Nutrition. Vitamins. You.
General Heart Health as We Age Dr. Claire Arcidiacono, ND I have talked about how we can keep both our cholesterol levels and blood pressure healthy as we age. But what if your heart is already healthy? How do you keep your heart healthy as …
Cholesterol as We Age Dr. Claire Arcidiacono, ND Every year you most likely go to your doctor for a physical exam and routine blood work. When you look over your blood work you may notice something called a lipid panel or cholesterol panel. Your doctor …
Written by: Dr. Claire Arcidiacono, ND
For further questions or concerns email me at carcidiacono@invitehealth.com†
Dementia is a complex issue that concerns many people. Dementia is a complex topic because not only is it considered by many to be a neurocognitive disorder on its own, but it is also a part of many other neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer disease. In this blog I will review what is dementia? What are the signs and symptoms of dementia? What are the risk factors? What can you do if anything to help with the symptoms? And perhaps most importantly is there anything we can do to reduce the risk factors especially for those with a family history of dementia? †
Dementia is typically defined as a disorder that manifests as a set of related symptoms. In basic terms dementia is described as an acquired brain disorder where there is a decline in cognitive function. (1) There are a number of disorders that are associated with dementia. The most common disorder associated with dementia is Alzheimer disease. (2) Other disorders that are associated with dementia include Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, vascular disease, frontotemporal lobar dementia, and Lewy body disease and prion disorders. † (3)
Dementia can also occur when there are certain underlying conditions as I reviewed in my prior blogs. These include endocrine disorders as well as certain nutritional deficiencies. For more information on disorders that can mimic dementia please see my prior blogs. †
To start with Dementia as we know affects memory. However, in addition to affecting memory it can also affect behaviors. Dementia can lead to aggression, agitation, restlessness as well as sexual dis-inhibition. Dementia can also cause what is considered to be inappropriate behavior such as public outbursts of anger. In addition to behavioral changes dementia can also lead to psychological symptoms such as depression, apathy, anxiety, hallucinations and delusions. Over time language, attention and our problem-solving abilities also decline. Perception and orientation also decline over time. (4) Those with dementia are also more like to suffer incontinence (both urinary and fecal). (5) To sum things up – dementia affects our memory, attention, reasoning, communication and perception. Signs to look out for can include forgetting names and people and places. Using the wrong word for an object and having trouble completing tasks are also things to be on the lookout for especially in those with a family history. † (6)
Dementia is usually broken down into 4 stages. These stages include pre-dementia, early, middle and late stage. These stages are based on the severity of the functional and cognitive impairment. Using tests such as the mini mental state exam can help determine which stage of dementia is present. † (7)
What are the risk factors for dementia? The presence of any of the aforementioned conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, nutritional deficiencies and alcoholism are all risk factors. (8) Additionally high blood pressure, smoking, obesity, diabetes, lack of activity are all risk factors. (9) Traumatic brain injuries also increase the risk of dementia. (10) Other more socioeconomic risk factors include conditions such as lower levels of education, depression, low social interactions, loneliness and having a neurotic personality. (11) Studies have also found that having vision and hearing impairments increase the risk of dementia. Frailty may also increase the risk of dementia. † (12)
New research has found a link between oral bacteria and the risk of developing dementia. (13) Herpes simplex virus has also been confirmed to be associated with Alzheimer’s disease and therefore dementia. † (14)
As I’ve said before certain deficiencies are a huge risk factor for developing dementia. Additionally, if there is gluten sensitivity then gluten is also a risk factor. (15) Newer studies have also found that symbiosis and increased gut permeability are also risk factors for dementia. In other words, digestive concerns such as leaky gut, inflammatory bowel diseases and an overgrowth of bad bacteria are all risk factors for dementia. (16) Last but not least family history is also a risk factor for developing signs of dementia. † (17)
ICYMI:THE BRAIN: BLOOD TESTS & MORE, PART 1>>READ NOW!
While no studies have as yet found a cure for dementia there are certain nutrients that studies find that are helpful for our brain and memory.†
LIFESTYLE CHANGES & NUTRITIONAL SUPPORT
While Invite has an extensive line of supplements I have chosen the ones that in my clinical experience are the most helpful. In our next blog we will talk about Alzheimer disease! †
ICYMI:KEEPING THE BRAIN CLEAN WITH RESVERATROL, INVITE HEALTH PODCAST, EPISODE 645>>LISTEN NOW!
REFERENCES
Subscribe Today! Please see below for a complete transcript of this episode. BASIC TIPS FOR OPTIMAL KIDNEY HEALTH, INVITE HEALTH PODCAST, EPISODE 615 Hosted by Amanda Williams, MD, MPH. *Intro Music* InViteⓇ Health Podcast Intro: [00:00:04] Welcome to the InViteⓇ Health Podcast, where our degreed …
Subscribe Today! Please see below for a complete transcript of this episode. MENTAL FATIGUE, INVITE HEALTH PODCAST, EPISODE 613 Hosted by Amanda Williams, MD, MPH. *Intro Music* InViteⓇ Health Podcast Intro: [00:00:04] Welcome to the InViteⓇ Health Podcast where our degreed health care professionals are …
Written by Dr. Claire Arcidiacono, ND Constipation
For further questions or concerns email me at carcidiacono@invitehealth.com†
Every week I get calls asking about how to deal with constipation. Clinically speaking, constipation refers to less than 3 bowel movements a week. From a more holistic viewpoint, an optimum digestive tract will lead to a daily bowel movement. There is a common misconception going around that it is necessary to have a bowel movement after every meal. This is not true and is actually a symptom of rapid transit time!†
The symptoms include having a few bowel movements a week. Having a bowel movement every other day is considered mild constipation. Whereas, straining to have a bowel movement is constipation. Even if you do have a bowel movement every day, if the stool is hard/small or you feel as though there is stool left behind, you’re experiencing constipation. It can cause gas, bloating, anal itching, hemorrhoids, bloody stool, stomach pain as well as nausea or even vomiting.†
When it comes to working with this, it’s important to understand what is causing it. Oftentimes, it’s a symptom of different underlying systemic conditions. For example, thyroid disorders and pregnancy can affect bowel movements. Neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease or Multiple Sclerosis can have it as a symptom. Medications often cause constipation as a side effect. For example, overusing laxatives, even herbal laxatives such as Senna. On a very serious note, it can be a sign of colon cancer. Just like many different medical concerns, constipation can be caused by or exacerbated by stress. Before addressing the symptoms, it is important to address these underling concerns. In addition to underlying medical concerns, dietary concerns such as lack of water, fiber and even too much dairy can be a cause. A lack of movement is also a common issue. In children resisting the urge to have a bowel movement can also lead to constipation.† (1)
An overgrowth of pathogens such as Candida Albicans can also be a cause; as pathogens can cause diarrhea and constipation. (2) Disorders of the GI tract such as IBS, Diverticular Disease and Lazy Bowel Syndrome or structural defects such as fistulas, Intussusception, malforatation, colonic rotation and outlet dysfunction can also have it as a symptom. (4) While there can also be other causes of constipation, these are the most common.†
When addressing constipation it is very important to rule out any systemic concerns such as hypothyroidism. Underlying medical concerns need to be addressed first. Clearing up the underlying issue will often resolve the constipation. Follow up or schedule a visit to a Gastroenterologist. A stool analysis will be performed. It’s a great way to determine the presence of any pathogens.†
ICYMI: DIGESTIVE HEALTH, PART 4 ON STOOL TESTS >> Read Now!
The following suggestions are things that have been found to be helpful in combating constipation. I cannot stress enough how important it is to have information on hand when you call regarding constipation. Recent lab work, and a diet diary are important resources to have on hand when you call InViteⓇ Health. This way a protocol can be personalized.†
Address any underlying medical concerns and eliminate any food sensitivities or allergies. Increase water to half your body weight in ounces. If you weigh 200 pounds you need to be drinking 100 ounces (12.5 cups) of water. Every 8 ounces of water is 1 cup.†
Add fiber to your diet! Fiber is naturally found in fruits and vegetables. These are a great jump start for your digestive tract. Maltodextrin has been found to help combat constipation (4) Psyllium seed husk has also been found to help constipation. (5) For relief of temporary constipation, InViteⓇ Health Colon HxⓇ and soluble fiber can help. A great every day fiber is InViteⓇ Health’s Organic Flaxseed Powder. It’s better to use the powder rather than the seeds since the powder is broken down. That way, the fiber is more easily used by the body.† (6)
Caprylic acid has been found in studies to help eliminate H. Pylori, Candida and other types of pathogens.† (7) InViteⓇ Health’s Nutristatin 144 is a great item.†
Garlic has been found in studies to help eliminate bacteria and fungus such as Candida. (8) See InviteⓇ Health’s Aged Garlic.†
Olive Leaf Extract has been found to help eliminate microbes such as yeast in the body. (9) See InViteⓇ Health’s Olive Leaf Extract and our Renalaid formula.†
Probiotics help to kill bad bacteria and help colonize new healthy bacteria.† (10)
Herbs have been found to help eliminate constipation. Now it is important to stay away from herbs considered laxatives. While these can be a temporary relief, long term they can cause damage to the digestive tract. Triphala fruit complex has been found to help promote bowel movements. (11) See InViteⓇ Health’s Colon HxⓇ, Marshmallow Root and Slippery Elm have also been found to help when taken in tea. (12) InViteⓇ Health’s GI Maintain has both of these and can easily be mixed into a warm cup of chamomile tea.†
THE POWER OF ADAPTOGENIC HERBS – INVITE HEALTH PODCAST, EPISODE 447 >> Listen Now!
Magnesium Citrate is one of the best supplements to help. It is a natural, non-habit forming stool softener. (13) See InViteⓇ Health’s Magnesium Citrate, Bioavail Magnesium Complex and Bone Powder. Castor oil packs are incredibly powerful tools in helping with concerns. (14) Omega 3s such as Fish Oil and Krill Oil have also been found to help lubricate the stool. (15) See InViteⓇ Health’s Fish Oil and Krill Oil Advanced.†
Next week we’ll cover the topic of Diarrhea.†
