Greetings!
At the core of Naturopathic Medicine is education; educating our patients, our patients' families and our community. On this premise, we welcome you to our free Monthly Health Newsletter, rich in information on integrative medicine and tips for healthy living.
We hope this information adds an additional tool for knowledge, empowerment, and creating optimal health and well-being in your life.
To Your Health!
Kiera Lane, N.M.D., MSAc., L.Ac., Dipl. Ac., Medical Director
Sarv Varta K. Khalsa, N.M.D. |
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MONTHLY NEWSLETTER FOCUS
HEALTHY KIDS
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NATUROPATHIC SPOTLIGHT
Food Allergy and Sensitivity Testing For Kids:
Finger-Stick Test is Easy & Accurate
IgG Food Antibody Assessment is a food intolerance test which helps identify those with IgG-mediated food intolerances. This immunological food intolerance test measures IgG antibody levels to 96 foods, including dairy, eggs, meat, fish, gluten, grains, nuts, yeast, sugar, fruits and vegetables. This antibody food intolerance test is ideal for patients who may suffer from delayed reactions/sensitivities to specific foods. According to a study released in 2013 by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, food allergies among children increased approximately 50% between 1997 and 2011. Increased total antigenic load related to food and environmental sensitivities has been associated with a wide range of medical conditions, affecting virtually every part of the body. Mood and behavior, including hyperactivity disorders in children have been linked to food sensitivities.
IgG-mediated symptoms may include, but are not limited to:
- ADD/ADHD
- Behavioral Issues
- Asthma
- Allergies
- Ear Infections
- Sinusitis
- Eczema
- Urticaria/Hives
- Colitis/Digestive Disorders
Classic skin testing for allergies such as skin-scratch testing only measures IgE-mediated reactions. Assessment of relative IgG antibody levels to a multitude of foods using sensitive Enzyme-Linked-Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) technology identifies those foods against which the patient is producing antibodies. Measuring IgG antibody levels provides an invaluable starting point for dietary intervention.
The general approach is to avoid the foods that show a positive IgG response of a moderate level or higher, for a period of 3 months, allowing your body to desensitize to those foods. After 3 months of avoidance you can slowly re-introduce each food, typically one food per week, monitoring any reactions. Also, during the 3 months of avoidance of sensitive foods the goal is to re-build the gut lining, reversing what is referred to as "leaky gut syndrome". This is a condition in which the gut lining becomes hyper-permeable, allowing larger than normal food particles to pass into the blood, mounting an IgG mediated immune response, which then leads to a variety of symptoms. The specific treatments used to reverse this condition are individualized and can be determined by your doctor.
At Arizona Natural Medicine, with new technology, we now offer a simple finger-stick test to evaluate IgG mediated food sensitivities. This is especially beneficial in evaluating children with suspected food sensitivities because it is a much easier, less invasive test that allows us to get the objective information we need without doing a blood draw, which can be traumatic and painful for children. The IgG finger-stick test is easy and cost-effective for children and adults with suspected food sensitivities.
If you are suspecting that you or your child may have food sensitivities, ask us about the IgG finger-stick test at your next visit!
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NUTRITION CORNER
Help Kids with Autism, AD(H)D & Mood Disorders
Gluten/Casein Peptide Test Identifies Possible Cause
Many patients struggle with finding effective solutions to treat AD(H)D, autism spectrum disorders and mood disorders. Most people have heard of food allergy testing to determine reactions mediated by IgE immunoglobulin (associated with true food allergies) and IgG immunoglobulin (associated with food sensitivities) but many individuals are unaware that a test exists to determine whether wheat and/or dairy is affecting his or her brain function.
The Gluten/Casein Peptide test can determine the inability to digest wheat, rye, barley, and milk. These undigested proteins, or peptides, are associated with gastrointestinal, neurological and neuro-developmental disorders. Research has shown that incompletely broken down peptides, specifically the neuropeptides gliadorphin (from gluten) and casomorphin (from dairy) can react with opiate receptors in the brain mimicking the effects of opiate drugs such as heroin and morphine by altering cognitive function and increasing pain threshold. These neuropeptides have been shown to react with areas of the brain's temporal lobes that are involved in speech and auditory integration, a chief concern in autistic spectrum disorders and even AD(H)D.
It may seem peculiar that eating certain foods like grains and dairy can trigger not only gastrointestinal symptoms but also manifestas neuro-behavioral symptoms. This is where understanding the gut-brain connection is so important. The gastrointestinal tract and brain are actually derived from the same type of embryonic tissue that differentiates during fetal development into the central nervous system (brain) and the enteric nervous system (GI). These two systems communicate via the Vagus nerve, which travels from the brain stem down to the abdomen. This nerve is responsible for regulating a variety of body functions including transmitting sensory information about the viscera (organs) back to the central nervous system. This explains why thinking about food stimulates the release of gastric juices and increases salivation before actually eating anything. Likewise, the phenomena of feeling "butterflies in your stomach" when you are anxious is no coincidence!
Many children with ADHD and/or autistic spectrum disorders do not respond well to most grains, especially wheat. Interestingly, the psychological and behavioral symptoms of AD(H)D often correlate with those of celiac disease and gluten intolerance. For this reason, it's recommended that individuals diagnosed with AD(H)D be tested for gluten sensitivity. Diets containing high amounts of wheat and dairy are inherently pro-inflammatory and, therefore, have the propensity to worsen conditions that are related to chronic inflammation. The importance of reducing inflammation when dealing with mental health issues is imperative as chronic inflammation systemically can negatively impact mood and neurological function.
Continual exposure to one's foods sensitivities can lead to intestinal permeability also known as "leaky gut." It is normal for some small particles to migrate through tight junctions, however certain glycoproteins, such as gliadin, activate zonulin (a gut protein), which opens the gap junctions between enterocytes (intestinal cells) and allows for the passage of macromolecules like improperly digested wheat proteins as well as bacterial antigens to enter the bloodstream. This process leads to further inflammation and eventual immune dysregulation. Furthermore, wheat contains wheat germ agglutinin which is a lectin. Lectins are highly resistant compounds that withstand a wide array of pH levels and temperatures and as such are not easily digestible. This can lead to bioaccumulation within the body and can hamper normal physiological processes.
The Gluten/Casein Peptide test uses a patient's urine sample to detect levels of gliadorphin (gluten peptides) and casomorphin (casein peptides) both of which are commonly elevated in individuals with autistic-spectrum, mood disorder and/or AD(H)D. The benefit of this non-invasive test is that once sensitivity to gluten and/or casein is identified, foods containing these peptides can be removed from the diet thus allowing for positive changes to occur. It is very common for people to experience improvements in behavior, mood and cognition upon eliminating gluten, dairy and other offending foods from their diet. As always, if you feel you or someone you know may benefit from this test, discuss the option with the physicians at Arizona Natural Medicine.
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MIND BODY CENTER
REDUCING STRESS ONE KID AT A TIME
As adults, we think stress is a normal part of our daily lives. But if we think our children are unaffected by our own stress or the stress they experience in school, at home, with friends, or when they watch the news, we underestimate the influence of our environment. Stress related disorders in children are not uncommon. In fact, according to the National institute of Mental Health, 25% of children 13 to 18 will suffer from an anxiety disorder which may included: general anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and specific phobia,s to name a few. So what can we do to help our kids?
First, we have to help ourselves with stress reducing behaviors to model effective stress management for our children. Some kids may not be able to verbalize all their fears and anxieties, so we need a strategy to help them. We need time to breathe, play, laugh, listen to music, exercise and sleep.
Time In Nature - something about being in nature changes are environment, our thinking and our perception of what is going on around us. Using our senses in other ways to create a positive influence can greatly reduce our stress.
Breathing - it seems simple but when was the last time you belly breathed? Try doing just 10 deep belly breathes as you start and end the day and feel stress melt away.
Laughing - we all know that laughter makes everything better. How many times have you witnessed a parent(s) with their children and hear a barrage of criticism but rarely laughter. Laughing is no joking matter. According to the Mayo clinic at mayoclinic.org, laughter has several short term benefits: stimulates your organs such as your intake of oxygen-rich air by your lungs, activates and relieves your stress response and soothes tension, and in the long term: improves your immune system, relieves pain, increases personal satisfaction and improves your mood. So find the humor in things and help your kids to do the same.
Play - it seems so simple. When was the last time we let our children just play? Over scheduling and our desire to make our kids do well at everything sometimes takes the fun out of our extra-curricular activities. Play brings joy and a vehicle for self expression. In fact, there is a respected area of psychotherapy called "Play therapy" used for children 3 to 11 to provide them with a safe and organic process to express their feelings and work through issues through play. There must be something to it!
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Exercise - we all know the benefits. Get your kids moving. Better yet, get moving with them so everyone in the family learns good habits and lowers their stress.
Sleep - let's face it, have you gone for months not sleeping well? Notice how you feel? Not so great. Well, when our kids don't sleep their psychological stress increases exponentially. So if your child is not sleeping, seek medical help to determine the cause and treat it. If the issue is non-medical, start by changing bedtime to one hour earlier to get one extra hour of sleep per night. It can make all the difference in the world.
Music - we know that music affects brain development. Ever heard of the "Mozart Effect"? Music has the power to relax and soothe our minds and release endorphins and makes us smarter. So the next time you or your kids are stressed out, put on some soothing music in the background and create a more relaxing environment.
We can all work to reduce the stress in our lives. Our kids react to our own stress, so it is important to practice what we preach and reduce stress in our own lives first and then help our kids lead a less stressful life. It will make all the difference in the world.
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Arizona Natural Medicine, L.L.C.
Integrative Medicine for the Body and Mind
2480 W. Ray Road, Suite 1
Chandler, Arizona 85224-3558
Arizona Natural Medicine, L.L.C.
http://www.aznaturalmedicine.com
480-722-2811
For an appointment at Arizona Natural Medicine, L.L.C., please contact our office.We look forward to hearing from you. |
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Mission Statement
Our mission is to provide the most comprehensive and effective
heath care, integrating the best of Western, Eastern, and Natural
medicine in a safe and caring atmosphere. We provide individualized
care that addresses the whole person, focuses on prevention, and
assists you in achieving an optimal level of health.
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Naturopathic
Philosophy
1. Healing Power of Nature
2. First Do No Harm
3. Identify and Treat the Cause
4. Doctor as Teacher
5. Treat the Whole Person
6. Preventive Medicine
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Real People
I was hesitant to try acupuncture because it was foreign. I did and it has changed my life. Not just because acupuncture can help my health but now I am open-minded to other things. It has changed my perspective on health care. I feel more vibrant, energetic, and I love that it has positively affected me mentally. It made me more positive and I think clearer.
- C.L.- Chandler, AZ
My acupuncture experience with Dr Khalsa at AZ Natural Medicine has been very positive. At a time when nothing else would provide relief, weekly acupuncture treatments have made a measurable difference in my low back pain and in my life. Increased energy is an added bonus. I am 3 weeks post partum and have every right to be exhausted. However, as my pain becomes more manageable I have a substantial increase in energy. Thank you Dr Khalsa and AZ Natural Medicine for helping me to feel better! I forward this health and energy on to my new baby.
- C.S. Chandler, AZ
I have been suffering from lack of sleep and hot flashes for years. Since I have been seeing Dr. Lane, she has prescribed bio-identical hormones and I have noticed an improved quality in my sleep and my hot flashes are few and far between. I am very happy with the results. I would highly recommend her office to anyone.
- R.W.Q. - Chandler, AZ
Dr. Khoury is friendly, caring and very knowledgeable about naturopathic medicine, as well as conventional western medicine practices. She has a wealth of information available about non-traditional treatments such as herbal remedies, acupuncture, and other eastern medicine practices. Dr. Khoury is passionate about naturopathic medicine, and is a great source for a variety of treatment options delivered with compassionate care.
- Michael
My first visit with Dr. Lane was after I had been diagnosed with osteoporosis. I had decided to try a natural approach and Dr. Lane was recommended by a good friend. After talking with her for a while I decided to tell her about some other problems I had, and after listening to her I was so impressed that I decided to give it a try. In the back of my mind thinking could this really work? I have an eye condition called Cystoid Macular Edema and for about the past 18 yrs. I have seen a retinal specialist who has given me numerous injection into the eye to help with the swelling with only slight temporary relief. For the past 11 months I have followed Dr. Lane's advice which is all natural and have seen significant changes in my eye condition to the point that my other Dr. no longer mentions surgery or injections in my eye. I can tell by the look on his face when he looks at my test results that he is totally amazed. For being somewhat skeptical in the beginning I am definitely a believer now in natural medicine! If anyone would like more information I am happy to share my story.
- Mollie
This past December the pain in my hips, neck and shoulders had become unbearable. At the age of 75, with advancing AS (ankylosing spondylitis), I did not want to begin a regiment of western medical prescriptions for pain pills because of their addictive nature. I began searching for an alternative approach to my problem. That is where I was introduced to Dr. Khoury, who used acupuncture and her superb knowledge of natural medicine to help reduce my pain level by more than 60%. Her understanding and use of eastern medical practices has helped me to reduce the high stress levels resulting from acute pain. In addition she has nurtured me through a lot of baggage relating to internal problems resulting from 26 years of military service in three different war zones. Dr. Khoury is without a doubt a valuable asset to her profession. With all the wonderful attention she has given, she has also exhibited the highest standards of professionalism, standards I have not seen with doctors in western medicine. She was able to sit with me and speak on the level of a professional care giver about my needs, always looking for ways she could help me. She has rekindled a belief in myself, and for that alone I am very grateful
- Edward
Since becoming a patient of Dr.Khalsa at Arizona Natural Medicine all aspects of my health have improved. As a patient of Dr.Khalsa I am treated as a whole person. All issues I came to the office with were discussed and a treatment plan was made. I love being a patient at Arizona Natural Medicine.
- Lori
"I first came to Arizona Natural Medicine for help with my fibromyalgia symptoms. At that time, my symptoms were so bad that I could barely get around, I couldn't think straight, I couldn't remember for more than a few hours into the past or into the future and my prospects for having any kind of life did not exist, at all, period!
That was around eight years ago. Now, I can say with complete honesty that I've regained most of my mobility, I have a mind that I actually recognize and most importantly, I now have a life, one that I can enjoy and can share with my wife and my family members. Although my struggle to regain my life has been a long one, Dr. Lane and Dr. Khalsa have been with me every step of the way. They simply will not give up on you. Ever!
Both of these doctors have helped me in so many ways over the years that I've lost count. But, if I were to try and pick their greatest contribution to my life, thus far, it would have to be their success in teaching me how to look beyond my fibromyalgia and toward a fully holistic approach to life itself.
So, when you combine these masterful skills with their genuinely warm and caring spirits, you can't help but feel right at home when you come visit with them.
To be honest, I don't have the words to adequately express my heart felt gratitude and appreciation for the work that Dr. Lane and Dr. Khalsa have done for myself and for my family. I really do not know what I would do without them. I really don't. So, does the phrase "Thank God for Dr. Lane and Dr. Khalsa" seem a bit much? Well, not as far as I'm concerned! As a matter of fact, it feels exactly right to me."
- Paul
I was hesitant to try acupuncture because it was foreign. I did and it has changed my life. Not just because acupuncture with Dr. Lane helps my health but now I am open-minded to other things. It has changed my perspective on health care. I feel more vibrant, energetic, and I love that it affected me mentally. It made me more positive and I think clearer.
-Carol
Naturopathic medicine has always offered me alternatives that I could never find in the traditional medical model. I am so happy that I have options for my health care. The Heel injectable therapy by Dr. Lane has really helped my pain level reduce. I am hopeful that I have the tools to stay healthy.
-Casey
Dr.Khalsa is the only doctor that has looked at my complete symptoms from stress to asthma to my eating sensitivities. She has helped me to control my food intolerance when GI doctors wanted to just drug me on anti-nausea, pain killers/ GI numbing tablets instead of finding the source of why I\'m in so much pain when I eat certain foods. I would recommend anyone who wants to avoid tons of pills to solve symptoms and want to find the another alternative to Dr. Khalsa. It also helps that I feel Dr.Khalsa really cares about you and your not just another patient out of the hundreds they have.
-JoAnn
Naturopathic medicine has always offered me alternatives that I could never find in the traditional medical model. I am so happy that I have options for my health care. The Heel injectable therapy by Dr. Lane has really helped my pain level reduce. I am hopeful that I have the tools to stay healthy
-Karen
Naturopathic medicine has allowed me to have choices in regards to my health. I can always count that I will have options and not just be told by my doctor what to do without a choice. I appreciate being treated like a person not a number by Dr. Lane. I know I have someone in my corner to help me when I need it. I am grateful that Naturopathic medicine exists and it has been the primarily health care in my life.
-Paula
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Acupuncture & Chinese
Medicine