Got the Guts to Be Healthy?

We all know someone who is making an effort to improve their health. What steps are they taking? Exercising, not drinking sodas, and eating less processed foods are common first steps.

In my years of study and observation, I have come to the firm conclusion that health begins in the gut … and the flip side is equally true … that disease also begins in the gut. Read more

Give Me the Vitamin D-tails!

A “D” on your report card isn’t favorable, yet a good “D” level on your lab report is important. Wondering why? Vitamin D has been featured in many an article on health, but science has revealed more detail that I would like to share with you.

Let me start by clarifying that Vitamin D is actually a steroid hormone. We call it a “vitamin” because it is not made in the body and must be provided from external sources. Most vitamins are taken in via food, but Vitamin D is created in conjunction with precursors of cholesterol in the skin with proper sun exposure. Given our reduced outdoor activity in winter and use of sunscreen, we are often deficient. Read more

Which System Is Dominant?

On your average day, I’m guessing that you are most concerned about getting through your plans, with little thought to how your body is managing in the process.

While there are numerous systems that function as a part of your overall body, there are two primary nervous systems that can have a significant affect. These are the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous symptoms.

Fancy names, but what do these systems do? If you have heard the phrase “fight or flight” you have actually heard the nickname of the sympathetic nervous system. Read more