Can Eating More Fruits and Vegetables Help Me Lose Weight?

Planning of a dietIt is commonly thought that increasing the intake of fruits and vegetables is beneficial while attempting to lose weight. However, a recent study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that increased fruit and vegetable consumption does not reduce body weight. Interestingly, the study results also showed that increased servings do not increase weight either, but can in fact add essential vitamins and fiber to one’s diet.

In essence, energy reduction seems to be the most essential mechanism to weight loss; to reduce weight, you must reduce caloric intake. There are approximately 3,500 calories in a pound of stored body fat. Thus, in order to lose one pound of body weight, you must create a 3,500 calorie deficit. This is best achieved through diet and exercise. Sustained weight loss is difficult or impossible without increased regular exercise. For body fat loss, the American College of Sports Medicine recommends 1200 calories a day for women and 1800 calories a day for men. However, check with your physician prior to starting any weight loss program.

Dr. Anne Hermann, a holistic internal medicine physician, is also a physician nutrition specialist. Offices are maintained in Tampa and Saint Petersburg Beach, Florida. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact the office at (813) 902-9559.

Fermented Wheat Germ Extract for Oncology Nutrition

wheat germFermented wheat germ extract was developed in Hungry in the 1990’s.  Numerous clinical trials and studies have proven many health benefits of use including:  anticancer, antimetastatic, and immunomodulatory effects.  Cell metabolic regulation is supported, immune system modulation is promoted, and immune balance is maintained.   The active components of wheat germ extracts are benzoquinone compounds.   This product is frequently recommended as an important component of oncology nutrition and health optimization.  Before starting any supplementation, check with your doctor or health care professional.

Animal studies have also suggested that wheat germ extract can reduce cardiovascular symptoms due to obesity, diabetes and hypertension and that it may also mitigate symptoms from certain auto-immune disorders.  It has also been shown to enhance the effects of  some chemotherapy regimens.  However, patients with hormone-sensitive cancers should use wheat germ extract with caution as it can potentiate estrogen receptor activity.  Adverse reactions include mild diarrhea, nausea, flatulence, constipation and dizziness.  Wheat germ extract should be taken at least 2 hours before or after vitamin C consumption.

Dr. Anne Hermann, a holistic internal medicine physician, maintains offices in Tampa and Saint Petersburg Beach Florida.  Please contact the office at (813) 902-9559 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

 

 

How Can Chia Seeds Improve My Health?

chia seeds and wordChia seed has been used as a nutritious dietary staple in Mexico and Central America since ancient times.  Chia seed oil contains 60% alpha-linoleic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fatty acid that promotes cardiovascular health.  It is also an excellent source of iron and fiber.

Recent research has also studied how chia seeds may be utilized as a weight-modifying food.  Patients within the studies who consumed foods containing chia seeds rated their satiety (fullness) levels higher and had reductions in both body weight and waist circumference.  Also of note, participants receiving chia seed products in the studies had decreases in their serum triglycerides (cholesterol) and glucose (blood sugar) levels.

Chia seeds are available in a variety of forms including whole seeds, oil, chia meal, and “chia snacks”.  There is no standardized recommended dose, but a typical serving of seeds (whole or ground) is a quarter-cup.

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 a number of weight loss and dietary counseling services to her patients.  For more information or to schedule an appointment please contact the office at (813) 902-9559.

 

Qsymia- A New Medication For Weight Loss Management

qsymiaQsymia is an FDA approved combination medication of phentermine and topiramate (Topamax) indicated for chronic weight management. Although the precise mechanisms of action are not known, multiple mechanisms regulate hunger. Qsymia works on multiple pathways to help achieve and maintain weight loss. According to the CDC nearly 40% of adults in America are obese or extremely obese.

Qsymia is indicated as an adjunct to increased physical activity and reduced caloric intake in obese and overweight individuals.  Eligible patients should have a  body mass index (BMI) of 32 or greater (obese) or a BMI of 27 or greater (overweight) with a weight -related comorbidity – such as high cholesterol, hypertension or type 2 diabetes.  Qsymia is prescribed for once daily dosing in the morning.  Physician follow-up is usually monthly.

Dr. Anne Hermann is double board certified in internal medicine and nutrition.  She offers many weight loss and nutritional treatment options to her patients, including Qsymia.  Office locations 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.

 

 

 

What Is A Paleolithic Diet?

The Paleolithic or “Paleo” diet is based upon the consumption of foods that were available prior to the agricultural era. It consists of organic lean meats, fish, nuts, fruits and leafy vegetables. In addition, dairy, refined cereals, margarine, and refined oil/fats are avoided. The diet is low in sodium and extremely high in fiber, vitamins, proteins, folic acid, magnesium and potassium.

Studies have shown that the Paleo diet promotes antioxidant activity and healthy weight. Thus, the incidences of prevalent illnesses in Western societies such as: diabetes, stroke, heart disease and certain cancers may be reduced by following the principle components of the Paleo diet.

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

The HCG Diet

HCG is a hormone produced during pregnancy called human chorionic gonadotropin. This hormone suppresses hunger and triggers the body’s use of fat for fuel. During the HCG diet, Caloric intake is restricted to 500-1000 calories daily of whole, unprocessed foods. Typically, HCG is delivered via an injection in your physician’s office. A moderate exercise program is also recommended to enhance weight loss during the diet. At Dr. Anne Hermann’s office the HCG diet is just one of the weight loss programs offered. We typically recommend beginning a successful weight loss program with a 30 detox diet, which limits the craving for sweets. The detox diet eliminates processed foods and promotes the consumption of whole foods, lean proteins and fresh fruits and vegetables. Dr. Hermann also offers the Optifast full liquid meal replacement diet for patients who need to lose a significant amount of weight. Typically patients with diabetes and/or hypertension are able to stop their insulin and blood pressure medications with the weight loss achieved. Dr. Hermann is also board certified in nutrition, and thus is able to offer meal planning services to her patients. Office locations 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. This post was written by Anne Hermann. Follow Anne Hermann on Google, Facebook, Twitter & Linkedin.

What Is Functional Medicine?

Practitioners who practice functional medicine attempt to address the underlying cause of diseases.  Functional medicine uses a systems oriented approach in a holistic partnership.  In essence it employs a patient –centered approach rather than a disease –centered approach.  It involves understanding the origins, prevention and treatment of complex and chronic diseases.   Functional medicine integrates Western medicine with integrative medicine focusing on nutrition, diet and stress-management techniques.  This mechanism of medicine better addresses the healthcare needs of the 21st century, as there has been a rise in individuals diagnosed with complex and chronic health conditions.

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

This post was written by Anne Hermann. Follow Anne Hermann on Google, Facebook, Twitter & Linkedin.

Is The Secret To Weight Loss In Your Gut?

Continued, regular intake of fried, fatty and refined foods can cause chronic systemic inflammation within the body.  Studies are currently under way to determine if this inflammation can also be linked to disruption in the delicate balance of our gut function – eventually leading to diabetes, weight gain and heart disease.  Inflammatory markers in the blood were measured as elevated up to five hours after consuming a meal high in sugar and fat in one study.   This new research has the potential to drastically change how obesity and related health conditions are approached and treated.

To decrease systemic inflammation:

  • Reduce your consumption of processed, fatty and refined foods.
  • Eat plenty of fiber rich foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.  These foods assist the gut in decreasing inflammation.
  • If you do eat “junk food”, accompany it with fiber and vitamin rich whole foods (fruits and vegetables).  Add color to your diet!

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.  Please contact the office at (813) 902-9559 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

This post was written by Anne Hermann. Follow Anne Hermann on Google, Facebook, Twitter & Linkedin.

What Is Insulin Resistance?

Insulin resistance is a condition in which the body produces insulin, but does not use it effectively. Insulin is a hormone made by the pancreas; it plays a major role in metabolism. Insulin helps cells throughout the body absorb glucose and use it for energy. Many individuals who have insulin resistance do not know until they develop type 2 diabetes. It is believed that the major contributors to insulin resistance are excess weight and physical inactivity. Sleep apnea, family history of diabetes, being of a certain ethnicity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, having polycystic ovarian syndrome, being diagnosed with gestational diabetes, and tobacco use have also been found to increase the risk of developing insulin resistance.

To determine if you have insulin resistance, your physician will order blood work. If you are found to be insulin resistant, your physician will recommend lifestyle changes including losing 5 to 7 percent body weight. Weight loss for most people can be achieved through increased exercise and decreased caloric intake. Physical activity and weight loss help the body utilize insulin more efficiently.

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

This post was written by Anne Hermann. Follow Anne Hermann on Google, Facebook, Twitter & Linkedin.

Why More Tampa and St Pete Residents are Using Low Dose Naltrexone, LDN

Posted by Anne Hermann on Wed, Apr 25, 2012 @ 02:07 PM

Anne Hermann, MD

Low Dose Naltrexone, or LDN, is a small dose of a medication called Naltrexone that was FDA approved for treatment in opiod addiction in 1984.   Naltrexone is believed to increase our body’s production of endorphins, which boosts the immune system.

Within a year of hitting the market, some physicians noticed that very low doses of naltrexone reduced decline rates in HIV and cancer patients.

Currently, multiple research centers, including Stanford, Penn State University, University of California, San Francisco and University of Utah performed small studies that demonstrate that LDN is beneficial for:

  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
  • Crohn’s Disease
  • Autoimmune skin disorders
  • Ovarian cancer
  • Pancreatic cancer

In general, LDN is safe and tolerated very well.  It may enhance treatment of many autoimmune diseases.  While studies are small, they are all positive and since the medication is safe, it can make a big difference to a lot of people.

Anne Hermann, MD is double board certified in Internal Medicine and as a Physician Nutrition Specialist. To schedule your consult, please call (813) 902-9559.

This post was written by Anne Hermann. Follow Anne Hermann on Google, Facebook, Twitter & Linkedin.