The digestive tract is an estimated 16-foot long system, which includes the upper digestive tract (oral cavity, esophagus, stomach) in addition to the lower digestive tract (small and large intestine) and accessory organs (pancreas, liver, gallbladder) (Gropper, Smith, & Carr, 2018). Residing within the lower digestive tract is a complex system of bacteria, fungi, viruses, […]
Read MoreOsteoporosis is a condition characterized by compromised bone strength and elevated bone turnover, which increases an individual’s risk of fracture (Srivastava et al., 2005). Almost 44 million Americans are estimated to have low bone mass which, in 2001, had a direct national expenditure of 17 billion dollars (Srivastava et al., 2005). As such, methods of […]
Read MoreIn my last post, I provided information regarding the structure and function of the thyroid, in addition to the differences and utility of each thyroid hormone. In the following sections, I would like to briefly explore the impact of environmental exposures (EEs), toxins, and their affects upon thyroid health. Patrick (2009) indicated that EE of […]
Read MoreMetabolic processes, in addition to normal growth and development, are heavily influenced by the endocrine system; a group of organs, which release hormones directly into the bloodstream (Reisner & Reisner, 2017). Such endocrine glands include the pituitary, adrenal cortex, medulla, pancreas, kidneys, parathyroid, and thyroid. Aberrations in the performance and function of said glands […]
Read MoreIn recent posts, I have explored methods to improve individuals’ health through movement and nutrition protocols. Although such approaches are highly valuable, they do not account for another dimension known to affect homeostasis; environmental exposures (EE). Once toxins enter the body, it is essential that they are eliminated as they can create aberrations in health […]
Read MoreAtherosclerosis can be defined as the buildup of fats, cholesterol, and other substances in and on the artery walls (plaque), which can restrict blood flow (Mayo Clinic, 2018). Said condition can manifest as early as childhood with the development and deposition of fatty cholesterol streaks along the endothelium (blood vessel wall) (Lee & Nieman, 2013). […]
Read MoreResearch has indicated that genetics and poor lifestyle choices can drive individuals towards insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes (Lee & Nieman, 2013). Thus far, we have been exploring methods to monitor and track individuals suspected to be at risk for said conditions. However, I would like to suggest another relevant measure that would help […]
Read MoreModern Western diets, including macronutrient ratios and macronutrient quality, are substantially different than the hominin diets 10,000 years ago (Ilich, Kelly, Kim, & Spicer, 2014). Modern diets tend to include over 70% of total energy from refined sugars, refined vegetable oils, processed foods, and alcohol (Ilich et al., 2014). Of particular interest is the shift […]
Read MoreMalalignment or displacement (terms used to describe abnormal position of fracture fragments) of bones requires interventions, which stabilize and immobilize the tissue for optimal healing (Delforge, 2002). Two prominent methods that enhance bony union while reducing chances of malunion (i.e., healed fracture fragments in a malaligned/imperfect position) include the open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) and […]
Read MoreUnderstanding the tissue healing process, without medical intervention, serves as a baseline to determine and compare the efficacy of modern-day therapeutic techniques. As a means of appreciating the undisturbed process of tissue healing, the following will examine the research of Frank, Woo, Amiel, Harwood, Gomez, and Akeson (1983) as it relates to medial collateral ligament […]
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