Alternative Treatment - Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an ancient Asian medical procedure of strategically inserting tiny needles in order to treat medical conditions. Many people with chronic pain, back pain, anxiety, depression and sinus conditions use this alternative medical procedure. Western medicine, historically refuted the legitimacy of acupuncture, is beginning to better appreciate the medical potency of acupuncture – many medical insurance policies cover acupuncture treatment. As Wikipedia states:

Acupuncture is becoming accepted by the general public and by doctors. Over fifteen million Americans tried acupuncture in 1994. A poll of American doctors in 2005 showed that 60% believe acupuncture was at least somewhat effective, with the percentage increasing to 75% if acupuncture is considered as a complement to conventional treatment
In 1996, the Food and Drug Administration changed the status of acupuncture needles from Class III to Class II medical devices, meaning that needles are regarded as safe and effective when used appropriately by licensed practitioners.

In the year 2000, I was treated for sinus and anxiety conditions by an acupuncturist. Once a week for one hour, she would insert tiny needles from my head to my toes. I would lay prone on a massage like table with relaxing music softly playing in the background. I barely felt the needles when they were inserted. After 30 minutes she would slowly twist the needles to a new position for the remaining time. I enjoyed the treatment (it was very uplifting and purging) and I felt the lasting effects semi-effective (the treatment did not last a full week before the condition reemerged). Whether or not it was the placebo effect, I am unsure, however, I would recommend this nontoxic alternative treatment for people suffering from the above mentioned conditions – in particular, people suffering from searing chronic pain.

In order to find a competent acupuncturist in your area, consult the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture’s (AAMA) website at www.medicalacupuncture.org

Healthy Mind, Body and Soul part one

I firmly believe optimal physical health is derived from emotional, psychological, and spiritual health. A person, people or community that is suffering emotionally, spiritually and/or psychologically is bound to be in the state of disease. A community in this state is likely to act counterproductive to its own welfare.

Currently, we see the manifestations of this sickness in many urban communities plagued with murder, drugs, litter, unemployment and other crimes. Consequently, these communities have the highest infant mortality, HIV, cancer, high blood pressure and diabetes rates in our country. These underclass communities that provide our six o' clock news entertainment are otherwise virtually ignored by the collective conscious of our nation (think pre and post flood New Orleans).

A People Without a Vision Will Perish

When we change our thoughts about these ailing communities, we will change our economic, social, and political policies affecting people trapped in poverty. We will invest more educational and economical capital in these communities. Yes, the mentality of healthy self-interest must emerge within these communities, but opportunities to expedite this evolution must also be present. We must collectively understand that an investment in our urban areas is an investment in America. A truly healthy America will not come into being until this happens.

Avandia Alert

To all diabetes II patients, a recent study revealed increased risk (43%) of heart disease and heart attacks for people taking Avandia or Avandamet. This scientific study, both worrisome and frightening, seems to question the efficacy of the FDA. The question becomes, was this drug approved by the FDA (like Vioxx) before extensive research was concluded because of the political muscle of Avandia's maker, British-based GlaxoSmithKline PLC?

Nevertheless, here's the skinny:

 If you are taking Avandia/Avandamet see your doctor immediately and inquire about your personal risk.

 Ask about alternative diabetes II drugs.

 Make your regular appointments (I go every 3 months) so your doctor can perform all vital organ testing (liver, heart, kidney) and monitor your cholesterol level.

Healthier Fridge

I am back from 3 weeks off. I have been extremely busy at work. As a sixth grade teacher and department head, my work load has been heavy. Thus, I needed time to regenerate.

Good news, however, I have maintained my 5 million pound pledge goal. Although the scale does not reflect the quantity of pounds lost to my liking, several friends and coworkers have noticed that I am slimming down. I take comfort in the fact that I am losing inches around my waist and converting fat into muscle (muscle weighs more than fat). I have been doing strength training 2 to 3 times a week, cardio training 4 to 5 times a week, and I am engaged in the slow and tedious process of modifying my diet. This leads to a follow up to my last blog entry: How to have a healthier refrigerator.

• Throw out all whites food items, white flour, white rice, white bread, and white pasta – replace them with whole wheat or whole grain products.
• Stock your refrigerator with an array of colorful fruits and vegetables.
• Stock up on snacks high in fiber: pears, berries, pistachios, artichokes, lentil beans, and light popcorn. High fiber foods help you lose weight and fill full.
• Toss out all foods and beverages high in fructose. Includes: sweetened drinks, sodas and corn syrup products. These foods have too much sugar.
• Stock healthier drinks: water, low fat milk, unsweetened tea (if you must sweeten tea with a 100% juice blend), 100% juices and sports drinks.
• Stock lean and skinless meats. Low fat turkey bacon, lean turkey sausages, skinless chicken breast, etc.

For more information go to: How to Stock a Healthy Frigde at Medicine.com