6 Powerful, natural supplements for healthier living!

What did people use before the creation of modern medicine? Ancient Egyptian priest-doctors used moldy bread as antibiotic thousands of years before Fleming discovered penicillin. They also made sure that their laborers were fed a diet rich in radish, garlic and onion, which modern researchers have found to be extremely rich in Raphanin, Allicin and Allistatin-- also forms of natural antibiotics that would help prevent outbreaks of disease in crowded places such as work camps. Advancements such as these, not only in the Ancient Egyptian civilization, but also in the Greek, and Roman empires have been the building blocks for the amazing progressions in medicine we see today.

Lately it seems as if we are reverting back to our ancestral roots by beginning to look into natural means of healing. Western medicine is starting to shift towards the use of herbal remedies as alternatives to synthetic drugs. Most pharmaceuticals have a historical base in natural medicine where many are initially derived from herbal extracts. Therefore when deciding what to take when it comes to a person’s overall health; most people choose supplements over prescription drugs.

The definition of the word “supplement” is something added to complete a thing, make up for a deficiency, and to extend or strengthen the whole. Here is a list of many popular supplements (including those available at avecinia wellness center in Fresno, CA including a brief description that may give you a better understanding of the many benefits these tiny capsules provide.

• Evening Primrose Oil is used for conditions affecting women’s health, such as breast pain associated with the menstrual cycle, menopausal symptoms, and premenstrual syndrome (PMS) as well as maintaining and promoting healthy skin. Learn more about the benefits of Evening Primrose Oil. During March, Evening Primrose Oil is on sale at avecinia for just $16.85 for 1300 MG 90.

• Probiotic 225 has 225 billion CFU’s (concentrations of healthy bacteria), one of the highest concentration of is a potent bio-therapeutic agent ideally suited for the most challenging gastrointestinal tract cases. Effective in treating diarrhea, bloating, improve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and more. Learn more about the benefits of Probiotic and Lactobacillus. During March, Probiotic 225 is on sale at avecinia for just $40.47 per 15.

• Orthomega is fish oil that supports a healthy heart, skin, joints, eyes and immune system. These capsules also help to elevate mood and concentration in children. Orthomega is a powerful supplement that can significantly reduce your cholesterol, triglycerides and lowers blood pressure. This powerful concentration of EHA (420 mg) and DHA (300 mg) means you only have to take 1 tablet a day instead of 2-4. Less fishy burps, easier to maintain and cheaper in the long run. Learn more about the benefits of fish oil and Omega 3.  During March, Orthomega is on sale at avecinia for $18.12/60 ct or $31.09/120 ct.

• CoQ-10 contributes to energy production and good health by supplementing the energy requirements of the body. These capsules have the ability to increase cellular energy production and greatly benefits cardiovascular health. CoQ10 has been shown to help prevent heart failure, particularly after a recent heart attack. Learn more about the benefits of CoQ10. During March, CoQ10 is on sale at avecinia for $31.99/60 ct.

• Diaxinol contains Biotin and Chromium and Gymnema. Biotin aids with the break down of fats and carbohydrates and with glycolysis in the liver and pancreas. Chromium helps facilitate the uptake of glucose into cells and Gymnema decreases the absorption of sugar from the intestine. This potent combination can significantly reduce blood sugar levels, especially when taken with other diabetes medication. During March, Diaxinol is on sale at avecinia for $30.33/60 ct or $58.20 for 120 ct.

• Chondro-Flx contains the protective agent Glucosamine Sulfate which is a building block of both cartilage and joint fluids and Chondroitin Sulfate. Oral doses are shown to bolster the function of cartilage acting as a natural shock absorber for the joint. This is an effective formulation for Osteoarthritis. Glucosamine has not shown to affect the blood sugar levels of type 2 diabetics but blood sugar should be monitored closely. During March, Chondro-Flx is on sale at avecinia for $31.00/90 ct or $54.03 / 180 ct.

As always, it is recommended that you discuss with your primary care provider if the use of supplements would be a positive step in the right direction towards healthier well-being.


Our March blog (part 1 and part 2) were written by Dania Abdul-Resoul, an intern at avecinia wellness center.  Dania is a pre-physical therapy student at Cal State Fresno.


For daily updates on news, information and more on health care and wellness, join avecinia wellness center's facebook page and follow avecinia on twitter . avecinia wellness center is Fresno's premier integrative medicine and wellness center. We combine internal medicine and primary care with health management, weight management, acupuncture, aesthetics (Botox, Juvederm, Radiesse, Obagi and more) and massage therapy for a holistic approach to health. We use a robust electronic health record program and patient web portal to enhance our delivery of services and to help our patients reach their optimal well-being. To learn more, visit www.avecinia.com. If you are looking for a primary care doctor in Fresno or the Central Valley and would like to become a part of the avecinia family, visit our website and click on new patient registration. Let Dr. Unaiza Hayat and/or Ali Kunkel, MPA, PA-C, become your trusted guides. Our Aesthetic, Weight Management, Acupuncture, Health Management and Massage Therapy services do not require us to be your primary care physician. Learn more at www.avecinia.com.We look forward to meeting you!

Healthy Giving is Healthy Living

Ever wonder why it feels good when you give a little bit of something to someone else? Whether it’s a smile, a helping hand, your time or some money, the act of giving has a profound positive effect on both you and the person you are sharing with. So do something good for someone else and you just did something good for yourself! Saints, wise people, and religious leaders have all prescribed good deeds, charitable works and the act of giving unselfishly. Now science has the same prescription as well. In Oprah Winfrey’s Lifeclass Oprah Winfrey’s Lifeclass, 6 ways that giving can make a person healthy are discussed:

1. Simply contemplating generosity or giving was shown to boost protective antibodies in saliva;  
2. Connecting to people through active listening and speaking with self reference was shown to reduce the risk of heart attacks; 
3. Sharing in pain by reaching out to others in a similar circumstance actually reduces your pain;  
4. Most people think that you can catch more colds by hanging out with more people, but the opposite is also true. As long as you practice good cold season courtesy (keeping your hands clean, sneezing in your inner-elbow instead of on someone), studies show that being socially active can help you stay healthier. Volunteering is a great way to give back and be socially active; 
5. Did you know that giving love helps heal wounds faster? In a study, heals took a day longer to heal when couples argued; 
6. A soothing touch is good for you and a friend. A study showed that giving massages also reduces the stress hormone cortisol and alleviates anxiety and depression! 

So in reality, when you’re giving, you’re getting something more in return because your good health is your most valuable asset.

Another important aspect of giving is gratitude. Giving is the ability to share something you have with someone that does not have. Gratitude is the positive recognition of the ability to share or give. When you give, you can feel good, when you appreciate your ability to give, you can feel even better. A recent study conducted by the University of Texas Health Science Center reported that you can be 25% happier, healthier and more positive in general by simply writing down every night before you sleep 5 things you are grateful for. Being able to read this article, and sleep under a roof, are 2 things already. Try it and see how you feel in 10 weeks!

So in this holiday season and time of giving and gratitude, remember, good things happen to good people. When you’re giving and you’re thankful for being able to give and/or for the gifts you get, you’re getting more in return- a healthy, happy life!

For daily updates on news, information and more on health care and wellness, join avecinia wellness center's facebook page (facebook.com/avecinia) and follow avecinia on twitter (twitter.com/avecinia4health). avecinia wellness center is Fresno's premier integrative medicine and wellness center. We combine internal medicine and primary care with health management, weight management, acupuncture, aesthetics (Botox, Juvederm, Radiesse, Obagi and more) and massage therapy for a holistic approach to health. We use a robust electronic health record program and patient web portal to enhance our delivery of services and to help our patients reach their optimal well-being. To learn more, visit www.avecinia.com. If you are looking for a primary care doctor in Fresno or the Central Valley and would like to become a part of the avecinia family, visit our website and click on new patient registration. Let Dr. Unaiza Hayat and/or Ali Kunkel, MPA, PA-C, become your trusted guides. Our Aesthetic, Weight Management, Acupuncture, Health Management and Massage Therapy services do not require us to be your primary care physician. Learn more at www.avecinia.com We look forward to meeting you!

Common Foot Pain Problems, Conditions and Treatments

Spring and summer is a beautiful time around Fresno, Visalia and the rest of the Central Valley and a great opportunity to take hikes around Yosemite, go for walks on the many trails or around the parks, and generally explore the beauty everywhere.  Enjoying the vast beauty can become painful and onerous by common foot conditions such as Plantar Fasciitis and Heal Spurs.


Over the years The Bone Store’s kind, courteous and knowledgeable staff has helped many people, from Sacramento to Los Angeles and all over California,   with a vast array of painful foot problems with their large selection of foot orthotics and footwear, accompanied with several other products that benefit your wellness needs. As this month’s guest blogger for avecinia wellness center, the experts at The Bone Store explain the most common foot conditions, causes and available treatments so you can truly enjoy the coming months!  And remember to check out their April special- up to 30% off Orthotic/Arch Support Sandals!

Plantar Fasciitis 

Plantar Fasciitis is an inflammation caused by excessive stretching of the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia is a broad band of fibrous tissue which runs along the bottom surface of the foot, attaching at the bottom of the heel bone and extending to the forefoot. When the plantar fascia is excessively stretched, this can cause plantar fasciitis, which can also lead to heel pain, arch pain, and heel spurs.

Cause


Plantar Fasciitis often leads to heel pain, heel spurs, and/or arch pain. The excessive stretching of the plantar fascia that leads to the inflammation and discomfort can be caused by the following:

• Over-pronation (flat feet) which results in the arch collapsing upon weight bearing
• A foot with an unusually high arch
• A sudden increase in physical activity
• Excessive weight on the foot, usually attributed to obesity or pregnancy
• Improperly fitting footwear

Over-pronation (flat feet) is the leading cause of plantar fasciitis. Over-pronation occurs in the walking process, when a person's arch collapses upon weight bearing, causing the plantar fascia to be stretched away from the heel bone.


With Plantar Fasciitis, the bottom of your foot usually hurts near the inside of the foot where the heel and arch meet. The pain is often acute either first thing in the morning or after a long rest, because while resting the plantar fascia contracts back to its original shape. As the day progresses and the plantar fascia continues to be stretched, the pain often subsides.

Treatment and Prevention

The key for the proper treatment of plantar fasciitis is determining what is causing the excessive stretching of the plantar fascia. When the cause is over-pronation (flat feet), an orthotic with rear-foot posting and longitudinal arch support is an effective device to reduce the over-pronation and allow the condition to heal.


If you have usually high arches, which can also lead to plantar fasciitis, cushion the heel, absorb shock and wear proper footwear that will accommodate and comfort the foot.
Other common treatments include stretching exercises, plantar fasciitis night splints, wearing shoes that have a cushioned heel to absorb shock, and elevating the heel with the use of a heel cradle or heel cup. Heel cradles and heel cups provide extra comfort, cushion the heel, and reduce the amount of shock and shear forces placed during everyday activities.


Every time your foot strikes the ground, the plantar fascia is stretched. You can reduce the strain and stress on the plantar fascia by following these simple instructions: Avoid running on hard or uneven ground, lose any excess weight, and wear shoes and orthotics that support your arch to prevent over-stretching of the plantar fascia.

Heel Spurs

The heel bone is the largest bone in the foot and absorbs the most amount of shock and pressure. A heel spur develops as an abnormal growth of the heel bone. Calcium deposits form when the plantar fascia pulls away from the heel area, causing a bony protrusion, or heel spur to develop. The plantar fascia is a broad band of fibrous tissue located along the bottom surface of the foot that runs from the heel to the forefoot. Heel spurs can cause extreme pain in the rear-foot, especially while standing or walking.

Cause


Heel spurs develop as an abnormal growth in the heel bone due to calcium deposits that form when the plantar fascia pulls away from the heel. This stretching of the plantar fascia is usually the result of over-pronation (flat feet), but people with unusually high arches (pes cavus) can also develop heel spurs. Women have a significantly higher incidence of heel spurs due to the types of footwear often worn on a regular basis.

Treatment and Prevention

The key for the proper treatment of heel spurs is determining what is causing the excessive stretching of the plantar fascia. When the cause is over-pronation (flat feet), an orthotic with rearfoot posting and longitudinal arch support is an effective device to reduce the over-pronation, and allow the condition to heal.


Other common treatments include stretching exercises, losing weight, wearing shoes that have a cushioned heel that absorbs shock, and elevating the heel with the use of a heel cradle, heel cup, or orthotic. Heel cradles and heel cups provide extra comfort and cushion to the heel, and reduce the amount of shock and shear forces experienced from everyday activities.


Always remember, if these problems persist, consult your primary care physician or foot doctor (podiatrist).

Warm weather is right around the corner and The Bone Store would like to assist each and every one of you with proper foot care with their April promotion. During the month of April, purchase a pair of our Orthotic/Arch Support Sandals and receive up to 30% off select styles. There are several foot conditions that can hinder and interfere with the many enjoyable activities and vacations that families will be embarking on in the upcoming months.

If your feet don’t feel good, you don’t feel good. Experience healthy feet, let The Bone Store assist you. 

 

The Bone Store is located at 343 E Shaw Avenue, Fresno (Ph: 559-226-7500) and at 5410 W Cypress, Suite 101, Visalia (Ph: 559-739-7500).

For daily updates on news, information and more on health care and wellness, join avecinia wellness center's facebook page (facebook.com/avecinia) and follow avecinia on twitter (twitter.com/avecinia4health). avecinia wellness center is Fresno's premier integrative medicine and wellness center. We combine internal medicine and primary care with health management, weight management, acupuncture, aesthetics (Botox, Juvederm, Radiesse, Obagi and more) and massage therapy for a holistic approach to health. We use a robust electronic health record program and patient web portal to enhance our delivery of services and to help our patients reach their optimal well-being. To learn more, visit www.avecinia.com. If you are looking for a primary care doctor in Fresno or the Central Valley and would like to become a part of the avecinia family, visit our website and click on new patient registration. Let Dr. Unaiza Hayat and/or Ali Kunkel, MPA, PA-C, become your trusted guides. Our Aesthetic, Weight Management, Acupuncture, Health Management and Massage Therapy services do not require us to be your primary care physician. Learn more at www.avecinia.com We look forward to meeting you!

Acupuncture

What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a key component of traditional Chinese medicine that originated over 5,000 year ago. It is based on the belief that the body is viewed as a balance between two opposing forces known as the Yin and Yang. Vital energy call the “qi” circulates through twelve energy lines known as meridians. Each meridian is associated with a different organ system. An imbalance flow of the qi, therefore an imbalance between the Yin and Yang, throughout a meridian is the thought on how disease begins. The qi affects a person’s emotional, spiritual, physical and mental conditions.

Acupuncture typically involves penetrating the skin with thin, metallic needles that are manipulated by the fingers or by electric stimulation. The needles are inserted into specific points along meridian lines to influence the flow and restore balance of the qi. The unblocking of the qi allows the body to return to a balanced state and a healthy center. Most people feel a brief stinging or no pain and report feeling energized or relaxed from the therapy. There are over 1,000 acupuncture points on the body.

In 1997, acupuncture needles were reclassified from “experimental” to “medical” devices by the FDA. That same year, the National Institutes of Health released a consensus endorsing acupuncture for the treatment of a variety of conditions, such as pain relief and improved function for osteoarthritis, reduced post traumatic stress disorder and improved pregnancy rates following in vitro fertilization. The National Cancer Institute reports that acupuncture has shown many proven benefits for cancer patients. These benefits include improvement of the immune system response and reduction in pain, nausea and vomiting.

How Does Acupuncture Work?
There are many theories about how acupuncture works. Some of them include the following:
· Acupuncture stimulates the release of pain-relieving endorphins;
· Acupuncture stimulates circulation;
· Acupuncture influences the electrical currents of the body;
· Acupuncture influences the autonomic nervous system;
· Acupuncture influences the release of neurotransmitters, substances that transmit nerve impulses to the brain

Conditions Treated By Acupuncture
· Migraines and tension headaches
· Sinusitis
· Common cold
· Addictions (food, smoking, etc)
· Trigeminal neuralgia
· Meniere’s disease
· Tennis elbow
· Sciatica
· Arthritis
· Fibromyalgia
· Menstrual cramps
· Weight loss
· Low back pain
· Infertility
· Asthma
· TMJ
· Carpal tunnel syndrome

Is Acupuncture Safe?
Acupuncture is generally considered safe and adverse effects tend to be rare. Some people may experience dizziness, sweatiness and nausea or even lost of consciousness. However, these problems usually clear up on their own in minutes, without lasting harm to the patients. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine reports “there are fewer adverse effects associated with acupuncture than with many standard drug treatments used to manage painful musculoskeletal conditions.” While acupuncture is an extremely safe form of physical medicine, there are some contraindications and risks.

Precautions & Contraindications:
· Avoid blood vessels to prevent bleeding
· Points of the chest and back should be carefully needled to avoid injury to organs
· It is a contraindication to needle to abdomen of lumbosacral areas in a pregnant woman
Risks:
· Fainting
· Bruising
· Muscle spasm
· Bleeding
· Nerve damage
· Punctured lung
· Accidental injury to organs

Additionally, the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine recommends that patients “do not rely on a diagnosis of disease by an acupuncture practitioner that does not have substantial medical training.” As part of Avecinia Wellness Center’s integrative approach to medicine and healing, we incorporate medical acupuncture with a variety of other healing modalities. Dr. Unaiza Hayat is one of the few Fresno based board certified physician who has been trained by the Pain Research institute in Medical Acupuncture. Each session is approximately 15-20 minutes and costs $65 for the first session and $40 for each session after (your insurance may reimburse, please speak to Colette for more information). We also offer Acupuncture for Weight Loss and Acupuncture for Infertility. Those programs start at $200. If you would like more information about acupuncture, please visit Avecinia Wellness Center’s website: www.avecinia.com and look under services for “Acupuncture” or call us at (559) 450-7299.