you ask me, “How are you today?” you will get some crazy answer like “Phenomenal” or “I’m having the best day of my life!” This causes people to either smile or give me a suspicious look wanting to know why I am so upbeat! Either way it improves both of our days! Try those words the next time someone asks, “How are you today?” Happiness is infectious so you will both have a better day. It could be the first step to your world being a better place!

Keep your chin up and have a “Phenomenal” day!!

Dr. Judd Wattenbarger

READ The 1st Page of This Newsletter Here: CLICK HERE

Don't Miss Out On Your Tax Advantage!

2009-11-10T14:50:00.007-07:00

Oct. 30, 2009 (Bloomberg) -- About 35 million Americans may have as little as a month to take full advantage of a tax subsidy for out-of-pocket medical expenses under a health-reform bill Congress is debating. The legislation unveiled in the House yesterday would set for the first time a cap on contributions to Flexible Spending Accounts, a benefit offered by employers that allows workers to pay some medical expenses with pretax dollars. Employers currently set their own limits, generally $3,000 to $5,000.

The proposal is similar to one adopted by the Senate Finance Committee. An average worker could lose about $625 in tax savings by failing to take the full amount before the limits are set. The “open enrollment” benefit-selection period now under way at 95 percent of employers may be the last opportunity to claim a higher amount. “If you’re a parent and your kid needs braces in the next year or two, you may want to expedite that,” said Joe Jackson, chief executive officer of WageWorks Inc., a San Mateo, California, company that administers 1.5 million flexible spending accounts for some 2,800 employers.

The House limits wouldn’t apply until 2013, while the Senate limits would take effect in 2011. The current open-enrollment period, which typically lasts a week or two, is generally the only time workers can decide how much to contribute to their accounts in 2010. About 35 million Americans have flexible spending accounts and they have an average salary of $55,000, said Jackson, who is also chairman of Save Flexible Spending Plans, a coalition of business groups, medical providers and plan administrators opposing the caps.

Employers increasingly are offering such accounts, said Beth Umland, director of research for health and benefits at Mercer, a New York-based human resources consulting firm. About 83 percent of employers with 500 or more employees had health spending accounts in their benefit plans in 2008, up from 52 percent in 1995. The plans let workers deposit money before taxes into accounts that can be used to pay health-related expenses. Typically, all the money must be spent within a year to 15 months or it’s forfeited.

Under current law, depositing $5,000 to pay for a medical procedure such as laser eye surgery would save a worker in the 25 percent income-tax bracket $1,250 in taxes. An employee in the 15 percent tax bracket would save $750. Those tax savings would be cut in half under the proposal to cap the maximum annual contribution at $2,500.

“For the first time people are taking their benefits package and really looking at them,” Gibbs said. “Now is the time to put as much money in there as possible.” The House legislation would generate an estimated $13.3 billion in tax revenue to help fund broader health reforms, according to the nonpartisan congressional Joint Committee on Taxation. The House bill also would place limits on tax-advantaged Health Savings Accounts, which share some similarities with Flexible Spending Accounts, except money in HSAs doesn’t have to be spent by a specific date. It also would prohibit purchases of over-the-counter drugs using Flexible Spending Account contributions.

Dr. Judd’s Comments:

The government giveth, and the government taketh away. Flexible Spending Accounts and their cousin Health Savings Accounts have allowed the American Public to save a substantial amount of money on their medical bills over a number of years through tax breaks. Somebody noticed and the tax-shielded limits are coming down. Now is the time to look ahead. What are you going to do for your health in 2010? Put that money aside now so you don’t lose out on the last year of the maximum tax advantages. Also remember that FSA and HSA funds can be used for most of the services that we provide at Maximized Health.

Yours in abundant health,

Dr. Judd Wattenbarger

CLICK HERE to Read "Eczema, Dermatitis, Shingles, Acne, Etc.

8 Steps to Maximized Health During Seasonal Changes

2009-10-07T14:22:00.006-06:00

Do you have a strategy or a plan for avoiding health problems associated with seasonal changes? I sure hope it’s not simply getting the flu shot, putting your primary care doctor’s phone number on speed dial, or stocking up with over the counter medications.

I have always been told that ‘a man without a plan is on the fast track to failure’. I don’t know about you, but when it comes time for the seasons to change I don’t plan on getting sick – I plan on getting through without a scratch. I literally have a plan for accomplishing this. Do you? If not, feel free to copy mine:

1. Take advantage of natural health care. It is well known that chiropractic care improves immune system activity. Some chiropractic adjustments are more powerful than others, i.e. upper neck adjustments can dramatically stimulate the nerve-immune system connection. I always try to get adjusted more frequently during seasonal changes, and because of this I feel confident putting my hands on sick people all day long. Keeping the body lined up and tuned up just makes sense!!
2. Increase high quality nutrient intake. Your immune system needs fuel to function properly. Healthy, high quality foods and supplements can keep your body healthy in a room full of sick people. You should be extra cautious about nutrient and supplement intake during seasonal changes. Increasing your efforts in this department could mean the difference between laughing all day vs. coughing all day. If you need help in this department – please ask us!
3. Get some extra exercise. Regular exercise stimulates the body in so many healthy ways you can’t believe it. A body that moves well, and often, is a body that is better able to adapt and remain symptom free – and, has a longer shelf life! Schedule 3-5 workouts a week and stay committed.
4. Increase water intake. A chronically dehydrated body is a breeding ground for illness. If you care about increasing bodily function than you need a daily strategy for monitoring water intake. At lunch time and at dinner time I know exactly how much water I have consumed and therefore how much more I should consume by the end of the day. Formulate a strategy and stick to it!
5. Decrease your sugar intake. It is well known that a diet high in sugar can suppress the immune system and create chaos throughout the body. Decrease your sugar intake during seasonal changes and you will increase your ability to adapt and thrive during this period.
6. Get enough sleep. During seasonal changes the body is slightly more stressed than usual as it is forced to adapt to a changing external environment. Adequate sleep gives your body the opportunity to repair, regenerate, build resistance and rise to the challenge without complications.
7. Maintain a positive attitude. We can not maintain a strong healthy body if we are chronically stressed out, stuck in a state of negativity, or have nothing to look forward to. Find several positive influences (people, books, hobbies) and cultivate a positive outlook on life. The body has a strong tendency to follow the mind.
8. Take time to relax. Out of all the things you have to get done during the day, taking time to relax and recharge should be the most important. Take a 60 second time-out at your desk whenever you get stressed out and say a prayer, meditate, read a passage, or just take some deep breathes. Resetting ‘the system’ (mind – body connection) now and then keeps the system from breaking down.
?. I have saved my “SECRET WEAPON” for the seminar on October 14th. Something new and exciting - don’t miss out. You won’t believe how simple, yet powerful this little strategy can be.

Do you see the value in having a plan for avoiding health problems associated with seasonal changes? Your plan should always be a work in progress – continuously evolving and improving. Do a little research on your own, and share your findings with others. Too many people nowadays think that being sick is a matter of bad luck. The truth is… you can stack the odds in your favour if you just put a little work into doing so.

Speak Up and Educate Others,

Dr. Craig Burns

Read The 1st Page of This Newsletter HERE

Suit: Meatpacker used `downer' cows for 4 years

2009-09-25T11:06:00.000-06:00

By GILLIAN FLACCUS, Associated Press Writer Gillian Flaccus, Associated Press Writer – Thu Sep 24, 6:00 pm ET

LOS ANGELES – A Southern California meatpacking plant that supplied beef to the nation's school lunch program slaughtered stumbling, potentially contaminated cows for four years before undercover video of animal abuse prompted a massive beef recall, federal court filings say.

The amended complaint filed late last month in U.S. District Court in Riverside is part of an ongoing civil lawsuit filed by The Humane Society of the United States against the Chino-based Westland/Hallmark Meat Co.

The U.S. Department of Justice intervened in the case with the new complaint after months of additional research and interviews that uncovered the startling new allegations against the now-defunct packing plant. Among them, the company failed to disclose that one of its partners had two felony convictions related to illegal industry practices.

The Humane Society released video in late 2007 showing "downer" cows — animals too weak or sick to walk — being dragged by chains, rammed by forklifts and sprayed with high-pressure water by plant employees who wanted them to stand for processing.

The video sparked the largest beef recall in U.S. history. Officials estimated at the time that 37 million pounds of the 143 million pounds of recalled beef went to school lunch programs, and most of the meat had already been eaten.

Donald W. Hallmark, whom the lawsuit lists as a company partner, told The Associated Press he retired six years ago and had no comment. Calls to a number for another partner, Steve Mendell, rang unanswered Thursday.

The new filing alleges the government paid Westland/Hallmark millions of dollars to which it was not entitled because the company lied about meeting all the conditions for the 140 government contracts it held between 2003 and 2008.

The lawsuit seeks unspecified damages and a jury trial. The original filing by the Humane Society sought $150 million.

In the papers, the government alleges the meatpacking plant slaughtered and processed downer cows for nearly four years — from January 2004 to September 2007 — at the average rate of one every six weeks and abused animals daily using chains, forklifts, high-pressure water hoses or electric prods, or by punching and kicking them.

Downer cows pose increased risk for mad cow disease, E. coli and other infections, partly because they typically wallow in feces.

The new complaint also alleges that a partner at Westland/Hallmark, Aaron Magidow, had two felony convictions that were not reported to the government when it awarded the meatpacker's contracts. Magidow, who has since died, was convicted in 1974 of bribing federal meat inspectors and in 1983 for participating in a fraudulent meat buying scheme, the lawsuit said.

The executor of Magidow's estate, which is named as a defendant in the case, said he had no comment.

"I think whatever we have to say will be said in court," said attorney Walter Weiss.
Officials with the Humane Society said the government's filing marked the first time the Justice Department had intervened in a federal false claims case involving the mistreatment of farm animals.

The lawsuit "not only confirms everything that our investigation found, but suggests that it was even more widespread than we had documented," said Jonathan Lovvorn, the Humane Society's chief counsel. "We're concerned by what they uncovered — but not surprised."

San Bernardino County prosecutors charged two of the employees seen on the undercover video. One was sentenced to six months in jail, the other to nine months in jail.

Source: Associated Press

AP IMPACT: School drinking water contains toxins

2009-09-25T10:40:00.003-06:00

By GARANCE BURKE, Associated Press Writer Garance Burke, Associated Press Writer – 1 hr 34 mins ago

CUTLER, Calif. – Over the last decade, the drinking water at thousands of schools across the country has been found to contain unsafe levels of lead, pesticides and dozens of other toxins.
An Associated Press investigation found that contaminants have surfaced at public and private schools in all 50 states — in small towns and inner cities alike.

But the problem has gone largely unmonitored by the federal government, even as the number of water safety violations has multiplied.

"It's an outrage," said Marc Edwards, an engineer at Virginia Tech who has been honored for his work on water quality. "If a landlord doesn't tell a tenant about lead paint in an apartment, he can go to jail. But we have no system to make people follow the rules to keep school children safe?"

The contamination is most apparent at schools with wells, which represent 8 to 11 percent of the nation's schools. Roughly one of every five schools with its own water supply violated the Safe Drinking Water Act in the past decade, according to data from the Environmental Protection Agency analyzed by the AP.

In California's farm belt, wells at some schools are so tainted with pesticides that students have taken to stuffing their backpacks with bottled water for fear of getting sick from the drinking fountain.

Experts and children's advocates complain that responsibility for drinking water is spread among too many local, state and federal agencies, and that risks are going unreported. Finding a solution, they say, would require a costly new national strategy for monitoring water in schools.
Schools with unsafe water represent only a small percentage of the nation's 132,500 schools. And the EPA says the number of violations spiked over the last decade largely because the government has gradually adopted stricter standards for contaminants such as arsenic and some disinfectants.

Many of the same toxins could also be found in water at homes, offices and businesses. But the contaminants are especially dangerous to children, who drink more water per pound than adults and are more vulnerable to the effects of many hazardous substances.
"There's a different risk for kids," said Cynthia Dougherty, head of the EPA's Office of Groundwater and Drinking Water.

Still, the EPA does not have the authority to require testing for all schools and can only provide guidance on environmental practices.

In recent years, students at a Minnesota elementary school fell ill after drinking tainted water. A young girl in Seattle got sick, too.

The AP analyzed a database showing federal drinking water violations from 1998 to 2008 in schools with their own water supplies. The findings:
• Water in about 100 school districts and 2,250 schools breached federal safety standards.
• Those schools and districts racked up more than 5,550 separate violations. In 2008, the EPA recorded 577 violations, up from 59 in 1998 — an increase that officials attribute mainly to tougher rules.
• California, which has the most schools of any state, also recorded the most violations with 612, followed by Ohio (451), Maine (417), Connecticut (318) and Indiana (289).
• Nearly half the violators in California were repeat offenders. One elementary school in Tulare County, in the farm country of the Central Valley, broke safe-water laws 20 times.
• The most frequently cited contaminant was coliform bacteria, followed by lead and copper, arsenic and nitrates.

The AP analysis has "clearly identified the tip of an iceberg," said Gina Solomon, a San Francisco physician who serves on an EPA drinking water advisory board. "This tells me there is a widespread problem that needs to be fixed because there are ongoing water quality problems in small and large utilities, as well."

Schools with wells are required to test their water and report any problems to the state, which is supposed to send all violations to the federal government.

But EPA officials acknowledge the agency's database of violations is plagued with errors and omissions. And the agency does not specifically monitor incoming state data on school water quality.

Critics say those practices prevent the government from reliably identifying the worst offenders — and carrying out enforcement.

Scientists say the testing requirements fail to detect dangerous toxins such as lead, which can wreak havoc on major organs and may retard children's learning abilities.
"There is just no excuse for this. Period," said California Sen. Barbara Boxer, Democratic chairwoman of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works. "We want to make sure that we fix this problem in a way that it will never happen again, and we can ensure parents that their children will be safe."

The problem goes beyond schools that use wells. Schools that draw water from public utilities showed contamination, too, especially older buildings where lead can concentrate at higher levels than in most homes.

In schools with lead-soldered pipes, the metal sometimes flakes off into drinking water. Lead levels can also build up as water sits stagnant over weekends and holidays.
Schools that get water from local utilities are not required to test for toxins because the EPA already regulates water providers. That means there is no way to ensure detection of contaminants caused by schools' own plumbing.

But voluntary tests in Washington, Baltimore, Philadelphia, Seattle and Los Angeles have found dangerous levels of lead in recent years. And experts warn the real risk to schoolchildren is going unreported.

"I really suspect the level of exposure to lead and other metals at schools is underestimated," said Michael Schock, a corrosion expert with the EPA in Cincinnati. "You just don't know what is going on in the places you don't sample."

Since 2004, the agency has been asking states to increase lead monitoring. As of 2006, a survey by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found nearly half of all schools nationwide do not test their water for lead.

Because contaminant levels in water can vary from drinking fountain to drinking fountain, and different children drink different amounts of water, epidemiologists often have trouble measuring the potential threats to children's health.

But children have suffered health problems attributed to school water:
• In 2001, 28 children at a Worthington, Minn., elementary school experienced severe stomach aches and nausea after drinking water tainted with lead and copper, the result of a poorly installed treatment system.
• In Seattle several years ago, a 6-year-old girl suffered stomach aches and became disoriented and easily exhausted. The girl's mother asked her daughter's school to test its water, and also tested a strand of her daughter's hair. Tests showed high levels of copper and lead, which figured into state health officials' decision to phase-in rules requiring schools to test their water for both contaminants.

Many school officials say buying bottled water is less expensive than fixing old pipes. Baltimore, for instance, has spent more than $2.5 million on bottled water over the last six years.
After wrestling with unsafe levels of arsenic for almost two years, administrators in Sterling, Ohio, southeast of Cincinnati, finally bought water coolers for elementary school students last fall. Now they plan to move students to a new building.

In California, the Department of Public Health has given out more than $4 million in recent years to help districts overhaul their water systems.

But school administrators in the farmworker town of Cutler cannot fix chronic water problems at Lovell High School because funding is frozen due to the state's budget crisis.

Signs posted above the kitchen sink warn students not to drink from the tap because the water is tainted with nitrates, a potential carcinogen, and DBCP, a pesticide scientists say may cause male sterility.

As gym class ended one morning, thirsty basketball players crowded around a five-gallon cooler, the only safe place to get a drink on campus.

"The teachers always remind us to go to the classroom and get a cup of water from the cooler," said sophomore Israel Aguila. "But the bathroom sinks still work, so sometimes you kind of forget you can't drink out of them."

Source: Associated Press

Fat Chance!

2009-09-10T16:11:00.003-06:00

Obesity rates have soared in all age groups over the past three decades. They’ve DOUBLED among children and TRIPLED among adolescents. And nearly one in three Americans are overweight or obese. All of which foretells a sobering future.

“If we don’t succeed in reversing this epidemic…”, according to a report by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, “…we are in danger of raising the first generation of American children who will live sicker and die younger than their parents’ generation.”

In addition the costs of medical care for obesity-related disease and the resulting loss in productivity could be staggering. The obesity epidemic already costs our nation $117 billion annually in medical expenses and lost productivity. Childhood obesity alone costs up to $14 billion of that $117 billion annually, and if trends continue, that number will only get worse.

“I think it’s literally going to overwhelm us. “says Dr. Sandra Hassink, who heads a youth-obesity clinic in Wilmington, DE, and chairs the obesity leadership group for the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Authorities also say obesity affects a child’s quality of life. Obese kids have negative body images, poor self-esteem, many become targets for bullying, and obesity threatens a child’s health-both in the short and long term. Overweight kids suffer greater risks for diabetes, heart disease, asthma, sleep apnea, depression and other problems.

“Think of obesity as an accelerator for disease…”, Dr. Hassink says, “…until recently we called Type 2 diabetes ‘adult onset’ because we never saw it in children. Now, it’s showing up in kids as young as 12.”

Dr. Judd’s Comments:

This is a very powerful article chronicling the consequences of being obese as a child. So did it come from the New England Journal of Medicine, AMA Journal or the Lancet? No, in fact this is from the September/October 2009 issue of “Scouting”, a magazine especially for members and adult leaders of the Boy Scouts of America (BSA). BSA is tasked with helping boys become the best that they can be. The BSA leadership discovered an alarming trend among boys and leaders, more and more boys are unable to handle the stresses of simple outdoor activities. Plus their general health has declined dramatically. In fact, 41% of youth and 77.5% of adult applicants to the 2010 National Scout Jamboree were overweight, obese, or morbidly obese! BSA is so concerned that new health guidelines will be implemented starting in 2010.

Shouldn’t we be concerned too? I am a parent and a Scout Leader and a member of my community. I am deeply concerned with the health of my children and that of the boys in my Troop. BSA makes no apologies for their new stringent guidelines. Neither should we. It is time to take control of the health of our children and our community! They need us, let’s not miss this chance to make a difference!

Dr. Judd

Read the 1st page of the newsletter HERE

Raising Healthy Kids In An Unhealthy World
September 16th @ 6:30 pm
Guests welcomed & RSVP required.
You get 60 minutes of Migun Massage for every person you refer!!!
Speak up and tell others!

Hidden Sources Of MSG In Foods

2009-09-03T18:47:00.003-06:00

From the book 'Excitotoxins - The Taste That Kills' By Dr. Russell Blaylock, MD

“What if someone were to tell you that a chemical (MSG) added to food could cause brain damage in your children, and that this chemical could effect how your children's nervous systems formed during development so that in later years they may have learning or emotional difficulties?

“What if there was scientific evidence that these chemicals could permanently damage a critical part of the brain known to control hormones so that later in life your child might have endocrine problems? How would you feel? Would that affect your buying decisions?

“How would you feel when you learn the food industry hides and disguises these excitotoxin additives (MSG and Aspartate) so they can't be recognized? Incredulous? Enraged? The fact is many foods are labeled as having "No MSG" but in fact not only contain MSG but also are laced with other excitotoxins of equal potency and danger.

“All of the above are true. And all of these well known brain toxins are poured into our food and drink by the thousands of tons to boost sales. These additives have NO OTHER purpose other than to enhance to TASTE of food and the SWEETNESS of various diet products.

Dr. Judd’s Comments:
In the movie “So I Married An Axe Murderer”, the main character’s father rants about Kentucky Fried Chicken in a thick Scottish brough, “It’s a well known fact that they put an addictive chemical in it to make you crave for it nightly!!” Pretty funny until you realize that he was right! This is truly scary stuff. These ‘addictive chemicals’ really are put in food to make us crave it! Did you ever wonder why kids love stuff out of a box? It’s ADDICTIVE!! Dr. Blaylock continues by giving us a list of food additives to look for when shopping. Make good choices and we can avoid this stuff together!

* Food Additives that ALWAYS contain MSG *

Monosodium Glutamate
Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein
Hydrolyzed Protein
Hydrolyzed Plant Protein
Plant Protein Extract
Sodium Caseinate
Calcium Caseinate
Yeast Extract
Textured Protein (Including TVP)
Autolyzed Yeast
Hydrolyzed Oat Flour
Corn Oil

* Food Additives That FREQUENTLY Contain MSG *

Malt Extract
Malt Flavoring
Bouillon
Broth
Stock
Flavoring
Natural Flavors/Flavoring
Natural Beef Or Chicken Flavoring
Seasoning
Spices

"Raising Healthy Kids In An Unhealthy World"
September 16th, 2009 @ 6:30 pm
**Guests welcomed & RSVP required.

**You get 60 minutes of Migun Massage for every person you refer!!!

Read the 1st Page of This Newsletter HERE

New Splenda, Sucralose Study Reveals Shocking, Potentially Harmful Effects

2009-08-18T15:06:00.002-06:00

MINNEAPOLIS, Sept. 22, 2008 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) - James Turner, chairman of the national consumer education group Citizens for Health expressed shock and outrage after reading a new report from scientists at Duke University. "The report makes it clear that the artificial sweetener Splenda and its key component sucralose pose a threat to the people who consume the product. Hundreds of consumers have complained to us about side effects from using Splenda and this study, published this past week in the Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health Part A, confirms that the chemicals in the little yellow package should carry a big red warning label," said Turner.

Among the results in the study by Drs. Mohamed B. Abou-Donia, Eman M. El-Masry, Ali A. Abdel-Rahman, Roger E. McLendon and Susan S. Schiffman is evidence that, in the animals studied, Splenda reduces the amount of good bacteria in the intestines by 50%, increases the pH level in the intestines, contributes to increases in body weight and affects the P-glycoprotein (P-gp) in the body in such a way that crucial health-related drugs could be rejected. Turner noted that the P-gp effect "could result in crucial medications used in chemotherapy for cancer patients, AIDS treatment and drugs for heart conditions being shunted back into the intestines rather than being absorbed by the body as intended."

The study was conducted using male rats over a period of twelve weeks. The manufacturers of Splenda also used a rat study when they applied for and received approval to market the product from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. At the time, the findings from their rat studies were extrapolated as to possible effects on humans. This is standard FDA practice and this study is consistent with that practice.

Turner said, "This report followed accepted policies and procedures and the results make clear the potential for disturbing side effects from the ingestion of Splenda. It is like putting a pesticide in your body. And this is at levels of intake erroneously approved by the Food and Drug Administration. A person eating two slices of cake and drinking two cups of coffee containing Splenda would ingest enough sucralose to affect the P-glycoprotein, while consuming just seven little Splenda packages reduces good bacteria." Although the effect of consuming Splenda does not result from a one time use, the side effects do occur after accumulated use. Turner also noted unmistakable evidence that Splenda is absorbed by fat, contrary to the claims of Johnson & Johnson.

Turner announced, "We are calling today on the FDA to immediately accept our petition filed over a year ago and initiate a review of its approval of sucralose and to require a warning label on Splenda packaging cautioning that people who take medications and/or have gastrointestinal problems avoid using Splenda. The new study makes it clear that Splenda can cause you to gain weight and reduce the effects of medications being taken. The FDA should not continue to turn a blind eye to this health threat."

Citizens for Health will testify in Sacramento, CA, on October 3, 2008, before the California Assembly Committee on Health which is examining the use of deceptive advertising to promote sales of potentially unhealthy food additives, particularly artificial sweeteners.

Dr. Craig’s Comments:

Let me be blunt with you about this… what is the difference between poisoning yourself with arsenic versus poisoning yourself with sucralose and aspartame??? In my opinion, the outcome is the same - the only difference is that some chemicals can kill you quickly, and others slowly. I choose to live, therefore I choose wisely when it comes to the ingredients that fuel my body, and I pray you do the same!

Speak Up and Educate Others,

Dr. Craig Burns

READ the 1st Page of this newsletter HERE

Nature's Pharmacy

2009-08-07T08:06:00.002-06:00

Here are a few fun observations about nature and it's amazing ability to heal the human body and maintain optimal health.

It's been said that God first separated the salt water from the fresh, made dry land, planted a garden, made animals and fish... All before making a human. He made and provided what we'd need before we were born. These are best and more powerful when eaten raw. We're such slow learners...
　
A sliced Carrot - looks like the human eye. The pupil, iris and radiating lines look just like the human eye... And YES, science now shows carrots 　greatly enhance blood flow to and function of the eyes.　
A Tomato - has four chambers and is red. The heart has four chambers and is red. All of the research shows tomatoes are loaded with lycopine and are indeed pure heart and blood food.　
Grapes -hang in a cluster that has the shape of the heart. Each grape looks like a blood cell and all of the research today shows grapes are also profound heart and blood vitalizing food.　
A Walnut - looks like a little brain, a left and right hemisphere, upper cerebrums and lower cerebellums. Even the wrinkles or folds on the nut are just like the neo-cortex. We now know walnuts help develop more than three (3) dozen neuron-transmitters for brain function.　
Kidney Beans - actually heal and help maintain kidney function and yes, they look exactly like the human kidneys.　
Celery, Bok Choy, Rhubarb - and many more look just like bones. These foods specifically target bone strength. Bones are 23% sodium and these foods are 23% sodium. If you don't have enough sodium in your diet, the body pulls it from the bones, thus making them weak. These foods replenish the skeletal needs of the body.　
Avocadoes, Eggplant and Pears - target the health and function of the womb and cervix of the female - they look just like these organs. Today's research shows that when a woman eats one avocado a week, it balances hormones, sheds unwanted birth weight, and prevents cervical cancers. And how profound is this? It takes exactly nine (9) months to grow an avocado from blossom to ripened fruit. There are over 14,000 photolytic chemical constituents of nutrition in each one of these foods (modern science has only studied and named about 141 of them).　
Figs - are full of seeds and hang in twos when they grow. Figs increase the mobility of male sperm and increase the numbers of Sperm as well to overcome male sterility.　
Sweet Potatoes - look like the pancreas and actually balance the glycemic index of diabetics.　
Olives assist the health and function of the ovaries　
Oranges, Grapefruits, and other Citrus fruits - look just like the mammary glands of the female and actually assist the health of the breasts and the movement of lymph in and out of the breasts.　
Onions - look like the body's cells. Today's research shows onions help clear waste materials from all of the body cells. They even produce tears which wash the epithelial layers of the eyes. A working companion, Garlic, also helps eliminate waste materials and dangerous free radicals from the body.　
　
Source: Anonymous

What Is Your Spinal IQ?

2009-08-04T17:03:00.007-06:00

Your IQ that's measured in school has to do with problem solving - mental gymnastics. Your spinal IQ also has to do with problem solving - these are "problems" of the physical kind.

How far to bend over to lift those grocery bags out of your car's trunk? How much muscle force is necessary to pick up and carry your five-year-old child? What specific muscles are needed to maintain your "downward dog" position for 30 seconds in yoga class? How far can your back muscles stretch when you do a back bend at the ballet bar? These are the problems your spinal IQ tries to solve.

Spinal IQ is an inborn ability. Our bodies were designed for the rigors of physical work - they are very smart and very adaptable. One of our built-in control systems is the specialized set of nerve endings known as proprioceptors.

Proprioception is our internal awareness of position in three-dimensional space. This three-dimensional positioning allows us to keep our balance when we walk or run. Proprioception tells our muscles and joints how to work together to throw a baseball from third to first, to drive to the basketball hoop and sink a lay-up, or to hit a tennis ball to the corner of the opponent's service box and win the point.

Proprioception is very important in spinal IQ. The spine is a complex system of bones, joints, muscles, and ligaments - a smart proprioception system helps all the parts work together smoothly and seamlessly.

To keep all the parts functioning we need to take an active role. In modern society, if we're not proactive, it's easy for our bodies to break down. Two key strategies for maintaining high levels of spinal IQ are regular strenuous exercise and regular chiropractic check-ups.

Exercise helps our bodies stay smart. When we exercise our joints are mechanically stressed and challenged throughout their complete ranges of motion. This activity stimulates proprioceptors - training them to do their job well and building new and stronger connections between nerve cells. Exercise also builds muscle strength and flexibility, and in the process the muscles are getting smarter, too.

Chiropractic care enhances the benefits of your exercise program by helping ensure optimal functioning of your spine and nerve system. With regular chiropractic care, your proprioceptive system is optimized and your body's ability to adapt to physical challenges is restored.

Dr. Craig’s Comments:

Proprioception, aka you spinal IQ, is one of those things that has always intrigued me. So much so, that I continued to do extensive research on the subject even after I graduated. I found out that abnormal proprioception is connected to: decreased athletic performance, lack of coordination and poor balance, loss of strength and flexibility as one ages, slips and falls, onset of organ and gland disease, even poor mental clarity and mood disorders. Guess what the key player in determining quality of proprioception is – your posture! Posture is directly connected to proprioception. Therefore, normal and healthy posture is absolutely essential to a body that can function well now and in the future. Is your posture normal? If not, now is the time to fix it. Your health and your future depend on it!!!

“Posture affects and moderates every physiological function from breathing
to hormone production. To live a long, active, energetic life, few things matter
more than good posture.”
The American Journal of Pain Management, 1994

Speak Up and Educate Others,

Dr. Craig Burns
Click Here to read the 1st page of this newsletter

Why You Don’t Want to Use Antibacterial Soap Anymore!

2009-07-14T15:18:00.003-06:00

The antibacterial agent triclosan, commonly used in certain soaps that you probably have in your house right now, is starting to appear in consumer products ranging from socks to toothpaste.

But research shows that under normal household conditions triclosan can react with chlorinated water to produce chloroform, a likely carcinogen (cancer-causing).

An initial 2005 study showed that, in the laboratory, pure triclosan reacts with free chlorine (often found in tap water) to produce chloroform. More recently, follow-up studies on 16 products found that household goods containing triclosan produced either chloroform or other chlorinated byproducts.

In some soaps, the triclosan degraded within one minute of exposure to chlorinated water at temperatures used for household cleaning.

I posted a newsletter two years ago about the dangers of using antibacterial soap and common household cleaning products. I am not surprised to learn the initial reports I used to construct this newsletter have been confirmed; products containing triclosan can produce the cancer-causing substance chloroform.

That is one of the benefits you get by reading this newsletter. It is very common that you'll be alerted of health issues YEARS before they become widely publicized in the traditional media.

So be alert because the average consumer has NO CLUE this is a problem. Antibacterial soaps are widespread in most households nowadays. If you see it, be an activist and tell them what you know. Show them the evidence and ask them to switch. Don’t let them unknowingly continue to poison themselves or their family so some company can make money and provide no benefit, only harm.

Because water temperatures, chlorination and the antibacterial products used can vary based on the locale, it's hard for scientists to predict the precise amount of chloroform to which you may be exposed. With that said, the use of triclosan in some conditions can expand your exposure to chloroform by as much as 40%.

But remember that even when triclosan does not degrade into chloroform, it's still dangerous in and of itself, because it enters the environment and eventually creates antibiotic-resistant germs.

It's surprising the problem still exists, considering even the highly conservative American Medical Association's very public slam against antibacterial soaps seven years ago, and undisputed evidence that nothing works better when it comes to hand-washing than plain soap and water, without the unnecessary toxic antibacterial chemicals.

Dr. Craig’s Comments:

In our house and in our office, we promote the use of a certain kind of soap. It’s called Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soaps. You can go to www.drbronner.com to order an array of healthy, non toxic soap products. You could go to a local health food store, but you will pay more and your selection of products will be limited. One more thing… checking your ingredient labels is not just good practice when it comes to food items – check you cleaning products for triclosan! Remember, what you put on your skin you put into your body. So, check ALL your labels and choose WISELY!

Read the 1st page of this newsletter HERE

Yours in Health and On Purpose,

Dr. Craig Burns

NEW Fibromyalgia Seminar July 23rd @ 6:30 pm
Guests welcomed & RSVP required.
You get 5 FREE massages for every person you get to the seminar!!!

2 New Developments In The Office:

2009-06-30T17:03:00.006-06:00

First, I want to remind you of our Patient Appreciation Day event on July 8th. Patient Appreciation Day is a time honored tradition in the Chiropractic profession. We have always recognized the need for showing gratitude for having patients who allow us to improve the health of mankind through the Chiropractic Lifestyle. We appreciate having YOU as a part of our family!!!

With that said, our Patient Appreciation Day is also an opportunity to celebrate those people who are NOT YET patients of Maximized Health. So, let me ask you 2 simple questions…

1. Would you agree that we have helped you?
2. Would you agree that there are many, many people in our community who also need our help, but don’t know what we do?

If you answered YES to both questions, then I want to ask you a favor - we need your help. Our purpose is to help as many people as possible and I want to ask you if you know of anyone who lives locally who has health problems such as arthritis, headaches, pain, hormone problems, sleep problems, weight problems, etc. Who are you thinking of? What is their problem? Are you thinking of someone at work?

On July 8th we will be doing 2 very important things. First, we will be having a small party to celebrate YOU.
If you are in town, please be sure to come by and be APPRECIATED… grab a snack, perhaps an adjustment, and certainly a laugh or two (not to mention we will be giving away prizes all day, HINT: if you participate, the least you will win is a free massage :).

Second, we will be opening the office for free examinations. Therefore, I am asking all of you to go the extra mile and invite someone to receive a complimentary evaluation. If they have a problem, and we can help them, then great! If they just want a simple biomechanics or health evaluation to see if everything is OK, then that is great as well!

Our goal is to offer at least 10 people the opportunity to GET CHECKED during that week. We need YOU to help us accomplish this goal. Will you go the extra mile and tell someone about our Patient Appreciation Day event, and how they can receive a free evaluation? If so, I may have an extra gift waiting for you – and them (HINT: everyone could use a free massage).

MORE DETAILS ARE AVAILABLE – ASK ANY STAFF MEMBER.

ONE MORE THING…

We are proud to announce that we have added a new member to our Team, Julie Hickman. Julie will be helping us at the front desk to maintain excellence in patient care. Julie has been with us as a patient for nearly a year now. Having been a patient, Julie is very much aligned with our values and our purpose in serving this community.
Julie is also finishing up her training as a Certified Nutritionist and is looking forward to applying this knowledge in the field of natural health care.
In short, our office is much improved with her presence and we are all looking forward to serving you in even greater ways. Please help us make Julie feel at home, as I am sure she will do the same for you.

Yours in Health and On Purpose,

Dr. Craig Burns

Coca Cola® Water With Vitamins Might Not Be a Healthy Beverage

2009-06-16T16:22:00.002-06:00

VitaminWater® from the Coca-Cola Company sounds like a healthy product that promotes wellness, right? It comes in several flavors with names like “Defense,” “Rescue,” “Energy” and “Endurance.” It certainly seems like it might be an energizing treat. Well, maybe not. According to nutritionists at the Center for Science, the product is loaded with sugar to the tune of 33 grams in each and every 20 oz. bottle.

As a result of this discovery, Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) has decided to take the Coca-Cola Company to court. A class action suit has been filed by CSPI against the company for deceptive and unsubstantiated claims on its VitaminWater line of beverages.

Coca-Cola has made a wide variety of advertising statements regarding the effectiveness of VitaminWater. Included in the hype are claims that drinking it reduces the risk of chronic disease, promotes healthy joints and that it supports the immune system.

According to CSPI nutritionists, the opposite is actually true in terms of good health. “The 33 grams of sugar in each bottle of VitaminWater do more to promote obesity, diabetes and other health problems than the vitamins in the drinks do to perform the advertised benefits listed on the bottle.”

CSPI believes that Coca-Cola marketing has gone beyond the limits of statements the U.S. Food and Drug Administration allows, all the way to making fraudulent claims about the product. As a result of their investigation, a suit has been filed against the company in the U.S. District Court in the Northern District of California.

“VitaminWater is Coke’s attempt to dress up soda in a physician’s white coat,” said CSPI litigation director Steve Gardner. “Underneath, its still sugar water, albeit sugar water that costs about ten bucks a gallon.”

CSPI’s executive director Michael F. Jacobson had these words of wisdom for health-conscious people: “My advice to consumers is to get your vitamins from real food. If you have reason to believe you have a shortcoming of one vitamin or another, perhaps take an inexpensive supplement. But don’t seek out your vitamins in sugary soft drinks like Coke’s VitaminWater.”

Source: Center for Science in the Public Interest. “Coke Sued for Fraudulent Claims on Obesity-Promoting VitaminWater.” January 2009. http://cspinet.org/new/200901151.html

Dr. Craig’s Comments:
I know you are trying to find the healthy alternative to the “bad stuff”. In doing so, remember 2 things: First, don’t get your product education from some marketing team – go get it on your own. Second, don’t get too comfortable with your choices – always be looking for the better version!

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig Burns

What Can You Learn From The Oldest People On The Planet?

2009-05-06T07:58:00.002-06:00

Learn why these 5 cultures are living without disease and what common denominator connects them. They are well known for longevity of 120 to 140 years. You may have heard of their names if you have been studying alternative health for any length of time.

Certain tribes of Tibetans in western China
The Hunzas in eastern Pakistan near Mount Rekaposhi
The Russian Georgians of the Caucaus Mountains in western Russia
The Vilcabomba Indians in the Andes Mountains of Ecuador
And the Titicaca Indians in the Andes Mountains of southwestern Peru

The common denominator… they all live in mountain valleys 8,500 to 14,000 feet in elevation and they all get their water from the “glacial milk” (the water that comes from underneath glaciers as they grind up the parent rock of the mountain). This highly mineralized water is white and opaque – it looks like milk.

More importantly, for 2,500 to 5,000 years, they have irrigated their crops with it. So, their crops have converted the metallic minerals in the “glacial milk” into organically bound plant colloidal minerals, the most absorbable form of minerals. And then guess what… they eat the plants and get all of those minerals.

In short, these 5 third world cultures gave their body the raw materials that it needed, and then let the greatest physician of all… their own body do the healing. Your body is capable of healing itself, but only when it’s basic nutritional needs are met on a daily basis.

Approximately 99% of the human body is comprised of minerals, yet minerals are generally overlooked when nutrition is considered. It is well known that the human body requires at least 60 minerals in order to maintain a disease and ailment free state.

Foods we raise or purchase in markets today seldom contain more than 16 to 18 minerals. This small number of minerals in plants is because of a mineral deficiency of the food producing soils around the world.

If this information is indeed true, it's easy to understand why sickness is so prevalent throughout the world, even in technologically advanced countries. The body can utilize some minerals without vitamins, but vitamins and most other nutrients are basically useless in the absence of minerals.

Extensive research is showing that without supplementation, it is not likely that we can eat enough food to get the full range of essential trace minerals required to obtain optimum health and longevity.

Dr. Craig’s Comments…

The water in one of my supplements, Ionix Supreme, is sourced from the Arkansas’ Ouachita Mountains, an area known for the healing properties found in its water. Discovered within the Coleman mine, the water is supersaturated with quartz crystals and other minerals. Quartz Crystal Mineral Water is one of the most unique waters to be discovered. Quartz is made up of silica and oxygen and is an incredible conductor of electricity. Silica makes up the primary element saturated in this water. It is a trace mineral that is important for bones, hair, skin and proper nerve conduction.

When water becomes rich in minerals, as this unique quartz water has done, it enables the body to maintain energy, vitality and health. Many of the health problems we are seeing are occurring as a result of deficiencies in our diet. Using waters that are enriched naturally with minerals such as silica, calcium, magnesium and trace minerals becomes a fuel for the body to enrich and function more efficiently.

If you have more questions about mineral supplementation, please ask a member of our staff!

How Much Do You Really Want to Know?

2009-03-17T13:16:00.005-06:00

The focus of this week’s newsletter is “how much have you changed, how much will you change?”

For the last couple weeks we have been focusing on what you know vs. what you don’t know about your body, and your habits. I know that many of you are concerned about how much your habits have changed your body, specifically those of you who sit for more than 2-4 hours per day.

We will be coaching all of you on a few key concepts when it comes to ergonomics in the office, car and at home. We are doing this in conjunction with our community outreach program “Healthy @ Work – Healthy 4 Life”.

For example… do you know if your sitting posture is helping you or hurting you? An important question that we hope all of you will be able to answer within the next several days.

The reason we are doing this is simple, yet profound. Research and experience is showing me that sitting incorrectly for more than 2-4 hours per day will cause your body to develop and age abnormally. This will in turn lead to symptoms and health problems that quickly become life changing conditions if left unchecked.

So, over the next several days my staff and I will work extra hard in helping correct your ergonomics and postural habits, thereby helping you avoid said problems in the future.

We are even going to take it a step further. We are going to work even harder to help those that are willing learn more so they can change more.

Over the next several days we will be offering you the OPPORTUNITY to take your health education and body awareness to a much higher level. This is strictly voluntary! What I mean is this… if you really want to know more about your body and how to care for it or “improve it”… we will coach you. But, again it is up to you to take the initiative and ask for help. We don’t want to force any additional knowledge or training upon you.

For example, it is a fact that prolonged sitting causes various parts of the body to shrink and shorten while other parts elongate and stretch out. Prolonged sitting (work, car, home – it’s all cumulative) will cause some parts to become weak while others become over developed. The point is… if you are not careful and proactive your body will change in a way that you DO NOT want it to.

Trust me on this one… it is this very simple concept that has brought many of you here looking for help, and it is this very same concept that will cause many of your friends and family to develop joint and muscle conditions as they age. All of these problems can be avoided or improved greatly. But, you must receive the right training and counsel. If I can do it – so can you!

At the bottom of this newsletter you will find a sample of the checklist we use. If you wish to “learn more so you can change more”, please meet with a member of Team Maximized Health (FYI: Tom is our ergonomics specialist). Next week, we will systematically fill out entire form for you and get you moving in the right direction.

KNOW YOUR BODY - CHANGE YOUR HABITS – TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR LIFE

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig Burns

Patient name_____________________________ Date____________

Patient Specific Recommendations for Ergonomics & Rehabilitation
Based on our review of your personal needs we are prescribing the following:

Muscles to Stretch:
o Hip Flexors
o Hamstrings
o Quadriceps
o Low Back
o Anterior Chest
o Calves
o Glutes
o Neck Flexors
*** These muscle groups require stretching on a daily basis. Hold each stretch for 5-60 seconds (longer = better). Repeat throughout the day. If you have questions or concerns please consult with us. A simple internet search will help you learn more about stretching these muscles.

Muscles to Strengthen:
o Hip Flexors
o Hamstrings
o Quadriceps
o Low Back
o Upper Back
o Posterior Shoulder
o Glutes
o Neck Extensors
o Lower Abdominals
o Upper Abdominals
o Core Spinal Stability Muscle Groups

Ergonomics and Postural Recommendation:
o Mini-breaks (stretch) every 15 minutes while performing 30+ minutes of desk work
o Lumbar Chair Support
o Fitball for workstation
o Sitting Disc for workstation

Strengthening:
o The 4 Bridges Routine = 4 - 7 days/wk, 2 - 4 sets, 30 – 60 sec. hold
o Superman = 4 - 7 days/wk, 3 - 6 sets, 10 – 25 reps
o Swimmer’s = 4 - 7 days/wk, 3 - 6 sets, 10 – 25 reps
o Back Extensions (Fitball) = 4 - 7 days/wk, 3 - 6 sets, 10 – 25 reps
o V-ups = 4 - 7 days/wk, 3 – 6, sets, 10 – 25 reps
o Basic Sit-up (Fitball) = 4 - 7 days/wk, 3 - 6 sets, 10 – 25 reps

Core Stretching:
o Basic Neck Stretch = daily, 2 - 6 sets, 30 – 60 sec. hold
o Trigger Point Stretch = daily, 1 - 3 sets, 30 – 60 sec. hold
o Side Posture Stretch = daily, 2 - 4 sets, 30 – 60 sec. hold
o Forward Bend Stretch w/ Twist (low back) = daily, 2 - 6 sets, 30 – 60 sec. hold
o Cobra Pose = daily, 2 - 4 sets, 30 – 60 sec. hold, other:
o Foam Roller (mid spine) = daily, 2 - 4 sets, 30 - 60sec. hold, other:
o Fitball (full spine) = daily, 2 - 4 sets, 30 – 60 sec. hold, other:
o Lumbar Wedge (lower spine) = daily, 2 - 4 sets, 30 – 60 sec. hold, other:

Additional Stretches Required:
o Corner Stretch (chest and shoulders) = daily, 1-3 sets, 20 – 60 sec. hold
o Hamstring Stretch = daily, 2-3 sets, 30 – 60 sec. hold
o Hip Flexor Stretch = daily, 2-3 sets, 30 – 60 sec. hold
o Quadriceps Stretch = daily, 2-3 sets, 30 – 60 sec. hold
o Glute Stretch = daily, 2-3 sets, 30 – 60 sec. hold
o Basic Hip Stretching Protocol = daily, 1-3 sets, 20 – 60 sec. hold

Web-based Video Education Counseling:
o Ergonomics and Lifestyle Modifications = the stretches and exercises for the muscle groups listed above are all posted in our Members Area of our website. If you have difficulty finding this information please see the Front Desk.

Additional Instruction:

What Can You Learn From A Dentist's Dilemma?

2009-03-03T12:00:00.004-07:00

Excerpt from the book, "Practice Dentistry Pain-Free: Evidence-based Strategies to Prevent Pain and Extend Your Career" May 28, 2008

More than 75 percent of adults in the United States experience back pain at some point in their lives. Low back pain is so common among dental professionals, that many have come to passively accept it as a necessary evil of their occupations.

The problem of low back pain in dentistry is a multifactorial one. However, a primary contributing factor to low back pain among dental hygienists is static, poor seated posture that directly impacts the health of the lumbar spine and musculature. Specific changes to work habits can have positive ramifications, not only for the low back, but for your entire body.

Attaining a healthy seated working posture can be surprisingly difficult for many dentists and their staff, and it can dramatically impact low back pain. It’s not at all uncommon to see these professionals slouching, perched on the edge of their stools or in other unhealthy working postures.

Passive sitting, which looks like slouching, is a common posture in the dentist office because it expends very little energy. In this posture the pelvis rolls backward causing the lumbar curve to flatten. Since nearly every curve of the spine affects the curve above or below it, the flattened low back curve causes a reciprocal forward movement of the head. Now the worker’s spine is in a C-shape, providing little support, and the body is literally hanging on the soft structures at the back of the spine. The flattened lumbar curve significantly increases the load on muscles and spinal discs. It can also stretch and permanently elongate the ligaments of the lower back, decreasing spinal stability.

Over time, ligaments and muscles may permanently stretch or shorten to adapt to a slouched working posture and hold the spine in unbalanced posture – even when the person is not at work. This is how a person’s health can literally be determined by their habits and postures at work. Muscle strains, headaches, and trigger points result from this unhealthy posturing as well as possible disc degeneration or herniation.

Remember your mother always telling you to sit up straight? While it is obvious that good posture is the key to injury prevention in dentistry, this advice is often given without context or specific instructions.

Dr. Craig’s Comments:
As you can see from this article, sitting for prolonged periods of time can be hazardous to your career and your health if you are not careful about HOW you are doing it. The secret to MASTERING your sitting habits is mainly due to your ability to answer the “7 basic questions”.

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig Burns

UPCOMING EVENT!

March 23rd - April 3rd is “Healthy Back at Work – Healthy Back for Life”. Do you know someone who sits for more than 4 hours per day? Give them this newsletter. We welcome them to call us - to schedule a free 15 minute biomechanics and ergonomics consultation (free back support with every consultation).
Please, see the front desk for more details.

How Can A Picture Of Your Lower Back Predict Your Future?

2009-03-03T11:55:00.003-07:00

The focus of this week’s newsletter is a continuum of the topic “how unhealthy habits can create an unhealthy body – and how this process will always affect your future”.

Last week we begged the question, “What does the shape of your lower body look like on the inside?” If you can not answer this question in great detail – YOU HAVE A PROBLEM! For example, here are 7 simple questions about your body that you should be able to answer with ABSOLUTE CERTAINTY:

1. Have I developed too much curve in my lower back, too little curve, or do I have just the right amount?
2. Does my upper body weight favor a backward lean to it, a forward lean to it, or is it perfectly centered?
3. Does my upper body weight favor a lean to the right, a lean to the left, or is it also perfectly centered?
4. Does my pelvis regularly flex forward too far, extend backwards too far, or is it perfectly level?
5. Do I have a right short leg, a left short leg, or perfectly leveled legs?
6. Do I have a left high shoulder posture, a right high shoulder posture, or a perfectly leveled shoulder posture?
7. Does my pelvis rotate forward on the right, rotate forward on the left, or is it perfectly centered?

How did you do? If you could not answer all of the above questions with absolute certainty YOU ARE IN DANGER of growing and aging abnormally. If so, you will most likely develop what is now known as degenerative disease. This condition is brought on by abnormal wear and tear on the body, which is CAUSED BY a physical imbalance of core body structure.

Often times this will lead to frequent discomfort, which most people ignore or pass off as “getting older”. But in fact, the discomfort is your body’s way of alerting you to an imbalance. Unfortunately, many people can have an imbalance or impairment and NEVER EVEN KNOW IT!

So what do you NEED TO KNOW to maintain your body and prevent problems in the future? First, you NEED TO BE ABLE to answer the 7 questions with absolute certainty! If you have any of the above mentioned structural imbalances or physical impairments you NEED TO BE ABLE to fix them as quickly as possible. In both cases; knowledge and understanding is the key. Second to that is an accurate plan of attack!

As a patient of The Maximized Health Wellness Center you have the opportunity to accomplish both goals. If you feel as though you need help in answering these questions or better understanding your plan of attack – do not hesitate to ask! If you are not an active patient and can not answer the 7 basic questions… getting a picture of your lower back is “as easy as 1, 2, 3”.

In any given day, the majority of everyone you encounter is aging passively. What I mean is this… if any physical imbalance or impairment exists and they are not aware of it – they are doing NOTHING to improve it! On the other hand, if a person IS AWARE of their imbalances or weaknesses they can engage in activities that will significantly improve how their body ages, i.e. AGE ACTIVELY.

With this knowledge we can accurately predict a person’s future well-being, and thereby alter it if need be. KNOW YOUR BODY, change your habits, and take control of your life! We are here to help people do just that.

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig Burns

What Do You Know About "Non-Accidental Back Injury"?

2009-02-24T15:05:00.002-07:00

On a recent survey of over 2,000 office workers, 70% of the poll respondents said that their backs felt significantly worse at the end of their work day as compared to the start of their day.

“It should come as no surprise that sitting for long periods in an office chair can cause low back pain. Sitting adds large amounts of pressure to the back muscles and spinal discs (even more than standing), and often people with desk jobs don’t move around much and/or they slouch, causing even more strain on spinal structures,” says John Triano, DC, PhD, a chiropractor in Plano, Texas. “However, the poll results do suggest that ‘ergonomics’ is not yet well understood or applied correctly in the office environment. Just having an office chair, key board or mouse labeled as ‘ergonomic’ isn’t enough by itself to prevent low back pain.”

According to experts, what matters most when selecting an office chair isn’t price or if the chair is labeled ‘ergonomic’ but more importantly how well educated its user is about correct body position and biomechanics. When setting up an office chair, the single most important step is to support the lower back curve. Then, additional modifications can be used to adjust the office chair according to the individual’s unique physical proportions.

Throughout each work day, people with desk jobs should avoid slouching or leaning forward. This can lead to permanent changes in normal body structure.

Another important point: avoid static posture while sitting. “Even if you use your office chair properly, sitting for prolonged periods will usually cause fatigue and discomfort – especially if the person already has an unhealthy back. My best advice is to find a specialist or health care provider that can get you headed back in the right direction,” adds Dr. Triano.

Prolonged static posture is the enemy. The healthy body can only tolerate staying in one position for about 20 minutes. That is why sitting on an airplane, at a desk in an office chair, or at a movie theatre becomes uncomfortable after a short time. Standing in one place, such as standing on a concrete floor for extended periods of time tends to cause back pain. Holding the same position slowly diminishes elasticity in the soft tissues (muscles ligaments and tendons in the back). Then, stress builds up and causes back discomfort and/or leg discomfort.

An unhealthy body will begin to breakdown and fail in even less time. These changes often go unnoticed while a degenerative process continues to take place. By this point, the damage is already being done!

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig Burns

UPCOMING EVENT!

March 23rd - April 3rd is “Healthy Back at Work – Healthy Back for Life”. Do you know someone who sits for more than 4 hours per day? Give them this newsletter. We welcome them to call us -to schedule a free 15 minute biomechanics and ergonomics consultation (free back support with every consultation).
Please, see the front desk for more details.

Degenerative Disease At An All Time High - Take Action Now!

2009-02-24T14:54:00.002-07:00

The focus of this week’s newsletter is how unhealthy work habits can literally promote degenerative disease. The thing to know and remember is this… if you don’t know how to prevent it – you will get it!

INTRODUCTION: At one time or another, most people have experienced back pain and stiffness. People often attribute this to a "stressful day" or "sleeping wrong". Most commonly, a degenerative process or disorder of the spine is responsible. Degenerative "disease" typically refers to the bodily changes associated with excessive, unnatural wear and tear as you age.

DEFINITION: Degenerative disease of the spine refers to a breakdown of its normal shape and architecture.

THE PROBLEM: The joints, discs, muscles, ligaments, tendons and nerves of the body are designed to last a very long time. However, medical research is showing that degenerative disease is reaching an all time high, even in young adults and children.

THE SOLUTION: Some medical “experts” say that degenerative disease is part of getting older or is genetic. These same “experts” will say that anti-inflammatory drugs and low impact exercise are the best solution. The truth is education, detection and prevention is the best way to stop, or avoid all together, problems associated with degenerative disease.

It is a medical fact that the body responds to stress and physical demands by either building up (building muscle/bone) or breaking down (degenerative disease). Another medical fact is that the shape and condition of your spine, your “core” dictates which direction you will go.

For example, the normal curvature of the lower spine has a strong tendency to change shape when sitting for long periods of time. Most often the normal curvature is reduced. This change alters the load bearing capacity of the lower spine, i.e. its ability to handle stress while sitting, standing, lifting, playing, etc. For this reason, we are seeing a dramatic increase in back ache/pain and degenerative disease in people who sit for more than 4 hours per day – this includes sitting at work, in the car, and on the couch!

If you sit for more than 4 hours per day do not fret. You can take control of the situation. However, you must take the right steps if you are to avoid degenerative disease and enjoy a happy, active retirement.

First, you must know if your lower back curve is normal, or has already changed. Remember, your sitting habits can develop an excessive curvature just as easily as a reduced curvature – both cases can be disastrous! Then, with this understanding your sitting posture can be specifically modified to reduce, and in many cases, even correct the problem. The benefits of making such a seemingly minor change can be significant enough to help you avoid the “inevitability” of degenerative disease. According to medical research, the people who go to work without this knowledge will experience an accelerated aging process and inevitably develop degenerative disease.

This knowledge can be obtained in less than 5 minutes with a standing x-ray. The shape and condition of your low back curvature can be measured, and any signs of degenerative disease can be evaluated. Most importantly, this information will allow you to take preventative measures before it’s too late.

Know your spine, change your habits, and take control of your life! We are here to help you do just that.

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig Burns

“As I see it, every day you do one of two things: build health or produce disease in yourself.”

Statistics Reveal The Inherent Danger of "Sitting for a Living"

2009-02-17T12:56:00.003-07:00

Statistics show a rise in health hazards related to a sedentary life spent at the desk, usually in front of the computer. Musculoskeletal disorders rose from 18% in 1985 to 52% in 1989 and 56% in 1991. Other studies show that 31% of medical claims made by employees pertaining to a computer environment involved neck and back. The medical compensation caused by these and other work-related health hazards exceeds $100 billion annually in the US alone.

Occupational hazards that you should be aware of and concerned about:

The eyes are the first to get affected by prolonged computing and the spinal cord is a close second. Cervical Spondylitis is a disorder pertaining to the neck - inflammation of the vertebrae manifests as pain and stiffness. This, according to medical researchers, is the most common ailment among computer users. Another common ailment is positional backache, which is also termed as Lumber Strain and is caused by both spinal misalignment and improper ergonomics.

Another persistent health hazard is Repetitive Strain/Stress Injury (RSI). PC users most commonly complain of numbness or pain, anywhere from the shoulders to the feet. RSI is a more chronic ailment caused over the years. Capillaries carry blood to muscles and tendons. As tense muscles squeeze (like when bending the finger or the wrist), blood flow to the affected area slows down. When the blood flow stops, a muscle has enough energy stored to cope with the tension for a brief while. Once this is expended, the muscle switches to an inefficient form of energy supply. Once this too is over, lactic acid builds up in the muscle, causing pain and fatigue.

In a reflex reaction called the splinting reaction, the neighboring muscles tense up, triggering a self-sustaining pain cycle. The pain can also migrate from one part of the body to another. Over time, the strained muscles turn hyper-sensitive and develop specific tender points called myofascial trigger points. The inadequate blood supply causes numbness and tingling.

On account of larger nerves being squeezed, the tingling and numbness is more defined. The tell-tale signs of RSI are pain, stiffness, swelling, numbness and tingling in the neck, back and limbs. Stressful positions of the body, as those faced by desk workers, serve only to aggravate the potential for bodily damage and a declining health status.

Denial of the early stage symptoms is one of the main causes that will aggravate the condition. Precautionary measures need to be interwoven into our daily lifestyle and methods of working. This is where we come in by offering specific medical advice to reduce stress upon the concerned body part and reduce the chances, if not prevent the possibility of any injury.

While awareness of the benefits of using, say, an ergonomic chair or mouse is common knowledge, there is much more to be concerned and educated about. For example, one precaution that is ignored as much as it is stressed upon is to develop a healthy awareness of proper body mechanics both in and out of the office.

While technology continues to open new frontiers, it brings with it newer hazards. With computers becoming an integral part of our work implements, prevention is the only course of action worth taking.

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig Burns

“As I see it, every day you do one of two things: build health or produce disease in yourself.”

Work Habits Linked to Abnormal Aging Process

2009-02-17T12:53:00.001-07:00

Rachel stretched back in her chair and shut her eyes. She put down her glasses and massaged the tight muscles
in her neck. She noticed that the nagging pain in her neck had spread to the middle of her back. She sighed as another day ended with stress, soreness and fatigue.
Sound familiar? This probably describes how most of us who spend long hours sitting in front of the computer feel at the end of the day. We are slowly waking up to the fact that our stressful work habits may be the cause of the constant discomfort we feel, but can’t put our finger on.

This awareness has given rise to what we call the Work-related Physical Stress Phenomenon. In short, I am referring to one key principle: How the body can age and literally degenerate in response to unhealthy work habits.

"Health problems caused by long hours sitting in front of a computer are jeopardizing the health of the work force and affecting corporate America's ability to compete in the global economy," said Dr. Peter F. Ullrich, medical director of Spine-health and an orthopedic spine surgeon.

It is true! The body ages and degenerates in response to the stress that we consistently subject it to, i.e. work-related stress. We have medical laws that support this principle. Do a Google search for Wolff’s Law (bone), Davis’s Law (muscle), Laplace’s Law (nerve) and you will see that the human body will grow and develop normally or age and degenerate abnormally all based on the quantity and quality of physical stress.

Think about it this way. What happens when a person goes to the gym to lift weights? They stress their body in order to change it, right? When the stress is normal and healthy the body will grow and develop in a positive direction. However, when the stress is abnormal and unhealthy the body will grow and develop in a negative direction. We usually see this in the form of injury, strains and sprains, bad postures, sore muscles, flexibility problems, etc.

Do you know how to control how much abnormal, unhealthy stress your body is subjected to in any given day? If you don’t know how to calculate and control this - you better learn how to figure it out. For this could be the single largest determining factor in how healthy your body will be by this time next year, 5 years from now, and especially 10-20 years from now.

Ergonomics is more than just having a fancy chair, mouse or keyboard to play with. You must learn how to control and positively influence your body mechanics at work and at home. You can take control of your work-related stress. In fact, health statistics say you better figure it out before it is too late.

Your habits dictate how you age. Don’t let work-related physical stress affect your health and your well being any longer. Learn and share the principles and teachings we offer in this office.

NEW – COMMUNITY OUTREACH EVENT:

The first 2 weeks in March (2nd - 13th) is “Healthy at Work – Healthy for Life”. Do you know someone who works at a desk all day? Give them this newsletter. Tell them to receive a free ergonomics and wellness evaluation. See the front desk for more details.

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig Burns

Weekly News Report

2009-02-10T11:21:00.002-07:00

STUDY RAISES QUESTIONS ABOUT OVER-DETECTION OF BREAST CANCER

Regular screenings for breast cancer detection have become almost as common as the twice a year visit to the dentist for an oral exam. Now, new evidence comes from a major study in Europe which suggests that an increased rate of screenings is leading to the discovery and treatment of cancers that may have spontaneously regressed had the woman not undergone a mammography.

What is most interesting about the results of this study conducted in four Norwegian countries is that breast cancer rates increased by a significant 22 percent when women began undergoing a mammography every two years. This data was recently reported in the Archives of Internal Medicine, a publication of the American Medical Association.

The research into the incidence of breast cancer began in 1996 at the Norwegian Institute of Public Health in Oslo, Norway. Between then and the year 2001, the results of 119,472 women age 50 to 64 who had 3 rounds of screenings during this time period were evaluated. The rates of cancer among this group were compared to the results of 109,784 women of the same age group who did not receive a screening but who would have, had screening existed in 1992. Cancers were tracked for 6 years with all participants undergoing a one-time screening at the end of that period.

What the researchers found was a much higher incidence of cancer in the screened group than in the control group, according to Per-Henrik Zahl, M.D., PhD of the Norwegian Institute of Public Health. Out of every 100,000 screened women, 1,909 had breast cancer during the six-year period. This was compared to 1,564 of every 100,000 in the control group. “The cumulative incidence of invasive breast cancer remained 22 percent higher in the screened group,” the study authors said, and screened women of every age were more likely to be told they had cancer.

This single study, of course, is not to say that women should not be screened for breast cancer or take the steps they feel necessary to be in charge of their own health and well-being. It simply points out, as did the authors of the study that much more needs to be known about how cancers develop in the body, why they develop and if some natural regression might occur.

Here is what might be the most significant statement regarding the findings, according to the authors. “Because the cumulative incidence among controls never reached that of the screened group, it appears that some breast cancers detected by repeated mammographic screening would not persist to be detectable by a single mammogram at the end of six years. This raises the possibility that the natural course of some screen-detected invasive breast cancers is to spontaneously regress.”

This evidence makes a person wonder just how many unnecessary breast cancer surgeries might be done each year in the United States. It also means that much more must be known about the different types of cancers that can develop, which ones need to be treated and which might be allowed to run their normal course and simply go away on their own.

Source: Norwegian Institute of Public Health. “Mammograms May Detect Some Cancers That Would Have Otherwise Regressed.” November 2008. http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2008-11/jaaj-mmd112008.php

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig Burns

“Every human being is the author of their own health or disease.” Buddha

The Coming Cancer Explosion

2009-02-10T11:18:00.002-07:00

Cancer may surpass heart disease as the number one cause of death worldwide in 2010.

Globally, about 12.4 million people will be diagnosed with some form of cancer this year, and 7.6 million people will die. The global cancer burden doubled in the last 30 years of the 20th century, and it will likely double again between 2000 and 2020 and nearly triple by 2030.

By 2030, 26.4 million people a year may be diagnosed with cancer, with 17 million people dying from it. In men, lung cancer leads new cases and deaths, while among women; breast cancer leads new cases and deaths.

Of those 7.6 million people who will die of cancer this year, it has been estimated that up to 4 million could have been saved just through healthy lifestyle changes. For example, avoiding sugar and increasing your water intake.

So that would bring the number down to 3.6 million deaths each year. Want to bring that down even further; to 3, 2 or even less than a million, in just one more step? If vitamin D3 levels from sun exposure were increased among populations worldwide, doctors believe that well over two million cancers could be prevented, especially in regions far from the equator.

By now you probably realize that the dangers of sun exposure have been greatly exaggerated, and the benefits highly underestimated. Not only is sun exposure not the major reason people develop skin cancer, but it will actually lower your risks of developing 16 different types of cancer, including pancreatic, lung, breast, ovarian, prostate, and colon cancers.

Those million remaining deaths could be prevented through just a few more easy steps. More deaths could be prevented by using natural health care methods, like chiropractic and a nutritional cleansing/replenishing program, instead of relying on medications and other unnecessary chemicals.

It is quite possible that a significant percentage of cancer is simply caused by physical and chemical imbalance – not a lack of prescription and over-the-counter medications. You may find that making other lifestyle changes, like quitting smoking, is easier when the body is in balance physically and chemically.

Another good way to keep yourself from getting cancer is to make sure you regularly get a good night’s sleep. And how about exercise? Over 200 studies have linked physical activities to cancer risk. There’s another big chunk of the 7.6 million deaths suddenly erased.

Do the steps outlined above sound impossible? I don’t think they do. Eat a healthy diet, exercise, get some sun, get a good night’s sleep each night, and keep your body physically aligned and tuned up. A “cure for cancer” isn’t impossible - it turns out, it’s mostly just common sense!

But right now, things are heading in exactly the wrong direction. Instead of trending down from 7.6 million to zero, the number of deaths could increase to 17 million in just two decades. Don’t let yourself, your children and other loved ones be one of those millions of people. Take responsibility for your own health.

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig Burns

REMINDER – UPCOMING OFFICE EVENT:
The 3rd week in February (the 16th – 20th) is “Healthy Children – Healthy Future”. All children receive a free exam. See the front desk for more details.

A CBS NEWS REPORT

2009-02-03T14:09:00.002-07:00

Next to the common cold, ear infections are the most commonly diagnosed childhood illness in the United States. More than three out of four children have had at least one ear infection by the time they're three.

For years, parents have depended on an antibiotic to cure the pain. But now doctors are warning about the overuse of antibiotics. In some cases they are advising parents to take a wait-and-see approach to find out if the infection clears on its own.

Now some parents are trying to stop the infections before they start. How? They are taking their kids to see chiropractors who specialize in children.

Dr. Peter Martone is one of those doctors. "Chiropractic care is simply the art and science of aligning the spine to take pressure off the nerve and ultimately allow the body to heal itself," he explained.

Susan Lekborg says her son Cooper suffered from chronic ear infections and traditional treatments did little to ease his suffering. "We were up all night, he was miserable, cranky," she said, remembering the long, sleepless nights. "He was on antibiotics all winter and it just wasn't helping. It would go away and come back, go away and come back," she said.

Feeling frustrated and helpless she went to a chiropractor. "I'll be honest, I was a little skeptical, nervous about a chiropractor adjusting my baby," she said. But after only one treatment he started feeling better.

Dr. Maronte says adjusting Cooper's spine helps prevent fluid from building up in his ears. "So what happens with the adjustment, it allows for those ear canals to open up and the ears will drain, preventing any ear infection," he explained.

There are some pediatricians who are skeptical about chiropractic care. Others think it may be worth a try. Pediatrician Linda Nelson said there's a lot about the body doctors just don't understand. "I'm very open to anything that's benign," she said. "And it's certainly isn't going to hurt the child."

Susan Lekborg says it's worked for her children. "This will be their third winter, no antibiotics, no Tylenol, no Motrin. They're clean. I just feel like they're healthier," she said.

REMINDER – UPCOMING OFFICE EVENT:

The 3rd week in February (the 16th – 20th) is “Healthy Children – Healthy Future”. This is a one week event where any child can receive a complimentary wellness evaluation. This is your chance. Make an appointment for your child. Tell a friend, a neighbor, a coworker about this special event. All children are welcome. Please, see the front desk for more details.

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig Burns

“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

MORE TO LEARN ABOUT HEALTH, DISEASE, AND A CHILD’S FUTURE:

2009-02-03T13:01:00.005-07:00

It's All About Function

Why do millions of parents bring their children to Doctors of Chiropractic every year? Is it only for highly dramatic health conditions? Is it only for when my child is hurting? Not at all!!Chiropractic's purpose is to remove interferences to the natural healing power running through the body. When that power is unleashed the healing that results may be profound.Today we find more parents bringing their children to chiropractors for day-to-day health concerns we're all familiar with: colds, sore throats, ear infections, fevers, colic, asthma, tonsillitis, allergies, bed-wetting, infections, pains, falls, stomach-aches, and the hundred and one little and big things children go through as they grow up.

Chiropractors Do Not Treat Disease

It's most important to understand that chiropractic is not a treatment for disease. It's purpose is to reduce nerve system stress, a serious and often painless condition most children (and adults) have in their bodies. Nerve system stress interferes with the proper functioning of the nervous system, can weaken internal organs and organ systems, lower resistance, reduce healing potential and set the stage for sickness and disorders of all kinds.When a chiropractor frees the nervous system from spinal stress, the healing power of the body is unleashed: the immune system works more efficiently, resistance to disease increases, and your child's body functions more efficiently. Your child can then respond to internal and external environmental stresses such as germs, changes in temperature, humidity, toxins, pollen and all the other stresses he/she comes in contact with more efficiently.
So although children with diseases are often brought to the chiropractor, the chiropractor is not treating their diseases but is instead reducing nerve system stress, thus permitting their body's natural healing potential to function at its best.

What Exactly Is Nerve System Stress?

Nerve stress is caused by vertebral subluxation. Subluxations are misalignments or distortions of the spinal column, skull, hips, and related tissues (the structural system) that irritate, stretch, impinge or otherwise interfere with the proper function of the nervous system (brain, spinal cord, spinal nerves and peripheral nerves). Since the nervous system controls all functions of the body, any interference to it can have wide-ranging effects.

How Is Nerve System Stress Caused?

Nerve system stress can be caused by physical, chemical and/or emotional stress. Physical stress may start in the womb, with the baby lying in a distorted or twisted manner. Spinal nerve stress in newborns is common today. This may be caused by a traumatic or difficult birth which can introduce great stress to the infant's skull, spinal column and pelvis. Throughout childhood, the normal childhood traumas every child experiences can be a source of spinal and cranial trauma. Most of the time, the pain from the initial injury “goes away” however the damage incurred continues to affect the future function of the child’s nerve system.

How Does the Chiropractor Correct Nerve System Stress?

This is accomplished first by analyzing the spinal column and related structures for balance and proper function. Where the spinal column is found to be functioning improperly, the Doctor of Chiropractic performs precise corrective procedures called spinal adjustments.Using his/her hands and/or specialized instruments to gently and specifically correct those abnormal areas, doctors of chiropractic assist the spine and cranium to regain their intended state of balance and the nerve system is freed from stress.

It’s All About Function!

Today's parents are informed and make their health care choices accordingly. They have become more concerned than ever about the adverse effects drugs have on their children. Parents are hesitant to merely mask symptoms with drugs and are justly worried about their numerous side effects. Parents are increasingly asking, when handed a prescription for a child's recurrent problem, "Is this really all I can do for my child? Isn't there a safer option? How can I restore health?" Today's parents desire to achieve a state of true health—This is leading them to seek health care options which support their children’s own natural ability to be healthy.Chiropractic care is one such option. All children function better with 100% nerve function. All children deserve the right to express their fullest potential. Chiropractic care for children is safe, gentle and effective. It enhances the body's inborn potential for well-being.

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig Burns

“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

What You Don't Know About Your Immune System Could Hurt You

2009-01-27T15:22:00.002-07:00

It came to the point where something had to give. Lilian Garcia's pollen, dust, and food allergies were getting her down. Her allergies were even affecting her job. The recording artist and World Wrestling ringmaster's voice wasn't achieving optimal performance. But that soon changed. While she was cutting a record with singer-songwriter Jon Secada, he suggested chiropractic care. Though the recommendation struck her as unconventional, Garcia was desperate for a solution. She set up an appointment.

The test of efficacy came soon after she started regular chiropractic treatment, during a moment of weakness in the mall. "I saw an ice cream cone and I went for it," Garcia remembers. "I ate two and I had zero complications. It was my first ice cream cone in 12 years." The connection between her allergies and chiropractic care seemed natural. "Something's flowing better."

Terry Rondberg, president of the World Chiropractic Alliance, explains that the spine does play a role in wellbeing. He notes that many factors affect the body's ability to maintain optimal balance. Nutrition, posture, exercise, stress, fatigue are important, but so is the health of your spine.

Chiropractic care was first linked to improved immunity during the deadly flu epidemic of 1917 and 1918. The interesting thing was: Chiropractic patients fared better than the general population. This observation spurred a study of the field. The data reported that flu victims under chiropractic care had an estimated .25 percent death rate, a lot less than the normal rate of 5 percent among flu victims who did not receive chiropractic care.

In the years since, studies are finding that chiropractic care is a way to improve immunity. One study, from the National College of Chiropractic in Lombard, Illinois, found that disease-fighting white blood cell counts were higher just 15 minutes after chiropractic manipulation was applied to the back. A similar study investigated the immune system response in HIV-positive patients under chiropractic care. After six months of treating spinal misalignment, the group receiving the chiropractic treatment showed a 48 percent increase in white blood cell counts. Conversely, the group that did not receive chiropractic manipulation experienced a 7.96 percent decrease in immunity cells.

Time—and more studies—will show whether chiropractic treatment is a necessary addition to your immune system's arsenal. Lilian Garcia, however, has all the proof she needs. "I see my chiropractor every week," she says, "and there's no way I'm going to stop."

Dr. Craig’s Comments:

I hear it time and again from patients in our office, “Since I have been coming here, I don’t seem to get sick as often. And, if I do, I don’t seem to be sick as long as I use to.” There is certainly a connection between your spine and your immune system. A healthy immune system requires a healthy, well-maintained spine. Tell your loved ones that being sick and ill is a matter of choice. Please, choose to have a healthy spine and immune system. If you are a chiropractic patient already, and feel a cold coming on – get adjusted immediately! If you have a child or loved one who needs a checkup – get scheduled immediately. Don’t choose to let unnecessary sickness be a part of your life any longer.

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig Burns

“While we may not be able to control all that happens to us, we can control what happens inside us.” Ben Franklin

Why Should Children Have Chiropractic Care?

2009-01-27T15:19:00.002-07:00

More and more parents are seeking chiropractic care for their children. Many spinal problems seen in adults began as early as birth. Even so called 'natural' birthing methods can stress an infant's spine and developing nerve system. The resulting irritation to the nerve system caused by spinal and cranial misalignment can be the cause of many newborn health complaints. Colic, breathing problems, nursing difficulties, sleep disturbances, allergic reactions and chronic infections can often be traced to nerve system stress.

Since significant spinal trauma can occur at birth, many parents have their newborns checked right away. As the infant grows; learning to hold up the head, sit, crawl and walk are all activities that affect spinal alignment and are important times to have a child checked by a Doctor of Chiropractic.

As the child begins to participate in regular childhood activities like skating or riding a bike, small yet significant spinal misalignments (subluxations) may occur. If neglected, the injuries during this period of rapid growth may lead to more serious problems later in life. Subtle trauma throughout childhood will affect the future development of the spine leading to impaired nervous system function. Any interference to the vital nerve system will adversely affect the body’s ability to function at its best.

A common reason why parents seek care for their child is trauma from an injury of some sort. These misalignments may or may not result in immediate pain or symptoms. Regular chiropractic checkups can identify potential spinal injury from these traumas, make the correction early in life and help avoid many of the health complaints seen later in adults. Proper spinal hygiene, like dental hygiene, is an important key to better health.

Another sought out reason for care is the resolution of a particular symptom or condition. Parents seek care for conditions such as colic, ear infections, asthma, allergies and headaches (to name a few) because they have heard from other parents that chiropractic care can help.

It is important to understand that the doctor of chiropractic does not treat conditions or diseases. The expertise of the chiropractor is in checking the child’s spine for misalignments that impair nervous system function therefore affecting overall body function. The bones of the spine, the vertebrae, house and protect the spinal cord. The spinal cord is an extension of the brain and carries information from the brain to the body parts and back to the brain again. Subluxations interfere with the nerves’ ability to transmit this vital information.

The nerve system controls and coordinates the function of all the systems in the body: circulatory, respiratory, digestive, hormonal, eliminative and immune system. Any aspect of health may be impaired by nerve interference. The chiropractic adjustment restores nerve system function allowing the body the ability to express a greater state of health and well-being.

The doctor of chiropractic will take a case history and perform a chiropractic exam to determine if spinal subluxations exist. Chiropractic adjusting procedures are modified to fit a child's size, weight, and unique spinal condition. They are both gentle and specific to the child’s developing spinal structures. Most parents report that their children enjoy their chiropractic adjustments and look forward to subsequent visits. They also report that their children experience a greater level of health while under regular chiropractic care.

To enhance your child’s ability to function in a greater state of health, have their spine and nerve system evaluated early in life. Children deserve to live at their highest health potential. Let us help you make sure that is possible!

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig Burns

“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

Weak, Underweight Infant Develops Normally With Chiropractic

2009-01-12T16:39:00.002-07:00

A baby born “down under” who was weak and underweight at birth is now living and walking normally thanks to Chiropractic.

When Caylee Taylor was born in Mawson Lakes, Australia, she weighed just 3 pounds. This may have had to do with the fact that her twin sister weighed in at 7 pounds and there just wasn’t enough room in her mother’s womb to fully develop. Additionally, as she grew, it was noticed that her muscle tone was low and that she had problems with sucking.

Caylee was fortunate that her mother Kerry was a regular Chiropractic visitor and was quick to consult her chiropractor about her daughter’s condition. She wondered if Chiropractic could help her daughter. Some study results suggest that up to 80 percent of all newborn infants have some type of nerve dysfunction which could later lead to any number of health problems, so Caylee’s mother was certainly on the right track toward helping her daughter with Chiropractic.

Treatments from Caylee’s chiropractor began with gentle adjustments to the head and neck. “Caylee could not be breast fed and even found the bottle difficult,” said her chiropractor Dr. Rebecca Rose. “This helped to improve the function of her musculoskeletal system as well as her nervous system.”

As Caylee continued to grow and neared the age of walking, it was further noted that her muscle strength was low and that attempts to keep her balance were a real struggle. For this problem, Dr. Rose treated her young patient with tiny adjustments to her back and feet to help restore her nervous system balance. The pressure that was applied was very gentle, no greater than the amount of pressure one would comfortably apply to an eyeball. “By working with Caylee, I was able to improve the overall structure and awareness of her body in space leading to fewer falls and much greater coordination.”

Caylee’s mom was very pleased with the progress her daughter was making as well. Soon she was walking without falling down, said Kerry. “She was able to bend her knees and her general muscle tone was improving.”

Now 3 years old, Caylee and her twin sister both get regular Chiropractic check-ups every six weeks. “There has been a remarkable change in Caylee’s stability. Chiropractic is helping our whole family stay healthy and feel at our best,” said Kerry.

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig Burns

“As I see it, every day you do one of two things: build health or produce disease in yourself.” Adelle Davis (1904 - 1974)

How Do You Plan on Making This Year Better?

2009-01-12T16:32:00.003-07:00

It is a new year, and I hope you plan on making it one of your happiest and healthiest ever. The New Year Mentality is so powerful isn’t it? People make plans, revisit their goals and their dreams – and start the new year with hope and excitement.

With the onset of a new year I would like to share with you a powerful concept, a personal point of view that I think you will appreciate. I call it the “Better Tomorrow Than Today Mentality”. I think it fits nicely with the New Year Resolution Mentality and it goes something like this…

What can I do for my mind and my body to be better tomorrow than I am today? In what areas of my life could I improve to bring a higher level of health and happiness into it?

Many of today’s leading health professionals share a vision for their patients and clients… to help them be healthier and happier in the future than they are currently. Unfortunately, I have found that many people are stuck in a mental state that says it is normal and/or inevitable for our body and our health to get worse with time- not better. The truth is… this is just a trend that we see in our society. This is not a medical fact!

It is true, the body will age. But, what we are seeing is an out of control trend of accelerated aging. This ugly process is not necessarily a function of age. Instead, it is the result of subjecting our body to poor conditions and unhealthy circumstances for too long a period of time. Therefore, the key to improving at any age is to change the current conditions and circumstances that you subject your mind and body to!

It sounds simple, right? Well, not exactly! When it comes to conditions and circumstances, most people don’t know what to change or how to change them. You might ask, “Aside from eating better and exercising more… what EXACTLY must I do to be dramatically healthier and happier than I am now by this time next year?” This is a great question, and the best way to start creating more health and happiness in your life!

First things first, long term happiness greatly depends on being healthy and staying healthy. Therefore, you must recognize that increasing your state of health is where to start this process. The typical New Year Resolution of getting to the gym more and starting some silly diet program is no longer going to ‘cut it’.

So, where do you start improving your health? Learn more about health and disease, how your body works, what your body’s needs are, etc. In short, learn to identify as many factors, conditions and circumstances that you can control and influence to move your health in a positive direction. Easier said than done, right? Well, if you are taking advantage of the health workshops, seminars, audio recordings, and weekly newsletters that we produce… you are on the right track. If you are not ‘plugged in’ to our education system – you need to visit the front desk and get ‘plugged in’ ASAP!

For the last several years, I have continued to get wiser in the ways of personal health management. I have become stronger, more flexible, more fit, more ergonomically correct, etc. This was my goal for me, and it has become our goal for you. If I can do it – so can you!

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig Burns

"The difference between being healthy versus unhealthy, lies in a person's level of determination"

Women Who Take Lipitor® May See No Healthy Results

2008-12-16T11:34:00.003-07:00

Weekly Health Report

Women spend billions of dollars each year on Lipitor and other statin drugs that lower cholesterol. Now a new study of all the research data associated with this drug raises serious questions as to whether or not the all of this cash is buying any healthy benefits.

Sales of Lipitor account for over $12 billion in annual revenues worldwide. It is widely prescribed by doctors for both men and women as a way to lower cholesterol levels in the body. People who take it believe they are able to reduce their risk of heart attack and stroke. Pharmaceutical giant, Pfizer Inc., markets Lipitor as being beneficial for those adults with a risk of cardiovascular disease.

Researchers at Cornell University recently assembled and evaluated all of the scientific data and test results available on Lipitor. It may come as a surprise to a lot of people that they were able to find no statistically significant supporting scientific evidence to show that women who take Lipitor were getting any protection from cardiovascular problems. The results of the study were published in the September issue of the university’s Journal of Empirical Legal Studies.

“Our findings indicate that each year reasonably healthy women spend billions of dollars on drugs in the hope of preventing heart attacks, but that scientific evidence supporting their hope does not exist,” the study’s authors said.

Pfizer widely advertises Lipitor as a means to reduce the probability of heart attack for people who have a mixture of risk factors for heart attack, such as age, high blood pressure, low HDL levels (high-density lipoprotein, the good cholesterol), family history or smoking. It appears from the research that study findings of benefits for the male population have simply been extrapolated to include women as well. Of course, Pfizer makes no mention of this in its advertising or product labeling regarding use by women.

It is most interesting to note that none of the studies that included women with a mixture of risk factors provided any statistically significant support for prescribing Lipitor or other statins to protect against cardiovascular disease, researchers said. Pfizer’s claims of clinical proof that Lipitor reduces the risk of heart disease in women appear to be unfounded and aimed more at marketing billions of dollars worth of the product than providing any real help.

This research gives credence to looking at methods beyond drugs to achieve cholesterol reduction and overall heart health. A combination of a healthy diet with reduced intake of meats and dairy products, in conjunction with exercise, has been shown to improve cholesterol levels. A wellness consultation with a natural healthcare professional would be a good place to start to arrive at a diet and exercise program which promotes healthy living for both women and men.

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig

“As I see it, every day you do one of two things: build health or produce disease in yourself.” Adelle Davis (1904 - 1974)

Why Are Physicians Afraid of Physicians?

2008-12-16T11:29:00.003-07:00

Adopted from TIME Magazine - May, ‘06

"While there are bad doctors practicing bad medicine who go undetected, that's not what scares other physicians the most. Instead, they have watched the system become deformed over the years by fear of litigation, by insurance costs, by rising competition, by billowing bureaucracy and even by improvements in technology that introduce new risks even as they reduce old ones."

Long gone are the days of going to a medical doctor who utilizes his time and training to make the best decisions regarding your health. No one knows this more then your very own medical doctor. The strong resistance to treatment, hospitals, taking drugs, or going to a doctor at all sends home a very powerful message of extreme caution to all of us.

"It requires almost a stroke of luck to enter a U.S. hospital and receive precisely the right treatment - no more, and no less. A landmark Rand Corp. study published in 2003 found that adults in the U.S. received, on average, just 54.9% of recommended care for their conditions." In other words, there’s just better than a 50/50 chance you won't be harmed or the victim of negligence when you see your medical doctor. We live in hazardous times when it comes to medicine.

While, in the case of an emergency like a tumor, clogged artery, kidney stone, or compound fracture, medical technology is beyond amazing. But, something like treating a simple infection or childhood illness - can cause mega problems. "A patient with anything but the simplest needs is traversing a very complicated system," says Dr. Donald Berwick, a pediatrician and president of the Institute for Healthcare Improvement. "And as the machine gets more complicated, there are more ways it can break."

Without question, over treatment is the most critical problem. Doctors afraid of "missing something" and insurance that rewards testing, surgery, and expensive drugs creates a "dangerous impulse towards excess." Any good doctor knows when a cyst on your ankle or wrist is not a tumor. Any good doctor who sees a healthy child with a cough knows that agreeing to surgery and antibiotics is potentially a risk worse than the condition.

You always have 2 choices: to work on building and maintaining your health vs. treating symptoms and illness with drugs and surgery. While there are some magical medial solutions to emergencies out there, every day we learn that the field of medicine is replete with dysfunctions, conflicts of interest, overt concern for profit, and the bottom line: dangerous chemicals.

Getting sick is a risky proposition. Invest today in your health. You may not like eating well and exercising. You might not like making time for them either. You may be "anti-alternative," against things that are different like chiropractic and nutritional support. However, if you want to prosper later, you invest now.

LET'S MAKE A DIFFERENCE TOGETHER. IF WE DON’T, THEN WHO WILL? PLEASE, TELL THE PEOPLE YOU KNOW AND LOVE ABOUT WHAT YOU LEARN HERE IN THIS OFFICE.

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig

When Soft Drink Consumption Rises, So Do The Risks of Cardiovascular Disease

2008-11-19T07:54:00.002-07:00

Have you ever taken a good look around the tabletops of a fast food restaurant and observed what people are drinking? A quick survey will probably reveal that a majority of the patrons are enjoying a large, extra-large or super-sized refillable soft drink along with their meal. This is likely quite a change from what you would have seen at a restaurant table 40, 30 or even 20 years ago.

The effects on the population regarding this increased soft drink consumption and the health of individual drinkers was the research topic of a recent study at the Boston University School of Medicine through the Farmingham Heart Study. Researchers found that persons consuming more than one soft drink per day had an increased risk of the factors that are associated with heart disease. Interestingly, both regular and diet soft drinks were seen as equal contributors to these threats to heart health.

These factors of heart disease risk have been clustered into a group of symptoms know as “Metabolic Syndrome.”
This grouping includes excess waist circumference, high blood pressure, elevated triglycerides (fats), elevated glucose levels, and a lower level of the good HDL cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein). According to the researchers, three or more of these factors present in the body indicates a higher risk for heart disease and for diabetes as well.

“We were struck by the fact that it didn’t matter whether it was a diet or regular soda that participants consumed, the association with increased risk was present,” said Ramachandran Vasan, M.D., and professor at Boston University School of Medicine. “In those who drink one or more soft drinks daily, there was an association of an increased risk of developing the metabolic syndrome.”

The Farmingham Study involved some 9,000 personal observations made in middle-aged men and women at 3 different times over a 4 year period. When this study began, researchers immediately observed that persons consuming more than one soft drink per day had a 48 percent higher presence of metabolic syndrome than those consuming one drink or less a day.

Also interesting was the increased risk noted over the course of the study for persons who had no evidence of a metabolic risk at the start, but who consumed one or more soft drinks per day. At the end of 4 years, those who consumed this amount of soft drink had a 44 percent higher risk of developing new-onset metabolic syndrome. Also noted for this group was a 31 percent greater risk of developing new on-set obesity, a 30 percent increase in developing increased waist size, a 25 percent increase in triglycerides and glucose levels, and a 32 percent risk of having lower HDL levels. These results were published in Circulation: Journal of the American Heart Association.

With obesity statistics for American adults and children rising each year and with the onset of diabetes also rising, a change in lifestyle and health practices is obviously overdue.

“Every human being is the author of his own health or disease.”
Gautama Siddharta

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig

Flossing Your Spine for Health and Longevity

2008-11-19T07:51:00.002-07:00

I see it day in and day out, the difference that exists between people who “get it”… the why’s and how’s of spinal hygiene, and those that don’t. One of the saddest things to witness for me is someone who comes to me for help, but is too far gone to make any significant improvements. In frustration I wonder how could they let things get this bad, how could they ignore the warning signs? Looking at x-ray after x-ray I can’t help but think: this could have been avoided if they just knew better!

Of the many goals we have in this office, awareness of personal choices is perhaps the biggest one. For instance, the concept of good dental hygiene is really just a series of healthy personal choices that we learned to make while we were young. Consider the following basic principle: maintaining healthy teeth and gums to prevent damage and decay requires consistent health practices like brushing, rinsing, and flossing. Most people understand this to be as true as 2+2=4. So, why the mental block when it comes to spinal hygiene? Herein, is both our greatest frustration and challenge in being health care advocates.

One of the major benefits of getting your spine adjusted by a Doctor of Chiropractic is similar in nature to that of flossing your teeth. You have been taught to floss your teeth to ensure that no hidden food particles remain behind that can lead to the formation of a cavity. By the same token, we adjust your spine to ensure that no hidden joint stress remains behind that can lead to disc decay and joint arthritis. As you use a daily brushing and rinsing strategy to promote health in the future, we use exercises, stretches and ergonomic advice to promote health in the future. We all have regular, routine dental checkups. We should all, and I mean everyone, have regular spinal checkups.

Ladies and gentlemen, we are just talking about bones here... the ones in your mouth versus the ones in your back! They will respond favorably to healthy personal choices and practices, just as they will rot and decay from neglect and abuse.

I have seen enough rotting, decaying spines to know that maintenance and prevention is the way to go. I have also seen the quality of life in many people increase dramatically simply because they decided to start “flossing their spine” on a regular basis.

Are you looking for a means by which to ensure a great state of health and function well into the future? Your spine is part of that equation, and there is no way around that fact.

I for one do not want to be on medication when I am older. I do not wish to need the assistance of a cane, walker or wheelchair. I plan on having the strength, mental clarity, and ambition to be as active as any 80, 90, or 100 year old has ever been. I do not have all the answers, but I do know that the only way this is possible is through awareness of my personal choices.

Society did make dentistry a no brainer for me as a kid, but the rest seems up to me to figure out as an adult. In any case, my goal of having a healthy mind and healthy body seems worth the effort. And, I am hoping to educate and motivate as many people as possible to do the same.

“To preserve health is a moral and religious duty, for health is the basis of all social virtues. We can no longer be useful when we are not well.”
Samuel Johnson

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig

University Sets National Example For Reduced Medical Industry Funding

2008-11-11T12:47:00.001-07:00

Stanford University is setting the example for others to follow in severely reducing the ability of medical companies to influence the content of continuing medical education programs. The school will no longer accept support from pharmaceutical or medical device manufacturing companies for specific programs in continuing education for practicing physicians.

Continuing medical education programs (CME) are classes that Stanford offers to help practicing physicians stay current in their fields. Legally, doctors must participate in such programs to remain licensed to practice medicine.

In recent years, pharmaceutical and medical device companies have attempted to exert their influence on the content of such courses through the infusion of a huge increase of cash grants to colleges and universities. Between 1998 and 2006, these industries have quadrupled CME program funding from $301 million to $1.2 billion, according to the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education.

Keeping this commercial influence out of the CME programs at Stanford Medical School is what the decision regarding funding is all about. “We want CME to be unbiased and science-driven, and we don’t want it to be influenced by marketing,” says Dean Philip Pizzo, M.D. “We want our educational activities for whomever we are serving – whether it’s our own faculty or our colleagues in the community, locally or globally – to be true to the science and the evidence, and not be influenced by any kind of financial industry support.”

This Stanford University decision follows on the heels of a 2006 policy change which banned gifts, free meals and industry marketing at the university’s Medical Center. The school began to scrutinize interactions with industry in its educational and clinical areas in 2005. This latest ban on CME monies went into effect on Sept. 1, 2008.

Under the previous approach to CME, the industry often dictated the content of the programs that were frequently held outside of the campus environment in hotels or convention centers. The company sponsors would then be allowed to put up booths and provide advertising and marketing information to doctors in attendance.

The university’s goal for the future will be to bring any CME program presented to the campus environment to a new educational and learning center slated to open in 2010. Industry money will still be accepted into a general CME fund, but not for specific industry-driven programs. The university also plans to seek educational funding from philanthropic organizations. Dean Pizzo said he hopes Stanford’s new approach to physician education will serve as a model for other medical schools around the country.

Dr. Craig’s Comments:

What an outstanding move to make by Stanford University. Did you know how influenced the average medical doctor is by the pharmaceutical industry? It is true. This is has been happening for quite some time now. The “marketing of meds and unnecessary procedures” to medical doctors has got to stop! Science and meaningful purpose should always guide a doctor’s decision making process – not the almighty dollar.

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig

Chirpractic Offers Solutions To A Physically Declining Nation

2008-11-11T12:45:00.001-07:00

As a nation, the United States is heading toward a sedentary, obese and very unhealthy condition. Individual sickness, unhealthy eating, pharmaceutical drug intake and personal disability are all on the rise. Lost time at work and even the costs for premature death add up to billions of dollars annually.

The question of where to turn for a healthier lifestyle, one which is based on sound practices, together with the elimination of pain and reduced sickness eludes many, many people. Yet, the solution is staring Americans right in the face daily.

The answer lies in Chiropractic.

A chiropractor, by training and experience, offers a great deal more to the public than merely skeletal system adjustments and increased function of the nervous system of the body. This alone is a tremendous service, but it is only part of a chiropractor’s many skills which could help to put an entire nation back on the track to better health and fitness.

There was a time in the United States, not long ago, that the call went out from President John F. Kennedy to increase the fitness level of America. This occurred in the early 1960s when the President’s Council on Physical Fitness helped to set standards for both the youth and the adults of America to achieve a better state of well-being. Strides were nicely being made in this direction, but that was over 40 years ago, and now the nation has lapsed back into a state of physical apathy and decline.

Chiropractors, by training, know a great deal about physical fitness, in addition to a lifestyle enhanced by wellness and a more healthful living that is free of drugs. A personal visit to a chiropractor may not put an entire nation back on the track to better health, but it would help one person, you, and that is a great start!

Here are just a few of the benefits of getting more fit under the guidance of a chiropractor: A chiropractor will act as a personal counselor on health and wellness. An overall exercise program that fits a person’s lifestyle and interest will be discovered and encouraged. By the way, overall fitness is known to increase a person’s well-being and do wonders for a person’s back, which is often the source of pain for many people. Finally, improving fitness can help to impact a person’s life and society as well through reduced healthcare costs, visits to physicians, dependency on pharmaceutical drugs and even lost time from work.

There is a study that points to how this individual effort on a small scale could impact and entire area. It is reported that if one sedentary person out of 20 in the state of Michigan were to get on a regular exercise program, the filter down cost savings in the state would total over $575 million annually.

How do you turn the fitness of a nation around you ask? The answer is one person at a time. The solution starts with a Chiropractic consultation. It’s a visit that could add years to your life, increase your productivity, make living more fun and help out the physical fitness level of a declining nation – all at the same time.

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig

The Spine-Brain Connection: A New Twist to the "Brain-Body Connection"

2008-11-03T14:23:00.002-07:00

With technology advancing and the ability to measure brain activity and health improving each year, studies and theories about the brain-body connection are finding ever-increasing popularity.

Advancements in brain-body research are incredibly important, as the brain is responsible for all body function, thought and social interaction. The more we discover about the functions of the brain and the pathways in which it communicates with cells and the senses, the more likely we can expand our mental, emotional and functional capacities and overcome disease.

The Real Connection: With so much thought going into the brain and how it keeps the body going, we bet you're wondering what keeps the brain going. The answer is pretty simple: Your body. While the brain keeps the body developing and moving along, it is the nutrients that come from the body through eating, drinking, breathing air and the products of cellular function that keep the brain developing and moving along.

Important nutrients the brain needs for survival such as oxygen, glucose and neurotrophins (nutrients that keep neurons strong) get from the body to the brain through the cerebro-spinal (brain-spine or spine-brain) fluid (CSF) that flows from inside your spinal canal. This fluid gets from the spine to brain with the use of a CSF "pump." This CSF pump doesn't use electricity. The power for the pump is generated by the normal movements of the spine.

For the CSF pump to move effectively, you need a healthy spinal column. Irregular or reduced motion of the spine will lead to an abnormal and reduced flow of oxygen, glucose, neurotrophins and other important nutrients to the brain. That's why the spine-brain connection is so important. A bad back or neck will literally give you a bad brain.

The Damage: News stories concerning tragedies in which oxygen was cut off to the brain for too long a period during near-drowning incidents are very popular. Because of these reports, we all know that the effect of spending too much time without air causes brain damage. A lack of normal nutrient support to the brain will lead to damaged brain tissues and aberrant brain functions resulting in a significant increase in risk of disease process both in the brain and organ systems of the body.

Because many people suffer from undetected spinal imbalance and misalignments called subluxation, they lose the CSF pumping mechanism. As a result, nutrients are not delivered to the brain in the right quantity and quality. A poor spine-brain connection has been the cause of the average brain beginning to atrophy (shrink and deteriorate) by the age of 25.

Additionally, it's important to recognize that, for the brain to do any communicating with the body it must send the signals through the spinal column. Within the spinal column lies the brain stem and spinal cord. Again, misalignment or poor placement of the spine would then traction (abnormally stretch) the brain that could lead to poor development, altered brain function, and potentially reduced output of important glandular chemical hormones.

Off of the spinal cord emanate the spinal nerves. These nerves bring brain signals to all of the organ and muscle functions in the body. If the spinal nerves were to suffer from pressure or damage from the spinal column, it could affect heart, lung and glandular functions. This would, in turn, affect the brain due to abnormal levels of oxygen, blood and chemicals flowing to it.

Good Spine Hygiene: The success of the "brain-body connection" is linked to the health and function of the spinal column. This new twist, however, gives us the "spine-brain connection." Damage, misalignment (subluxation), altered curves and imbalance of the spine will lead to an ineffective "brain-body connection." That's why, regardless of symptoms, people who want their brains to "talk" to their bodies should make sure to establish proper spinal hygiene, which consists of the following criteria:

- Exercises to strengthen the paravertebral musculature (back muscles), abdomen and quadriceps (front of legs) which all become weak or atrophied due to sitting too often.
- Proper stretching of anterior musculature including the pectorals (chest) and anterior deltoids (front of shoulders) as well as calves and hamstrings.
- An evaluation by a chiropractor for proper spinal alignment and correction of spinal curves. (childhood checkups!)

An unhealthy spine-brain connection can lead to almost any disorder of the brain or body. Fortunately, the spine-brain connection can be enhanced by a chiropractor. Certain types of chiropractic can even improve or even completely restore this important connection.

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig

Chiropractic’s Near-Death Experience

2008-11-03T14:21:00.001-07:00

Almost 90 years ago, an illness plagued the U.S. that would have made anthrax seem like the hiccups. More than a million people died with what was called the St. Louis Flu in 1918. If you got the St. Louis Flu, you were going to die.

Strangely enough, around that same time, chiropractic, the only American born health care profession, was close to extinction or near-death, only 23 years after its discovery. In the time just after the end of World War I, laws against slander were so lenient that medical doctors were allowed to openly attack the chiropractic profession without any regard to truth, legality or the best interest of the patients.

Because medical doctors were making it so hard to have a practice, chiropractors were making mostly house calls. In 1918, chiropractors in Wisconsin began going door-to-door adjusting anyone who had the St. Louis Flu.

As a result, an amazing thing occurred. Not a single person with the St. Louis Flu who was adjusted by a chiropractor died.

The news about Chiropractic swept across Wisconsin and eventually the whole country. Within a short period of time, chiropractic became so well known as the best defense against the St. Louis flu that it saved the profession. Unfortunately, many of the myths and legends started by medical doctors way back then persist today.

After the St. Louis Flu had come and gone and chiropractic began to take off, the major medical association realized they failed to eliminate the profession. As a last ditch effort, the state medical boards began offering chiropractors medical licenses, figuring if you can't beat them, control them. Not a single chiropractor took their offer!

Chiropractic never pretended to be a cure for St. Louis Flu, anthrax, back pain, headaches, or cancer back in 1918 or today. Chiropractic simply removes pressure, pinching, tension and interference from the brain stem, spinal cord and nerves. This maximizes your body's God-given strength and its ability to heal and protect itself without the use of dangerous drugs or surgery.

Chiropractic allows your body to be as healthy as possible.

For this reason, Chiropractic is alive and well – like never before!

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig

GARDASIL DEATHS, ADVERSE REACTIONS SHOULD GET YOUNG WOMEN TO THINK TWICE!

2008-10-21T16:31:00.001-06:00

The fast-track approach to getting the cervical cancer protection drug Gardasil® through the approval process may be on its way to haunting both the drug maker Merck & Co., and the approving agency, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It was recently revealed that at least 18 women have died in the past 2 years after receiving injections of the drug.

Gardasil is aimed at preventing the cancer-causing risks of the Genital Human Papillomavirus (HPV), which is considered to be the most common sexually transmitted disease in the world. Of the 30-some known strains of the virus, many are not harmful and go away on their own. Fifteen known strands of the virus can lead to cancer, with two of them causing the most cases. The drug Gardasil is aimed at protecting woman from only four of these known viruses.

The FDA approved Gardasil in June of 2006 after only 6 months of review. Typically, new drugs are reviewed for at least 10 months, but cancer drugs are often put on this fast-track approval process. Gardasil received unanimous approval from the FDA’s Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee (VRBPAC) and full FDA approval followed soon after.

Since then, it is reported that some 8 million young women between the ages of 9 and 26 have been injected. Three separate doses of the drug are given over a 6 month period at $120 each for a total of $360.

Now it has been learned by the watchdog group Judicial Watch that there have been 8,864 adverse reaction reports to the FDA since Gardasil was approved. These include the 18 deaths, 140 “serious” complications (27 considered life threatening), as well as 45 spontaneous abortions or miscarriages, plus cases of neurological disorders and blood clots.

As these issues come to light, parents and young women will have decisions to make regarding the advertised benefits of the drug versus a growing number of adverse reaction reports. “Given all the questions about Gardasil, the best public health policy would be to reevaluate its safety and to prohibit its distribution to minors. In the least, governments should rethink any efforts to mandate or promote this vaccine for children,” said Tom Fitton, president of Judicial Watch.

This seems sage advice given the fact that Merck is advertising this drug by alleging to protect women from cancer, and while it does not even know if Gardasil itself might cause cancer! A report to the FDA on Merck’s testing protocol said this: “Gardasil has not been evaluated for the potential to cause carcinogenicity or genotoxicity.” In plain language this means, that they don’t know if Gardasil causes cancer or genetic damage to the cells that can cause cancer.

Merck also doesn’t know for sure how Gardasil will react when given in conjunction with any one of the common teenage vaccines. One in particular is the Menactra® vaccine for meningitis. Some very severe reactions to this vaccine alone are part of the 8,864 reports.

DR. CRAIG’S COMMENTS: Think twice, do your own research, and then think twice again before putting substances like Gardasil into your body. Your doctor may be doing what they “think is right”, but that does not mean that it is your best, or healthiest option! Clearly, the pharmaceutical industry’s influence on the American Medical Association is strong, and warrants a little skepticism on your part. We must take responsibility for our own health. Be proactive and educated - there is no better way than this!

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig

RISE IN C-SECTION DELIVERIES REACHES NEAR ONE-THIRD OF ALL U.S. BIRTHS… BUT, WHY?

2008-10-21T15:43:00.001-06:00

The number of Caesarean Sections performed in United States hospitals has soared over those performed just a decade ago. Charges by U.S. hospitals for the procedure have netted over $17.4 billion annually for these operations alone.

According to the most recently available numbers provided the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, the number of women who now have the C-section procedure is nearing 1/3 of all births. About 1.3 million women in 2005 gave birth through a C-section. This figure represents a 38 percent increase over 1995. That year, about 800,000 C-sections were performed in the U.S.

C-sections have their rightful place in deliveries when complications would be thought to put either the mother or the child at risk. An umbilical cord wrapped around the child’s neck or a breech delivery would be two common reasons for a C-section delivery. More recently, C-sections are being performed for many other reasons including convenience, a feeling by attending physicians that the procedure reduces lawsuit risk and even the idea that this type of delivery is better for the mom and child than a normal vaginal delivery.

The area of sharpest decline in vaginal deliveries occurred in the case of those mothers who had previously given birth via C-section. Vaginal deliveries of subsequent children dropped 60 percent from 157,200 in 1995 to just 63,300 in 2005. Apparently some doctors and hospitals are not allowing a woman to consider and attempt vaginal delivery following a C-section delivery.

Another major contributing factor to the increase in C-sections would logically be financial. In 2005, hospitals charged a total of $17.4 billion for about 1/3 of the deliveries through C-section. Hospitals took in just $21.3 billion for the remaining 2/3 of the deliveries. Clearly, the profit lies in C-section deliveries!

Consider the difference in costs based on 2003 figures as provided by the U.S. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality.

- Vaginal birth with no complications: $6,239
- Vaginal birth with complications: $8,177
- C-section with no complications: $11,524
- C-section with complications: $15,519

At about $5,000 more for an uncomplicated C-section and over $7,000 more for a complicated procedure above vaginal delivery, is it really any wonder that the medical profession, as well as hospitals, might like to see the number of C-sections rise even higher in the years to come?

DR. CRAIG’S COMMENTS: There is a time and place for the C-section procedure. However, the child’s health and future well being should supersede all other variables. Natural child birth has too many benefits to be dictated by hospital protocols. Benefits of a natural birth: less stress to the baby’s spine, muscles and nerves, better lung function, improved immune system, reduced chance of asthma and allergies… to name but a few. Is it just a coincidence that we are seeing a decline in the health of infants and children, or is it more a matter of our meddling with God’s design and the natural order of life?

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig

What you need to know about this year’s Flu Shot controversy

2008-10-06T15:26:00.004-06:00

News reports have been flooding us with articles warning that the impending flu season may be the worst in years. Even though it is difficult to separate the facts from the hype, a close evaluation of the flu vaccine will reveal that serious questions must be raised about the recommendations that are routinely touted, namely high efficacy with little risk. Anyone considering a flu shot should become informed about the substances coming through that needle, and should be determined to investigate the safety and efficacy issues that are still unresolved.

The vaccine virus
Each year, a new vaccine is developed that contains three different viruses (one influenza B and two influenza A strains). CDC officials select the new viruses based on which viruses were prevalent during the flu season in China and Australia the previous year. The CDC admits that the viruses selected for the new vaccine are chosen on the basis of an "educated guess."

What's in a flu shot?
The influenza virus is grown in "specific pathogen-free" (SPF) eggs. Eggs are tested for a variety of agents-usually between 23 and 31-to confirm the absence of those specific pathogens. Laboratories limit the number of agents that are screened due to the shear abundance of potential viruses and/or bacteria to choose from. In addition, screening for every potential agent would be cost prohibitive. If none of the tested agents are detected, the vaccine is reported as "pathogen free."

However, it should be understood that there is a distinct difference between "pathogen free" and "specific pathogen-free." In its July 1996 report, the Institute of Medicine acknowledged that "although it is not possible to produce a completely uncontaminated animal, it is possible to produce an animal [or egg] certified to be free of specific pathogens." Viruses that are harmless to their animal host, however, may be potentially harmful to humans.

During the manufacturing process, antibiotics (neomycin, polymyxin B and gentamicin) are added to eliminate stray bacteria found in the mixture. The final solution can contain the following additives in any combination: Triton X-100 (a detergent); polysorbate 80 (a potential carcinogen); gelatin; formaldehyde; and residual egg proteins. In addition, many of the influenza vaccines still contain thimerosal as a preservative. Thimerosal (mercury) is being investigated for its link to brain injury and autoimmune disease.

Does the flu shot protect?
There are no guarantees that the influenza viruses selected for the vaccine will be the identical strains circulating during a given flu season. In fact, it has recently been announced that this year's flu vaccine does not include the strain that is being reported by doctors in the community called the "A Fujian" strain. Outbreaks have been reported in Texas, Colorado and elsewhere that involve strains that do not match the current flu vaccine. CDC tests have confirmed that more than 80 per cent of the 55 strains of influenza virus isolated thus far are the A Fujian strain. Even so, the CDC still maintains that the current vaccine could provide cross-protection against the new variant, but the fact is, no one knows for sure.

Moreover, the majority of illnesses characterized by fever, fatigue, cough and aching muscles are not caused by the influenza virus. Non-influenza viruses (e.g., rhinoviruses respiratory syncytial virus [RSV], adenoviruses, and parainfluenza viruses) can cause symptoms referred to influenza-like illnesses (ILI). Certain bacteria, such as Legionella spp., Chlamydia pneumoniae, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and Streptococcus pneumoniae, have been documented as the causes of ILI.

Notably, these microbes are not part of the flu vaccine. Unless an organism's antigen is contained within the vaccine, there is no protection conferred by the vaccine. It is estimated that most adults will average 1-3 episodes of ILI, and most children will average 3-6 episodes. The CDC also admits that "many persons who have been vaccinated against influenza can still get the flu".

A serious concern: Alzheimer's Disesase
Hugh Fudenberg, MD, an immunogeneticist and biologist with nearly 850 papers published in peer review journals, has reported that if an individual had five consecutive flu shots between 1970 and 1980 (the years studied), his/her chances of getting Alzheimer's Disease is ten times higher than if they had zero, one, or two shots.

Dr. Boyd Haley, Professor and Chair of the Department of Chemistry at the University of Kentucky, Lexington has done extensive research in the area of mercury toxicity and the brain. Haley's research has established a likely connection between mercury toxicity and Alzheimer's disease. In a paper published in collaboration with researchers at University of Calgary, Haley stated that "seven of the characteristic markers that we look for to distinguish Alzheimer's disease can be produced in normal brain tissues, or cultures of neurons, by the addition of extremely low levels of mercury."

Does this prove that the mercury contained in the influenza shot can be directly linked to Alzheimer's? No, absolutely not. But further research in this area is critically needed because the absence of proof is not the "proof of absence."

Flu vaccine now for children
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) adopted a resolution effective March 1, 2003 that expanded the use of the influenza vaccine to include children aged 6-23 months. The recommendations also included vaccinating those aged 2 to 18 years who live in households containing children younger than 2 years of age.

The flu vaccine most commonly given to children is Fluzone, a trivalent vaccine grown in chicken eggs. Harvested with formaldehyde and containing the recommended ratio of 15 ug of each of the three prototype viral strains, each dose of Fluzone also contains 25 ug of mercury. The new CDC recommendations include giving the influenza vaccine to children beginning at six months of age and then annually, for the rest of their lives. Children less than age 9 receiving their first flu shot, two doses of vaccine are recommended, with a minimum interval of one month between the two doses. However, the CDC does not provide a direct reference to substantiate this recommendation.

On June 17, 2003, the FDA approved an intranasal influenza vaccine for use in healthy persons aged 5-49 years. Flumist is a live-virus vaccine that can cause a litany of problems. Please, do your research before using this drug!

Alternatives?
If you choose not to receive the flu shot, have a discussion with your doctor regarding other options. However, some simple and possibly quite effective things you can do for yourself to prevent the flu include: 1) avoid white sugar; 2) exercise regularly; 3) get adequate sleep; 4) eat a healthy diet, omitting trans-fats; 5) drink plenty of purified water daily and 6) wash your hands. A common way people contract viral illnesses is by rubbing their nose or their eyes after their hands have been contaminated with a virus. The CDC states, "the most important thing you can do to keep from getting sick is to wash your hands."We are so used to taking medications-for prevention and treatment-that it is difficult to comprehend that these modest recommendations are really the most powerful ways to minimize the likelihood of getting the flu.

Making the decision
You may decide to consult a physician who is schooled in alternative medicine to assess a variety of options for you and your family. What is most important, in the end, is to become as informed as possible regarding your options for keeping healthy and avoiding the flu.

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig

MAXIMIZED HEALTH REPORT

2008-09-24T14:33:00.001-06:00

LATEST ESTIMATE FOR MEDICAL ERRORS SETS COSTS AT THE $1.5 BILLION MARK

The latest medical error cost figures have just been released. Incredibly, the cost of potentially preventable surgical errors in the United States is now recorded at almost $1.5 billion annually.

This astounding total comes from estimated figures released in July by the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). It represents the additional costs for medical services that are passed along to employers and their healthcare providers.

- Two categories of additional care required accounted for the major recipient of extra care dollars. Researchers found the insurers’ average payment for acute respiratory failure totaled $28,218, which added 52 percent more to medical costs. Next were post-operative infections, which required $19,480 additional dollars for a total of 48 percent higher costs.

- When medical errors occurred, nursing costs rose as well by $12,196 for a 33 percent cost increase. Metabolic problems such as kidney failure or uncontrolled blood sugar contributed $11,797 in added dollars for a 32 percent increase.

- Next came the additional care and handling associated with blood clots, vascular problems and pulmonary difficulties. This total came to $7,838 at 25 percent more. Open wounds associated with errors added $1,426 or 6 percent more.

The research work was conducted by the AHRQ’s William E. Encinosa and Fred J. Hellinger, both PhDs. Results of their study were published in the journal Health Services Research. AHRQ Director Carolyn M. Clancy, M.D. said, “Like the physical and emotional harm caused by medical errors, the financial consequences don’t stop at the hospital door. Eliminating medical errors and their after effects must continue to be top priority for our healthcare system.”

Also mentioned in this study was the fact that 1 out of every 10 patients who died within 90 days of their surgery did so because of preventable error. Of these, one-third occurred after discharge from the hospital.
These figures came from a nationwide sample of 161,000 employer-insured patients age 18 to 64 that had surgery in 2001 and 2002.

Medicare has announced that as of October 2008, it will discontinue certain payments to hospitals for preventable medical error. It will be interesting to see how placing the financial burden on hospitals for post-error handling affects the number of surgical errors in this country.

Source: US Department of Health and Human Services, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. “New AHRQ Study Finds Surgical Errors Cost Nearly $1.5 Billion Annually.” July 2008.

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig

MEDICAL ASSOCIATION NOW WANTS CHOLESTEROL SCREENING FOR TODDLERS

2008-09-24T14:32:00.002-06:00

It’s hard to say if it’s simply a sign of the times or the continuing search by drug companies to find new and untapped markets for their products. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is now recommending cholesterol testing for children as young as 2 years old and even recommending cholesterol lowering drugs in some older children.

The AAP has made the call for screening and treatment a part of their policy with a statement called “Lipid Screening and Cardiovascular Health in Childhood.” This screening is mainly directed at children in families that have a history of high cholesterol levels in their background. Other familial factors that could trigger a screening would be frequency of cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure or diabetes.

Screening for children that meet these specifications should begin sometime after their 2nd birthday and before the age of 10, says the AAP. Previous AAP screening recommendations were far less specific regarding targeted ages for testing to start.

Previously, the AAP never recommended cholesterol drugs for children under 10. That specification has been lowered now to include younger children to whom drugs are being recommended. “For children who are more than 8 years old and who have high LDL (bad cholesterol) concentrations, cholesterol-reducing medications should be considered. Younger patients with elevated cholesterol readings should focus on weight reduction and increased activity while receiving nutrition counseling.”

Most cholesterol lowering drugs have serious side effects. There is no question that obesity is a problem of increasing proportion throughout American society. It is truly unfortunate that it is becoming a factor in very young children and a sad comment on diet, sedentary lifestyles and a lack of exercise throughout our culture. Children need to be encouraged to “get out and play” and get the body moving. This will go a long way to promote good health and strong bodies.

Parents who are looking for ways to improve the lifestyle and health of their children would be wise to consult a chiropractor for expertise and advice on this subject. It is important not only to keep children off drugs, but also to develop a way of good healthy thinking that will have them choosing exercise and fitness rather than a trip to the medicine cabinet for everything that ails them in their future years.

Source: American Academy of Pediatrics. "New AAP Policy on Lipid Screening and Heart Health in Children." Press Release. July 2008.

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig

P.S. September 30th is the deadline for Family Wellness and Prevention Month. All family members and significant others receive a complimentary wellness evaluation and screening, at no charge. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to go the extra mile when it comes to the health of your loved ones!

FDA TO REQUIRE BLACK BOX WARNING FOR CIPRO® AND SIMILAR ANTIBIOTICS

2008-09-18T15:51:00.005-06:00

It’s taken over 12 years since an original petition was filed, but the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is finally getting around to putting a Black Box Warning label on the antibiotic Cipro® and other similar antibiotics.

Back in 1996, the watchdog group Public Citizen initially presented evidence to the FDA in the form of a petition to require stronger warning labels for all drugs containing fluoroquinolone antibiotics due to reported increased risks of patients developing tendonitis or experiencing tendon rupture. These types of antibiotics are widely prescribed for gastrointestinal, respiratory and urinary infections. The FDA honored the 1996 petition, but warnings about the product were buried in a list of possible reactions and considered inadequate.

Public Citizen reviewed the FDA’s adverse events database form 1997 to 2005 and found enough evidence of tendon problems to submit another warning petition in 2005. During this period of time, there were 262 cases of tendon ruptures reported and over 500 cases of tendonitis and other tendon disorders. Ruptures of the Achilles tendon were the most sudden and severe. Other areas of the body affected include the rotator cuff, the biceps, the hand and the thumb. (Tendons are tough fibrous tissue that connect muscles to joints.)

The reason that fluoroquinolone drugs affect the tendons in this manner is not completely known. One theory is that these antibiotics are toxic to tendon fibers and may cause a decrease in the blood supply to tendons, a part of the body that already operates on a limited blood supply.

The recent FDA action to raise the status of Cipro® to a Black Box Warning is the result of a suit filed against the FDA by Public Citizen for failing to honor petition requests from over 2 years ago. The FDA will now issue a notice to all manufacturers of fluoroquinolone drugs to add a boxed warning regarding the likelihood of developing tendonitis or experiencing tendon rupture. Manufacturers will also be directed to develop a “medication guide” for patients.

Persons who are taking Cipro® or other fluoroquinolone drugs should be instructed to stop taking them immediately if they develop tendon pain. Symptoms may include swelling, inflammation and tears of a tendon.

Persons who are over 60 years of age are considered to be at higher risk of tendon-related problems. Also in the higher risk category is anyone taking steroids, as well as persons who have had organ transplants, according to the FDA.

The following list of medications are being targeted by the FDA for Black Box Warnings: Cipro®, Cipro
XR®, Proquiin XR®, Factive®, Levaquin®, Avelox®, Noroxin® and generic ofloxacin, also marketed as Floxin®.

Source: The US Federal Drug Administration. “Information for Health Care Professionals.” July 2008. http://www.fda.gov/cder/drug/InfoSheets/HCP/fluoroquinolonesHCP.htm and Public Citizen. “FDA Should Warn of Tendon Ruptures Linked to Cipro, Levaquin, Other Antibiotics in Same Class.” Press Release. August 2006. http://www.tradewatch.org/pressroom/release.cfm?ID=2262

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig

WITH A WILL OF IRON AND INTENSE STUDY CHIROPRACTOR OVERCOMES OSTEOPOROSIS

2008-09-18T15:51:00.001-06:00

This August, the eyes of the world turned to Beijing, China, where we were treated to marvelous performances by the crème de la crème of the athletically trained world. We marveled at their skill, were reminded frequently of their sacrifices and were totally impressed with their high level of conditioning.

Yet it is just this fashion of training regimen that lead to some severe health difficulties for one past Olympic-quality athlete. His name is Keith McCormick and he is a chiropractor, a member of the 1976 Olympic team and most recently a competitor in the 2005 Iron Man competition in Hawaii. In retrospect, it is his continued ability to be able to compete in Iron Man events that is most remarkable.

The reason is that 53-year-old Dr. McCormick suffers from osteoporosis. A number of years ago this world-class athlete became aware of his condition. “I was an Iron Man competitor, Olympic athlete, a young male with no risk factors – not your typical osteoporosis patient. I was 45 and had the skeleton of a 100-year-old woman.”

A typical road to follow for anyone with this type of a diagnosis would be to take a drug for the problem.
However, this avenue did not sit well with a man trained as a chiropractor with a much higher wellness approach to healing. “Anything I do, I go all out,” he said. “I’m not going to rely on someone else. They just wanted to give me medicine. I wanted to find out why this happened and fix it the right way.” Basically, he followed the age-old advice of “physician health thyself” and decided to do something positive about his condition.

What Dr. McCormick found through his extensive research that went on for some 2 years is that he was overtraining. For a 1982 Iron Man competition he averaged 35 hours per week of working out, which included 450 miles per week on his bicycle. It turned out that this was just too much work for his skeletal system to handle.

The result of his study was a new training schedule and just as importantly, a new diet. Armed with his new knowledge, he ate better and cut down on his workout time. “I rested more, and I had an impeccable diet – no sweets, lots of fruits and vegetables and nothing too high in protein which can lead to calcium loss. My whole way of attacking dietary nutrition was an aspect I paid more attention to. I realized it's important that if I train I need to fill my cup afterward.”

This portrait of Dr. McCormick’s success in looking at his health situation and doing something about it is a scenario that all can benefit from – world class athlete or not. Whether you want to find out more for yourself or simply consult a chiropractor to put you onto a healthy lifestyle, the choice is yours.

Source: Chiropractic Research. “Iron Man Chiropractor Beats Osteoporosis.” January 2006. http://www.chiropracticresearch.org

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig

P.S. September 30th is the deadline for Family Wellness and Prevention Month. All family members and significant others receive a complimentary wellness evaluation and screening, at no charge. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to go the extra mile when it comes to the health of your loved ones!

MAXIMIZED HEALTH REPORT

2008-09-09T12:42:00.001-06:00

MEDICAL ERRORS ARE PREVENTABLE WHEN PATIENTS GET INVOLVED IN TREATMENT

The number of medical errors in the United States borders on hard to believe. Wrong-site surgeries, incorrect drug prescriptions and hospital stay errors are way to frequent.
This brings up the question, “Is it possible for the average patient to reduce the risk of experiencing a medical or prescription error? According to the New York State Health Department the answer is yes, and the organization has provided a lengthy list of advices to “help prevent medical errors.”

Number one in importance is this: “The single most important way you can help to prevent errors is to be an active member of your healthcare team.” This means that a person should actively take part in each and every decision because research shows that patients who are more involved in their care tend to get better results.

Imagine trusting your doctor to do surgery on your left knee only to find out upon awakening that the procedure was done on your right leg? According to the advisory, wrong-site surgery is something that should be 100% preventable and patient involvement with a doctor prior to surgery can go a long way to preventing it. “The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons urges its members to sign their initials directly on the site to be operated on before surgery,” says the advisory. Get involved and get it right would be the advice.

Regarding hospital stays, it’s best to select a hospital where many patients have already received the procedure you need. Infections received in a hospital are sometimes more dangerous than the procedure, so make certain everyone in the hospital who has any contact with you washes their hands. When leaving the hospital, get specific instructions for your continued recovery.

Medication errors are way too frequent. Here are some simple things to do to help prevent them. It starts with fully informing a doctor if you are taking any medications, have any allergies or any prior adverse drug reactions. Make sure that you can read the prescription written by the doctor and get it rewritten if you can’t. When getting the prescription filled, make sure you ask the pharmacist if the one you’re getting is what was prescribed. Don’t be afraid to ask the pharmacist lots of questions about taking the medication.

Finally, learn to speak up when you have questions, and make the doctor answer no matter how busy he seems or how quickly he wants to get you out of the office so he can get on to the next patient. Take a family member or advocate with you if you need help doing this. Also, learn everything you can about your condition and treatment. There is a wealth of information available these days over the internet, for instance. The more you know the more you can have a say in your own correct treatment. This will go a long way to providing you with a good chance for a healthy recovery and avoiding becoming a medical statistic.

Source: The New York State Department of Health. “20 Tips to Help Prevent Medical Errors.”

Family Wellness and Prevention Month

2008-09-09T12:30:00.003-06:00

I want you to think of someone that is very dear to you. Think of someone who lives with you or near you. It could be a child, your spouse, a boyfriend or girlfriend, a sister or brother, etc. Who is that person to you? Say their name right now to yourself.

Wouldn’t you like to be able to just know that this person is going to end up having a life filled with health and happiness, a life that seldom experiences sickness and dis-ease? If you could, you would do anything to guarantee it wouldn’t you?

The uncertainty of not being able to know if a loved one will remain healthy is so uncomfortable that people literally try not to think about it. This line of thinking or lack thereof is exactly what fuels a family healthcare crisis.

Research is revealing that disease and degenerative disorders are more prevalent than ever before. Nowadays, even kids are at risk for developing health problems. The pharmaceutical industry is actually targeting kids and young adults as the new market for increased profits. What does that say to you? To me, it is saying that they know you are counting on modern medicine far more than you should for HEALTH-care.

The reason for this negative trend is that children and adults receive little to no preventative healthcare on a regular basis. People are sheepishly waiting for symptoms and emergency situations to present themselves before they take action. This is reactive thinking, and is often associated with heavy consequences.

Preventative healthcare is more important now than any other time in history. Health maintenance and disease prevention requires proactive thinking. Take a moment and consider the possibilities that await your loved ones if they remain reactive instead of proactive. Yes, I am referring to children as well.

What are you doing right now to guarantee the health of your loved one? What is your strategy to support them, what is your plan to help them protect their health? You know someone that has problems, but is neglecting to take action to get help. You also know someone who falsely believes that they only need health care when they have a problem – and not until it’s bad enough.

There is a way to better guarantee the future health status of your family. You can get to a point where you just know they are on the right path to taking care of their health proactively. You also can get a point where you don’t have to worry so much about how they will feel in 10, 20, 30, or 40 years.

They need to be taught, like I was, how to think and act differently in order to have a life filled with health, and thus happiness. Your family needs and deserves a healthcare plan that is actively promoting health maintenance and disease prevention. We can help you and your loved ones develop such a plan!

This month is Family Wellness and Prevention Month. It is a month that we dedicate to offering any and all family members a complimentary health service. Our Wellness Evaluation will assess 3 important areas:

· How the body is developing and aging physically
· Determine if the body is toxic or deficient in any way
· Assess the body’s current level of stress, and ability to handle stress in the future

Don’t let your loved one’s health fall victim to chance and circumstance. Schedule their appointment ASAP!

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig

Don’t be a Victim - Take Control of Your Health Now - part 5

2008-08-26T16:05:00.002-06:00

A chemical called 1,4-dichlorobenzene, or 1,4-DCB, could harm your lungs.

It is found in air fresheners, toilet deodorizers, and mothballs, and is present in the blood of nearly all Americans. 1,4-DCB is the chemical that gives mothballs their distinctive smell.

The finding came as part of a National Institutes of Health study that looked at 11 household chemicals. All 11 chemicals are emitted as gasses by common household products. 1,4-DCB was the only chemical in the study which was linked to lung damage.

Those who had the highest amounts of the chemical in their blood showed diminished lung function, which could be serious for those with asthma or other lung problems. Reduced lung function is also a risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and lung cancer.

Air fresheners have been linked to cancer in the past, and this new study may demonstrate one reason why. It really is quite amazing that this chemical found in air fresheners, 1,4-dichlorobenzene, is present in the blood of 96 percent of Americans.

This is especially alarming as this toxic chemical has been associated with so many health problems. In general you want to avoid having any benzene derivative chemicals in your body as they have very similar toxic side effects.

It's best to avoid using any chemicals in your home. However, that is a nearly impossible achievement in this day and age. What you can do, however, is limit your exposure as much as possible.

Artificial air fresheners, dryer sheets, fabric softeners or other synthetic fragrances can pollute the air you are breathing, with 1,4-DCB and other chemicals. If you are using air fresheners because you like the scent, therapeutic essential oils are an excellent and safe alternative.

NOTE: This is just one of the many ways you can reduce your body’s CHEMICAL BURDEN (exposure to chemicals that are harmful to your health). You may never have thought that air fresheners could be unhealthy, but now you know. Keep in mind…

There is usually a safer, healthier alternative to products that contain harmful chemicals – you just have to look for them.

What you don’t know about your adrenal gland:

2008-08-25T15:52:00.003-06:00

Fatigue and lethargy is one of the most common complaints amongst adult patients. If you have symptoms such as tiredness, fearfulness, allergies, frequent influenza, arthritis, anxiety, depression, reduced memory and difficulties in concentrating, insomnia, worn-out, inability to lose weight after extensive efforts, you may be suffering from adrenal fatigue (technically known as hypoadrenia).

Adrenal fatigue has a broad spectrum of non-specific yet often debilitating symptoms. The onset of this disease is often slow and insidious. Patients are told that they are stressed and need to learn to relax more. Yes, we all know that "stress kills" to a large extent. But, the question is how? And, what are the solutions?

The real truth is that stress is not a mysterious entity at all. Our body has a built-in mechanism to deal with it. Being able to handle stress is a key to survival, and the control center in our bodies is the adrenal glands. When our adrenal glands become fatigued and unable to handle stress, dysfunctional physiological symptomatology sets in… in other words – the body stops working properly!

Adrenal fatigue was first described in the medical texts in the 1800s as a clinical condition. It was one of the most prevalent conditions, afflicting almost every adult in one way or another. Despite effective diagnostic tools and treatment programs, most conventional physicians were simply not informed and not prepared to treat adrenal fatigue as a serious threat to health. This condition was seldom diagnosed as a sickness for the past 50 years. Instead, it was considered as a condition whereby no treatment was available other than to tell the patient to "relax". Why was this so? The reasons were simple. Laboratory tests were unable to detect any abnormality, until recently. Today, adrenal fatigue can be accurately diagnosed, overcome and treated properly.

Signs and Symptoms of Adrenal Fatigue

-Tendency to gain weight and unable to lose it, especially around the waist.
-High frequency of flu and other respiratory diseases – symptoms tend to last longer than usual. -Tendency to tremble when under pressure.
-Reduced sex drive.
-Lightheadedness, especially when rising from a laying down position.
-Unable to remember things.
-Lack of energy in the mornings and also in the afternoon between 3 to 5 pm.
-Need coffee or stimulants to get going in the morning.
-Crave for salty, fatty, and high protein food such as meat and cheese.
-Increase symptoms of PMS for women; periods are heavy and then stop, or almost stopped on the 4th day, only to start flow again on the 5th or 6th day.
-Pain in the upper back or neck with no apparent reasons.

Conclusion: Adrenal Fatigue Syndrome is real and probably afflicting you in more ways than one. Adrenal glands can be restored to optimum health naturally by adhering to healthy living principals. Proper rest, together with specific nutritional diets and removal of stressors are key components to adrenal fatigue recovery. Restoring adrenal gland function is one of the 3 key aspects to the unique wellness formula we use here at Maximized Health. If you or someone you know would like to have their adrenal gland tested please ask a member of our Team – we would be happy to help you take another step closer to a healthier you!

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig

Don’t be a Victim - Take Control of Your Health Now - part 4

2008-08-18T18:14:00.002-06:00

Cancer-Causing Benzene Still in Drinks

The FDA has acknowledged that benzene, a carcinogen, has been found in U.S. soft drinks at four times the limit considered safe for drinking water.

This contradicts earlier FDA statements that the levels of benzene were insignificant. Organizations such as the Environmental Working Group have accused the FDA of concealing information about benzene in soft drinks.

Benzene has been linked to leukemia. It can form in soft drinks made with vitamin C and sodium or potassium benzoate.

Benzene is not something you want to be consuming as it has been linked to leukemia and other health problems. It is usually found in pollutants such as car exhaust fumes. Ironically, the main reason it’s in soft drinks these days is because some manufacturers have added vitamin C to their beverages in an effort to make them seem healthier.

Why are they still allowed to do this? Because about 15 years ago, when the problem first surfaced, the FDA decided to leave it up to the soft drink industry to determine the best way to lower benzene levels in soft drinks. So there are no regulations telling soda manufacturers not to add vitamin C to drinks with benzoate preservatives, and after a few years had passed and the problem was off the headlines for a while, vitamin C went right back in. So much for the government watchdogs who are supposed to be guarding our health from just this kind of problem.

Of course, the entire idea of adding vitamin C to a soft drink to make it “healthier” is ludicrous in the first place, even if doing so didn’t result in a cancer-causing toxic brew. It’s sort of like slapping a happy-face sticker on a toxic waste dump. Soft drinks, the leading source for calories in America, are loaded with high fructose corn syrup, and they increase your obesity risks by 60 percent. A bit of vitamin C is not going to fix that.

And diet soft drinks, despite what you may think, are no better for your weight, and usually contain health-harming artificial sweeteners as well. Without question, as bad as regular sugar-laden sodas are, they are far superior to the artificial sweeteners used in diet sodas.

Of course, asking whether diet or regular soft drinks are better is like asking whether you prefer getting hit in the head with a sledge hammer, a baseball bat or a golf club. None of the choices are good; it is all a matter of the lesser of two health evils.

One of the easiest things you can do to optimize your health is to replace soft and sugary sweet fruit drinks with clean fresh water. There just is simply NO excuse to be drinking soda in my book, none, absolutely none.

P.S. If you need help “getting off the soft drinks” please ask a member of the Maximized Health Team. We have solutions to this problem that we would be happy to share with you!

LOOKING FORWARD TO A LAUGH MAY BE

2008-08-18T18:06:00.002-06:00

An old adage claims that “laughter is the best medicine.” When it occurs, it’s usually a pretty good indicator that a happy moment has happened. But, what about anticipated laughter? Would looking forward to some happy times in the future produce an equally beneficial effect on a person today?

That’s what researchers at the University of California, Irvine College of Medicine wanted to find out when they embarked on an anticipated laughter study. Their goal was to determine if they could detect positive changes in the body of a person who was anticipating the enjoyment of a future event.

Sixteen men at Loma Linda University volunteered for the experiment. The study involved the entire group sitting down and watching a funny video. Half of the group was informed 3 days in advance that this is what was going to occur. The rest of the group received no such advance information.

Researchers then tested the entire group to see if the movie had any effect on hormones in their body that affected stress. Interesting changes were noted in the group that had the advance information. Those men who watched the video had an average 39 percent decrease in cortisol, a 38 percent drop in dopac and a 70 percent reduction of epinephrine. These are all known to be hormones related to stress. At the same time, their endorphin level went up 27 percent and their growth hormone levels rose 87 percent. According to researchers, endorphins and growth hormones are known to reduce the effects of stress and have a beneficial effect on the immune system.

Interestingly, none of these positive changes were experienced by the 8 men who were not told they would be watching a funny video.

This information raises some interesting possibilities for dealing with stress and helping people to stay healthy, according to Lee Berk, an assistant professor of family medicine at the Susan Samueli Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. “This study shows that even knowing you will be involved in a positive, humorous event days in advance reduces levels of stress hormones in the blood and increases levels of chemicals known to aid relaxation,” said Berk. This has profound implications for complementary treatment of disease and for maintaining a person’s wellness.”

Using this data, it makes good sense to plan a date in the future to do something enjoyable, rather than running out on the spur of the moment. A person can really get their full value out of an event by making a plan to do it, fully anticipating its arrival and then enjoying it in the moment. It seems that planning to have a good laugh is just about as valuable as the laughter itself.

Source: The University of California, Irvine. “Expecting a Laugh Boosts Stress-Busting Hormones.” Press Release. November 2002.

Start now! Get out those calendar books and start planning some fun times. Any ideas you can come up with are good ideas. List as many fun events as possible and schedule them in a way that looking forward to their arrival brings a better state of health and wellness into your life.

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig

Don’t be a Victim - Take Control of Your Health Now - part 3

2008-08-12T13:18:00.002-06:00

The 10 Most Common Toxins: The following toxins are among the most prevalent in our air, water and/or food supply. This list is by no means all-inclusive, as thousands of other toxins are also circulating in our environment. Keep reading to find out tips to avoid these toxins and others as much as possible.

1. PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls): This industrial chemical has been banned in the United States for decades, yet is a persistent organic pollutant that's still present in our environment. Risks: Cancer, impaired fetal brain development. Major Source: Farm-raised salmon. Most farm-raised salmon, which accounts for most of the supply in the United States are fed meals of ground-up fish that have absorbed PCBs in the environment and for this reason should be avoided.

2.Pesticides: According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 60 percent of herbicides, 90 percent of fungicides and 30 percent of insecticides are known to be carcinogenic. Alarmingly, pesticide residues have been detected in 50 percent to 95 percent of U.S. foods. Risks: Cancer, Parkinson's disease, miscarriage, nerve damage, birth defects, blocking the absorption of food nutrients. Major Sources: Food (fruits, vegetables and commercially raised meats), bug sprays.

3.Mold and other Fungal Toxins: One in three people have had an allergic reaction to mold. Mycotoxins (fungal toxins) can cause a range of health problems with exposure to only a small amount. Risks: Cancer, heart disease, asthma, multiple sclerosis, diabetes. Major Sources: Contaminated buildings, food like peanuts, wheat, corn and alcoholic beverages.

4.Phthalates: These chemicals are used to lengthen the life of fragrances and soften plastics. Risks: Endocrine system damage (phthalates chemically mimic hormones and are particularly dangerous to children). Major Sources: Plastic wrap, plastic bottles, plastic food storage containers. All of these can leach phthalates into our food.

5.VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds): VOCs are a major contributing factor to ozone, an air pollutant. According to the EPA, VOCs tend to be even higher (two to five times) in indoor air than outdoor air, likely because they are present in so many household products. Risks: Cancer, eye and respiratory tract irritation, headaches, dizziness, visual disorders, and memory impairment. Major Sources: Drinking water, carpet, paints, deodorants, cleaning fluids, varnishes, cosmetics, dry cleaned clothing, moth repellants, air fresheners.

6.Dioxins: Chemical compounds formed as a result of combustion processes such as commercial or municipal waste incineration and from burning fuels (like wood, coal or oil). Risks: Cancer, reproductive and developmental disorders, chloracne (a severe skin disease with acne-like lesions), skin rashes, skin discoloration, excessive body hair, mild liver damage. Major Sources: Animal fats: Over 95 percent of exposure comes from eating commercial animal fats.

7.Asbestos: This insulating material was widely used from the 1950s to 1970s. Problems arise when the material becomes old and crumbly, releasing fibers into the air. Risks: Cancer, scarring of the lung tissue, mesothelioma (a rare form of cancer). Major Sources: Insulation on floors, ceilings, water pipes and healing ducts from the 1950s to 1970s.

8.Heavy Metals: Metals like arsenic, mercury, lead, aluminum and cadmium, which are prevalent in many areas of our environment, can accumulate in soft tissues of the body. Risks: Cancer, neurological disorders, Alzheimer's disease, foggy head, fatigue, nausea and vomiting, decreased production of red and white blood cells, abnormal heart rhythm, damage to blood vessels. Major Sources: Drinking water, fish, vaccines, pesticides, preserved wood, antiperspirant, building materials, dental amalgams, chlorine plants.

9.Chloroform: This colorless liquid has a pleasant, nonirritating odor and a slightly sweet taste, and is used to make other chemicals. It's also formed when chlorine is added to water. Risks: Cancer, potential reproductive damage, birth defects, dizziness, fatigue, headache, liver and kidney damage. Major Sources: Air, drinking water and food can contain chloroform.

10. Chlorine: This highly toxic, yellow-green gas is one of the most heavily used chemical agents. Risks: Sore throat, coughing, eye and skin irritation, rapid breathing, narrowing of the bronchi, wheezing, blue coloring of the skin, accumulation of fluid in the lungs, pain in the lung region, severe eye and skin burns, lung collapse, reactive airways dysfunction syndrome (RADS) (a type of asthma). Major Sources: Household cleaners, drinking water (in small amounts), air when living near an industry (such as a paper plant) that uses chlorine in industrial.

Dr. Craig’s advice: Don’t get paranoid and depressed – just get proactive by reducing your exposure to the above listed chemicals. In addition, learn to reduce the toxins in your body through our nutritional cleansing and detoxifying programs. Our next seminar on Cleansing and Detoxifying the Body will be August 13th & September 3rd. RSVP is required and availability is limited.

INDIVIDUALIZED CHIROPRACTIC PROGRAMS PROVIDE

2008-08-11T16:43:00.003-06:00

Why would a parent not take a child to see a chiropractor? The basic answer might come down to no information or incorrect information.

Here are three basic reasons why not: 1. They don’t know about Chiropractic, 2. They don’t know about the potential benefits of Chiropractic or, 3. They think that a Chiropractic adjustment might be too rough for a child and cause pain or damage.

Once a person finds out about Chiropractic and begins to understand its benefits, it is point number 3 that must be understood and dispelled, as apparently, some parents think that a Chiropractic adjustment will be "too rough" for their youngster.

Chiropractors understand that all bodies are different and tailor their adjustments and the amount of pressure required based on the individual they are treating. A big football playing man in his 20s, a little old woman in her 70s and a child of 10, will all be looked at and evaluated for their individual needs.

In this way, it could be said that a Chiropractic adjustment can be as individual as a handshake. A strong man shaking hands with another strong man will give him a lot more pressure than if the same man was shaking hands with his grandmother or the child. When parents realize this and bring their child in for an adjustment, the results can be quite remarkable. Consider this case of a 7-year-old girl.

This child had been suffering from asthma since the age of 4. By the time she came to see a chiropractor, she had been treated medically with 10 different medications. Attacks of coughs and wheezing were daily occurrences. Physical activity was almost out of the question. Emergency room visits sometimes reached 5 per year. A test of lung capacity revealed she was operating at about 50 percent of her lung capacity.

An exam by her chiropractor revealed subluxations (partial dislocations) in the vertebrae at the middle of her spine. An individual program was tailored to handle these restrictions. With just one adjustment, some of the tightness in her chest disappeared and her coughing was reduced. After just 4 weeks of treatment, she was able to put aside her inhaler and get back to participating in swimming and running sports. After 3 months, her lung capacity was just about normal and all medications were stopped.

Had her parents avoided taking her to a chiropractor because of a fear that an adjustment might be too rough and cause her pain, the child might well be on her way to a dozen more medications, further restrictions of activity and even worse breathing problems. Is Chiropractic for children too? By all means. Miracles can occur each and every day in Chiropractic with the right adjustment, tailored to the individual’s size, age, shape and need.

Source: Dynamic Chiropractic. “Chiropractic: As Individual as a Handshake.” July 2008.

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig

Don’t be a Victim - Take Control of Your Health Now - part 2

2008-08-08T11:27:00.003-06:00

Here is the FULL VERSION of "Don't Be a Victim - Take Control of Your Health Now - part 2"

People think they are immune to disease until they develop a serious health condition - without warning.

Genetic causes do not in anyway explain the explosive increases in diabetes, cancers, and heart disease… but increasing concentrations of environmental poisons penetrating our bodies via our air, water, food and medicines does explain how bad things can get for the uninformed consumer! For instance… not only are chemicals used in foods, but chemicals used in everyday plastics are contributing to the rise in disease statistics. Bisphenol A (BPA) is one such compound to avoid as much as possible.

BPA is an estrogen-mimicking chemical used to make hard plastics and epoxy resins, found in numerous products that you probably use every day, including:

-Polycarbonate plastic baby bottles
-Large water-cooler containers and sports bottles
-Bottle tops
-Microwave-oven dishes
-Canned-food liners
-Some dental sealants for children
-Water supply pipes

The use of BPA is so pervasive - industry uses more than 6 billion pounds of BPA a year - that scientists have found that 95 percent of people tested have dangerous levels of BPA in their bodies. Some of the biggest victims in all are your children, who may be exposed to the chemical while in utero, and quite literally “fed” the chemical via plastic baby bottles and toys (which they often put in their mouths).A major problem with BPA is that it doesn’t stay in the plastic. It leeches into whatever food or beverage you put in a plastic container, canned good, or plastic baby bottle. Even worse, if you microwave the containers or bottles, or place hot liquids or food into them, BPA is released 55 times more rapidly!

The Good News and the Bad News

On the upside, BPA supposedly does not stay in your body long after you’re exposed. The bad news is that the chemical is so pervasive that scientists believe you’re simply being continually exposed to it from food, air, dust, and even just by touching items that contain BPA. Hence, your exposure is greater than what your body can dispose of on a regular basis and levels can rise to the point of causing biological harm.

According to the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy’s Smart Plastics Guide, adverse effects from BPA exposure include:

-Structural damage to your brain
-Hyperactivity, increased aggressiveness, and impaired learning
-Increased fat formation and risk of obesity
-Altered immune function
-Early puberty, stimulation of mammary gland development, disrupted reproductive cycles, and ovarian dysfunction
-Stimulation of prostate cancer cells

Of 115 published animal studies, 81 percent found significant effects from even low-level exposure to BPA, so there’s probably no real safe limit.
As a side note, NONE of the 11 industry-funded studies found any significant effects, whereas 90 percent of the government-funded studies did. Yet another piece of “coincidental evidence” that shows the power of money. Always check who funded the study before drawing your final conclusions about the results.

Making Healthier Choices in a Toxic World

Sadly, even if BPA does eventually get restricted or banned (as Canada is currently proposing), there are countless other dangerous chemicals still out there. The EPA approves new man-made chemicals to the tune of some 700 every year!

Still, every step you take toward reducing or eliminating a toxin from your life is a good one and well worth the effort, I believe. Personally, I do not wait for a government restriction to begin reducing my exposure to BPA. The evidence that has amassed thus far is enough to convince me.

To be fair, you probably can’t completely eliminate your exposure to BPA, even if you decide to move to Canada (since it’s likely in the air, water, and food supply too), but you can certainly reduce it by eliminating the most obvious culprits.

The following tips will not only reduce your exposure to BPA, but also to many of the other dangerous plastics chemicals as well.

10 Tips to Reduce Your Exposure to BPA

1. Only use glass baby bottles and dishes for your baby. If you use a bottle to carry your water in, hold out for the one we are introducing in about 10-12 weeks, as it will be the only one on the market for this purpose.
2. Give your baby natural fabric toys instead of plastic ones
3. Store your food and beverages in glass -- NOT plastic -- containers
4. IF you choose to use a microwave, don’t microwave food in a plastic container
5. Stop buying and consuming canned foods and drinks
6. Avoid using plastic wrap (and never microwave anything covered in it)
7. Get rid of your plastic dishes and cups, and replace them with glass varieties
8. If you opt to use plastic kitchenware, at least get rid of the older, scratched-up varieties, avoid putting them in the dishwasher, and don’t wash them with harsh detergents, as these things can cause more chemicals to leach into your food
9. Avoid using bottled water; filter your own using a reverse osmosis filter instead
10. Before allowing a dental sealant to be applied to you, or your children’s, teeth, ask your dentist to verify that it does not contain BPA

Look at the Plastic Recycling Labels

There’s no getting around reading labels these days, and this is no exception.

In the event that you do opt to use plastic containers for your food, be sure to avoid those marked on the bottom with the recycling label No. 7, as these varieties may contain BPA.

Containers marked with the recycling labels No. 1, No. 2, and No. 4 do not contain BPA (however they may contain other unsavory chemicals that you’re best off avoiding by using glass instead).

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig

STIMULATING THE NERVOUS SYSTEM IMPROVES

2008-08-07T16:07:00.004-06:00

Now there is some actual proof that measurable changes to the body’s nervous system occur as a result of a Chiropractic adjustment.

“By stimulating the nervous system, we can improve the function of the whole body,” said Dr. Heidi Haavik-Taylor. “This is something that chiropractors and their patients have known for years, and now we have some scientific evidence to prove it.”

Dr. Haavik-Taylor has been researching the effects of Chiropractic on the nervous system for the past 7 years. Her study included the use of an electroencephalograph (EEG) to measure brain waves before an adjustment and how these waves were altered afterwards. Her work was conducted at the New Zealand College of Chiropractic where she is director of research. Her findings were published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics.

The research involved 12 subjects who were documented as having reoccurring neck pain. All of the adjustments involved manipulations of dysfunctional cervical joints. Using a series of EEG evaluations, researchers were able to show that signals are carried by the nervous system to the brain and change the way muscles are controlled.

“This is the first time that anyone has used EEGs to prove that there are definite changes to the way the brain processes information after Chiropractic care.”

Dr. Haavik-Taylor summed up the action in very simple terms. “The process is like rebooting a computer. The signals that these adjustments send to the brain via the nervous system reset muscle behavior patterns.”

People who have enjoyed successful Chiropractic adjustments can certainly relate to the findings of this research. Is it any wonder that people frequently notice immediate changes in the way they feel or the way a particular part of their body is functioning after an adjustment – and in many cases, notice it immediately? If body systems do indeed reboot along the lines of a computer, changes can happen quickly with marvelous results.

Even the president of the New Zealand Chiropractors Association, Dr. James Burt, was favorably impressed. “Dr. Haavik-Taylor’s work is ground-breaking on an international level by proving that Chiropractic adjustments do alter and benefit the nervous system.”

Source: The New Zealand Chiropractors Association. Media Release. “New Science Behind Chiropractic Care.” November 2007.
http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/GE0711/S00116.htm

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig

P.S. Be sure to read “Don’t be a Victim - Take Control of Your Health Now” - part 2.

Don’t be a Victim - Take Control of Your Health Now - part 1

2008-07-28T15:58:00.003-06:00

The following series of newsletters will be some of the most serious I have ever published. Please, be sure to read and share every letter with the most serious of intentions.

I once heard a person say, “I would rather not know what’s in the food I eat”. Nowadays, the truth is - the foods you buy and eat WILL act as an agent of either health or disease. You can choose to ignore this fact or educate yourself, and thereby avoid becoming a victim of circumstance, i.e. long term diet-related chemical poisoning.

Food is not considered junk just because of high fat or sugar content, there is a long list of poisonous chemicals used by the food industry that are striking people down with illnesses, like diabetes. And, there are many serious nutritional deficiencies in today's food that diminish the body's capacity to deal safely with these chemicals and heavy metals - with magnesium and selenium deficiencies at the top of the list.

For instance, according to Dr. Ellen Silbergeld, a researcher from the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, the poultry industry's practice of using arsenic compounds in its feed is something that has not been studied: "It's an issue everybody is trying to pretend doesn't exist". Arsenic exposure is a risk factor for diabetes mellitus. Inorganic arsenic is considered one of the prominent environmental causes of cancer mortality in the world. Toxic chicken consumption may contribute significant amounts of arsenic to total arsenic exposure of the U.S. population according to the journal Environmental Health Perspectives.

"Arsenic acts as a growth stimulant in chickens - develops the meat faster - and since then, the poultry industry has gone wild using this ingredient," says Donald Herman, a Mississippi agricultural consultant and former Environmental Protection Agency researcher who has studied this use of arsenic for a decade. This can lead to prostate cancers. It can also cause neurological, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and immune system abnormalities. The feeding of arsenic to chickens in the United States releases hundreds of tons of arsenic into the environment every year in the form of poultry manure, which is spread on fields as fertilizer.

The observation of the relation between arsenic exposure and diabetes mellitus is further supported by studies carried out in Sweden and Bangladesh. In Sweden, case-control analyses of death records of copper smelters and glass workers revealed a trend of increasing diabetes mellitus with increasing arsenic exposure from inhalation. In Bangladesh, prevalence of diabetes mellitus among arsenic-exposed subjects was about five times higher than unexposed subjects.

Another example is Alloxan. Studies show that Alloxan, the chemical that makes white flour look "clean and beautiful" destroys the beta cells of the pancreas. Scientists have known of the alloxan-diabetes connection for years, yet there seems to be a conspiracy that defends the integrity of the FDA, which allows dangerous chemicals that can cause diabetes to be used in drugs and food. A growing body of research shows that pesticides and other contaminants are more prevalent in the foods we eat, in our bodies, and in the environment than we thought, all confirming the chemical nightmare in progress.

According to research conducted by Dr. H.J. Roberts, a diabetes specialist, a member of the ADA, and an authority on artificial sweeteners, aspartame:

1) Leads to the precipitation of clinical diabetes.
2) Causes poorer diabetic control in diabetics on insulin or oral drugs.
3) Leads to the aggravation of diabetic complications such as retinopathy, cataracts, neuropathy and gastroparesis
4) Causes convulsions.

The FDA's own toxicologist, Dr. Adrian Gross told Congress that without a shadow of a doubt, aspartame can cause brain tumors and brain cancer and violated the Delaney Amendment which forbids putting anything in food that is known to cause cancer. It is a monstrous crime to poison the food and water supplies yet this is exactly what the FDA has been approving and undoubtedly they are, in large part, responsible for flaming the diabetic winds. As the use of MSG and aspartame grows, the incidence of obesity and disease appears to be growing.

MSG causes a very large insulin response after it is ingested since there are glutamate receptors in the pancreas. MSG opens calcium channels, thus constricting blood vessels - this may put diabetics with high blood pressure at risk by negating calcium channel blocker medication. In 1968, John W. Olney, M.D., a respected researcher at Washington University Medical School, and member of the National Academy of Science, found that mice in his laboratory that were being used to replicate a 1957 study, in which the administration of MSG had resulted in retinal damage, had become grotesquely obese. Since 1969, many scientists have confirmed Dr. Olney's findings of damage to the hypothalamus from MSG with resulting obesity. Even the rats used in obesity, diabetes and exercise studies are made obese by injecting MSG. MSG may cause food addiction and though efforts have been made to reduce its use in processed and restaurant foods, it remains hidden by semantics, now called such things as "hydrolyzed protein". Scientists in Spain have recently concluded that MSG when given to mice increases appetite by as much as 40%.

There is abundant literature demonstrating that MSG and aspartic acid cause hypothalamic lesions which, in turn, can cause gross obesity. Although there are a number of causes for obesity, there is no question that one of the main causes for the obesity epidemic is the ever increasing use of MSG and aspartame in the food supply.

We know that the hypothalamus is very immature at birth. The damage to this structure of the brain by MSG leads to severe endocrine problems later in life, among them decreased thyroid hormone, increased tendency toward diabetes, and higher cortisone levels than normal. A child consuming a soup containing MSG plus a drink with NutraSweet will have a blood level of excitotoxins six times the blood level that destroys hypothalamus neurons in baby mice.

And, we are just beginning to hear that a massive mistake has been made with genetically modified foods, which can only fan those diabetic winds. Dr. Arpad Pusztai, for instance, has already shown that genetically-manipulated foods can, when fed to animals in reasonable amounts, cause very gradual organ and immune system damage. Another study, carried out by Dr. Irina Ermakova at the Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology, at the Russian Academy of Sciences, found that more than half of the offspring of rats fed on modified soybean died in the first three weeks of life, six times as many as those born to mothers with normal diets. Dr. Manuela Malatesta and colleagues in the Universities of Pavia and Urbino in Italy, showed that mice fed on GM soybean experienced a slowdown in cellular metabolism and modifications to the liver and pancreas. Researchers are reviving fears that GM food damages human health and certainly would not be indicated for children or for people with diabetes.

There is without question a link between the life changing disease known as diabetes and the chemicals found in processed foods and pharmaceutical medications. So, how can you better avoid the grip of diabetes? How can you lessen the effect it may have on your life? How can you help a friend or loved one who has diabetes? How can you ensure that you do not fall victim to the effects long term diet-related chemical poisoning?

4 pieces of advice:
1. Educate yourself on what is in your food. Be aware of what you are putting into your body that would allow and promote disease processes like diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular disease.
2. Find a support system, like our Wellness Center, which continually promotes education and awareness.
3. Learn more about detoxifying and cleansing the body to undo the damage you may have already created in the past (attend our future workshop on Nutritional Cleansing)
4. Read and forward this newsletter series to as many people as possible!

More to follow next week…

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig

Is “Good Enough” Really Good Enough?

2008-07-21T08:46:00.003-06:00

When it comes to your body and your health do you settle for “good enough”? What I mean is… have you come to accept that your current state of health and fitness is good enough, and not worth worrying about or improving upon?

Too many people nowadays live in the paradigm of ‘if it ain’t broke it don’t need fixin’. In other words, if they feel fine with the way things are - then they are “good enough”. The “good enough” mentality means you don’t think you need improvement, need help or need to change anything in any way. I think the “good enough” mentality is actually the cause of many health problems we see nowadays.

Ask yourself this… would you like to be: more fit, thinner and leaner, more flexible, stronger, happier and healthier than you are now? What is holding you back? Is it because being “good enough” has become so easy? If so, I can relate. I still think this way from time to time.

For instance, I just started my first day of a 9 Day Detox and Cleansing Program. This program is designed to detoxify and clean the body internally of unhealthy chemicals that build up over time. I should mention, this is not a simple ‘pop a pill with each meal’ kind of health program – it requires commitment to a purpose! After my first 12 hours of consuming supplements and simple snacks instead of my traditional breakfast, lunch, dinner I begin to wonder if this was a good idea. I begin to rationalize that I am already pretty healthy and fit, so why am I putting myself through this process? The “good enough” mentality begins to rear its ugly head.

Actually, I was having the following thoughts before even beginning this health cleansing program: would this be worth it, can I finish it, will I cheat and or quit early, do I really need to do this, aren’t I healthy enough already, etc… the same thoughts that everyone else would have before taking on such a challenge.

My motivation on this Detox and Cleansing Program is to be the best that I can be. For this reason alone I am committed to succeed and rise to the challenge. I am committed to knowing what it is like to live at my full potential. I want to be an example to my family and friends that health and fitness is an investment with unparalleled rewards. I believe that “being at your best” is always better than “being good enough”.

For these reasons and a few others, I continue to push my limits in achieving a higher state of health and wellness. I can say that with each decision I make to refuse to be “good enough” the rewards of becoming better are always well worth the effort. My decision to be a lifelong chiropractic patient, to workout even when I am tired, to eat well even when something else sounds better… will improve my life and its impact on others.

Being “good enough” was never meant to be good enough or acceptable. Your life and your health is a gift – not a guarantee!

I applaud your decision to be a part of this office and your commitment to reading our educational newsletters. By doing so, you are refusing to accept the “good enough” or “as good as it gets” mentality as I have. It is a pleasure to be a part of the process that leads to you getting better, and your learning to be as good as you can be.
Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig

Maximized Health “tip of the week”

The Real Dangers of Soda to You and Your Children

How many sodas have you had today? How about your kids? The average American drinks an estimated 56 gallons of soft drinks each year, but before you grab that next can of soda, consider this: one can of soda has about 10 teaspoons of sugar, 150 calories, 30 to 55 mg of caffeine, and is loaded with artificial food colors and sulphites.

This is an alarming amount of sugar, calories and harmful additives in a product that has absolutely no nutritional value. Plus, studies have linked soda to osteoporosis, obesity, tooth decay and heart disease. Despite this, soda accounts for more than one-quarter of all drinks consumed in the United States.

Teenagers and children, who many soft drinks are marketed toward, are among the largest consumers. In the past 10 years, soft drink consumption among children has almost doubled in the United States. Teenage boys now drink, on average, three or more cans of soda per day, and 10 percent drink seven or more cans a day. The average for teenage girls is more than two cans a day, and 10 percent drink more than five cans a day.

While these numbers may sound high, they’re not surprising considering that most school hallways are lined with vending machines that sell, of course, soft drinks. It’s not uncommon for schools to make marketing deals with leading soft drink companies such as Coca-Cola from which they receive commissions--based on a percentage of sales at each school--and sometimes a lump-sum payment.

The revenues are used for various academic and after-school activities, but what activity could be worth devastating the students’ health, which is exactly what consuming all that soda is doing? Getting rid of vending machines in schools--or replacing their contents with pure water and healthy snacks--could make a big difference, as vending machines can increase the consumption of sweetened beverages by up to 50 or more cans of soda per student per year. Let’s take a look at some of the major components of a can of soda:

• Phosphoric Acid: May interfere with the body's ability to use calcium, which can lead to osteoporosis or softening of the teeth and bones. Phosphoric acid also neutralizes the hydrochloric acid in your stomach, which can interfere with digestion, making it difficult to utilize nutrients.

• Sugar: Soft drink manufacturers are the largest single user of refined sugar in the United States. It is a proven fact that sugar increases insulin levels, which can lead to high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, diabetes, weight gain, premature aging and many more negative side effects. Most sodas include over 100 percent of the RDA of sugar.

• Aspartame: This chemical is used as a sugar substitute in diet soda. There are over 92 different health side effects associated with aspartame consumption including brain tumors, birth defects, diabetes, emotional disorders and epilepsy/seizures. Further, when aspartame is stored for long periods of time or kept in warm areas it changes to methanol, an alcohol that converts to formaldehyde and formic acid, which are known carcinogens (cancer causing).

• Caffeine: Caffeinated drinks cause jitters, insomnia, high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, elevated blood cholesterol levels, vitamin and mineral depletion, breast lumps, birth defects, and perhaps some forms of cancer.

• Tap Water: I recommend that everyone avoid drinking tap water because it can carry any number of chemicals including chlorine, trihalomethanes, lead, cadmium, and various organic pollutants. Tap water is the main ingredient in bottled soft drinks.

• Soda is one of the main reasons, nutritionally speaking, why many people suffer health problems. Aside from the negative effects of the soda itself, drinking a lot of soda is likely to leave you with little appetite for vegetables, protein and other food that your body needs.

If you are still drinking soda, stopping the habit is an easy way to improve your health. Pure water is a much better choice.

The #1 Crisis in the US is not the Stock or Real Estate Market

2008-07-15T15:53:00.002-06:00

Here are 4 powerful statements made by some very wise individuals about the crisis in question:

1. FROM A HEALTHY, WEALTHY, ULTRA ACTIVE 80 YEAR OLD MAN - "You're only young once - take care of it." (I'll bet you thought he was going to say "Enjoy it." He meant take care of your health!)

2. FROM A WORLD LEADING DOCTOR - "People spend half their life spending all of their health to acquire wealth and the second half of their life spending MORE THAN their wealth trying to get their health back."

3. FROM A WORLD LEADING, WEALTHY FINANCIAL ADVISOR - "The #1 cause of bankruptcy and financial stress are costs related to health problems. So it is simple - make your health your first investment."

4. FROM A SUPERMOM (Single mom, successful business woman, with 4 great kids) "What do you mean organic food is too expensive? Your health is not a place to save money! You will spend 10 times as much later at the hospital!”

It turns out all of these people were either brilliant or prophetic. The Boston Herald just reported a study from Fidelity Bank that showed a couple needs $225,000 in CASH (in addition to Insurance and Medicare) to cover medical expenses after retirement and this number, which was $215,000 last year, is going up at a rate of 4.7% a year!

At that rate, 4.7% per year, 12 years from now you will need approximately $400,000 in cash at retirement to pay medical costs not covered by Insurance or Medicare. If Medicare fades out, as many are predicting, you will need far more than that. Depending on your condition, possibly several times that amount.

So what is the problem then? Most people will say "we need better health care coverage". That is insane for many reasons. Here are two:
1. There is no way to give everyone in the US an additional $200,000 - $1,000,000 in medical benefits.

2. Clearly we don’t need more health coverage – we need more health!
The real problem is that too many people nowadays put too little time and effort into their health, which is why it fails and becomes so expensive later.

HERE ARE 5 REASONS WHY THIS IS TRUE & HOW THIS HAPPENS:
1. Cheap food, cheap groceries, and cheap supplements are all #1 top sellers.

2. Only 13% of the U.S. exercises regularly

3. Only 7% go to the Chiropractor

4. You get the cheapest insurance available and then go to doctors on the list! If it is cheap insurance, then it has doctors on the list that accept guidelines set up by the insurer. These guidelines are designed to save the insurer money, not to get you healthy!! CHEAP CARE = CHEAP HEALTH.

5. Passion for the quick fix despite the huge risk. Pharmaceutical companies make trillions even though the side-effects on every drug commercial and bottle read: "CAUTION: Your nose will fall off, you will become homicidal, get cancer, die early, commit suicide, and see aliens." Rising medical costs are not the issue; diminishing self care is the issue, along with doctors that are not doing what they need to do to get you healthy - but simply prescribing, following rules, and abiding by traditions - rules and traditions that don't work. We're the sickest, most depressed country in the world and spend the most on "Health Care." The key is to take care of yourself today so that you don't have poor health and expensive conditions tomorrow. You could literally save 100s of thousands of dollars!

MAKE THE RIGHT INVESTMENT NOW:

1. "Take care of your youth (health and vitality)"

2. "Spend time on your health"

3. "Spend money on your health - make health your biggest investment (a few thousand today will equal $400,000+ tomorrow)"

4. "Don't save (go to the cheap doctor on the insurance or buy the cheap food and vitamins) when it comes to health" (You'll save $12.50 on your grocery bill and $20 at the doctor, but it may cost you later)

The #1 crisis in the U.S. is its citizens’ state of health. The solution is simple. Invest your efforts, time, and money into your health today and it will pay dividends tomorrow.

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig

Maximized Health “tip of the week”

Please be sure to attend the upcoming nutrition seminars, July 15th and July 29th. We will teach you how to make the right decisions when it comes to health and nutrition so that health problems are not a part of your future.

I strongly urge you to invite a friend or loved one to attend these classes with you. Their future depends on their health as well!

Toxicity and Weight Loss

2008-07-07T11:37:00.002-06:00

Fact #1 = The average human being comes into contact with approximately 82,000 chemicals in any given week.

Fact #2 = The majority of people who try to lose weight permanently will fail.

There is a connection between these two facts and it goes way beyond weight loss. Would you like to know how to lose weight and in the process become healthier and happier? Then read on…
It is a medical fact that dangerous levels of toxic chemicals in the body will cause increased fat deposition. The fat molecules actually surround and encase the toxic chemicals in an effort to protect the body. This is a survival mechanism. And yes, the majority of the toxic chemicals that I am referring to are what you put in your mouth and on your skin.

People often fail in their endeavor to lose weight and get healthier because the body will always be smarter than they are. What I mean is… the body knows that it needs the excess fat to protect itself and will always require it unless a drastic change is made internally. A person who truly desires to lose weight and get healthier must first figure out how to reduce the body’s need for the excess weight. In other words, they have to become less toxic!

The health problems associated with chemical toxicity goes far beyond weight gain. Some problems associated with chemical toxicity include: damage to the liver, kidneys and other organs, chronic stiffness and pain in joints and muscles, altered neurological function, abnormal sleep patterns, fatigue, headaches, fibromyalgia, and mood swings… just to name a few.

Let me give you a few ideas on how you are already creating a toxic internal environment right now: by ingesting foods with preservatives, antibiotics, hormones, pesticide residues, etc…, by using unhealthy hygiene products including many forms of makeup, sunscreens, deodorants, soaps, and household cleaning products, and by regularly drinking tap water… just to name a few.

This health topic can be intimidating and interesting all at the same time. But, knowing the difference between right and wrong when it comes to health and disease is far better than the alternative and its associated consequences. So, to put things in perspective let me say this about health and toxicity… being perfect is impossible, but getting better is worth the effort!

So, where can you start learning more about chemical toxicity and your ability to not only lose fat but increase your quality of life? First, start by attending the nutritional seminar(s) this July 15th and 29th. We will certainly be exploring this concept further and offering practical solutions that will make a difference in your body and your state of health. RSVP is required. Seating is limited!

Speak up and educate others,

Dr. Craig