It’s easy to forget, but the prostate gland plays a crucial role in the male reproductive system. A majority of men are not aware of the function of the prostate gland and the importance of maintaining prostate health, especially as one ages. As a man gets older, the prostate, responsible for making semen and giving it its liquidity, typically increases in size. The first change comes in the early years of puberty where the prostate doubles in size. Then in a man’s mid-twenties, the prostate begins to grow again, slower this time, but continuous throughout the rest of his life. At 20, the prostate is the size of a walnut. At 40, it is the size of an apricot. At 60, it can grow to the size of a lemon!
According to the National Health Service in Europe, this causes no problems for two-thirds of men over the age of 50. But for some, changes to the prostate gland over the years may lead to signs such as an overactive bladder. As the prostate enlarges, it presses down on the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the bladder for voiding. This pressure can lead to the following symptoms: sensation that the bladder is not empty even after urinating; feeling an urgent need to urinate; a weak urinary stream, and the need to urinate several times during the night.
For proper maintenance of your prostate, all it takes is a few changes to your diet and lifestyle to see a positive difference. Here are a few simple steps you can take to support healthy urinary function:
Stay fit and active. Maintaining a healthy weight and exercising regularly has proven benefits to prostate health. According to Rush University Medical Center, healthy weight management can help lower the risk of prostate problems. Specific exercises, such as simple clench-and-release kegel exercises, can also help strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor.
Add color to your diet. Eating more fruit and vegetables, especially colorful, lycopene-rich foods such as tomatoes, watermelons, pink grapefruits, guava and papaya can provide good antioxidant support.
Talk to your doctor. Don't shy away from talking to your doctor about prostate health. If you have a family history of prostate problems, it is crucial to have a conversation about how you can take a proactive approach to maintain urinary health.
Get extra support. Supplements are a great way of getting extra nourishment and nutrients when you are unable to do so through your diet alone. Prostata® is one such urinary health supplement that can step in to support a healthy prostate.
Prostata® by U.S. Doctors’ Clinical has a repertoire of ingredients such as lycopene, saw palmetto, pumpkin seed oil, nettle and African Pygeum—nutrients that work in conjunction with a host of vitamins and minerals (zinc, copper, vitamin E, vitamin B6, and selenium) in this comprehensive formula to help nourish your prostate and support urinary health. With over 4 million bottles sold, this clinically tested formula can put you on the road to better prostate health, overall well-being, and an improved quality of life.
Taking a proactive approach to supporting prostate health should be a priority for all men, especially with the progression of age. You can take matters in your own hands and do right by your body with wholesome eating, taking crucial prostate-friendly supplements, and ensuring that you make necessary lifestyle and diet changes in order to tone your prostate and maintain urinary health for years to come.
]]>When your friends and family don’t tell you what’s on their holiday gift list, it can be tempting to buy a generic gift card and call it a day. While most people are happy to get a gift card, opening a gift chosen specifically for them that is both surprising and enjoyable provides a different kind of excitement. Finding that perfect gift can be very difficult, but we searched high and low to find creative and fun gifts for everyone on your list–all under $100!
Every year, candles, body wash, and lotion are disguised as thoughtful gifts for women. While it’s always nice to receive a gift, these options sometimes feel even less personal than a gift card. Wow all of the women in your life with these creative ideas.
What do you get for the man who has everything? Gifts that he wouldn’t think to get himself! A new tie used to be the go-to gift, but found some fun and interesting ideas that he’ll be excited to use.
Whether a couple has been married for 10 days or 10 years, there are some very special ways to celebrate their love. We found the perfect gift for newlyweds and those who have been married a little bit longer.
The holidays are truly for the kids. They’ve already asked Santa for their most desired toys, but we found some unexpectedly awesome gifts they will love.
Give the gift of health! Supplements are a practical gift to show how much you care about your loved ones’ health and sets them up for wellness success in the new year. U.S. Doctor’s Clinical offers a variety of supplements for men and women to support normal aging, normal immune response, heart health, joint health, and more!
Take Note of Store Promotions
Waiting outside stores on Black Friday to get the best deal is a thing of the past. Some stores even offer some kind of deal throughout the entire holiday season. Subscribe to emails and text messages for the stores you want to shop to be one of the first to know about discounts and promotions. When you see a deal on a product you need for a gift, you’ll be able to save money and check it off your list early.
You didn’t hear it from us…but we have it on good authority that we’ll be launching holiday promotions Thanksgiving week!
Make time for yourself
With all the hustle and bustle, it can be easy to forget to take care of yourself too. Prevent holiday burnout by planning special things for yourself in between all of the shopping and holiday preparations. You could go big and schedule a massage or take an evening to yourself to enjoy a warm bath. If you don’t want to do all the shopping by yourself, coax your partner to join you by planning a delicious dinner after you’re all done!
Think Ahead
Throughout the year, take note of the things your loved ones mention that they need and want. Oftentimes, they’ll mention items that they’d like, but probably won’t buy for themselves. Keep everything organized on your phone with an easy-to-create spreadsheet on the notes app of your phone or a document on your computer. Your friends and family will be shocked that you remembered something they thought they mentioned haphazardly.
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Thanksgiving is full of traditions; this year, we're challenging you to create a couple of new ones. As the years go on, you've likely added new guests or become a new guest yourself. Playing games is a great way to get to know new members of the family or to learn new things about the friends and family you think you know everything about! Trying new decorations can help reinvigorate your space and new activities are always appreciated to keep kids busy and entertained. Plus, we have some delicious ideas for leftovers that will make you actually want to eat them this year. Get ready to have the best Thanksgiving ever!
Give your guests a gorgeous table to gather around. After displaying your nice plates, napkins, and tablecloth, a centerpiece helps tie your table together with a festive feel. Lifestyle blogger Cristin Cooper made a gorgeous, easy centerpiece with pumpkins and flowers. Essentially, she bought a couple of pumpkins, made a hole in the top big enough to put a cup inside, and filled the cup with a mix of eucalyptus, bright colored fall leaves, and roses. The result is a colorful, autumnal bouquet sitting charmingly inventive “vase.”
Bonus: In lieu of place cards, write guests names on little mini pumpkins that they can take home at the end of the meal!
Every year, kids across America trace their hand on a piece of paper and decorate it into a turkey to put on the fridge during Thanksgiving. We’re taking this beloved activity and adding something every kid loves: cookies. Make Food Network Chef Ree Drummond’s recipe for Hand Cookies the night before Thanksgiving.
During dessert the next day, give each child a cookie to decorate into a special turkey of their choice. Provide a variety of icing colors and decorations to inspire their creativity. For those with adults who’d like to join in the fun, make it a competition among the whole family with small prizes for the winners.
Before there were television and cell phones, families would play games with each other. While we appreciate advances in technology, we miss the days when families got together to laugh, yell, and shout during game night. We encourage you to bring back this time-honored tradition this year—after the big football game of course. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Many people enjoy their meal on Thanksgiving, but aren’t too keen on eating that same meal for multiple days afterward. We found a variety of recipes that will transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into something you’ll actually look forward to eating.
‘Tis the season to save money! Shopping early allows you to take advantage of deals and increases the likelihood that you’ll get everything on your loved ones’ lists. No one wants to frantically look for the most popular gifts during the week of Christmas like Arnold Schwarzenegger in Jingle All the Way.
Identify the places you want to shop and decide if you want to brave the crowds or shop online from the comfort of your couch—there are pros and cons to both! No longer a singular day, Black Friday deals are often available throughout the entire week of Thanksgiving. Plus, don’t forget about the additional deals online on Cyber Monday. If you play your cards right, you can save yourself a great deal of money and be done with your shopping before December has begun.
Looking to give your friends and family the gift of health this holiday? Stay tuned for special deals on your favorite U.S. Doctor’s Clinical products for Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
]]>Thanksgiving should be a time to reflect on all the things you are grateful for, but sometimes it can be one of the most stressful days of the year! For the many of us who feel like we have to do everything ourselves, there are ways to include your friends and family that can make them feel valued while simultaneously taking off some of the items on your to-do list. For the dishes you do handle, there might be recipes that you can try to make cooking a little easier on yourself. We have four things for you to try that can lead to a happier, less stressful Thanksgiving.
Cooking for a large group of people can be extremely stressful. Multiple dishes, varied cooking temperatures, and limited oven space can make the kitchen into a warzone. Make it easier on yourself by asking family and friends to bring appetizers, side dishes, or dessert. They’ll be happy to be able to contribute something to the meal and may have a favorite recipe that they’d like to share—it might even become one of your new favorites! If you’re a guest, ask your host if there are any specific drinks or dishes you can bring to make their day easier.
When you’re making a turkey, side dishes and dessert, finding easy yet delicious recipes will make a huge difference in your prep time and ensure your guests enjoy their meal. We found 3 recipes that will put a simple twist on your usual Thanksgiving meal.
Before the chaos ensues, take some time for yourself. While spending time with family and friends is extremely beneficial for your well-being, taking time for yourself is just as important. Take even just 20 to 30 minutes to focus on yourself first before you spend your day catering to your loves ones. Some of our favorite ways to spend time for ourselves are:
The holidays are when all of your storage containers mysteriously go missing. Let’s face it; once Aunt Linda takes your home her container of turkey and mashed potatoes, you’re never going to see it again. We have two inexpensive and ingenious ideas to send guests home with leftovers while keeping your nice storage containers safely in the cupboard.
At the end of the day, the most important thing about Thanksgiving is spending time with your loved ones. While something about your meal might not turn out the way you wish, your guests will really only remember the time they spent all together.
Sources:
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods/broccoli
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/benefits-of-brussels-sprouts#1
]]>If you have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), you know how much it impacts your ability to breathe. When those with COPD are infected with COVID-19, your respiratory condition can become even worse. While many people recover from COVID-19 relatively quickly, some people can experience long-term effects, known as Long COVID.
According to the CDC, 13.3% of people who have COVID-19 will have lingering side effects for at least one month after they’ve been infected. If someone had COVID-19 and was hospitalized, that number goes up to more than 30% and comes with reports of experiencing side effects even after 6 months.
We spoke to a woman named Amy whose father is suffering from COPD and Long COVID simultaneously. Before he contracted COVID-19 in October 2021, he had minimal symptoms and the occasional wheezing. Unfortunately, his experience with COVID-19 was very severe, to the point that he had to be hospitalized because his sodium levels brought on delirium, causing him to experience memory issues that went as far as not knowing his own name.
COVID-19 can affect the body in many ways, but it most commonly attacks the respiratory system, which is why so many people experience coughing, shortness of breath and trouble breathing. In order to infect your cells, the virus that causes COVID-19 attaches a protein along your airways that allows it to move into its cells and spread. Consequential inflammation damages the air sacs by causing scars, stiffening or fluid build-up. When that happens, oxygen isn’t able to pass through the lungs into the bloodstream and low blood oxygen levels produce symptoms like breathing problems.
Symptoms of Long COVID
According to the American Lung Association, any combination of these symptoms can be a sign of Long COVID:
COPD is a group of respiratory diseases that block airflow and cause other breathing problems, putting those affected by it at a greater risk of severe COVID-19 complications like pneumonia, acute respiratory distress, and acute respiratory failure. Less air is able to flow through the airways of those with COPD because the airways and air sacs in the lungs are no longer able to stretch and shrink, the walls of the air sacs have been destroyed, the airway walls have become thickened and swollen or the airways are making an abnormal amount of mucus that is causing a clog to block air flow.
After being infected, Amy’s father experienced a COVID-related heart attack in January 2022. Shortly afterward he began suffering from more severe symptoms of COPD, like the inability to breathe and a second visit to the hospital a week after his heart attack. Now, 9 months later, her father is still experiencing breathing problems.
Some of the side effects of the medication he is taking for his COPD symptoms include:
Maintaining the health of your lungs is extremely important no matter what conditions you are experiencing. U.S. Doctor’s Clinical developed Lung Support to help encourage normal lung health every day. Lung Support is made with a targeted blend rich in antioxidant vitamins and traditional herbal compounds that support a normal inflammatory response. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study conducted in 2013 found that participants taking Lung Support reported a positive enhancement in the respiratory system in just 12 weeks. One of the key ingredients in the Lung Support formula is Asian ginseng. Researchers found ginseng was able to support the normal lung function and exercise in participants with COPD.
Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/long-term-effects/index.html
https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/health_effects/respiratory/index.htm
https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/covid-19/post-covid-19-recovery
https://www.umms.org/coronavirus/what-to-know/managing-medical-conditions/conditions/copd
https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/condition/chronic-obstructive-pulmonary-disease
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The amount of water each person needs varies depending on your health, activity level, and location because you consistently lose water through breathing, sweating, urination, and bowel movements. According to the US National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, healthy people located in temperate climates need about 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) for men and 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) for women.
At any time, water makes up at least 50% of your body weight; water is the body’s key chemical component and it needs it to survive. The body needs an adequate amount of water in order for cells, tissues, and organs to function properly. Water is necessary for the elimination of waste through urine, sweat, and bowel movements, regulates body temperature, lubricates joints, and protects tissues. When the body loses water, it must regain it through your food and drinks. While 20% of your hydration comes from food, the remaining 80% must come from drinks.
Many parts of the body rely on water to support optimal health. When you drink enough water, the body reaps these 7 benefits, plus one big bonus.
Amanda Carlson, a registered dietitian who works with world-class athletes, claims that in her experience, most people are not aware of how much water they drink and many of them are drinking as little as half of what their body needs. Water is involved with several processes that influence your weight:
While chronic dehydration can prevent your body from carrying out normal functions, even mild dehydration can zap your energy and make you feel lethargic. If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, you may not be drinking enough water:
We get it, drinking water can be boring. If water isn’t the first beverage you reach for, we have some suggestions to make it easier to get your H2O.
Sources
https://www.everydayhealth.com/water-health/drinking-water-taste.aspx
]]>1. Weight Loss
Many people believe that they must push their bodies as far as they can go in order to lose weight, but low impact exercises allow your body to burn calories and build muscle, both of which support healthy weight management.
"A low-impact workout can help with weight loss by contributing to total calories burned," said Cathy Richards, an American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)-certified exercise physiologist. "We burn fewer calories per minute with low-intensity exercise, but the tradeoff is we can sustain the exercise for longer."
In one study, women living with obesity walked for 50 to 70 minutes three days a week for 12 weeks and were able to significantly reducee their abdominal fat and improve their insulin resistance.
To get the most out of your low impact exercise, find ways to push yourself without increasing pressure on your joints. For example, add incline to your walk on the treadmill or add short sprints while you’re swimming.
2. Decreased Chance of Injury
High impact workouts, which are defined as an exercise where both feet are off the ground at the same time, tend to increase your chances of feeling sore or getting injured because there is a hard pounding when your feet hit the ground.
Low impact workouts, however, typically allow you to keep one foot on the ground, decreasing the chances that you’ll injure yourself or incite inflammation. The Obesity Medicine Association and the American Council on Exercise both agree that low impact exercises are especially beneficial for weight management and joint pain.
3. Increased Likelihood It’ll Stick
Intense boot camp classes are great for some people, but they can be extremely overwhelming for others. While some become high-intensity converts, other people become even more discouraged than they were before they went to their first class. Low impact workouts can make the body feel more comfortable, which increases the likelihood that you’ll want to keep doing it. When it comes to any type of exercise, consistency is key. In order to see changes in your body–both physical and mental–it’s important to choose an exercise that you can see yourself wanting to do long term.
4. Suppress Stress
High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is a type of workout that essentially creates a cycle of hard work and recovery that can increase your post-exercise metabolism, improve body composition, and improve fasting blood glucose and insulin sensitivity. However, HIIT workouts also trigger the stress hormone cortisol to be released. When you do too many HIIT workouts without letting the body properly recover, cortisol can float freely in the bloodstream and negatively impact your mood, sleep patterns and immune system.
Low impact workouts don’t come with these potentially adverse effects and can be enjoyed more frequently.
5. Support Mental Health
Low impact exercise was found to be one of the most effective ways to improve mental health, according to Psychology of Sport and Exercise. Participants exhibited an improvement in feelings of enthusiasm and focus after exercising for as little as 30 minutes at least 3 days a week. When you participate in a low impact workout, the body releases endorphins that can help stave off depression and stress and boost your overall mood.
Plus, all you need is a mat! Although you can go to a studio and use a reformer, there are a variety of platforms that offer online pilates classes with a mat–you can even find free classes on YouTube.
Whether you want to take a ride outside or hop on a stationary bike in the comfort of your own home, the body receives similar benefits; increase your speed or resistance to torch more calories.
If you’re walking on a treadmill, challenge yourself with interval training or with the viral 12-3-30 treadmill workout. Adjust your treadmill to an incline of 12 and speed 3.0 mph and get your blood pumping for 30 minutes. Fans of the 12-3-30 workout swear by it! If you’d rather pound the pavement with your pup, you’re in luck. Temperatures are starting to drop, making it one of the most beautiful times of year to enjoy the outdoors. Plan a route around your neighborhood or nearby park and challenge yourself with intermittent bursts of increased speed.
https://www.livestrong.com/article/13730192-low-impact-exercise-for-weight-loss/
Maintaining a strong immune system throughout the year can help the body prepare and maintain its defenses for whatever bacteria might come its way, particularly during certain times of the year when people experience more cold and flu symptoms. According to Dr. Bradley Chipps, president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, seasonal allergies can increase the body’s vulnerability to infections because nasal inflammation makes it easier for viruses to settle inside your nose. While the immune system is busy fighting off allergies, dealing with your allergies, there are less resources available to defend the body.
For those without allergies, the seasons bring barometric pressure, temperature changes, and wind that can irritate the airways and nasal passages, compromising the body’s immune system against colds and infections.
Growing up, your mother may have warned you against going out in the cold without a jacket because it would make you sick. Well, we’re here to tell you that mother knows best. Low temperatures can increase the likelihood of getting sick because the body is less effective against a virus when cold air enters through the nose and upper airways. The weather doesn’t have to be blistering either; when ambient temperature drops just 7 degrees, it can impact the body’s immune capabilities, according to a study out of Yale University. As a result, more people are infected with the cold and flu during the winter.
“As the temperature starts to drop, we have more viruses in the environment, so we have to be more careful in the winter to prevent catching illnesses,” says Northwestern Medicine Primary Care Physician Winston D. Rajendram, MD.
If you do go out in the cold, keep your nose area warm to help keep your immune defenses ready for battle.
There are certain factors in your lifestyle that can make a big impact on your health no matter what time of year it is.
Getting enough sleep is imperative to decreasing your risk of sickness. One study of more than 150 adults found that those who slept less than 6 hours a night were more likely to catch a cold than their dream-filled counterparts. Adults are suggested to get 7 or more hours of sleep per night in order to encourage your natural immunity.
Participating in moderate exercise like walking, bicycling, jogging, and swimming can help give the immune system an extra boost. Regular physical activity may help support a normal inflammatory response and immune cell regeneration. Most people should try to clock at least 150 minutes of exercise each week.
This is a very easy one but so many adults resist it! While water isn’t a magical protectant, staying hydrated decreases your susceptibility to getting sick. When you’re dehydrated, your physical performance, focus, mood, digestion, and heart and kidney function can be compromised–making it more difficult for the body to defend itself. As we age, the body begins to lose the urge to drink water, which makes it even more important to consistently drink water.
Stress does a lot of damage to the body, including the immune system. Long-term stress is known to provoke inflammation and immune cell dysfunction. Although some stressors can be difficult to avoid, try making yourself more relaxed with meditation, yoga, journaling, mindfulness practices, or speaking with a licensed therapist.
After the last few years, everyone is sick of this phrase but it doesn’t make it less true. Washing your hands throughout the day, especially before eating or touching your face, is a great way to get rid of would-be invasive microorganisms.
A healthy diet full of whole foods, healthy fats,
Sources:
If there’s someone that knows good food to serve at a football game, it’s southerners. Serve these delicious and not completely unhealthy dishes for your guests courtesy of Southern Living.
In addition to great food (which you now have covered), we suggest following these suggestions to make your party a success.
People are extremely passionate about sports, but some take it a little overboard. If you have a friend who screams and bleeps their way through each game, they might not be the best guest for this party. On the flipside, those who are not remotely interested in sports probably aren’t your ideal invite either. Invite a mix of casual football fans, die-hard fans, and people who are just there to have a good time.
It’s not a football game without ice cold adult beverages. If you want to make it easy on yourself, choose a variety of beer, seltzers, and soda if you have any sober folks. If you want to go for the extra point, mix up 2 pitchers of cocktails to represent each city–finished with a splash of food coloring to match their team colors.
Forget plastic table cloths and level up your decor with grassy coasters, football party picks, a football flower vase, and edible food labels.
Make sure your bathrooms are stocked with toilet paper, hand soap, air freshener, and clean hand towels. It’s always awkward for guests to need to ask for more items in the middle of the 4th quarter. Plus, when guests can see air freshener, they’re more likely to use it.
When you’re watching football, most people don’t want to stand the entire time. If your couch isn’t big enough to comfortably fit everyone, buy or borrow extra chairs to set up beforehand—with a good view of the TV.
Before or after the game, it’s not uncommon for someone to grab a football and organize a little friendly game in the backyard. Some people play light and others play like the family in Wedding Crashers. Make sure your joints are ready to run like the best of them by taking U.S. Doctor’s Clinical Arthro-7 daily.
With more than 8 million bottles sold, the popularity of Arthro-7 speaks for itself. Arthro-7 is formulated with 7 key ingredients: collagen, MSM, vitamin C, CMO, bromelain, lipase, and turmeric to support joint and connective tissue health while encouraging a normal inflammatory response. While some brands provide a quick fix, Arthro-7 aims to address current issues while providing ongoing support long term.
“I have taken Arthro-7 for years and recommend it to my patients, family, and friends,” said Dr. John E. Hahn, DPM, ND, a Board-Certified Foot Surgeon and member of the American Podiatric Medical Association. “It works. This formula is high quality, drug-free support for your joints.”
]]>While the CDC’s suggested routine may seem overwhelming to those who are getting back in the swing of things, it doesn’t take long for the body to acclimate and begin showing improvements. Overall, it’s most important that adults choose physical activities they enjoy in order to maintain consistency.
Being physically active throughout your life sets you up for a more enjoyable aging process. Daily activities like eating, bathing, using the toilet, getting dressed, getting up and down and moving around the house can become difficult overtime if you aren’t getting enough physical exercise. Plus, being physically active decreases your chances of falling and incurring a serious injury. Exercise is especially important for women because after menopause they begin naturally losing bone density faster than men.
Staying strong and active can help delay natural aging like reduced muscle and bone mass. The best strength training exercises for aging adults mimic normal daily activities.
“One of the best indicators of morbidity and mortality is the ability to stand up from a chair without using your hands to help in any way,” says Heather Mims, a doctor of physical therapy and certified orthopedic specialist at New York City’s Tula PT & Wellness.
To practice this skill, sit in a chair and use your legs–not your hands–to help you stand up; repeat 10 times. If you’re a little shaky, place a second chair in front of you for increased safety.
Adults can support their independence, mobility, and range of motion by focusing on their flexibility. As we age, flexibility is vital for sustaining your ability to stand and walk without exertion. Aim to complete stretches that target the shoulders, hips and legs to decrease your chances of experiencing problems with balance and gait.
A study published in the Journal of Gerontology found that participants in a 12-month stretch and flex program reported decreased pain and positive changes in physical fitness, self-efficacy, perceived functioning, and well-being.
Healthline outlines a comprehensive list of stretches for the neck, arms, back, hips, and legs to help maintain flexibility long term.
We all laughed at the commercial made popular in the late 80s and early 90s with the catchphrase, “I've fallen, and I can't get up!”, but it depicted a scene that can be very real later in our lives. Accidental falls are commonly associated with fractures, head injuries, and additional problems that can harm your physical and mental health. We achieve balance thanks to a combination of vision, the inner ear, and touch. Working on your balance can help prevent your musculoskeletal systems from rapid decline.
Tai chi may help the body improve self-awareness within a space to help reduce the risk of falling. Aim to strengthen the hips and legs in particular to further improve your balance.
Moderate-intensity aerobic activity like walking, cycling, swimming and dancing can have significant benefits to your heart, brain, skin, and immune system.
Consult a trainer, physical therapist, or doctor before starting a new exercise plan. Choose an exercise plan that you feel comfortable doing and enjoy so that you’re more likely to be consistent. Most importantly, have fun!
Sources:
Damp, cold weather isn’t typically anyone’s favorite time of the year, but for those with joint pain it can be especially aggravating. It all comes down to barometric pressure, which is the weight of air pressing on Earth. When barometric pressure falls and humidity increases, it causes a number of reactions within the body that influence discomfort.
You may not immediately connect hot weather to joint pain, researchers claim it isn’t better than the alternative. Interestingly, people in beautiful, sunny San Diego reported more weather-related pain than those in Nashville and Boston–both of which are locals that experience significant cold and varied temperatures.
Experts believe that when pressure and humidity increase in warm weather, joint tissues can trigger pain when they expand and contract. In a study of people with osteoarthritis, nearly 5% said their joint pain was influenced by hot weather. While that isn’t a huge number, it still offers proof that warm weather impacts some more than others.
U.S. Doctor’s Clinical created Arthro-7, Arthro8, and Athro Sport to provide ongoing support for healthy, nourished joints.* While some formulas claim to offer a quick fix, USDC aims to support the body for the long term.
Sources:
High blood pressure occurs when the force of your blood pushing through your blood vessels is too high. Eventually, that intense pressure starts to damage the arteries and LDL cholesterol is able to find its way into its walls. If the pressure continues and significant damage is done, blood pressure can increase further and lead to a heart attack or stroke.
Low blood pressure is typically a sign that something else is going on within the body. Some people don’t experience any noticeable symptoms, while others may feel dizzy or faint. Dehydration, long-term bed rest, pregnancy, certain medical conditions and standing for long periods of time are a few reasons blood pressure can decrease.
Medical professionals use a pressure cuff to measure your blood pressure by briefly compressing the brachial artery to stop blood flow. As air is released from the cuff, the professional listens with a stethoscope for two things: systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure.
The higher number is the systolic pressure and is caused when the heart contracts. The lower number is the diastolic number; it represents the lower pressure in the arteries during the brief period between heartbeats.
There are a variety of easy lifestyle changes you can make to both prevent and treat abnormal blood pressure.
Sources:
If you’re sitting in economy, it’s pretty obvious that travel companies don’t design your seat to be plush and roomy. Thankfully, there are modifications you can bring with you to make your travel time more enjoyable.
Keeping your muscles and joints moving during long flights is essential to preventing tension in the lower back and hips. Always select an aisle seat so that you’re able to easily get up and walk about the cabin at least once an hour. The Washington Post shows how engaging your glutes and enjoying in-seat yoga can help keep your blood flowing while seated.
Despite the suggested exercises, your body is still sitting in the same position for a number of hours; it’s understandable that you will probably feel some amount of rigidity afterward. Arthro-7 and Arthro8 are formulated with collagen, MSM, vitamin C, CMO, bromelain, lipase, and turmeric to help support normal lubrication and inflammation responses. Arthro8 includes hyaluronic acid for additional joint health support.
For those who enjoy an active lifestyle, Arthro-7 Sport is specifically designed to support those who want to participate in adventurous activities like hiking, kayaking, water sports and more.
Although some airlines are getting better, most only offer processed snacks that lack nutritious or fresh ingredients. When your stomach is growling, suddenly those crackers and cookies look pretty appetizing! Support your body by bringing homemade trail mix or easy-to-eat fruits and vegetables like baby carrots and apples.
If you’re on a road trip, you can pack a cooler with protein and nutrient-rich foods:
People who are hydrated typically have to use the restroom on flights. While this can seem like an inconvenience, it’s a great reason to get up and move. As we age, we naturally have less water in our bodies, plus our medications may increase the chances of becoming dehydrated. Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water to ensure you stay hydrated.
“Stay away from caffeine or alcohol, because they’re dehydrating. Drink something, preferably water, every few hours, even if you don’t feel thirsty,” said Dr. Claire Larson, a geriatrician with the UNC Center for Aging and Health.
Unfortunately, lost luggage is still an everyday occurrence. To prevent being high and dry without any clean clothes, always pack a change of clothes in your carry-on. This is also a great idea for those who have issues with incontinence. Packing a spare outfit gives a peace of mind that you’re prepared for anything that may happen during your travel day.
Getting on and off a plane is exhausting enough the first time. Couple that with a layover and your energy is officially spent. Booking direct flights eliminates unnecessary waiting in airports and the chance you might miss a connection. Plus, direct flights streamline your trip. If you’re unable to avoid connecting flights, consider taking a 24-hour layover on long haul flights to give you time to get proper rest in a hotel before continuing on to your destination–you may even get to explore another place!
A certain amount of jet lag is to be expected, but there are ways to make the transition easier. Depending on when you land, try to stay awake during as much daylight as you can. If you need a nap, make it quick. Stay hydrated and keep moving as much as possible. If you do that for a day or two, you should acclimate to your new place in time to fully enjoy the rest of the trip.
If you’re retired or looking towards it, MoneyWise suggests these 5 trips, plus 10 more:
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If you’re looking for a quality, clinically proven joint support supplement, you’ve come to the right place. Each ingredient in Arthro-7, Athro8, and Arthro-7 Sport was carefully chosen to help nourish connective tissue and support normal lubrication, support healthy inflammation response associated with physical exertion, and comfort joint mobility. All three supplements are formulated with 7 key ingredients: collagen, MSM, vitamin C, CMO, bromelain, lipase, turmeric; Arthro8 and Arthro-7 Sport also include hyaluronic acid. Although each product seems similar, there are fundamental differences that make Arthro-7, Athro8, and Arthro-7 Sport special.
Each formula starts with a foundation of specifically chosen vitamins and nutrients to help support optimal joint health:
Arthro-7 has undergone double-blind, placebo-controlled tests on human subjects with symptoms of joint discomfort and stiffness. After 12 weeks, 74.5% of the subjects who took Arthro-7 experienced significant improvements in their symptoms. That’s incredible for any treatment, let alone a natural supplement!
During the same clinical study, 39.2% of the subjects felt improvements in their symptoms in as little as two weeks, while the placebo group felt no improvements. By the end of the 12-week study, nearly 75% of those who took Arthro-7 reported feeling and moving better, compared to only 16.3% of the placebo group.
Arthro-7 has sold over 8 million bottles alone. While some brands provide a quick fix, Arthro-7 aims to address current issues while providing ongoing support long term. Arthro-7 is for anyone who is looking to support the health of their joints and connective tissue while encouraging a normal inflammatory response.
“I have taken Arthro-7 for years and recommend it to my patients, family, and friends,” said Dr. John E. Hahn, DPM, ND, a Board-Certified Foot Surgeon and member of the American Podiatric Medical Association. “It works. This formula is natural, drug-free support for your joints.”
Arthro8 takes Arthro7’s formula and makes it even better by adding 10mg of hyaluronic acid. A study found that hyaluronic acid is able to encourage tendon gliding, reduce adhesions, create better tendon structure and limit inflammation.
Hyaluronic acid helps support lubricated skin, joints, and eyes and keeps tissues hydrated, but as you age, hyaluronic acid levels decrease. Arthro8 is ideal for those in need of cartilage support and joint tissue wellness.
Arthro-7 Sport was designed for those who lead an active lifestyle. As we age, more movement means more wear and tear. The good news is you don’t have to stop moving, your body might just require a little more support. When you’re not feeling your best, you may not feel like taking your daily walk or going out on the green for your tee time. Arthro-7 Sport includes 100mg of hyaluronic acid to Arthro-7’s key ingredients in order to encourage more good days doing the activities that you love.
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Approximately 370,000 total hip replacements are performed in the US each year. A hip replacement is a surgery where a manmade implant replaces your total hip, or parts of it. Many adults decide to get a hip replacement after trying other remedies like using a cane, losing weight, and physical therapy. A hip replacement can be necessary for those who experience osteoarthritis, inflammatory arthritis, like rheumatoid arthritis, an injury like a fractured hip during a fall, or an injury that never healed properly.
The hip consists of a ball and socket joint that connects the thigh bone to the pelvis. The thigh bone is designed with a “head” on top that is shaped like a ball that fits into the socket. Ligaments, tendons, and muscles around the joint help support it and keep it in place. The hip is the most flexible joint in the body because it can move backwards, forwards, to the side, and twist.
Some people experience uncomfortability in their daily life that leads them to consider a hip replacement:
The most common type of hip replacements, surgeons perform a total hip replacement by making a 6- to 10-inch incision and are able to have a clear view of the hip joint during operation. This reliable and time-tested surgical technique can help the surgeon find the ideal fit to increase the chances for pain relief and improved function. Plus, the likelihood of complications after surgery is reduced. During this replacement, the amount of tissue required to be cut can cause a slower recovery time.
The best candidates:
Only the head of the thigh bone is replaced; this replacement is typical for people with certain types of hip fractures.
While not as common, minimally invasive hip replacements are performed with a single 3- to 6-inch incision or two smaller incisions.The advantages of a minimally invasive hip replacement are suggested in the name: a smaller scar, less damage to tissue, and a faster recovery. However, this type of hip replacement offers disadvantages like a limited view of the joint, making it more difficult for the surgeon to find the ideal fit and skin and tissue may be stretched or torn during surgery. Despite the drawbacks, most minimally invasive hip replacements are successful.
The best candidates:
The most common reason for someone to get a hip replacement is to receive pain relief, but they also typically experience improved movement, strength, and coordination. Plus, after receiving a hip replacement, patients are able to walk, climb stairs, and enjoy an active lifestyle more comfortably.
Doctors will perform a series of tests to ensure the risks of a hip replacement doesn’t outweigh its benefits. They will want to check your activity level and weight and how well your body can handle blood loss, anesthesia, and rehabilitation. Some tests you can expect are:
Immediately after surgery, doctors don’t waste any time! Rehab and physical therapy are started quickly and continued during your hospital stay and for a year afterward. While many people are eager to get home, your doctor may recommend you start your recovery at a rehab center where you can spend significant time with a physical therapist and occupational therapist. There you’ll learn how to regain your strength and exercises and precautions to take when you get home. People spend between 5 to 14 days at a rehab facility before being discharged to go home.
The timeframe for a hip replacement recovery varies depending on the type of surgery you get plus the strength of your bones and muscles and your overall health and lifestyle. Rehabilitation is also a significant part of recovery and can influence if you’ll be back to normal within several weeks or several months.. The more serious and committed you are to performing your exercises, the more likely you’ll have a speedy recovery. Most patients are asked to perform exercises for 20 to 30 minutes, 2 to 3 times a day. The exercises aim to stretch and strengthen the muscles around your hip joint so that you can easily climb stairs, bend and walk.
There are many easy ways to help make your recovery easier and faster.
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When you’re recovering, it is crucial to commit to a plan and push yourself to help you get back to an active lifestyle and increase your chances that the knee will stay healthy long-term.
Although it may be uncomfortable and feel different at first, it’s important to get back on your feet when your doctor tells you that it’s safe. Keeping your joints moving can help prevent blood clots, improve circulation, encourage flexibility, and bring nutrients to your knee to support recovery. After knee replacement surgery, many patients are able to get up and move while they’re still in the hospital. While you’ll need the help of a walker for the first few weeks, most patients can walk by themselves within 4 to 8 weeks after surgery.
Continue the movement you will start and translate it into exercise. Participating in physical activities like walks or using an elliptical machine can help strengthen your muscles and encourage a faster recovery. You will understandably want to get back to the activities you enjoyed pre-surgery, but it’s important not to push yourself too hard before you are ready. Consult with your doctor about the exercises that are safe for you to join.
In addition to exercising on your own, you will complete physical therapy to help your leg get stronger and your knee joint to regain movement. Expect to complete exercises with your physical therapist and at home to help your knee heal faster and walking become easier. Although you may start feeling better, continuing physical therapy until your therapist says that you are finished is the best way to fully recover.
Researchers have found that the body restores and strengthens itself during sleep, making it just as important as movement during recovery. It may be difficult for you to be forced to slow down, but it will make it easier for you to get back to normal in the long run. Take this time to finally read the book that’s been sitting on your nightstand or binge-watch the new season of that show you keep hearing about.
During the first months of your recovery, your knee will likely experience swelling. Resting with your leg elevated with ice can help decrease the length of your healing time.
Maintaining a balanced diet and including specific power foods can help your body receive the nutrients it needs to recover.
Arthro-7 and Arthro8 were created to help support normal knee function for the millions of people who find it difficult to get the nutrients the body needs from food alone.
“I was very skeptical and I have tried SO many other products, even prescription medications, [Arthro-7] is amazing, I can actually get up after sitting for 30min (dinner) and walk!” said Rhonda D.
“Arthro8 has definitely improved the quality of my life. I can now walk with very little and on some days no pain. I can go up and down the steps on my deck fairly normally…I was concentrating on my knees but I have also noticed that the arthritis in my left thumb has also improved. Great product, I recommend it to friends all of the time,” said Kathleen LaCroix.
Recovering from knee surgery can be an arduous process, but remember you’re doing your best and be kind to yourself. The body takes time to recover and it’s important to be patient and trust that your doctors have your best interests at heart. Healthline outlines a detailed look at what you can expect during the first 12 weeks of your recovery. Here is a sneak peek:
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If your knees snap, crackle, and pop more than rice cereal, you may feel concerned that it is a sign that there is something wrong with your joints. The good news is that these cracking noises are perfectly normal as long as they aren’t accompanied by pain.
The technical term for the popping and cracking noises you hear when you walk upstairs or bend to pick up something is called “crepitus.” Although you can experience crepitus earlier in life, it becomes more common as you age and can happen for multiple reasons:
If you have cracking or popping that does cause pain or swelling, though, see a doctor. It can be a sign of:
There are many easy ways to support your knees on a daily basis to help keep them strong now and into the future.
In conclusion, your knees making noise is completely normal—IF—there is no pain that accompanies it. If you do experience knee pain when you hear snapping, crackling, or popping, contact your doctor.
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The weight of the air that surrounds us is called barometric pressure. When barometric pressure rises, the weather typically gets better and when it falls, it typically gets worse.
When barometric pressure falls and humidity increases, Dr. Bolash claims the resulting damp, cold weather seems to increase pain in the joints. There are a few reasons this might happen.
Many people assume that by escaping cold weather, they may feel some reprieve; however, researchers say warm weather isn’t necessarily better. During a study of people in different climates across the US, those in beautiful, sunny San Diego reported more weather-related pain than those in Nashville and Boston—locations that experience a much greater range in temperatures throughout the year. The unfortunate truth is that humidity and barometric pressure change everywhere, not just where it’s cold and rainy.
When your joints start hurting, you don’t have to suffer in silence while you wait for the storm to clear. There are many easy things you can do to help your body feel better for more sunny days ahead!
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The nice thing about cholesterol numbers are that they are matter of fact; there’s no arguing whether you’re in the clear or if you need to change some of your lifestyle choices to help decrease your chances of heart disease or stroke. The American Heart Association suggests getting your cholesterol tested every 4 to 6 years because dangerous numbers rarely show symptoms.
Despite what you may have heard, cholesterol isn’t all bad. There are two types that exist in the body: “good” and “bad.” Together, they make up your total cholesterol level.
The most common type of fat in the body is triglycerides. Their job is to store excess energy from food. When you have a high level of triglycerides, you also typically have high levels of LDL cholesterol.
When the body experiences high cholesterol, it means there’s too much LDL and not enough HDL. For optimal health, the body needs to have enough HDL to help it get rid of cholesterol normally. When there is too much LDL, it can overpower HDL levels and impact blood flow in the arteries.
To determine your cholesterol levels, your doctor will perform a blood test in the form of a lipid panel. The panel looks at the body’s HDL, LDL, and triglycerides levels, as well as your total blood cholesterol, which is calculated by combining your HDL and LDL cholesterol numbers with 20% of your triglyceride results.
The numbers you want to hear are a total cholesterol level under 200, where HDL cholesterol is at least 50 for women or 40 for men, LDL cholesterol is less than 100, and triglycerides are lower than 149. You are considered a person with high cholesterol if your total cholesterol exceeds 240, HDL cholesterol is at 60 or more, LDL cholesterol is at 160 or more, and triglycerides are at 200 or more.
Doctors also factor in your age, blood pressure, and smoking habits when determining your risk of heart problems.
The good and the bad don’t have to be joined by the ugly! There are lifestyle changes you can make to help restore the balance of HDL and LDL levels in the body.
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When it comes to matters of the heart, there are many small lifestyle choices you can make that have a big impact. Here we have five ideas that can be implemented into your life without requiring radical lifestyle changes. Improve your cardiovascular health without skipping a beat!
]]>When your body becomes stressed, there are more than 1,400 biochemical responses that can occur. Two of these are a rise in blood pressure and accelerated heart rate. Stress often becomes a vicious cycle because responses to stress can themselves cause stress!
Stress can also lead to sleepless nights, which can further increase your risk for cardiovascular disease. According to researchers, sleeping too little may disrupt health conditions and the body’s normal processes, like blood pressure and inflammation.
For those who are natural worriers or who are experiencing particularly stressful events, it can be easier said than done to just relax and stop thinking about it. However, there are ways to change your response to stress so that endorphins that calm the brain are released to put you more at ease. Calming activities to try include:
Those who had 30-minute acupuncture treatments once a week for eight weeks were able to lower their blood pressure by 8 to 16 points, according to a study conducted at the Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute. Turning to deep breathing exercises at the onset of stress can also help change your body’s response to it over time.
Exercise is an extremely effective way to strengthen your heart, manage your weight, and help decrease your chances of high cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood pressure. Mixing cardio, strength training, and flexibility exercises can provide well-rounded fitness benefits.
You don’t have to be a gym rat to get a beneficial amount of movement each day. For cardio, it’s recommended to spend at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week, doing an activity like walking, running, swimming, or cycling. With strength training, aim for two nonconsecutive days per week. Flexibility exercises, like basic stretches or yoga, can be performed daily or before and after your other exercises.
Simple things like washing your hands and taking care of your teeth regularly can make a big impact on your heart health.
Washing your hands thoroughly and often can help decrease your chances of catching the flu or pneumonia, which can be hard on the heart. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) defines proper hand washing as vigorously scrubbing your hands up to your wrists, between fingers, and under fingernails for 20 seconds. While you’re washing, use the time to acknowledge the blessings in your life. Doing so has been linked to better health, longer life expectancy, and overall well-being.
Brushing and flossing your teeth every day can have a direct influence on your heart health. Developing gum disease can often put you at risk for heart disease. Some studies have shown that when an overgrowth of bacteria in the mouth leads to gum disease, these bacteria can move into the bloodstream and elevate a marker that signals blood vessel inflammation. Regularly taking care of your teeth can help decrease your chances of developing gum disease.
While it’s great to be a nonsmoker, inhaling secondhand smoke can still be dangerous for your heart health. Those who are exposed to secondhand smoke regularly have a 25 to 30 percent higher risk of developing heart disease. Plus, if you are a nonsmoker but already have high blood pressure or cholesterol, secondhand smoke can exacerbate your risk of heart disease. Cigarette smoke emits chemicals that can cause plaque to build up in the arteries. If you have friends that smoke, consider kindly requesting that they take their breaks a safe distance away from you.
Fried foods may taste good, but they are full of trans fats that can be harmful to your heart. Trans fats are discouraged because they raise bad cholesterol levels and lower good cholesterol levels, which can lead to blockages in your arteries. Eliminating trans fats can help improve your blood circulation. While trans fat can negatively affect your heart, “good” fats like omega-3 fatty acids are highly encouraged.
Fatty fish like salmon are a great source of omega-3s; however, not everyone enjoys the taste of seafood. U.S Doctor’s Clinical created Omega 3 Fish Oil to make it easy to get enough omega-3’s in your diet. Omega 3 Fish Oil is formulated with EPA and DHA, two essential fatty acids that help support the heart, brain, and joints. Just one softgel contains 1000mg of fish oil!
In addition to these beneficial lifestyle choices, consider adding U.S. Doctor’s Clinical CitriCholess - Cholesterol Management, GlucoVita - Blood Sugar Management, and HyperBalance - Blood Pressure Support to your supplement stack to support your body’s normal processes.
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As we age, blood flow in the brain can slow down and the brain’s volume begins to shrink, causing some nerve cells to lose connection with one another. These changes are believed to influence the ability to clearly think, learn, and remember.
Additionally, injuries, mood disorders, substance abuse, and diseases can impact brain health. Although genetic factors cannot be changed, there are many lifestyle choices that can positively support the brain.
Movement in every capacity is important as we get older. Getting moving each day with a walk or bike ride and regularly completing chores around the house can provide benefits beyond maintaining a healthy weight and keeping a tidy home.
Regular movement can:
Studies show participating in consistent physical activities can benefit both the brain and normal cognitive processes, and one study in particular found that exercise helped increase the size of a particular brain structure that impacts memory and learning.
The government suggests all adults get at least 2.5 hours of weekly exercise.
Typically, blood pressure is related to the heart, but it can impact your brain too. Studies show that having high blood pressure in your 40s to 60s can increase the risk of abnormal cognitive function. High blood pressure can sneak up on you because it doesn’t always present itself with obvious symptoms. Regularly visiting your doctor can help you monitor any changes in your blood pressure and take corrective action if necessary.
Your muscles aren’t the only part of your body that needs exercise. The mind needs to be stimulated in order to stay in shape. As we age, many people tend to look at the latest technology as something beyond their comprehension, but taking the opportunity to learn how to use it can actually help your mind stay sharper. For 10 weeks, older adults took a weekly two-hour class in which they learned how to use a tablet computer. When the training was over, the participants exhibited improved processing speed.
If technology isn’t your thing, there are plenty of activities that can help motivate your mind. Reading books, playing games, volunteering, and completing puzzles can all be mentally stimulating. Some scientists believe that these types of activities can help the brain adapt to the kinds of changes brought on by aging.
Overall, a balanced diet includes whole grains, lean protein, fruits, and vegetables, and limits saturated fat, sugar, salt, and refined carbohydrates.
However, there are some foods and nutrients that could be especially beneficial:
Furthermore, the Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes vegetables, olive oil, and fish, has been shown to help support normal cognitive function. After seeing positive results with the Mediterranean diet, researchers took it a step further to create a diet called MIND (Mediterranean–DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay). It mixes the Mediterranean diet with the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet to make meals even more beneficial.
Although getting nutrients through your food is preferred, it’s not always realistic. There are a variety of reasons why you might not be able to get the nutrients your body needs from diet alone. We formulated U.S. Doctors’ Clinical NeoGene with 19 specific ingredients to support natural aging processes. Essential nutrients like vitamins A, C, and E, B vitamins, calcium, magnesium, and zinc help to support ongoing mental clarity, reflexes, and normal heart function.* The formula also includes dimethylethanolamine (DMAE), a compound naturally produced in the body and also found in fatty fish, which may help support normal brain function.
Don’t let myths about aging get into your head. Believing that healthy habits can have a positive effect on your mind gives you a better chance of staying sharp well into your golden years.
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When lungs are exposed to pollutants, mucus gathers to capture harmful microbes. You may experience a congested or heavy feeling in your chest.
Those that benefit most from a lung cleanse include:
There are several easy and natural techniques that encourage optimal lung health by helping to get rid of built-up mucus and contaminants, improving breathing comfort, opening your airways, increasing lung capacity, and encouraging a normal inflammatory response.
1. Drainage Techniques
When mucus clogs up your lungs, sometimes you need to utilize gravity to get it out. You can do this by lying on your back, side, or stomach.
2. Percussion
This technique turns your body into a drum to help loosen and drain fluid from the lungs. Lying down with your head lowered, have someone tap firmly on your back with a cupped hand in order to vibrate the lungs’ airways. This process helps move mucus away from small airways and toward larger ones where it can make its way out of the lungs. A doctor or respiratory therapist can explain how often you should use this technique.
3. Aerobic Exercise
There are two types of exercise: aerobic and anaerobic. Most aerobic activities are considered “cardio,” like walking and running, and utilize oxygen to generate energy. Anaerobic activities, like jumping and sprinting, use stored energy sources for immediate energy.
Aerobic exercise puts your lungs to work and strengthens your lung capacity, circulation, and tissues. When you exercise regularly, the body learns to adapt and use oxygen more effectively.
Walking, cycling, swimming, dancing, and tennis are examples of beneficial aerobic exercises you can add to your lifestyle.
4. Keep Your Air Clean
Typically we think about pollutants being in the air outside, but many of us have harmful chemicals hanging around in the air inside our homes. First, get rid of air fresheners and candles with fragrances because they can be filled with chemicals that can aggravate the lungs. Next, use natural cleaning products and vacuum regularly. Finally, because pollutants will inevitably find their way into your home, invest in an air purifier to filter them out proactively.
5. Take a Supplement
We formulated U.S. Doctor’s Clinical Lung Support by combining vitamins A and C, Magnesium, Zinc, and a special blend of traditional herbal compounds, including Asian ginseng and astragalus extract. Each ingredient was specifically chosen to help promote a normal inflammatory response in the respiratory tract and encourage healthy mucus production.* Lung Support can be used for everyday lung health and for recovering smokers.
6. Eat Foods That Encourage Normal Inflammatory Responses
When the lungs are inflamed, it can be difficult to breathe. The chest may feel full and congested. There are specific foods and spices that have antioxidant properties and can help encourage the reestablishment of a normal inflammatory response. Try adding these foods into your diet:
Most vegetables contain valuable nutrients that can help strengthen the lungs. While adding these ingredients to your diet can be beneficial, limit your alcohol consumption and intake of red meat, processed foods, sugar, and salt.
7. Drink Green Tea
Drinking a cup of green tea every day is known to have a host of benefits for the heart, brain, and lungs. Green tea contains antioxidants called catechins that are known to help discourage cell damage.
When making your tea, don’t use boiling water because it can affect its antioxidant properties. Instead, use water that’s around 160 degrees and add a little lemon or honey.
8. Run a Steamy Shower
There are very good reasons to turn up the heat next time you take a shower. When you spend time breathing in the steam from a hot shower, it can help open your airways, loosen the mucus in the lungs, and benefit your sinuses. To make your steam session even more effective, add a little eucalyptus oil to further reduce and loosen congestion. Plus, it’ll make you feel like you’ve entered a spa in your very own home.
9. Yoga Poses
When it comes to yoga, every movement and breath is intentional. Practicing yoga can help you learn how to control your breath, correct bad habits, and improve your oxygen intake. Just like lifting weights helps strengthen your muscles, breathing exercises in yoga can help strengthen the lungs.
For example, try the Triangle Pose, which allows air to enter the lungs and open the chest. Stand with your legs wide and left foot turned out. Turn your hips and torso in the direction of your left toe. Slightly bend your left leg and raise your arms at shoulder level. Next, straighten your left leg as you hinge forward and place your left hand on your shin or on the ground on the inside of your left foot. Extend your right arm straight overhead and look towards it. Remain in the pose for at least 30 seconds before inhaling and standing up. Repeat on the other side.
10. Avoid Harmful Pollutants
Every day you can check the air quality index in your city at airnow.gov. If the level is orange or higher, adjust any outdoor plans you had for the day to protect yourself. For example, if you planned to exercise outdoors on a high-level day, swap walking in the park with walking inside an indoor mall. Regardless of the index, avoid exercising near high-traffic streets and highways because there are likely high amounts of pollution present.
]]>Modifying your diet could actually help you breathe easier. When your body metabolizes the food you eat, it needs oxygen to break down sugars, fibers, fats, and proteins into energy. Carbon dioxide is created as a byproduct and expelled from your body when you exhale. This is where your diet becomes very important. The amount of oxygen each nutrient needs varies, and in turn, each nutrient produces a different amount of carbon dioxide.
For example, the body produces a large amount of carbon dioxide when it breaks down carbohydrates, but it produces a small amount when it breaks down fat. As a result, some people find it easier to breathe when they eat a diet that is low in carbs and high in healthy fats.
Beans are the gifts that keep on giving! Research has shown a high-fiber diet could support normal respiratory processes. The reason for this may be attributed to fiber’s anti-inflammatory properties or its ability to influence the bacteria in the gut. In addition to beans, reach for foods like:
The Mediterranean diet has demonstrated benefits for lung health. Choosing lean meats like seafood can be especially beneficial because they contain omega-3 fatty acids; research suggests these healthy fats could encourage normal lung function. Salmon, oysters, and anchovies are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and include nutrients like zinc, selenium, B vitamins, and iron.
Blueberries and strawberries contain several pigments called anthocyanins that have been shown to support lung health.
During a study of 839 veterans, those who ate 2 or more servings of blueberries per week slowed the decline of their lung function by up to 38%, compared to those who ate fewer or no blueberries.
Tomatoes are full of lycopene, an antioxidant that gives red and pink fruits their color. Lycopene has been known to help support normal oxidative processes. Enjoy fresh tomatoes, tomato puree, and sun-dried tomatoes to reap the benefits of lycopene.
When in doubt, just “beet” it. From its green top to its root, the beet is full of nutritious compounds that can help support the lungs. The beetroot and beet greens contain nitrates that can benefit lung function.
Beetroots get most of the attention, but beet greens are nothing to snooze on – they contain antioxidants and nutrients like magnesium, potassium, and vitamin C.
Adding a little seasoning to your food is okay, but going overboard on salty foods could cause your body to retain fluid. Restaurants typically cook with a significant amount of sodium and many packaged foods contain more sodium than you’d expect as well. Make sure to read the labels on packages before you purchase them. Some of the worst offenders are frozen pizzas, canned soups, and chips. When looking at the serving size, aim for less than 140 milligrams of sodium.
Processed meats like deli meat, sausage, and bacon contain nitrites and high levels of sodium that can negatively affect the lungs. They are also high in saturated fat, which is generally considered an unhealthy fat.
Carbonated drinks can cause bloating and gassiness, which can make it more difficult to breathe. Try swapping out your usual lunchtime soda for a flavored water, herbal tea, or natural juice.
Although they taste good going down, they don’t always feel good when they settle. Fried favorites like French fries and donuts are high in saturated fat, and because fats are more difficult for your body to digest, it takes longer – as long as 40 hours! The result is uncomfortable gas, heartburn, and bloating. Fried foods can also negatively impact your waistline, making your heart and lungs work harder. We suggest opting for baked versions of these foods instead of fried when possible!
When a grain has been refined, it’s been stripped of most of its nutrients and fiber. Refined carbs are less nutritious, more difficult for the body to process, and able to interfere with normal inflammation responses.
However, not all carbs are the same. Complex carbs, like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, are essential for energy and normal body processes. They contain vital nutrients that lungs need for optimal function.
As always, this advice is subjective and a doctor or nutritionist will be better able to determine what dietary changes are right for you!
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As the prostate enlarges, some men develop benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). While it’s not clear why, many men start to experience uncomfortable and inconvenient urinary issues around the age of 50. Typically, men will need to use the bathroom more often and the feeling will come suddenly, particularly during the evening. However, when they try to empty their bladder, it can be difficult to urinate. Because the prostate is located around the urethra, it starts to compress the tube and makes it more difficult for urine to pass through the penis.
Symptoms of BPH:
How BPH Affects Your Sex Life
Men with BPH may experience a decreased sex drive, difficulty sustaining an erection, and overall dissatisfaction with sex. Although there isn’t a clear reason that BPH influences sexual experiences, it may be due to mood disorders that develop because of the lack of sleep caused by the need to frequently use the bathroom at night. If you are experiencing these issues, you could be experiencing BPH and should visit a doctor.
How to Treat BPH
The good news is that there are a couple of ways to treat BPH so that your prostate doesn’t negatively affect your life.
After skin cancer, men are most commonly diagnosed with prostate cancer. Thankfully, prostate cancer has an extremely successful treatment rate compared with other cancers. The trick is to catch prostate cancer in the early stages, but there aren’t typically any obvious symptoms at that point. Because a tumor in the prostate doesn’t cause any pain, many men are able to live with it for years without knowing. It’s a good idea for men around the age of 40 to consider talking to a doctor about their medical history and other risk factors to determine when they should start getting screened for the disease.
When the prostate contracts a bacterial infection or is injured, it can become inflamed. Some symptoms are similar to BPH, like difficulty urinating and frequently needing to urinate at night, but some differences include:
You can help prevent the development of prostatitis by staying hydrated, urinating regularly, and seeking treatment if you experience BPH.
No matter how old you are, there are ways to support your overall health that also benefit your prostate.
The older men get, the more important it is to be aware of their prostate and how to immediately address any issues that may arise. As a reminder, the American Urological Association recommends that men get regularly screened for prostate cancer between the ages of 55 to 69 years.
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The gut allows nutrients to pass through the walls of the intestines while keeping harmful bacteria and toxins from escaping into the bloodstream. Problems can arise when the gut’s lining becomes compromised and partially digested food and pollutants are able to move into the tissues.
When bacteria and toxins find openings to slip through, the body issues an immune response to neutralize the threat they pose. This condition is known as leaky gut, or intestinal permeability.
The antibodies sent out by the immune system to destroy the escaped bacteria can move through the body and adhere to the tissues and organs. Although this is supposed to help, it can create additional inflammation and damage. When these antibodies collect in the joints, they can cause swelling and stiffness, resulting in uncomfortable movement and reduced mobility.
A balanced gut is a happy gut, and thankfully there are several ways to tip the scales in your favor. Although the cause of leaky gut is still unknown, there are various factors that are believed to contribute to it. By changing some of your lifestyle habits and diet choices, you can help support both your gut and your joints.
It turns out you really are what you eat. Being intentional with what you put in your body can directly affect how it feels.
Eat More:
Try to Avoid:
When in doubt, drink more water. The body needs water to support the intestinal lining, good bacteria, and detoxification processes.
When you aren’t getting certain vitamins and nutrients from your diet, supplementation can be a great alternative.
The body uses sleep as a time to restore and relax. If you’re getting less than 7 hours of sleep every night, it can cause your gut bacteria to become unbalanced.
To make matters worse, sleep deprivation can increase your stress levels. Stress wreaks havoc on the body in several ways, one of which is by causing a gut bacterial imbalance and disrupting normal immune responses.
Let’s return to our original question, “Can gut health impact joints?” The answer is a resounding yes. When you take care of your gut, you’re directly impacting the health of your joints. Implementing the suggestions above can help to extend joint comfort and range of motion throughout your lifetime!
]]>For example, years of repetitive movements can cause wear and tear on the joints and tendons and influence the breakdown of cartilage. Similarly, jobs that require heavy lifting or long periods of standing can contribute to joint discomfort in the future. As we age, the fluid that lubricates our joints starts to decrease, cartilage gets thinner, and range of motion can become limited.
The good news is that supporting your body with the right foods throughout your lifetime can help provide the nutrients you need to feel better as you age.
No matter how many nutritious foods you add to your diet, their benefits can be cancelled out by unhealthy foods. Some foods are known to increase inflammation and avoiding them is strongly recommended. These include:
There are several foods that can help support joint comfort and mobility to keep you on your feet and doing the things you love. Add these foods to your diet for long-term joint nourishment!
Adding olive oil to your diet is the joint-health equivalent of taking your car to Jiffy Lube. Your car needs lubrication to function properly and so do your joints. Olive oil can help naturally lubricate your joints to discourage them from rubbing together uncomfortably.
In addition to containing essential omega-3 fatty acids, olive oil has a compound that helps protect against enzymes that are known to induce inflammation.
Like olive oil, fatty fish like salmon are packed with omega-3 fatty acids that help support the joints. Omega-3s are highly regarded because they can interrupt immune cells and enzymes that can cause inflammation.
To fully reap the benefits, eating 3 to 4 ounces of salmon, tuna, sardines, and mackerel at least two times a week is recommended.
While fruit is often critiqued for being high in sugar, many varieties are valued for their antioxidant content.
Pile your plate high with dark green, leafy vegetables like broccoli, spinach, Brussels sprouts, and kale up your intake of vitamins A, C and K—all antioxidants that can help support the body. These vegetables also provide calcium to nourish the bones.
While it’s infamous for causing bad breath and warding off vampires, garlic offers a range of health benefits. It’s primarily made up of a compound that has antibacterial, antivirus, antifungal, and antioxidant properties. Plus, it’s very easy to add to your diet.
Turmeric has been praised for its medicinal properties for thousands of years thanks to curcumin, its most active compound. Curcumin is the source of turmeric’s signature yellow color and is known for its soothing properties. While you can add turmeric to your recipes, the best way to add curcumin to your diet is with a supplement because it’s delivered in a more potent form.
While sweets are typically discouraged, dark chocolate is the exception. Quality dark chocolate with cocoa content over 70% contains fiber, iron, magnesium, copper, manganese, potassium, phosphorus, zinc, and selenium. As if that wasn’t enough, it also contains numerous beneficial antioxidants. Enjoy a square of 70% dark chocolate for joint health!
Whole grains provide the body with protein, fiber, B vitamins, antioxidants, and essential minerals. Although many foods may sound like they contain whole grains, look specifically for these key words:
Beware of buzzwords like “multigrain," "100% wheat," and "organic," as they are often used as marketing tools to encourage the purchase of foods that don’t truly contain whole grains. The best way to ensure you’re buying a whole grain food is to make sure the ingredients list contains the word “whole” as a description of the grain. It should also be the first ingredient on the list.
Beans really are a magical fruit. Naturally gluten-free and a good source of protein and fiber, beans are also full of iron, folic acid, zinc, and potassium. Choose from chickpeas, kidney beans, pinto beans, black beans, soybeans, and lentils.
If beans are new to your diet, we suggest introducing them slowly and drinking a lot of water to reduce your chances of feeling gassy.
Eating like a bird typically has a negative connotation, but a diet rich in seeds has its benefits. Flax and chia seeds specifically contain high amounts of omega-3s, magnesium, and fiber. Because they are small and relatively tasteless, adding seeds to your daily smoothie, salad, or oatmeal is extremely easy.
Like seeds, nuts are small but mighty. Packed with omega-3s, antioxidants, and a variety of essential nutrients, nuts are a quick easy snack that provide major perks. Reach for almonds, pine nuts, hazelnuts, pecans, walnuts, and pistachios to help support the joints and connective tissue.
Arthro-7 was created for those who find it difficult to include these foods in their diet on a daily basis. Many of the vitamins found in the foods mentioned above are included in Arthro-7’s formula.
The Arthro-7 formula contains 7 synergistic support ingredients: collagen, MSM, vitamin C, CMO, bromelain, lipase, and turmeric. While each ingredient is beneficial on its own, they provide comprehensive support when taken together. We suggest taking Arthro-7 daily to help provide long-term nourishment and joint support.
]]>All types of cancer begin when cells start growing out of control, replicating wildly and hindering the growth and function of normal cells. Breast cancer is no exception to this, and it can begin growing in several different areas of the breast. Depending on the location, a detectable lump may or may not form. The cancer can spread beyond the breast to other parts of the body if cancerous cells make their way into the bloodstream or network of lymph vessels. This event is called metastasis.
The average chance of developing breast cancer is 12.5%, or one woman per every eight.1 Statistically, women over 55 are the most likely candidates for breast cancer, accounting for two-thirds of breast cancer cases. African-American women are at greater risk of developing breast cancer before menopause than white women are.2 Scientists have identified mutations in two specific genes, called BRCA1 and BRCA2, that increase the chance of breast cancer, though they don’t guarantee that a carrier of one of these mutations will develop it. Because gene mutations can be inherited, a person’s risk of breast cancer is two to three times greater if someone else in their family has been diagnosed with the disease.4
While men can develop breast cancer, they account for only 1% of cases. Most of these occur later in life, usually in men who are between 60 and 70 years old.
Individuals with higher than normal levels of estrogen may be more likely to develop breast cancer in their lifetimes. Women who first become pregnant after the age of 30, never carry a baby to full term, or opt not to breastfeed experience greater estrogen exposure throughout their lives and may have elevated risk levels. There may also be a link between the heavy consumption of alcohol and the onset of the disease.
Research suggests that obesity can increase the risk, as can benign breast conditions classified as proliferative.3 Exposure to heavy radiation may also trigger cells to start multiplying uncontrollably. The occurrence of breast cancer in one breast raises the likelihood of cancer development in the other breast by three to four times.2
Breast cancer starts when the DNA of normal breast cells becomes mutated, whether due to genetics, lifestyle factors, hormone imbalances, or other unknown causes. While breast cancer starts in the milk ducts in most cases, it can also develop in the glands that produce breast milk. As the cells replicate, they form a tumor and may spread to, or metastasize in, other parts of the body.
Once a case of breast cancer has been detected, it is assigned a stage, from 0 to IV, based on its progression. Each stage requires different treatment strategies, ranging from lumpectomies, to remove only the affected tissue, to chemotherapy and hormone therapy, to aggressively attempt to impede cancer development.
Depending on the stage of a given breast cancer case, it may not present any obvious symptoms. This is why self-checks and screening tests like mammograms are so important, to help identify any irregularities as early on in development as possible. The earlier breast cancer is detected, the greater the chance of successful treatment and the higher the survival rate.
A lump or a mass, usually hard and painless to touch, with irregular edges, is the most common symptom of breast cancer. These conditions are not absolute, however – breast cancer lumps can also be soft, circular, and painful or tender to the touch.5 Swelling and skin dimpling may occur, and pain in the breast or nipple may be experienced. The skin of the nipple or breast may redden, thicken, or become flaky. If the cancer spreads to the lymph nodes, it can cause swelling in the armpit or near the collarbone. Breasts may change size or shape, and nipples may change shape or position.1
Any other irregularities should be reported immediately to a healthcare professional.
There are no magic bullets for eliminating the risk of breast cancer, but taking charge of your health can positively affect certain factors. Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight for your height through a nutritious diet and regular physical exercise can improve health markers and reduce the risk of cancer development.
Abstaining from alcohol consumption is a good idea, as even infrequent and minimal intake can increase the risk. Smoking also predisposes an individual to develop various kinds of cancer, breast cancer included.
Long-term hormone therapy, like HRT or oral contraceptives, can increase cancer risk. Consider talking to your doctor about possible alternatives.
Regular checks and screens won’t lower the likelihood of cancer development, but they can facilitate early detection for faster treatment and a higher success rate. If your family has a history of breast cancer, you might be interested in exploring genetic testing for BRCA 1/2 gene mutations.
Antioxidants, or more accurately, compounds with antioxidant properties, may play a role in the prevention of cancer by neutralizing free radicals, which are unstable reactive molecules that cause damage to cells. Lifestyle factors like pollution, smoking, drinking alcohol, and consuming fried foods can increase free radical exposure. Natural compounds like vitamins C and E, glutathione, and beta-carotene have antioxidant properties and can defend cells against oxidation, which is the process that occurs when free radicals outnumber antioxidants in the body.6
If left unchecked, oxidation can cause signs of aging to appear prematurely and lead to the damage or mutation of DNA, which can elevate the risk of cancer. Therefore, an adequate intake of antioxidant compounds is essential to preserving balance and keeping cancer risk as low as possible.
Some antioxidants are produced naturally by the body. Others can be obtained from food sources like berries, peppers, citrus fruits, carrots, tomatoes, and green leafy vegetables, as well as a wide selection of dietary supplements. As with many good things in life, however, the excessive consumption of antioxidants can actually cause harmful effects. If you eat a balanced, nutrient-dense diet, taking a supplement specifically for its antioxidant content is probably unnecessary.
However, if you feel your diet is lacking in fruits and vegetables, you’re looking for a way to jumpstart healthier habits, or you need support for another aspect of health and wellness, U.S. Doctors’ Clinical offers a range of products that are formulated with antioxidant-containing compounds. These supplements are designed to promote brain function, encourage lung health, support the immune system, provide crucial nutrients for good vision, maintain normal blood sugar levels, and more!* Check out our full line of incredible products here.
Cancer is unpredictable, but it’s never too late to start making lifestyle changes that will improve your health and lower your risk of developing this disease and many others. And with innovative solutions made with premium-sourced ingredients to help you achieve your health and vitality goals, U.S. Doctors’ Clinical is here to support you on your wellness journey.
*These statements have not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.SOURCES & RESOURCES
The glycemic index (GI) is a ranking system that assigns a number to different kinds of carbohydrates based on their impact on blood glucose. A GI value of 55 or less indicates that a given carb is digested fairly slowly, causing less of a rise in blood sugar and insulin levels than a carb with a higher GI value. These lower-value carbohydrates include whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, and dairy products – all of which are generally minimally processed, especially in comparison to higher-value carbohydrates like bread made from refined flour, cereals, French fries, soft drinks, and various snack foods.
But what makes the avoidance of blood sugar spikes so crucial anyway? In the short term, rapid rises in blood sugar followed by crashes can cause lethargy, headaches, drowsiness, excessive urination and thirst, and blurry vision, among other symptoms. A person’s ability to concentrate might also be negatively impacted.
If high blood sugar is left untreated, it can lead to serious complications like the development of type 2 diabetes, heart attacks or strokes, eye damage, kidney disease and even failure, and nerve problems like diabetic neuropathy.1 These complications can arise because glucose, while essential to the body for energy, can act as a poison if levels are elevated for an extended period of time. High blood sugar levels gradually destroy the pancreas’ natural ability to produce insulin, resulting in permanent damage. Excess glucose in the blood can also cause blood vessels to harden, leading to buildups in the arteries that restrict blood flow and increase the risk of blood clots.2
For these reasons, it’s clear that high blood sugar is no trifling matter. Depending on your current lifestyle, regulating blood glucose levels to prevent the onset of serious health problems might require some significant shifts in your diet and activity level. The good news is that making these changes now can reduce your risk of developing chronic conditions, improving your health and quality of life for years to come!
Here are the steps registered dieticians and medical professionals recommend taking in order to regulate blood sugar levels.
Because the grains used in food items like bread, cereal, and store-bought desserts have been so heavily processed, they lack virtually any nutrients and contain none of the vitamins, minerals, and fiber that whole grains still possess. For this reason, they’re very easily digested by the body, releasing a large amount of glucose into the bloodstream at once and causing blood sugar levels to climb. It’s best to opt for whole-grain options – or, if you’re exploring a low-carb style of eating, to leave the grains off your plate entirely.
Fiber is an indigestible substance that slows both the digestion process and the absorption of carbohydrates in the intestines for a gradual release of glucose, rather than a rush. It promotes a feeling of satiety and can help to regulate appetite and hunger cravings. Oatmeal, some nuts and legumes, and most vegetables are good sources of fiber. Fill ‘er up!
While we’re not here to say you should never eat cake, the average American consumes almost triple the number of grams of sugar the AHA recommends as a maximum amount – on a daily basis. The ease with which the body breaks down the simple sugar known as sucrose causes an almost immediate rise in blood sugar and can contribute to weight gain. It’s best to keep the consumption of added sugars to a minimum and opt for low-GI fruits when you need a sweet treat.
Easier said than done, but worth every effort: Managing your weight helps your body better control blood sugar levels. The more excess weight a person carries, the harder it is for their body to use insulin effectively, contributing to the onset of type 2 diabetes. Diet is a huge factor when it comes to weight loss, but exercise is also important – not only because it increases calorie expenditure, but also because it encourages cellular sensitivity to insulin and enables the absorption of sugar from the blood by the muscles. Find an exercise routine or physical activity you enjoy, and it won’t feel like a chore!
Stress negatively affects blood sugar by prompting the body to release hormones like cortisol. Cortisol, in turn, stimulates the release of sugar into the bloodstream as it prepares the body for a fight-or-flight response to the perceived stressor. In stressful situations where a snap decision is needed, this process is useful, but most of the stress we experience in our modern lives isn’t so easily resolved and the continued release of cortisol can wreak havoc on the body. Relaxing activities like yoga and meditation can reduce stress and help to rebalance blood sugar levels.
Getting an adequate amount of sleep each night also helps to control blood sugar. Sleep deprivation is one such stressor that can trigger the release of cortisol, as well as increasing appetite and suppressing the release of growth hormones. These factors combined can elevate blood sugar and encourage weight gain. Make sure you’re getting enough shut-eye to keep your hormones in check so that your diet and exercise efforts don’t go to waste.
There isn’t an agreed-upon standard for daily water consumption, but generally speaking, the more you drink, the better off you’ll be. Because blood is composed mostly of water, the simple act of hydration lowers blood sugar by increasing blood volume. On the other hand, dehydration triggers the release of a hormone called vasopressin, which tells the kidneys to stop flushing and filtration processes in order to retain water. Vasopressin also stimulates the release of sugar into the bloodstream by the liver.4 To prevent the release of vasopressin, drink water whenever you feel thirsty and increase your consumption on hot days or during and after physical activity.
Lifestyle changes can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go it alone. We’ve developed a line of U.S. Doctors’ Clinical products designed to support the maintenance of healthy blood sugar levels because we know your efforts are worthwhile and we want to help you stay the course.
Try HyperBalance to encourage the reduction of stress on veins and arteries, provide support for strong liver function, and promote healthy blood flow.*
GlucoVita, formulated specifically to encourage the improvement of nutrient balance and the maintenance of normal blood sugar levels, contains 10 specific Ayurvedic extracts for antioxidant support, appetite reduction, and the prevention of glucose absorption.*
For heart health support from vitamins, minerals, and botanical extracts, there’s the aptly named HeartHealth: A unique formula designed to encourage maximum oxygen absorption and use, normal cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and healthy veins and arteries.*
VeinHealth contains a proprietary blend of diosmin and hesperidin to promote good circulation, vein elasticity, and cell defense against free radicals.* It encourages the transportation of oxygen and nutrients throughout the body with natural extracts derived from the rinds of lemons and oranges.*
For general antioxidant support and the maintenance of cell health, tissue elasticity, and immune system function, try OxyPlex!* It contains vitamins A, C, and E; selenium, and our unique AntioxiPro blend of antioxidant compounds to encourage organ function and overall well-being.*
No matter where you are on your health journey, it’s never too late to start making beneficial changes. Even a small step in the right direction can produce powerful, positive results! Choose one healthy habit to commit to today to help your body regulate your blood sugar levels. Your future self will thank you!
*These statements have not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
SOURCES
This year is unique in that immunity and good health practices have remained top of mind throughout the spring and summer months as we’ve battled the COVID-19 pandemic globally. With doctors and scientists alike issuing warnings that we may see new spikes in infection rates as temperatures drop, it’s crucial to start ramping up these practices now to strengthen our bodies’ defenses and establish healthy habits that will support wellness through the winter and beyond.1
Here are five strategies you can implement now to stave off sickness during cold and flu season, and continue using to support your immune system all year long!
Nature knows best when it comes to nutrition. Many varieties of fruits and vegetables are available year-round in conventional grocery stores, but they’re grown in hothouses or tropical climates during the seasons they don’t grow naturally. Instead of sticking to the same produce choices regardless of the time of year, select fruits and vegetables that are in season to give your body the nutrients it needs for optimal health. Raw produce is great for spring and summer months, while fall and winter are ideal seasons for heartier options like root vegetables, squash, and sweet potatoes; vitamin C-packed produce like bell peppers and citrus fruits, and nuts and seeds that contain dryness-fighting oils and fats.
Combining root vegetables into soups and stews with nutrient-dense bone broth is a great way to up your vitamin and mineral intake – and get an extra hydration boost while you’re at it!
Getting enough sleep each night to feel rested and alert the next day is one of the simplest ways to keep your body healthy and happy. Quality sleep gives your systems time to reset and recover, enhances your ability to concentrate, solve problems, and retain information; lowers inflammation and your risk of numerous diseases, improves your energy levels, and encourages a healthy weight and appetite regulation.2
Sleep studies have revealed a connection between normal circadian rhythms and T cell and cytokine activity, as well as demonstrating the positive effect of sleep on immune system “memory.”3 Conversely, sleep deprivation contributes to inflammation and heightened stress, both of which can weaken immune system responses. Get sufficient shut-eye to keep your body’s defenses against germs and pathogens strong!
This one should be a no-brainer. Washing your hands with antibacterial soap is the easiest way to stop the spread of germs and viruses by killing them before they can take root inside your body. During cooler months, frequent hand-washing can dry skin out and lead to painful cracking, so make sure you have a bottle of moisturizing lotion or hand cream close by. Keep high-traffic areas clean by sanitizing them regularly, and take extra care to frequently disinfect common germ carriers like phones and computers.
Because stress varies so greatly from person to person, it’s difficult for scientists to design studies that accurately determine its effects on the body. But enough evidence exists to support the general consensus that chronic stress suppresses the immune system. Stress triggers the increased production of the hormone cortisol, which can contribute to inflammation when it remains in the blood for extended periods of time. In addition, stress can lower the number of infection-fighting lymphocytes in circulation, raising the risk of infection.
Mindfulness and yoga practices can help lower high levels of stress hormones, as can regular exercise, emotional support, and getting adequate sleep. For the management of severe chronic stress, some major reprioritization or a drastic decision like changing career paths or moving may be necessary in order to reestablish boundaries and create space for crucial self-care practices.4
Don’t wait until sickness strikes to start incorporating supplements into your wellness routine. A nutrient-dense diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables will help to provide your body with necessary nutrients, but some vitamins and minerals found in plants are poorly absorbed and may not deliver substantial benefits. Supplements like Vitamin C, High-Potency Zinc, Lung Support, OxyPlex, and Gut Health can boost nutrient absorption, support immune system function, and promote cell defense against damage caused by free radicals.
Known for its storied ability to reduce the length of the common cold, vitamin C promotes the activity of immune cells as well as contributing to the formation of collagen and enabling the absorption of plant-based iron to support blood production. Combined with rose hips to encourage relief from joint discomfort and inflammation, U.S. Doctors’ Clinical Vitamin C is a natural, high-absorption immune booster designed for daily use.*
Zinc is responsible for the mobilization of T cells and natural killer cells that fight infection, inhibit bacterial growth, and reduce cold symptoms. Regular supplementation with zinc may shorten the length of a cold by as much as 33%!5 Get ahead of the sickness curve with U.S. Doctors’ Clinical High-Potency Zinc, formulated with fellow essential minerals calcium and magnesium for well-rounded immune system support.*
The mucus in the respiratory tract is a key defense against illness-causing pathogens, sweeping foreign substances away from the lungs to be expelled by coughing or swallowed and destroyed by stomach acid. [7] Smoking can interfere with mucus production and damage the tiny hairs called cilia that mobilize the mucus layer for pathogen removal. U.S. Doctors' Clinical Lung Support helps to provide the respiratory tract with nutrients that promote healing and restore natural function during the smoking cessation process. If you've never been a smoker, this blend of natural extracts encourages lung health and helps to keep the respiratory tract free of bacteria and viruses.*
Vitamin A and selenium both have positive effects on inflammation and immune system responses, regulating cell activity and providing defense against unstable molecules known as reactive oxygen species. U.S. Doctors’ Clinical OxyPlex includes vitamin A, selenium, and a proprietary blend of antioxidant extracts to support and maintain cellular health.*
Did you know that the gut comprises over 70% of the immune system?6 That means keeping the gut microbiome healthy and balanced is of utmost importance. U.S. Doctors’ Clinical Gut Health provides probiotics to promote immune system resilience as well as good digestion, better nutrient absorption, and a strong intestinal lining to discourage the development of inflammation and related conditions like IBS or leaky gut syndrome.*
Just like you shop for winter clothes before the season has officially started so that you’re not caught off-guard when the first storm hits, establishing your strategy for winter wellness before cold and flu season reaches its peak is the best way to make sure you’re well prepared. Stock up on supplements, opt for seasonal produce, and shift your bedtime schedule to boost your nutrient levels and give your body time to recover, reset, and keep fending off pathogens.
Creating a game plan and committing to it just might be the key to your healthiest winter yet!
*These statements have not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
SOURCES
It is true that the process of mineral absorption and adhesion to bones slows down with age, resulting in a loss of bone density and tissue that increases fragility. Muscles also shrink over time, losing mass through the reduction of the number and size of muscle fibers. Lean mass decreases, as does the percentage of body weight that water accounts for. This loss of water increases stress on the tissues and cartilage, which can in turn lower joint flexibility and encourage the development of inflammation around joints.
In a healthy joint, cartilage provides cushioning for smooth and easy movement. The synovium, a membrane that surrounds the cartilage caps on the ends of bones, produces synovial fluid that fills the synovium and protects the cartilage. As muscles decrease in size, the joints must absorb a greater amount of impact, causing accelerated wear and tear and encouraging the erosion of cartilage. With a reduced amount of cushioning between bones, movement can become stiff and uncomfortable. This discomfort often leads to a reduction in physical activity, which further promotes joint deterioration.
Looks like a pretty grim picture, right? But here’s the good news: While some loss of bone density and muscle mass over time is inevitable, it doesn’t have to negatively impact the joints. There are a number of ways to mitigate the effects of aging and encourage joint health for the continuation of an active, unimpeded lifestyle. And the earlier you start implementing strategies to protect your joints and maintain your mobility, the less likely you’ll be to experience difficulties related to movement or injuries caused by compensation for mobility limitations. Even if you’ve already started to feel like household chores and everyday activities aren’t as easy as they used to be, it’s not too late to make changes to your daily routine that will help discourage continuing loss of function.
The top recommendation for the prevention of joint deterioration, exercise also encourages the retention of bone density and muscle mass. Weight training supports strength and promotes blood circulation for normal blood pressure and a lowered risk of heart disease. Low-impact activities like walking, swimming, and cycling encourage joint agility and lubrication and offer benefits for heart health, balance and coordination, oxygen intake, and body composition.
From static stretching to yoga and pilates, movements that encourage flexibility and challenge range of motion can strengthen the core muscles, improve balance, and promote proper posture to minimize strain on tendons, ligaments, and muscles. Simple mobility routines can easily be incorporated into daily activities and provide a list of benefits when practiced consistently. Check out this five-move routine put together by physical therapist Grayson Wickham!
As the body becomes less efficient at absorbing nutrients, like the minerals needed to maintain healthy bone density, it becomes increasingly important to obtain an adequate amount of these essential compounds through a healthy diet and supplementation. Whole foods that contain calcium and vitamin D, like leafy greens, dairy products, nuts, eggs, and fatty fish, are especially beneficial for slowing the loss of bone tissue and preserving joint health.
Each pound of excess weight multiplies stress on joints, especially the knees, three- or fourfold. Even moderate weight loss can relieve enough pressure to slow degeneration and alleviate discomfort. Weight loss is often a happy consequence of regular physical activity and a healthy diet, and no additional strategies may be required to achieve and maintain a healthy weight. While exercise may be uncomfortable initially, shedding excess pounds can make movement more enjoyable, encouraging more frequent and varied activities.
Hydration is vital at any age, but the loss of body water over time makes regular water intake even more essential to prevent muscles and connective tissues from becoming stiff and inflexible. Cutting out or limiting dehydrating liquids like alcoholic beverages and coffee will help ensure that the body has the fluids it needs. Choosing plain or naturally flavored water over sodas and energy drinks, which can leach minerals from the bones and teeth and cause the body to pull water from cartilage, will keep dehydration at bay and keep joints lubricated.
What does smoking have to do with joint health? Quite a bit, actually. It’s well-known that tobacco use increases the risk of various health conditions, from heart disease to cancer, but it also negatively impacts the joints by triggering inflammation throughout the body, which can slow recovery and healing processes, and by speeding up cartilage loss, which leads to greater friction between bones. Smoking interferes with blood supply to tissues throughout the body and reduces the amount of calcium absorbed by the body. Nicotine hampers the production of osteoblasts, the cells that form bone. Bottom line: quitting – or never picking up a smoking habit in the first place – is decidedly beneficial for joints.
Supplements aren’t a substitute for a healthy diet and good lifestyle practices, but they can help to nourish joints and support continued mobility for optimal quality of life. With the help of the Advisory Board of Doctors, U.S. Doctors’ Clinical developed Arthro-7 as an all-natural joint support supplement with seven main ingredients that work synergistically to promote flexibility and lubrication for unimpeded movement.* Because it proved such a success, USDC also created Arthro-7 Sport, which includes a concentrated dose of hyaluronic acid to encourage greater physical performance in active adults, and Arthro8, which builds on the original AR7 blend to promote cartilage strength and healing processes.*
Don’t wait until joint discomfort sets in as a consequence of bone density and muscle tissue loss to start implementing strategies that encourage health and wellness for the long term. An active lifestyle, combined with a nutritious diet and supporting supplements, is the best way to mitigate the reduction of mobility and promote easy, natural movement so that you can keep doing the activities you love for years to come!
*These statements have not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
SOURCES
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