Many people have heard of the terms oxidative stress, antioxidants and free radicals, but may not understand what they really mean. The process of oxidative stress can be difficult to comprehend, but a basic understanding is very important. Oxidative stress is a general term used to describe the steady state of oxidative damage in a… Read more »
We live in a toxic world. Our air, water, land, and foods are loaded with toxic chemicals. A recent study of infants (blood drawn from the umbilical cord at birth), indicated that the average child at birth had over 250 different toxins. From an evolutionary perspective, these toxins are a relatively recent problem. Our current… Read more »
Color is known to affect our mood and emotions, but did you know that the colors in foods do more than just look tasty? I often tell my clients to eat a rainbow everyday, and here’s why… Colors in foods promote the expression of healthy DNA coding and are called phytonutrients – chemicals in foods… Read more »
Resiliency, the ability to move and adapt to our changing world, is what keeps us alive. This same quality is also what keeps us young. On the surface we look for resiliency in our skin as a sign of youth, but that resiliency is even more important in our organs and our joints. Over time… Read more »
The Fever Fallacy Contrary to popular belief, fevers are GOOD and a positive indicator that your body has the strength to fight off pathogens. A fever is part of your body’s defense mechanism and actually kills off bacteria and viruses that can’t live in higher temperatures. Fevers up to 104ºF are benign and of short… Read more »
Laser therapy is gaining worldwide recognition for its ability to reduce pain and enhance healing without drugs or invasive surgery.[sup]1[/sup] Low level laser therapy is safe, non-invasive and free of side effects. It speeds recovery time, increases joint flexibility and reduces inflammation. In 1917 Albert Einstein presented mathematical equations that were later used in the… Read more »
Today, we live in a world where stress erodes every facet of our lives. When stress becomes chronic, we are susceptible to a myriad of stress-related disorders, including cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, some forms of cancer, addiction, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), migraines, sleep disorders, depression, and chronic pain.[sup]1[/sup] In some cases, these illnesses can… Read more »
For many people over 40, episodes of fatigue are not uncommon. For many, having low energy is a chronic problem for which they’ve been to doctor after doctor trying to find a reason for their prolonged state of fatigue. Other symptoms may include depression, muscle pain, brain fog, weight gain, hypoglycemia, or digestive problems. Many… Read more »
San Diego Selected for Second Campus Bastyr University recently announced that it is establishing a new campus in San Diego and first classes will begin in Fall 2012. “We are thrilled to have secured a location for our Southern California campus,” said Bastyr University President Daniel K. Church, PhD. “To become the first regionally-accredited naturopathic… Read more »
Osteoporosis is a devastating consequence of aging. Post menopause, bones lose stores of essential minerals and calcium needed to remain strong. The progression toward osteoporosis is a quiet one, many women not even aware they are at risk. Bones are living tissues that go through a process of breakdown and remodeling that in a young… Read more »
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the basics of good health are a moderate lifestyle; a broad spectrum of cooked and fresh food and spices; regular exercise; adequate rest and relaxation; and a good attitude. In Chinese culture, these strategies are part of everyday life and Chinese herbs are a part of every meal. You may… Read more »
“When the breath wanders the mind also is unsteady. But when the breath is calmed the mind too will be still, and the yogi achieves long life. Therefore, one should learn to control the breath.” —Svatmarama, Hatha Yoga Pradipika The body can go weeks without food, and days without water or sleep, but can survive… Read more »
As a newcomer to Coachella Valley I was delighted to find Desert Health[sup]®[/sup]. I see it as an informative health guide and applaud its role in bridging the gap between diverse medical professions. Since my arrival, I have discovered that most desert dwellers know little about Naturopathic Doctors (ND’s). To remedy this, I have prepared… Read more »
The power of the breath and its central role in health and longevity was something that the ancient Taoists verified more than 2,500 years ago. Now, centuries later, we know that breathing plays a very powerful role in energizing and detoxifying the body, and reducing the levels of pernicious, destructive stress. In our normal, everyday… Read more »
A Desert Health[sup]®[/sup] Review Many know reflexology as a foot and hand therapy. The concept is that each area of your feet and hands corresponds to a region and/or organ in your body. Thus, applying pressure in these areas can provide natural benefits for specific health concerns. Footloose Reflexology offers a $40 special (to Desert… Read more »
The Desert is lucky to have Bikram Yoga Plus–a beautiful facility that is modern, professional and very welcoming to experienced and new yoga fans alike. And it’s no surprise considering the brains and beauty behind the project. Denise DuBarry Hay, who founded and owned Malibu Yoga in the late 80’s, spared no details in designing,… Read more »
In China, where they practice Western and Eastern therapies for cancer, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) plays an auxiliary but important role. It is employed to minimize the side effects of conventional treatments such as chemotherapy, assist in pain management and strengthen the immune system. It also aids in dealing with the stress and emotional factors… Read more »
Often overlooked in the health care picture for individuals suffering from a life-threatening illness is the importance of stress management and a blueprint to assure present-moment happiness. A life-threatening illness diagnosis can be devastating. The patient and family are overwhelmed with the “what will happen” of the future or the “what ifs” of the past.… Read more »
Over the past few decades, developments in the field of oncology have allowed physicians to detect cancer earlier, intervene sooner with more effective treatments, and to monitor cancer growth more efficiently. However, even with advancements in modern medicine, far too many individuals still suffer from cancer and live in fear of how this disease may… Read more »
Vitamin D is making news headlines as an underappreciated, readily available vitamin with big health boosting potential. Internationally recognized as the leading authority on Vitamin D, Dr. Michael Holick has spent the last 30 years researching vitamin D and its role in bone, immune and nervous system function. He has written over 300 research papers… Read more »