[originally published in KCN, January 2013]
As we find ourselves in the thick of cold and flu season our focus on avoiding germs becomes top priority for many of us. We’re quick to Purell our hands and sanitize everything we touch. But are germs really the issue? The reality is, they’re no more of an issue now than they are at any other time of year. (more…)
[originally published in KCN, August 2002 / cartoon provided by TomLamarCartoon.com]
If I was the CEO of a major drug company of pain and anti-inflammatory medications looking to boost my already incredible sales, I would open up a restaurant. Why? Because, food — if eaten in the improper proportions, from a biochemical standpoint — has the ability to create excessive and uncontrollable inflammation, making a chronic, painful, inflammatory condition all the worse. Hence, the need for more of my medications. It’s a great idea!
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[originally published in KCN, December 2002]
With a prevalence second only to that of the common cold, ear infections — more correctly known as “otitis media” in doctor jargon — may just seem like a part of growing up. Doctors estimate that children will have at least one by the time they turn six. Unfortunately, for many the occurrences are quite a bit higher — some as many as 12 in any given year. Perhaps this is why one doctor referred to otitis media as “an occupational hazard of childhood.” Truly though, the “hazard” lies in the common course of the “hamster wheel” medical treatments the majority will face. Aside from “well check ups,” otitis media is the number one reason a child will visit a pediatrician.
Join us as we count down the days until Christmas with the American Chiropractic Association’s “12 Days of Health and Wellness.”
From the American Chiropractic Association:
It’s fun to get into the holiday spirit and participate in all the festive activities that abound this time of the year, but the added demands of the season can also stress the capacities of our bodies. The American Chiropractic Association is providing the “12 Days of Health and Wellness” to remind you to take some time to care for yourself, too.
Each day focuses on a different health and wellness topic. Embracing the tips provided during the 12 Days of Health and Wellness could make you happier and healthier than ever in the New Year.
[originally published in KCN, December 2000]
With the Holiday Season upon us comes its not so welcomed compadre: the “Cold and Flu Season.” And with news reporters telling us that our nation’s drug companies are running a little low on the Traditional Flu Shots that we have come to expect, many are being forced to abandon these “shots” of artificial “immunity” for, perhaps, as some new studies are suggesting, something that will ultimately benefit them more in the long run: bolstering their body’s immunity, naturally.
Louis Pasteur reminds us that “the microbe is nothing” and that “the soil is everything.” In other words, if germs (microbes) were seeds, in order for them to grow and “germinate” into viable disease states, they would need fertile soil in which to do so. The question we need to pose to ourselves is “What is the condition of our ‘soil’?” Are you a “Disease Gardener’s Paradise”, or are you actively doing things to make your “soil” an inhospitable residence for “seeds?”
[originally published in KCN, September 1999]
When I was in elementary school, I remember a poster that hung on the back wall of the school cafeteria. It read “You Are What You Eat.” A simple, but wise, phrase, and one that I’ve come to appreciate with the passing years. However, despite my chiropractic education, and the nutritional courses within it, the idea of sitting down to a nice, piping hot plate of back pain has never crossed my mind. Well, according to the research in Dr. Neal Barnard’s book Foods That Fight Pain, the idea might not be as far-fetched as it sounds. (more…)
[originally published in The Higher Source, March 1997 and then KCN, September 1998]
I recently received a book from my mother. It was the new and controversial “diet” book, The Zone, by Barry Sears, PhD. Although grateful for the gift, I was a bit perplexed. I, out of everyone in my family, was the last one that needed to think about dieting. (more…)
[originally published in KCN, July 1999]
You could say it was business as usual at my office the other day. The day was playing out like most any other day. In other words, I was having a great day! Three patients were comfortably seated in the reception area enjoying their reading selections, while I was helping a patient reschedule her next appointment. And then it happened… Kerplunk! Everyone froze. What was that? The noise had come from my treatment room. A troubled look came over my face, for no one was in the treatment room. I slowly made my way towards the area from whence the sound had come as my patients waited, wide-eyed with anticipation. As I peered around the wall, I quickly spotted the noisy culprit. (more…)
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