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4 Reasons To Stop Drinking Energy Drinks and Healthier Alternatives

4 Reasons To Stop Drinking Energy Drinks and Healthier Alternatives

by | Mar 23, 2022 | Diabetes, Informational, Nutrition

Did you know that a growing body of scientific evidence shows that energy drinks can create major health problems for young adults and children?

Energy drink manufacturers claim that their products can improve concentration and make you feel more alive. What they don’t tell you is that they can also rot your teeth, interrupt your sleep cycles, and increase your blood pressure.

This is why it’s so important to seek out healthier alternatives to energy drinks. If you want to find out more, read on and we’ll tell you what you need to know.

1. Bad for Your Heart

Because it’s so effective at helping people stay alert, energy drinks contain lots of caffeine. Many people don’t realize that if they consume too much caffeine in one day, they’re likely to develop health issues. This includes heart palpitations, higher blood pressure, and increased heart rates.

Since most energy drinks contain anywhere between seventy and one hundred and forty milligrams of caffeine, you only need to drink several beverages per day to do damage to your heart.

Energy drinks are particularly harmful to those who have preexisting heart conditions such as heart disease.

2. They Have Lots of Sugar

Most of these drinks have more than twenty grams of sugar per eight-ounce serving. This is more than half of the total amount of daily sugar that the American Heart Association recommends.

When too much sugar is in the body, it starts to become inflamed, a condition that is linked to many chronic diseases. Too much sugar can also increase the risk of obesity, type II diabetes, and liver disease.

3. Don’t Ever Mix With Alcohol

Did you know that mixing energy drinks with alcohol can alter your intoxication levels? This often makes people feel less sensitive to the effects of alcohol even though they are still intoxicated. This can make people think that they’re able to do things that they shouldn’t be doing while drinking.

People who mix these drinks with alcohol are also more likely to binge drink. Since binge drinking can create problems such as liver disease and memory problems, it’s important to seek out healthier alternatives when you’re consuming alcoholic beverages.

4. Energy Drinks Can Be Harmful to Young People

Youth and adolescents are still growing, and their bodies are not always ready to handle the effects of these drinks. Teens and youth who consume these drinks put themselves at risk of developing conditions such as cognitive under-development, difficulty sleeping, and an increased risk of developing mental health conditions.

How to Stop Drinking Energy Drinks

If you want to stop drinking energy drinks, the best thing you can do is find healthy alternatives. Instead of reaching for an energy drink before you start your day, consider making yourself a cup of green tea.

Another healthy alternative is ginkgo balboa. Though this species of tree has been used in China for many centuries, only recently has it gained popularity in the West. The plant will boost your energy. It also treats circulatory problems and issues related to respiration.

It will also be easier to stop drinking energy drinks if you change your diet. It’s a great idea to limit the amount of sugar and processed foods you consume. Instead, start consuming plenty of green juices, smoothies, and whole grains.

Avoid Energy Drinks and Seek Healthier Alternatives

There are many reasons why you should avoid energy drinks and choose healthier alternatives. They are bad for your heart. Since they contain so much sugar, they increase the risk of developing chronic diseases such as diabetes.

Do you need help to treat health conditions related to consuming energy drinks? Make the change and switch to healthier alternatives.

Swelling and Edema: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Swelling and Edema: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

by | Feb 22, 2021 | Diabetes, Informational

Edema can be a difficult disease to deal with in severe circumstances. It is an issue with swelling and fluid retention in the body which can lead to bad inflammation.

To learn more about edema and how to treat it, read on.

What Causes Edema

There are a few causes of edema.

It can be related to kidney problems due to the issue of filtering excess water from the body. It can also be a problem with weak veins and even a fault lymphatic system that prevents the body from self-draining.  

Edema is also present in pregnant women or sitting and standing for too long where both of the symptoms are most often present in the legs and feet.

Serious causes of edema can be a red flag for possible chronic kidney disease or even congestive heart failure. It’s important to visit a doctor as soon as you see unexplained symptoms of edema to rule out any serious medical conditions.

Symptoms of Edema

The symptoms of edema is the excess fluid making its way to the extremities of the body instead of being filtered out via the kidneys. The fluid is then trapped and makes the affected extremities appear puffy and swollen.

The location varies from person to person but it is most typically found in the legs more specifically the feet, and in the hands. When you press on the skin it will be left with an indent. The indent will take a while to pop back up.

You may also see indents from your socks around your ankles that take a while to go down. This is also an indicator of edema.

Some individuals will complain of their rings not being able to come off or are too tight around their fingers. This is also a symptom of edema.   

Edema Treatments

Serious cases of edema will require medical attention and most likely be put on medication to help with draining excess fluid. 

Those who have symptoms related to sitting or standing for long periods can easily treat their edema with regular massages.

Massages support the lymphatic system in draining excess fluid in your body without the use of medication. Massages will target your back and your neck where lymph nodes are located.

They are a great option for whether you visit a registered massage therapist, or if you do them yourself at home and also different types of massage.

Additionally, baths with Epsom Salts are a natural at-home remedy to help the body to release the stubborn fluid that doesn’t want to budge.

Consulting Your Doctor

For more serious edema issues, consult your doctor to determine the right path for your treatment. It’s best to go as soon as possible to rule out any significant health problems that require medical attention.

If you’re ready to treat your less serious edema with a relaxing massage, contact us to book your appointment today.

Type II Diabetes: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, Living With Type II

Type II Diabetes: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, Living With Type II

by | Feb 5, 2021 | Diabetes, Informational

According to Joslin Diabetes Research Center, over 30 million people suffer from diabetes in the United States alone. That’s almost one in every ten Americans that are struggling with some form of this disease. 

Chances are that you or someone you know is living with type II or type I diabetes. Educating yourself about the symptoms of diabetes, its causes, and how to live with it can be empowering to start your journey to health and wellness. 

Here is a primer on what you need to know about the most common type of diabetes, type II. 

Type I Versus Type II Diabetes 

There are some unique differences between type I and type II diabetes. Type I diabetes often begins in childhood and adolescence but can begin later in life as well. It requires daily injections of insulin to manage the disease as the body has stopped producing insulin. 

Type II diabetes is often seen later in life in those that are overweight and have a genetic predisposition to the disease. With type II, the body is still producing insulin, but the body’s cells can no longer properly use it due to insulin resistance.  

In type II diabetes the body’s pancreas can no longer generate enough insulin to properly regulate the body’s blood sugar. 

Type I diabetes does require lifelong insulin treatment, but the early stages of type II diabetes can be combated through diet and exercise changes. 

Symptoms of Type II Diabetes

Many living with type II diabetes, may not realize it as these symptoms can slowly present themselves. Symptoms to watch out for include:

  • Excessive thirst
  • Increased urination
  • Vision issues including blurry vision
  • Increased infections and sores that take a long time to heal
  • Exhaustion
  • Increased appetite
  • Numb and tingling extremities

Causes of Type II Diabetes

There are numerous contributing factors to developing type II diabetes. Here are some of the causes to be aware of:

  • Being obese or overweight increases
  • Risks increase over the age of 45
  • Lack of daily movement and exercise
  • Having a family history of type II diabetes 
  • Black, Hispanic, Asian, and Native American ethnicities are more at risk
  • Low HDL and high LDL levels
  • Body fat storage in the stomach area 
  • Pregnancy can increase the risk of gestational diabetes
  • Smoking
  • Unmanaged stress 

Living With Type II Diabetes

If you are suffering from type II diabetes, there are changes that you can make to your lifestyle to help you manage and even reverse it. 

Nutrition and weight loss are two key areas to address. Incorporating a diet of whole foods such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables, legumes, nuts, and healthy fats can help you lose weight and improve health. 

Eliminating processed foods, fatty meats, and high sodium snacks is an important lifestyle change to make as well. Look for new ways to incorporate some healthy snacks.

Incorporating more movement in your day, from taking a walk to starting a daily exercise routine, can have a big impact on your weight, energy level, and overall wellness. 

5 Immune System Boosters All Diabetics Should Try

5 Immune System Boosters All Diabetics Should Try

by | Oct 7, 2020 | Diabetes, Informational

Your Immune System and Diabetes: 5 Immune System Boosters All Diabetics Should Try

Your immune system and diabetes aren’t friends. High blood sugar lowers your immune system, and people with diabetes have high blood sugar more often. It’s a concern that people with diabetes need to consider all year round, but especially during cold and flu season.

Does that mean you have to buy a hazmat suit and lock yourself in a sterile bubble? Not by a long shot. In addition to managing your blood sugar, there are plenty of natural ways to boost your immune system.

1. Get Choosy with Your Carbs

The first rule of living with diabetes is to control your sugar intake, but that isn’t all it takes. Other carbs can have an impact on your blood glucose levels and reduce your immune system too.

The key is to focus on complex carbohydrates like whole grains. Avoid simple carbs like those in more process foods such as pasta and white bread.

High blood sugar is the top problem with how diabetes affects immune system responses. Complex carbs will keep your blood sugar levels more stable which keeps your immune system strong.

2. Head Outside for a Workout

Take time today to go outside for a walk, jog, or even yoga in your backyard. This empowers your immune system in two ways at once.

First, exercise promotes a healthier blood flow throughout your body. Better circulation strengthens your immune system, and people with diabetes have reduced blood flow. Second, healthy sun exposure helps your body product more vitamin D which is essential for immune activity. 

3. Spice Up Your Life

Most people know vitamin C helps your immune system, but did you know some herbs and spices have a similar effect? Some top spices that boost immunity are garlic, turmeric, and ginger, but there are many others.

Start incorporating more of these spices into your diet in healthy ways. For instance, include garlic in your salad dressings or indulge in healthy Indian dishes which are often high in turmeric.

4. Make an Adjustment

Chiropractic care can have a powerful impact on your immunity and diabetes alike. When you have inflammation or misalignments in your musculoskeletal system, it can reduce your blood flow. Blood vessels get compressed between bones or muscles and they can’t function their best.

A chiropractic adjustment can get your body back in alignment. That allows your blood flow to thrive and to carry your white blood cells and other immune system essentials throughout your body.

5. Hit the Hay

It’s common for adults not to get enough sleep, and in some circles, it’s almost a badge of pride. Toss out that ideology because a lack of sleep could have a serious impact on your health.

While you sleep, your body fights infections, manufactures white blood cells, and takes other steps to maintain your immune system. There are plenty of ways to modify your schedule and environment to get better sleep.

Caring for Your Immune System and Diabetes

No one likes to get sick, but if you have diabetes, a simple illness could become a serious threat to your life. The best way to stay healthy is to empower your immune system before you get sick.

The tips above can improve your immune system and diabetes at the same time. To start making positive changes, schedule a chiropractic visit with our skilled providers today.

What You Need to Know About Diabetic Neuropathy

What You Need to Know About Diabetic Neuropathy

by | Jul 28, 2020 | Advice, Diabetes, Informational, Injury

What Is Diabetic Neuropathy

When complications arising from diabetes occur, they may result in the disruption of blood flow. This interruption causes fewer nutrients (oxygen and minerals) to reach most body organs, leading to a type of nerve damage known as diabetic neuropathy.

Neuropathy itself is a nerve disease caused by nerve cell damage or dysfunction, hampering communication between the cells and the brain.

There are four main types of diabetic neuropathy:

  • Autonomic Neuropathy: Affects mainly the nerves that control digestion, but it can also affect the nerves controlling heartbeat, sex organs, and blood vessels.
  • Mononeuropathy: This can occur in any specific nerve.
  • Peripheral Symmetric Neuropathy: Affects mainly the hands, arms, legs, and feet.
  • Proximal Neuropathy: Affects the thighs, buttocks, hips, and legs.

Diabetic neuropathy progresses over time, with symptoms getting worse with time. Here’s all you need to know about neuropathy’s causes, symptoms, and management.

Diabetic Neuropathy Causes

Uncontrolled high blood sugar damages the nerves over time, which is thought to be the number one cause of diabetic neuropathy. Anyone with diabetes stands a high risk of developing neuropathy. Although there is no precise reason why or how this happens, there are factors that make you susceptible to diabetic neuropathy, including:

  • Uncontrolled or Excessive Blood Sugar Levels: Excessive blood sugar levels put you at risk of all complications that arise from diabetes, including nerve damage.
  • Kidney Damage: Kidney damage inhibits proper excretion of some toxins, leading to nerve damage.
  • Smoking: Smoking results in reduced blood flow to the legs and feet because it causes the narrowing and hardening of arteries.
  • Diabetes History: The longer you have had diabetes, the more likely diabetic-related neuropathy can occur.

Diabetic Neuropathy Symptoms

The symptoms depend on the type of neuropathy and the nerves affected, but in general, they include:

  • Gastrointestinal symptoms like constipation, bloating, nausea, or even diarrhea
  • Difficulty standing up after sitting for long
  • Ulcers
  • Infections
  • Tingling, muscle weakness, numbness, or pain
  • Loss of feeling in the arms, hands, or feet
  • Double vision
  • Aching behind one eye
  • Deformities
  • Bone and joint pain

A reputable chiropractic clinic can offer relief for most, if not all, of these symptoms, allowing you to get back to your normal duties.

How to Treat Diabetic Neuropathy

As mentioned earlier, anyone with diabetes can get diabetes-related neuropathy, so the first and best thing to do is monitor and manage your blood sugar levels.

Unfortunately, there is no known cure for the condition, and treatment only aims to slow down its progression. It includes using:

  • Anticonvulsants: These include Pregabalin prescriptions to ease the pain. Gabapentin and Sodium valproate may also be given when other effects, such as weight gain, are present.
  • Antidepressants: These include Duloxetine or Amitriptyline to reduce unpleasant sensations.
  • Opioids: These include Oxycodone, Dextromethorphan, Tramadol, and Morphine. However, these are rarely prescribed because they have a high risk of rendering someone dependent after prolonged usage.
  • NSAIDs (painkiller): Common painkillers such as paracetamol to ease the pain.
  • Spinal Cord Stimulation: A spinal cord stimulator is a pacemaker-like device implanted between the epidural gap (space between the spinal cord and the vertebrae). It delivers electrical pulses to the spinal cord to help manage chronic pain when other medications fail to provide relief.
  • Chiropractic Care: Administering reputable chiropractic care can help patients suffering from peripheral neuropathy manage pain and other discomforts. Chiropractic care is the most effective method because it goes beyond covering the symptoms by addressing their underlying cause.

Diabetic neuropathy is a painful condition that causes many discomforts and can even be debilitating. However, by taking the correct measures to manage blood sugar levels, you can prevent it from getting worse.

Creating a Meal Plan for Diabetes

Creating a Meal Plan for Diabetes

by | Jul 15, 2020 | Advice, Diabetes, Informational, Nutrition

Creating a Meal Plan for Diabetes: A Quick Guide

As of 2018, 10.5% of the U.S. population has diabetes. In fact, more than one million Americans get a diabetes diagnosis each year. 

If you’ve had a recent diabetes diagnosis, know that you’re not alone. It’s a condition that you can manage with exercise and a healthy diet. 

Transitioning to a new diet can be frustrating, especially when you have to cut back on your favorite foods. 

Luckily, the right diabetic diet plan can keep you feeling your best. Read on to find out why proper nutrition is important and how to create a meal plan for diabetes.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes affects the pancreas, which is the organ that regulates blood sugar using a hormone called insulin. It happens for one of two reasons: your body can’t make the right amount of insulin or your body doesn’t use it correctly. 

Roughly 90-95% of diabetics have Type 2, which makes it the most common type of diabetes. It happens when your body can’t effectively use insulin. Extra body weight and a lack of exercise can lead to Type 2.

Type 1 happens when the pancreas doesn’t make enough insulin. It’s a less common type and often appears during childhood. 

How Nutrition Can Impact Diabetes

Any time you eat too many calories or fat, your blood sugar can spike which can lead to complications. Luckily, you can keep your blood sugar levels in a safe range by eating the right foods. That’s why a healthy diet is critical to managing diabetes.

It’s also important to form good habits like eating at the same time every day and sticking to three meals. 

Creating a Meal Plan for Diabetes

A Type 2 diabetes diet should revolve around complex carbs, healthy fats, and plenty of fiber. Since you need to limit the amount of calories and carbs you eat, it’s important to make everything in your nutrition plan count.  

The best diet for diabetics includes these foods:

  • Fresh fruits and vegetables
  • Whole grain bread and pasta
  • Nuts and legumes (unsalted almonds and walnuts, beans, peas)
  • Low-fat dairy (Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, milk)
  • Fish with omega-3 fatty acids (salmon and tuna)
  • Lean protein (chicken and turkey)
  • Healthy fats in moderation (avocados, olive oil)

You should avoid foods with a lot of sodium, saturated fat, and overly-processed foods. If you’re going to indulge, enjoy in moderation and choose the healthiest option. Here are some examples of what to avoid:

  • Red meat (beef and pork)
  • Hot dogs, bacon, sausage
  • High sodium foods (chips, crackers, canned food, some frozen entrees)
  • Highly-processed foods (packaged snack cakes, cookies, baked goods)

Transition to a Healthier Diet

A meal plan for diabetes doesn’t have to deprive you of your favorite foods. The important thing is to enjoy everything in moderation and choose a healthier option when it’s available. Plus, don’t forget to exercise, drink water, and check your blood sugar level. 

At Amazing Life Chiropractic and Wellness, we offer a 5-week program to help people with diabetes transition to a healthier diet. To learn more or book an appointment for chiropractic care, contact us today.