headaches Archives - Amazing Health Advances

5 Common Questions about Migraines

The AHA! Team — Fri, 11 Apr 2025 05:22:30 +0000

Morgan deBlecourt via Duke Health – Migraines are more than just bad headaches, and they’re more common than most people think. Here, Timothy Collins, MD, a headache specialist at Duke, answers five common questions about migraines. 1. What Is a Migraine? Migraines are a moderate to severe throbbing pain in the head (usually on one side, but sometimes both), that often includes nausea, dizziness, facial tingling or numbness, visual disturbances, or sensitivity to light, sound, or smell. They can happen as often as several days per week. Each person may have their own combination of symptoms, and they can change from one migraine to the next. 2. What Causes Migraines? While no one knows for sure why migraines happen, newer treatments target a specific protein that appears to contribute to migraines. Migraines are much more common in women, which suggests that hormones like estrogen may play a role. A genetic link may also increase your risk, as migraines appear to run in families. Researchers continue to search for the root cause of migraines. 3. Will Migraines Get Better Over Time? The good news is that most people with migraines have fewer headaches as they get older. But this is not guaranteed, which is why your doctor will likely recommend treatment now rather than wait. 4. Are Migraines Damaging My Brain? No. Migraine headaches do not cause any damage to your brain or head, even when they are severe. 5. What’s the Best Treatment for Migraines? Fortunately, there are many medications available for headache treatment. But while every medication is right for someone, that someone might not be you. Your doctor may have you try several different medications to find the right one. Although there is no definitive test for migraine, neurologists and headache specialists can help sort through your headache symptoms, severity, frequency, and other characteristics to determine whether migraine is the right diagnosis and to recommend a treatment plan. Dr. Collins is a neurologist and headache specialist with more than more than 25 years of experience treating migraines and other headache disorders. To read the original article click here.

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‘There’s Something Wrong with Me’: Domestic Abuse Victims Could Have Traumatic Brain Injuries

AHA Publisher — Mon, 15 Aug 2022 07:00:24 +0000

Lorie Johnson via CBN News – Domestic violence is a terrible crime, often leading to a lifetime of emotional and physical scars. That can include traumatic brain injuries, which often go undetected. Now a growing number of domestic abuse advocates are trying to change that. Paula’s Story Like many domestic violence victims, Paula Walters has been hit in the head more times than she can count. “Not just the slaps to the head,” she told CBN News, “But it was physically, him pounding my head against the cement and the tile floor. ” Unfortunately, that cruel treatment was all too familiar for Paula. “I was a child abuse victim, so I didn’t see anything very wrong with what he did,” she said. It wasn’t unusual for Paula to be hit in the head multiple times in one day, something other abuse victims often report. “In the car, if he was mad, hit me across the head if I said something, mouthed off or anything,” Paula said. “He had a pole, it was that long, and he’d hit me in the head, especially in the back, and the neck.” Paula left her abuser decades ago. She’s in a safe, healthy relationship now. Through her nonprofit organization, The Courageous Survivor she tries to educate and empower other abuse victims. However, despite her progress, Paula still suffers from brain-related repercussions from her years of abuse, such as sensitivity to light and sound, dizziness, and more. “My memory, I have a really hard time,” she said, “Tell me something, to go to the store to get two items, and I’ll get there and can’t remember the two items.” A doctor’s visit and an MRI revealed Paula suffered from extensive brain damage which is likely permanent and could cause her increasing difficulty as she ages. “He still controls my life very much,” she said, “My life might end early because of him. I have to worry about, I might not get to see my grandkids potentially because of him and there’s nothing I can do.” Not Just Football Players About 15 years ago, doctors discovered football players who were repeatedly hit in the head, often developed the brain disease called CTE, or Chronic Traumatic Encephalitis. Now, researchers are taking a closer look at domestic violence victims who have been repeatedly hit in the head to determine whether they too may have CTE or other types of brain injuries. These diseases can cause personalities to change, steal memories, and lead to early death. Lee Goldstein, M.D., Ph.D., a researcher and clinical team leader at the Boston University CTE Center told CBN News, “What happens over time is that these repetItive injuries, these repetitive insults to the brain, accumulate, cause damage to the brain, and then trigger a neurodegenerative disease that then progresses over time, even in the absence of further insults.” Dr. Goldstein emphasizes CTE can occur in people who have never sustained a concussion, but who instead have repeatedly been hit in the head, regardless of whether any of the blows caused a concussion. Researchers are reportedly close to developing a test to diagnose CTE in people who are alive, but right now, the only way to determine whether a person definitely had CTE is to examine their brain after their death. “Unfortunately at the present time we have no way to definitively diagnose CTE in living persons at this point,” said Dr. Goldstein. Scientists at the B.U. CTE Center have confirmed CTE in the donated brains of over a thousand people, mostly deceased football players, who exhibited CTE symptoms while they were still alive. “The forgetfulness, the changes in behavior, the changes in mood, the changes in personality, and often aggression, violence, homicide, suicide, and the like,” Dr. Goldstein explained. The B.U. CTE Center has also confirmed CTE in a small number of brains from battered women, mainly due to lack of access. “Intimate partner abuse, or domestic violence, we have far fewer individuals who have donated with this type of a background, so we’re in really urgent need,” explained Dr. Goldstein, adding, “The donations are essential not only for helping the next person down the line who may be at risk for this, but also to help families understand what was going on with their loved one.” Making the Connection Surprisingly, until very recently, it didn’t occur to many in the medical community, victim advocates, and abused women themselves, that repeated hits to the head were likely causing traumatic brain injuries. “We have to start connecting domestic violence and brain injury,” Rachel Ramirez, LISW-S, RA, the Founder and Director of The Center on Partner-Inflicted Brain Injury, a project of the Ohio Domestic Violence Network, is one of the few to research this connection. “One of the most important revelations we found,” she told CBN News, “is how common hits to the head are. We’ve known that, but connecting hits to the head with the possible consequence of brain injury is something that seems kind of obvious after the fact,” she said, but nevertheless, “Brain injury never played a part of that conversation.” Now that the connection between domestic abuse victims who’ve been repeatedly hit in the head and traumatic brain injury has been made, Ramirez is trying to raise awareness among people best positioned to help victims. “The first person they reach out to when they’re struggling with abuse, it’s not us,” she said, “They’re not calling our hotlines. They’re talking to your viewers. They’re talking to their friends, they’re talking to their families, they’re talking to their pastor.” Recognizing the risk of permanent brain injury from domestic abuse could potentially motivate more victims to leave dangerous partners, get medical attention, and stop blaming themselves for the symptoms they’re experiencing such as depression, difficulty remembering, and trouble with problem-solving. Ramirez said domestic violence victims often know “there’s something wrong,” but generally keep it to themselves and, “often attribute that to either a psychological issue, to, ‘There’s something wrong with me,’ to, ‘I’m stupid. I’m crazy.'” Shelters Now Getting Involved When women gather the strength to seek help from domestic abuse shelters, more of the people who work at these help centers are beginning to consider the possibility that the women coming to them could be suffering from traumatic brain injury. One of those is Samaritan House, which provides emergency and permanent housing, support services and community outreach to victims of violence in the Hampton Roads, Virginia region. “We do assessments for every woman who comes into our program, and ask her some survey questions, to see what types of injuries she’s had, or symptoms she’s had, from possibly being punched in the head, or slapped or hit, where she could have some traumatic brain injury from that,” Robin Gauthier, Samaritan House Executive Director told CBN News. Those questions include inquiries about physical health, such as whether the woman has experienced headaches, dizziness, and vision problems, mental health, concerning problems with memory, concentration, and staying organized. Emotions also play a part, including irritability, nervousness and depression. “It’s a very scary situation to think someone is being hurt so badly that they could get a traumatic brain injury,” Gauthier said, “Why are perpetrators being allowed to abuse, and why aren’t they going to jail more often for longer lengths of time so they don’t continue to cumulatively hurt other people?” Counting the number of domestic abuse victims with brain injuries is difficult. Many choose to suffer in silence. Those who seek medical treatment often minimize their injuries or lie about how they got them. “Sometimes women carry so much shame they don’t want to tell anyone,” Gauthier explained, “And then the other thing is sometimes it’s dangerous if they do tell what’s going on, and then they’re going back home to that abuser, they’re going to get hurt even worse.” “The damage is done,” Walters said, “I don’t get to take a pill and have it better.” While treatments for brain injuries are limited, some can get better, especially when identified early. Some things that help are lots of rest, a healthy diet, and most importantly, avoiding future head injuries. To read the original article click here.

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Decades of Research Confirms: Popular OTC Drug Linked to Harm in Developing Babies

AHA Publisher — Fri, 15 Oct 2021 07:00:45 +0000

Karen Sanders via NaturalHealth365 – Is taking acetaminophen (brand name Tylenol®) during pregnancy harmful to developing babies? A growing scientific consensus says yes. Unfortunately, this growing consensus is not based on “new” data. In fact, the call for “precautionary action” is based on at least 25 years of scientific data involving thousands of mothers and children. Household Painkiller Taken During Pregnancy Harms Developing Fetus in MULTIPLE Ways, Growing Research Shows Acetaminophen (also called APAP, or paracetamol outside the United States) is in the spotlight thanks to a consensus statement published in Nature Reviews Endocrinology. The September 23, 2021, statement, endorsed by an international team of 91 scientists, public health experts, and medical doctors, states that pregnant women should “forego [acetaminophen] unless its use is medically indicated.” One possible medical indication would be fever reduction, as maternal fever is a known cause of neural tube defects. However, research indicates the majority of pregnant women who take acetaminophen are doing because of things like headaches and back pain – not fever. The question is: Do pregnant women (and their healthcare providers) truly understand the possible risks associated with this common over-the-counter drug? Just looking at the drug insert for acetaminophen should be a reason to pause, where it admits that it “is not known whether acetaminophen can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman.” It’s known now, however. In a statement to CNN, Dr. Shanna Swan, co-author of the consensus paper and professor of environmental medicine and public health at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York, says there’s a “significant body of evidence that suggests that [acetaminophen] disrupts the reproductive development of animals and humans.” This includes evidence showing that acetaminophen use in pregnancy increases the risk of undescended testicles in male offspring, which is associated with decreased fertility and sperm count later in life. In their consensus statement, the global team of researchers points to years of concerning data, including 29 observational studies including more than 220,000 mother-child pairs showing adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes. It’s not clear yet how acetaminophen can damage developing babies, but the drug is known as an endocrine disruptor. (Two other popular pain relievers, aspirin, and ibuprofen are already linked to birth defects.) Of course, acetaminophen is no stranger to adverse health effects. It remains the leading cause of drug-induced acute liver failure in the United States and is a leading cause of emergency department visits and hospitalizations. The negative impact of acetaminophen isn’t limited to fetuses only. Ten years ago, Reuters reported on a study from The Journal of Urology which found that men who regularly used over-the-counter painkillers like Tylenol were almost 40% more likely to suffer from impotence. Why Would Officials Rush to Expose Pregnant Women and Young Children to New Injections? You might wonder: why now? Why, after years of support from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and other organizations, is acetaminophen during pregnancy coming under fire? Dr. Swan puts it simply: the growing accumulation of data over time. “As time progresses,” she states, “stronger and stronger evidence suggests that we’ve only been underestimating risk [of maternal acetaminophen use.]” This is an important statement, especially in the context of brand-new mRNA injections currently being pushed on pregnant women and children – despite the complete lack of long-term safety data. Is the potential benefit of these drugs truly work the known and unknown risks? Should pregnant, nursing, and trying to conceive women truly have to choose between taking these drugs or else lose their jobs and lose access to public spaces? Is this ethical? Sources for this article include: CNN.com Nature.com NIH.gov Medlineplus.gov Statnews.com Reuters.com AAFP.org FDA.gov NIH.gov To read the original article click here.

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Study Reveals Nighttime Exposure to Blue Light Causes UNEXPECTED Harm to Your Health

AHA Publisher — Fri, 13 Aug 2021 07:00:45 +0000

Stephanie Woods via NaturalHealth365 – The fact that using your digital devices at bedtime can interfere with your sleep due to blue light emitted by light-emitting diodes (LED) screens is something we’ve known for years. As devices become more prevalent and become a part of everyday life for many, there has been an increase in certain health issues that are often caused by device over-usage. At the core of these problems is the LED screen due to the blue light that they emit. Researchers are now discovering that the health ramifications associated with blue light reach far beyond sleep disturbance. Exposure to blue light can disrupt the secretion pattern of specific hormones, upset the body’s thermoregulation, and disturb circadian rhythm. New evidence, however, shows that it decreases fat oxidation levels during sleep. One study found strong evidence that the type of light exposed to may influence certain physiological changes, including unwanted weight gain. Why Is Blue Light Emitted by Screens So Dangerous? Blue light is a light wave that is part of the light spectrum that the human eye can see – the visible light spectrum. It has the highest energy and shortest wavelength, vibrating in the 380 to the 500-nanometer range. It is most often associated with LED-lit screens for computers, smartphones, and digital devices. However, around a third of all visible light is actually blue light. In fact, the sun is the primary source of blue light. The problem with blue light emissions from device screens is that the eyes are directly exposed for lengthy periods and from close proximity. Exposure to sunlight typically does not have these issues. Most people wear sunglasses, shield their eyes, and limit exposure. But, of course, having the source too close to the eyes is not a problem with the sun. Blue light does have its place, providing some health benefits – but originating from natural sources such as the sun is preferable. However, when it comes from a screen that is mere inches from a person’s face, that can be a problem. From eye strain to weight gain and depression, studies link blue light overexposure to MULTIPLE health conditions The eye is not very efficient when it comes to blocking blue light. As blue light enters the eye, it passes through the lens and cornea to the retina. Retinal cells convert the light and send impulses to the brain that turns light waves into images. Essentially, the eye is wide open to receiving blue light, so it can be too much of a good thing when it is exposed via a device screen that is inches away. Health problems related to continued exposure to blue light (especially via LED screens) include: Eyestrain Damaged retinal cells Eye conditions like macular degeneration Myopia and nearsightedness Disrupted sleep patterns Sleep deprivation Inhibited production of melatonin Blurred vision Headaches Weight gain Decreased fat oxidation Depression (nighttime exposure) Changes in skin cells that speed the aging process Decrease in the hormones leptin and cortisol (stress hormone) Increased blood sugar levels (due to disrupted circadian rhythm) Decreased metabolism Scientists are only now beginning to connect the dots regarding the far reach of overexposure to blue light. It has traditionally been believed that it disrupted sleep patterns, which is true, but researchers now understand that it is only the tip of the iceberg. So how can you protect against the harmful effects of blue light exposure? Here are 5 simple solutions for you to try Anyone who uses a computer, tablet, smartphone, or other digital devices on a regular basis can benefit from decreasing their exposure to blue light. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to give your eyes a break and your health a boost. Shut down devices well before bedtime – Exposure to blue light before going to bed tricks the brain into believing it is daylight. In response, it does not produce melatonin which induces sleep. This can lead to insomnia and disrupted sleep patterns. By shutting down all devices at least two hours before bed, the body has a chance to make adjustments and transition from daytime to bedtime by producing the melatonin the body needs. Blue light glasses – More studies are shedding light on the effectiveness of blue light glasses. In response, more doctors and researchers agree that the glasses do indeed help people reduce their exposure to blue light and get better sleep. 20-20-20 Rule – Every 20 minutes, look at something at least 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Place interesting objects and pictures at different points around the room, 20 feet or more from you, to have something interesting to look at, and you will be more motivated to look longer. Blue light reduction apps – An app like f.lux adjusts a computer’s display color to reduce blue light. It can be set to change automatically at dusk or at a specific time, such as a few hours before bed. Control exposure to screens – Most people have some control over the lighting and glare on their screens. Move the device further away, so it isn’t as close, bring the device to a more posture-friendly height and level, and adjust the light in the room to reduce glare. Blue light filters for devices – Blue light filters for computer screens, tablets, smartphones, and other devices. These filters act as a barrier between the screen and the eye, so the exposure is greatly reduced. Opt for OLED lit screens – Organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) are a kinder, gentler light source that quietly overtakes LED-lit screens. More televisions, computers, phones, and other devices are beginning to use OLED because it does not produce as much blue light as LED screens. In fact, OLED exposure actually shows better physiological function, including higher metabolism and higher production of melatonin when compared to LED exposure. We all love our devices, but there can come the point where we no longer have our devices, but they have us. Your device is not more important than your health. You can replace a screen or smartphone. You can buy a new computer. Your body and mind are much more precious — and irreplaceable. There are so many options out there to make your screen time safer and more enjoyable. Take some time to find the right one for you. Sources for this article include: Nature.com UCDavis.edu Stanford.edu NIH.gov AAO.org JustGetFlux.com To read the original article click here.

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Discover 6 NATURAL Ways to Prevent Migraine Headaches

AHA Publisher — Thu, 15 Jul 2021 07:00:02 +0000

Robert Simon via NaturalHealth365 – Migraine headaches can be severely debilitating, and those of us who frequently suffer from them can end up with a terribly diminished quality of life. In this article, we’re going to take a look at six effective steps you can take to prevent migraines or at least catch them when they strike to minimize the pain and discomfort often associated with this condition. Prevention Is Always the Best Medicine Here are some preventative measures you can incorporate to reduce the likelihood of migraines and severe headaches: #1: Check your diet: Is it free of headache triggers? Around one-tenth of people who suffer from migraines do so as a result of their food choices. Try logging your food intake for a few days and highlight potential offenders such as dairy, wheat, and refined sugars. Although this seems rather ‘basic’ – you’ll be surprised what you discover – once you start keeping track of what you’re eating. #2: Improve your sleep situation Often, all it takes is a concerted effort to improve your sleeping habits to reduce the incidence of a migraine. Getting in a routine of sleeping and waking at roughly the same time each day – even at weekends – can help regulate your hormonal levels, leading to a great reduction of headaches. Experiment with removing all electronic devices from your bedroom, such as TVs and mobile devices. Keep the bedroom as dark as possible and look into “grounding” sheets for your bed to get you ‘connected’ to the earth. #3: Improve your circulation Paying extra attention to your circulatory health can help reduce migraine attacks and help relieve symptoms when one strikes. For example, using ginger (in fresh vegetable juices) and cayenne pepper in your food (or drink) can positively affect your circulation. And, of course, don’t underestimate the health benefits of exercise. Although a 20-minute walk (at low intensity) promotes good blood flow and the ‘relaxation response’ within the body, more intense exercise seems to confer even more benefits. A review article published in 2020 concluded that an adequately rigorous aerobic exercise regimen alone is enough to produce a statistically significant drop in migraine frequency. Finally, try contrasting the temperature of your shower water. Alternate 1-2 minutes of hot water with 30-60 seconds of cold, and be sure to pay attention to your extremities. When I get a migraine – what can I do? Sometimes all the prevention in the world won’t be enough to stop the onset of a migraine or headache, so here are a few tips for making the experience less painful and hopefully stop your headache dead in its tracks. #4: Natural pain relievers can be as simple as herbal remedies such as chamomile and peppermint tea – which can work wonders when it comes to helping you relax and relieving some of the tension of a headache. You might also like to consider using curcumin – in supplement or powder form. Curcumin is a compound found in turmeric which has become increasingly popular due to its pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, being available in pill format makes it very convenient to take in place of a harsher chemical pain killer such as aspirin – which can be damaging to the liver. #5. Cool off using an ice pack or cold compress on the affected region can be a highly effective way of helping to relieve pain – temporarily. You can also place your hands in ice-cold water for a few minutes while repeatedly clenching and opening your fists for a similar effect. Obviously, once the pain subsides – it would be a good idea to get some much-needed rest. (back to #2) #6: Relax! Sometimes the most effective remedy is to simply take a step back from your daily ‘grind’ and let go. Don’t allow the daily pressures of work and family life to get the best of you. Yes, this comes down to mindset, and many times, that can make all the difference in the world. If you feel a migraine (or headache) rearing its ugly head – put yourself into a hot bath; lay down in a dark, quiet room for a while, or practice some simple breathing techniques. Settling down and relaxing your mind will, in turn, relax your body, resulting in the release of natural mood-enhancing and pain-relieving hormones such as serotonin and endorphins – and ultimately natural migraine relief. Of course, it can’t hurt to try some self-massage or, if possible, have someone else do it. This can do wonders for relaxing the body and mind. Your Diet and Lifestyle May Hold the Key to Preventing Migraines and Relieving Headaches In conclusion, a change in your lifestyle is perhaps the most significant factor to consider when it comes to headache relief. Try to change your diet by removing sugary drinks, fast food, and possible allergens while also participating in regular exercise. Over time, you will be able to identify your own personal dos and don’ts in terms of what reduces your symptoms and what causes them to flare up. Consistency and thoroughness are crucial, and by gradually applying these preventative measures and migraine-relieving techniques, you should vastly improve your quality of life, free from pain and discomfort. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov WikiHow.com To read the original article click here. For more articles from NaturalHealth365 click here.

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This Ancient Practice Offers Natural Migraine Relief, NEW Study Reveals

AHA Publisher — Wed, 03 Mar 2021 08:00:45 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – For those who suffer from migraine headaches, the throbbing, pulsing pain – sometimes accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light – can seem unbearable. And the fact that attacks can last for hours and even days adds another layer of misery. Western medicine attempts to treat migraines with drugs such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, barbiturates, and opioids. But, the adverse effects of these medications can run the gamut from drowsiness and confusion to addiction, stomach ulcers, and liver damage. Sadly, only about half of migraine sufferers report relief from taking prescribed medications. But, there is some good news: a new study published in the official journal of the American Academy of Neurology reveals that yoga benefits migraines – and allows patients to take fewer drugs. Reduce the Severity and Frequency of Migraine Headaches by Adding This Practice to Your Treatment Plan The 2020 study published in Neurology involved 114 adult volunteers who experienced between four and 14 migraine headaches a month. Participants were randomly divided into two groups – one taking their regular migraine medications and one in which yoga was added to the regimen. The yoga consisted of an hour-long routine of breathing, relaxation techniques, and yoga postures. For the first month, the volunteers in the yoga group were supervised by an instructor three days a week. Over the next two months, they performed the yoga at home five days a week. Both groups received identical counseling regarding common-sense lifestyle techniques to manage migraines, including getting sufficient sleep, eating properly, and exercising regularly. After three months, the results were definitive: adding yoga offers natural migraine relief. Adding a yoga routine to a regimen of prescribed medications significantly reduced the severity and frequency of headaches. Impressive Study Results: Do This Regularly to Reduce Your Medication in Only Three Months The team reported that while patients in both groups experienced improvements in headache frequency, duration, and impact on daily life, the yoga group’s benefits were more pronounced. In fact, the yoga group ended up with an average of 4.7 migraine headaches a month – down from 9.1 – while the medication-only group cut their headaches by only 12 percent (a much more modest decrease). In addition, the yoga group was able to take less medication, with their average usage dropping by a hefty 47 percent by the end of the three-month study. Once again, the meds-only group didn’t fare as well. In fact, this group’s decrease in the number of pills taken was only 12 percent (again!) The lead author of the study – Rohit Bhatia, M.D., D.M., D.N.B. – pointed out a financial benefit of yoga as well. The yoga group did not need to purchase as much medication, thereby reducing the treatment costs – what Dr. Bhatia called a “game-changer” for those struggling to afford expensive prescription drugs. Yoga Offers Remarkable Benefits to People With Multiple Other Health Conditions Previous research has shown that yoga can help ease harmful psychological and physical conditions, such as chronic back pain, systemic inflammation, insomnia, and depressive rumination (unhelpful obsessing over real or imagined problems). A relatively recent study has highlighted the ability of yoga to reduce the symptoms of chronic concussion. Chronic concussion symptoms – which include headaches, fatigue, and depression – are sometimes described as the “invisible injury” in brain trauma incidents – and are notoriously difficult to treat. In the first-ever meta-analysis of research on the effects of yoga and mindfulness techniques on chronic concussion symptoms, the authors reported that these natural interventions could significantly cut fatigue and depression while improving cognitive performance and quality of life. The researchers, who called the results “remarkable,” reported that mind-body interventions for mild traumatic brain injury “consistently improved symptoms” in nearly every measured outcome – with no reported adverse effects. The team added that the approach – while not a miracle cure – is a valuable tool that can provide benefits over time. To conduct the review, which was published in Applied Psychology: Health and Well-Being, the investigators looked at 22 different studies involving a total of 539 participants. Ward Off Migraines With Natural Techniques and Powerful Nutrients Early interventions may help stop a migraine headache before it takes hold. At the first sign of a migraine – which can involve such diverse symptoms as sudden mood changes, food cravings, frequent yawning, and visual disturbances – experts advise seeking out a quiet, darkened place. Hot compresses applied to the head and neck can sometimes help deter an attack – as can heating pads and warm baths. (Alternately, some migraine sufferers report successfully warding off a migraine with ice-cold compresses). Avoid skipping meals, and steer clear of nicotine, alcohol, and processed foods laden with preservatives and sodium. It’s a good idea to keep a journal to discover what provokes migraines for you – remember: chocolate, aged cheeses, and wine are common culprits. And, getting sufficient exercise can help release serotonin and endorphins, neurochemicals that play a vital role in regulating pain perception. Other natural treatments for migraines include ginger root, valerian, and peppermint. Inhaling the scent of lavender through aromatherapy has also been shown to relieve migraines. Maybe it’s a good time for you and your integrative doctor to discuss the possibility of supplementing your migraine treatments with yoga. After all, it’s simple, accessible, non-invasive, and drug-free. And, in the words of Dr. Bhatia, “All you need is a mat.” Sources for this article include: ScienceDaily.com Wiley.com MayoClinic.org MayoClinic.org To read the original article click here. For more articles from NaturalHealth365 click here.

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Is Wheat the Problem? Or Is It Pesticides? A Surprising Factor in Celiac Disease

AHA Publisher — Wed, 17 Feb 2021 08:00:17 +0000

Leah Zerbe, MS, NASM-CPT, NASM-CES via Dr. Axe – If you’ve been dealing with ongoing gastrointestinal (GI) issues — diarrhea, nausea, pain and bloating — the cause may be right on your plate. Gluten, the main protein in wheat and other grains, causes serious reactions in millions of people. And it affects more of us all the time. But it didn’t used to. For thousands of years, people all over the world ate wheat without suffering any consequences. But over the past few decades, both celiac disease and gluten intolerances have begun affecting huge numbers of people, especially in the U.S. Which begs the question: How did this global staple food turn toxic for so many of us? The answer may not be the gluten itself, but the chemicals used to grow, treat, and harvest the wheat. What’s Your Gluten Issue? Gluten can affect your health in three ways: Wheat/gluten allergy: An immediate, severe immune system response to wheat and the proteins it contains, but without lasting damage to the body Gluten intolerance (also called non-celiac gluten sensitivity): A condition that causes dozens of symptoms but no autoimmune response when you consume gluten Celiac disease: An autoimmune condition where even tiny amounts of gluten trigger an attack on your small intestine Wheat allergies are uncommon, especially in adults, but can be life-threatening. Celiac disease causes lifelong health issues in millions of people, about 1.4 percent of the world population. Gluten intolerance is by far the most common issue, but it’s hard to pin down the numbers. Researchers estimate that around 6 percent of people suffer with this condition, but that’s probably on the low side. Both wheat allergy and celiac disease can be diagnosed with existing medical tests — though the results in celiac tests aren’t always accurate. Gluten intolerance is harder to diagnose because there’s no real test for it. It’s more of a non-diagnosis: People who test negative for celiac disease but feel better after eliminating gluten from their diets, are considered gluten intolerant. Do You Have These Symptoms? People first begin to realize they may have gluten issues when they start having GI problems. All three conditions listed above can cause GI issues including diarrhea, constipation, gas, bloating, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. But gluten intolerance and celiac disease can also cause some surprising and seemingly unrelated symptoms, such as: Headaches Depression and anxiety Joint pain Bone loss Chronic fatigue Brain fog Memory lapses Itchy rashes And unlike allergies and intolerances, celiac disease does lasting damage to the body. It injures the protective gut barrier, which can lead to severe malnutrition. Celiac also triggers system-wide chronic inflammation, setting the stage for other disease states to move in. The main treatment for all three conditions is avoiding wheat and gluten. But that’s not as easy as it sounds, and it doesn’t always work. A “Gluten-Free” Diet May Not Be Enough Going gluten-free should be easy, but it’s not. For one thing, studies show that foods labeled as gluten-free often contain gluten. In one study, researchers detected gluten in 32% of 5,624 foods labeled gluten-free. In fact, 53% of gluten-free pizzas and 51% of gluten-free pastas contained gluten. A 2020 mega-study led researchers to report that “foods labeled as gluten-free should not be considered safe” for people who need to avoid gluten. Second, if you eat somewhere even in your own home where other people consume gluten, you run a high risk of cross-contamination. That can happen when particles of gluten stick to pots, plates, and utensils also used for gluten-containing foods. And if you’ve ever baked with flour, you know it finds up everywhere. Third, gluten hides out in the weirdest places. You wouldn’t expect it, but gluten is found in things like: Bouillon cubes Ketchup and mustard Wine coolers Soy sauce Instant coffee Fruit snacks Toothpaste and mouthwash Medications Vitamins Even if you do manage to stay 100% gluten-free, it may not be enough to heal your gut — at least not through diet alone. When you have any level of gluten reactivity, it triggers immune system responses including inflammation that can damage the inner lining of your intestines. Your gut gets a break when you avoid gluten, but that won’t fix the existing damage. On top of all that, there’s another threat to your recovery: glyphosate. Glyphosate is the most widely used weed killer in the world. It’s used extensively on grain crops (including wheat), along with everything from chickpeas to kale. And while glyphosate might not seem related to your gluten issues, it almost certainly is. Factor in Celiac Disease: Gluten or Glyphosate? With gluten-related illnesses on the rise, scientists raced to find out why. Their main suspect was the higher gluten content in modern wheat. But unexpected study results quickly nixed that idea. Researchers found that a high-gluten diet didn’t increase GI symptoms, immune responses, or intestinal inflammation when compared to a low- or no-gluten diet. So scientists started looking for other causes … and they found one: Glyphosate, a pesticide often used on wheat crops. Glyphosate toxicity looks a lot like gluten issues. That’s because glyphosate creates the same damaging conditions normally associated with celiac disease and gluten intolerance. Because of the way its chemical is designed, glyphosate kills off beneficial bacteria in the gut. It also prevents important cytochrome P450 (CYP450) enzymes from functioning properly … the same enzymes affected in celiac disease. By inhibiting CYP450 enzymes, glyphosate makes it harder for your body to: Clear out toxins on its own Form bile acids (crucial for nutrient absorption) Produce essential fatty acids Activate vitamin D Break down vitamin A into usable forms At the same time, glyphosate decimates the beneficial probiotic bacteria in the gut microbiome, but doesn’t hurt pathogenic bacteria. That causes a condition called dysbiosis, where harmful bacteria overgrow and cause destructive imbalance in the gut microbiome. This combination of effects triggers symptoms very similar to what you’d experience with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. And since glyphosate (along with other pesticides) contaminates dozens of plant foods, going gluten-free can’t fix the whole problem. But that doesn’t mean it can’t be fixed. A 3-Step Plan to Tackle Gluten and Glyphosate Since it’s so hard to completely avoid gluten and glyphosate, being proactive is the best way to protect yourself. With this simple three-step plan, you’ll be able to minimize the effects of gluten and glyphosate, whenever they sneak into your diet. Step 1: Detoxify To start the healing process, you need to remove these toxins from your system. Even though your body has its own detox process, it needs extra support to deal with the toxic overload of gluten and glyphosate. And because your body is already under stress, you want to use safe, gentle, natural detoxifiers that won’t be harsh for your system to handle. At the same time, you want block absorption and storage of any new toxins. To accomplish this, choose supplements from this pesticide detox dream team: Glycine (an amino acid) competes with glyphosate and helps prevent it from being stored in organs and tissues. Glycine also increases levels of glutathione, the “master antioxidant” that boosts your body’s detox process. Collagen is rich in glycine. Iodine blocks toxins like fluoride and chloride from being absorbed into tissues, especially the thyroid. Kelp is the best source of bioavailable iodine, with the added benefit of binding to toxins for safe removal from the body. Sodium alginate (a seaweed extract) binds with toxins like glyphosate in the GI tract so they can be safely eliminated. Citrus pectin binds with a variety of environmental toxins and heavy metals to reduce the body’s toxic burden. Step 2: Repair Once gluten and glyphosate are out of the picture, your body can begin to focus on repair. This involves reducing inflammation and repairing the damage done to the intestines. Gut-healing supplements include: Fish oil, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, reduces systemic inflammation. Fish oil also helps repair the injured gut barrier. Citrus pectin also helps heal and restore gut barrier integrity. Glycine possesses strong anti-inflammatory actions that help calm and soothe the intestinal lining. Step 3: Restore and Revitalize After the intestines have been repaired, you can turn your focus toward restoring a well-balanced gut microbiome. When your gut microbiome contains a rich diversity of beneficial bacteria, it helps calm autoimmune and allergic responses to gluten. By replenishing and nourishing probiotic bacteria, you’ll be supporting healthy detox and immune system function. Best of all, a healthy gut microbiome can help eliminate even the most troubling GI symptoms brought on by gluten and glyphosate. Restore and revitalize a healthy gut with: Probiotics: Replenish beneficial bacteria and help crowd out harmful bacteria. Probiotics also produce many healing compounds, including short chain fatty acids (SCFA) that protect and repair the gut barrier. Prebiotics: A type of dietary fiber that selectively nourishes probiotic bacteria. Prebiotics also supply the raw materials for SCFA production. Citrus pectin: Encourages beneficial bacteria in the gut microbiome to flourish. Digestive enzymes: Help break down foods into easy-to-absorb nutrients. Supplementing with small quantities of digestive enzymes helps stimulate your own natural enzyme production. This can be especially helpful during the recovery process as celiac disease can interfere with nutrient absorption. Emerging data suggests that modern wheat strains may be more difficult on digestion for many people. But as we also learn more about the impacts of pesticides and other influences on microbiome health, it’s becoming increasingly clear that supporting GI integrity and microbiome balance from multiple angles, holds the key to long-term health on every level. To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Axe click here.

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How to Detox Your Body from Mold Without Stressing Out Your Kidneys & Liver

AHA Publisher — Fri, 16 Oct 2020 07:00:04 +0000

Isaac Eliaz, MD, MS, LAc via Dr. Axe – You may not be aware of it, but mold is probably affecting your health. So even if it’s not on your mind, “how to detox your body from mold” should be something we all need to be asking. Even if mold is making you sick, you might not know it’s the source of your symptoms. That’s because mold toxicity can act like many other conditions, so it often goes misdiagnosed and untreated. Exposure can cause many different symptoms, including: Fatigue Cough Shortness of breath Fever Headache Joint pain Memory problems Dizziness Sinus infections Wheezing Trouble concentrating Sensitivity to light Skin rash Digestive problems One of the main reasons mold toxins can cause so many different symptoms is this: These toxins can suppress or damage your immune system. Not only can they bring on symptoms themselves, they can make you more vulnerable to other illnesses. Surrounded by Mold Mold exposure is shockingly common. It’s found in the air, damp or water-damaged buildings, even the food you’re eating. Foods that commonly contain mold include cereal grains, nuts, spices, coffee, bulk foods (like the kind you buy from bins to save money) and dairy products. You come across mold inside and outside, and it can travel around with you. Mold spores can attach to things like: Clothing Shoes Pets Reusable grocery bags That means it can come home with you from just about anywhere. And if it ends up somewhere even slightly damp, it will grow and multiply. Mold Produces Toxins In nature, mold speeds up the break down (decomposition) of things like dead trees and fallen leaves. Some molds are used to make cheese or create antibiotics. But many types of mold can be hazardous to your health. These molds produce mycotoxins, poisons that can cause severe health problems and a wide variety of symptoms. The two most common harmful mycotoxins are aflatoxin and ochratoxin, and exposure to either (or both) of these can trigger substantial health issues — from chronic allergies to cancer. What’s more, if your body can’t remove these toxins on its own, they can slip into long-term storage to cause lasting or recurring damage. Mycotoxins Damage Your Health (and Your Immune System) Mycotoxins are sneaky. While mold itself can’t enter your bloodstream — though it can hang around and colonize in spots like your nostrils and lungs — mycotoxins can get into your bloodstream and circulate throughout your body. These opportunistic toxins can hijack your immune system, making you more vulnerable to infections. If your immune system is already compromised (such as people with autoimmune conditions or undergoing cancer treatment), mycotoxins take advantage. If you’re healthy, they can make you very sick. Studies show that mycotoxins can: Cause lung inflammation that can make it harder to breathe Disrupt your gut health by reducing beneficial bacteria and encouraging pathogens Trigger chronic fatigue syndrome Affect brain function and cognition Cause liver damage, including cancer Worsen allergy and asthma symptoms Unfortunately, mold toxicity is frequently misdiagnosed. Because of its wide-ranging effects, it’s typically mistaken for other conditions including depression, multiple sclerosis, or autoimmune conditions. Plus, because mycotoxins are opportunistic, they’re often connected with debilitating diseases such as Lyme disease, IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) and fibromyalgia. Your Genes Can Make You More Vulnerable Around 25% of people are genetically predisposed to get sick from mold exposure. A simple test, called the HLA-DR, can tell you if you’re in that more susceptible population. If you are, it means your immune system can’t easily identify and get rid of mycotoxins. That can allow them to build up in the body, causing harm wherever they end up. On top of that, because of that genetic twist, even relatively small exposures to mycotoxins can affect you. And even if you’re not genetically susceptible to mold sickness, it can still impact your health. Healthy people can get sick from chronic or intense mold exposure. People with already compromised immune systems — even if their bodies can identify mold — are also extra vulnerable to mold toxicity. If that’s you, be sure should to double down on how to detox your body from mold. How to Detox Your Body from Mold Even if you’re not especially sensitive to mold, your body still needs help safely clearing out mycotoxins. When these aren’t removed properly and completely, they can cycle back around, and cause ongoing damage and symptoms. The best way to clear out these toxins is with proven toxin-binders. It’s important to make sure you’re working with safe, gentle detoxing agents so they don’t overtax your body’s clearance system (mainly your liver and kidneys). At the same time, you must use proven binders that don’t allow toxins to be reabsorbed in the intestines rather than excreted from the body. One prescription cholesterol-lowering medication called Cholestyramine binds strongly to some mycotoxins — especially ochratoxin — and keeps them getting reabsorbed. On the natural front, modified citrus pectin (MCP) has been extensively researched as an effective detoxifying agent. Because MCP works so gently, it’s safe for long-term use, which is often necessary for completely removing mycotoxins from your system. MCP works especially well when paired with another natural detoxifier: seaweed-derived alginates, natural gel-like substances that bind tightly to toxins. The combination of MCP and alginate prevents toxins — including mycotoxins and heavy metals — from being reabsorbed in the intestines. And although they make a strong detoxifying team, MCP and alginate are easily tolerated and their gentle action won’t strip essential minerals from your body. Equally important, MCP offers additional benefits that are essential when combating mold: Breaking the biofilm — By blocking galectin-3 and disrupting the biofilm backbone structure, it makes it easier for the body to identify the mold hiding in these areas and clear it, along with fungal infections that produce mycotoxins. Removing heavy metals — Fungus thrives on mercury. MCP as well as alginate are superior binders that safely remove mercury as well as lead, cadmium, uranium, arsenic and other heavy metals from the body. Calming inflammation — MCP reduces the excessive inflammatory response that is responsible for many of the mold-driven symptoms. Other mycotoxin detoxifiers include: Activated charcoal Bentonite clay Glutathione Chlorella In addition to utilizing detoxifiers when answering the “how do I detox my body from mold” question, it’s also important to strengthen your gut microbiome (the trillions of bacteria that live in your gut) with a high-quality probiotic and prebiotic combination. And, whenever possible, avoid mold exposure. This can be tricky, as mold can be tough to detect (if it’s inside walls, for example) and remove. Most important, if you’re concerned about mold toxicity, it’s critical to work with an experienced health practitioner who knows what to test for and which therapies are most appropriate for your situation. With the right support, you can identify—and resolve—any long-standing mold issues, and experience greater long-term health and vitality. To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Axe click here.

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Do Blue Light Glasses Work? Potential Benefits for Sleep & Eye Health

AHA Publisher — Tue, 04 Aug 2020 07:00:57 +0000

Jillian Levy, CHHC via Dr. Axe – Many experts tell us that when it comes to managing our health, including our body weights and moods, we should be careful not to underestimate the power of sleep. One reason why so many adults and children today are thought to be living in a sleep deprived state is because of high exposure to electronic devices that emit blue light. Because blue light is capable of disrupting our circadian rhythms, or “internal clocks,” blue light glasses are now recommended to improve sleep quality and other concerns. What are the benefits of blue light glasses? While more research on the topic is warranted, there’s some evidence that blue light blocking glasses can positively impact your metabolism, focus, appetite control and more. Read on to find out how to choose the best blue light blocking glasses for your needs, plus tips regarding when and how long to wear them. What Are Blue Light Glasses? Blue light glasses are a special type of eyewear that can block or filter blue light that is emitted from digital screens and electronics. If you regularly deal with issues like eye strain, blurry vision, headaches and trouble sleeping — which you believe may be tied to your use of electronics — then wearing blue light filtering glasses can be a worth a shot. What is blue light that glasses block? Blue light is a type of high-energy light that is bright and has a short wavelength. These are wavelengths of light between 420 and 480 nanometers on the visible light spectrum. While it mostly has a bad reputation, blue light also has some benefits, such as making us feel alert and awake. Most of our exposure comes from sunlight, but electronics also contribute to the amount of blue light that reaches our eyes on a daily basis. Electronics that give off blue light include televisions, smartphones, laptops, computer monitors and tablets, which many teens and adults now report spending multiple hours using every single day. How do blue light glasses work? These glasses are most often used at night to help block blue light emitted from LED devices from reaching the eyes. Studies have found that blue light exposure can suppress natural production of the hormone melatonin, which has sleep-inducing effects. Therefore it’s thought that too much exposure at night can keep you up and disturb your natural sleep-wake cycle. Wearing blue light filtering glasses is therefore a way to prevent sleep dysfunction and possibly to protect the eyes in other ways. Do They Work? Potential Benefits Do blue light glasses really work? Opinions regarding their effectiveness and findings from studies conducted thus far have been mixed overall. Research focused on the effects of blue light glasses is largely still underway. One reason it’s difficult to determine how well they work for the majority of people is because their use isn’t tightly regulated, since authorities such as the Food and Drug Administration in the United States do not consider these glasses to be medical devices. The American Academy of Ophthalmology and the Association of Optometrists in the U.K currently don’t recommendthe use of blue light glasses for the general public, although they haven’t stated that they are dangerous or should be avoided. Their stance is that there isn’t enough high-quality research showing that they work, plus that symptoms like eye strain and headaches may actually be due to issues like squinting while using electronics and poor posture, not blue light exposure. That said, some experts and many people do report experiencing benefits from blue light blocking glasses. Potential benefits may include: Reduced eyes strain, dry eyes and blurriness Reduced headaches Improved sleep habits and decreased insomnia, especially having an easier time falling asleep Enhanced vision (including less blur) Possibly increased protection against development of certain eye diseases, although this is still being studied — it’s currently thought that blue light from devices do NOT damage the retinas or contribute to long-term vision loss, macular degeneration or glaucoma If blue light filter glasses are capable of helping you sleep better, then there’s reason to believe that their benefits can be far-reaching. Sleep deprivation can make it more likely that you’ll develop a range of serious health issues, such as obesity, depression, high blood pressure, diabetes and others. Therefore getting more sleep can be highly protective and important for improving overall quality of life. What to Look for in Blue Light Blocking Glasses What is the best brand of blue light blocking glasses? It really depends on the filter strength that you require and how severe your symptoms are. In terms of where to buy blue light glasses, you can purchase either prescription or non-prescription blue light glasses from your optometrist, in drug stores, in stores that sell glasses/eyewear or online. If you’re dealing with vision-related problems, such as cataracts, or you’ve recently had eye surgery, it’s best to speak with your optometrist about his/her recommendations, since it may be possible you actually require contacts or glasses in addition to filtering glasses. Filters that block blue light can be added to prescription glasses at a relatively low cost, typically under $100. You can purchase non-prescription blue light glasses for around $30 to $100 as well, although more expensive brands are also available. If you’re concerned about also blocking UV light, look for glasses that have a filter providing 100% protection from UV light. When to Wear Them How do you know if you need blue light glasses? If you regularly use electronic LED devices at night, particularly once the sun is down, you may benefit from trying them. However, if you don’t want to invest in these glasses and are skeptical about their effects, experts suggest simply decreasing your evening screen time and/or setting all of your devices to “night mode,” which helps automatically result in less blue light exposure. Is it OK to wear blue light blocking glasses all the time? This may not be necessary, but it shouldn’t be harmful either. Some people find that wearing the glasses while they work helps their eyes feel better and allows them to work longer more comfortably. If you spent a couple of hours on electronics daily, especially during the daytime when you’d be getting blue light exposure anyway from the sun if you were outdoors, it’s probably not a problem to skip the glasses. Some blue light exposure during the day, particularly from natural sunlight, is even beneficial for regulating your circadian rhythm, so don’t be worried about a normal level of exposure. Overall, the best time to wear blue light glasses is at night, during the hours leading up to bedtime when your body is producing more melatonin. But if your eyes feel less strained when you wear them during the day too, then experts say this is fine to continue doing. Risks and Side Effects Blue light glasses may be capable of taking stress off of your eyes and helping you sleep better at night, but they aren’t the only way to take care of your vision of circadian rhythm. Here are other steps to take if you wish to sleep better and avoid eye strain, headaches and other issues: Get sunlight exposure during the day by going outdoors. Just be careful about too much UV-A and UV-B light reaching your eyes, which may be damaging — therefore consider wearing sunglasses if you spend lots of time in the sun. Avoid alcohol and nicotine, especially close to bedtime. Exercise regularly, which can improve sleep quality. Develop a relaxing nighttime routine that helps you cope with stress and unwind. Ideally this routine shouldn’t involve electronics — instead try reading a book, stretching or taking a warm bath. If you do use electronics at night, switch them to night mode. Keep the temperature in your room low, and wear clothes that don’t make you too hot. Limit the amount of hours you spend on electronics if possible. Invest in a good ergonomic chair to support your posture, and make sure your screens are at the right height so you’re avoiding forward head posture. Ideally have your eyes be about 25 inches from the screen and looking just slightly down. When working on a computer or device, take a break every 20 minutes and look at an object at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Conclusion What is the benefit of blue light blocking glasses? They help filter/block bright blue light that is emitted from electronic devices. Too much blue light can contribute to issues like sleep dysfunction and possibly eye strain and headaches. What are the best blue light glasses? It depends on why you’re wearing them. If you have severe symptoms or are recovering from eye surgery, you may need a prescription and should speak with a doctor. Otherwise you can purchase them at drug stores or online. Research focused on the effects blue light filtering glasses is overall lacking, and opinions differ about whether or not they are necessary. However, some people find they reduce symptoms like eye strain, dry eyes, blurriness, tension headaches and trouble falling asleep — especially among people using electronics for many hours daily and at night. To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Axe click here.

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