Vitamin D and Protection Against Autoimmune Disorders

3d vitamins.Exposure to UV radiation seems to protect against autoimmune diseases such as MS and Type 1 diabetes.  Studies have shown that the closer you live to the equator, the less likely you are to develop an autoimmune disease.  Individuals who reside in the southern United States are less frequently diagnosed than individuals who reside in Canada and the northern United States.  The early years matter also, if you lived in the south your first 10 years, you have a reduced risk of developing MS even if you move to a northern state or area and reside there the rest of your life.

The production of vitamin D is triggered by ultraviolet B rays from the sun.  Vitamin D helps modulate your body’s defense system.  Studies have shown that in individuals who have the potential for developing autoimmunity, vitamin D reduces the risk and may in fact slow the progression of certain autoimmune disorders in their early stages.  2000-4000 IU’s daily of vitamin D is recommended by most experts.

Dr. Anne Hermann, a holistic internal medicine physician, offers comprehensive vitamin and nutritional testing to her patients.  As well as alternative treatment options for many health conditions, including autoimmune disorders.  Offices are maintained in Tampa and Saint Petersburg Beach, Florida.  Please contact the office at (813) 902-9559 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Holistic Help For Depression

depression holisticApproximately 50% of patients newly diagnosed with major depressive disorder relapse after achieving remission on the first antidepressant prescribed.  There are multiple factors associated with relapses such as:  prior history of depression or anxiety, ethnicity and prior functional status.

There are many classes of antidepressant medications that can be utilized for treatment.  There are also many natural agents/therapies that can be useful in treating depressive symptoms.  These include L-methylfolate, S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAMe), creatinine, B complex vitamins, vitamin D and omega 3 fatty acids, and acupuncture.   Often times, these therapies are used as adjuncts with prescription medications for depressive symptoms.

L-methylfolate is a nutritional food (neutraceutical) that spurs the production of more neurotransmitters.  These neurotransmitters are serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine which help regulate our moods and alleviate depression.

SAMe is a crucial component of three metabolism pathways.  One of these pathways boosts levels of the neurotransmitters serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine.

Creatinine plays an important role in brain energy metabolism balance; studies have shown that altered cerebral energy metabolism may be a precursor to depression development.

Dr. Anne Hermann, a holistic internal medicine physician, maintains offices in Tampa and Saint Petersburg Beach, Florida.  She offers many natural treatment options for depression, including those discussed above and  acupuncture.   For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact the office at (813) 902-9559.

 

 

Can Exercise Help Improve My Gut Health?

gut floraBritish researchers have recently reported that exercise can increase the diversity of bacteria in the gut, in turn boosting the immune system and positively affecting long- term health. Increasing dietary protein may also be beneficial for gut health. Life expectancy continues to increase, underscoring the importance of good health. Gut microbiota richness and diversity is essential for overall wellbeing.

Athletes involved in the recent British study had lower levels of inflammatory markers and better metabolic profiles than the control group. They also had greater diversity and quantity of good gut flora. In particular, the athletes had much higher numbers of one particular type of bacteria linked to reduced rates of obesity. Consuming a variety of foods including protein, vegetables and fruits was also identified in the study as essential for gut health and immunity.

Dr. Anne Hermann, a holistic internal medicine physician, offers a variety of meal planning and weight loss services as well as food sensitivity testing to her patients. Dr. Hermann is also board-certified in nutrition. Offices are maintained in Tampa and Saint Petersburg Beach, Florida. Please contact the office at (813) 902-9559 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Can Acupuncture Help Treat Infertility?

Treatment by acupuncture. The doctor uses needles for treatment of the patient.Numerous studies have shown acupuncture may assist in boosting female fertility rates by increasing hormone levels and blood flow to the uterus.  In turn, the uterine lining is thickened which enhances embryo implantation.  Acupuncture is also beneficial for relaxation and stress.  Many infertility clinics promote acupuncture as an important component of the in vitro fertilization process.  Fertility regimens vary slightly, but the majority involve needling the abdomen, lower extremities and ears.  Sessions are usually performed two to three times weekly for several months.

For women who are under the age of 35 and are unable to conceive,  fertility experts recommend an examination by a physician to rule out structural abnormalities prior to beginning acupuncture treatments.  In women over the age of 40, experts recommend using acupuncture as an adjunct to standard treatment regimens.

Dr. Anne Hermann, a holistic internal medicine physician, offers acupuncture to her patients for a variety of diagnoses including infertility.  For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call (813) 902-9559.  Offices are maintained in Tampa and Saint Petersburg Beach, Florida.

Omega 3 Fatty Acids For Brain Health

Research has found that eating a diet rich in omega 3 fatty acids boosts brain health, especially networks involved in thinking and attention.  Omega 3 fatty acids are found in fish such as tuna, salmon, and mackerel.  The particular omega-3 fatty acid found to be important for brain health is docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).  600-1000mg of DHA daily is recommended for optimal health.

Dr. Anne Hermann, a holistic internal medicine physician, maintains offices in Tampa and Saint Petersburg Beach, Florida.  Dr. Hermann is also board certified in nutrition and offers vitamin testing to her patients.  Please contact the office at (813) 902-9559 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

How Can I Boost My Immune System Naturally?

The immune system interacts directly with the entire body by acting as the internal defense system.  Stress is a main contributor to decreased immunity.  Nutritional status greatly influences immune health.   A diet rich in vegetables, protein and whole grains, but low in fat and refined sugars is recommended.  Both obesity and elevated blood sugar (glucose) levels negatively impact the immune system by interfering with antioxidant activity.

Vitamins and mineral that are essential for immune health include: Folic Acid, Vitamin C, Vitamin B12, Vitamin E, Zinc and Selenium.  These vital nutrients are best obtained as part of a healthy diet, but are also available in multivitamin supplements.

Dr. Anne Hermann, a holistic internal medicine physician, offers comprehensive vitamin testing to her patients.  Dr. Hermann is also board certified in nutrition.  Offices are maintained in Tampa and Saint Petersburg Beach, Florida.  Please contact the office at (813) 902-9559 for more information or to schedule an appointment.