About Mila McManus MD

This author has not yet filled in any details.
So far Mila McManus MD has created 848 blog entries.

The Problems with Powders

by Nancy Weyrauch Mehlert, MS

One of the most frequent questions I get as the staff nutritionist is about protein powders and green superfood powders. For many people, these popular powders represent a healthy, simple, and quick way to get nourishment. But are they safe and healthy?

Pause for just a moment and consider these powders. Do you really know what is in that canister? Does it resemble anything like the original plants or animals from which it was derived? How did it become a powder? What processes and techniques were used to extract the nutrients from the original source? Could it be something other than what the package claims to be? Could harmful things make their way into the product? Did the manufacturer test or confirm the purity of its product?

I would argue that most food powders contain things that would surprise you, and perhaps much more than the ingredient list implies or the manufacturer claims. The Clean Label Project [https://cleanlabelproject.org/the-best-worst-protein-powder-products/] has carefully tested 134 of the most popular protein powders in the marketplace and discovered a plethora of pesticide, heavy metals, and plastic residues in the vast majority of them. Recently, I picked up a container of Psyllium Husks that were described on the packaging as “100% Pure Psyllium, No Additives, No Fillers, Non-GMO, and Gluten Free” but on the back of the package in small print a warning was written, “This product contains a chemical known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm.” Last year, I contacted a maker of a protein powder who claimed their product was pure, organic, and Non-GMO. I inquired if they had conducted an analysis of their product for plastics, pesticides, or heavy metals. The representative responded proudly with a “yes”! When I asked if I could see the Certificate of Analysis, she claimed that this information was not available for the public. When I hung up the phone, all I could think of was that, if their product were clean and free of any concerns, then they would have had nothing to hide. It caused me to pause and consider the high likelihood that powdered products, from green drinks to protein powders are not as good for us as we might believe. Some of the most well marketed, popular, organic brands are very likely to contain heavy metals and plastics.

Please consider that powders are highly manufactured, processed products, far from the original source. In many cases, it may be generous to even call them “food”. Though organic certifications should protect the original source to be free of pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, and not genetically modified, it does not mean there are not plastic particulates or heavy metals in that powder. It does not ensure that chlorine or other bleaches and chemicals have not been used to make the final product. We should shop carefully, ask questions, and tend toward consuming real whole food.

If a protein powder is helpful to you, we have vetted some pharmaceutical grade protein powders that have been tested for purity which we can safely recommend.

By Mila McManus MD|2022-02-23T06:40:32-06:00February 24th, 2022|General, NANCY’S NUTRITIONAL NUGGET|

by Mila McManus, MD

Haven’t found the perfect solution for better sleep and less anxiety yet? DHH-B, sourced from the bark, leaves, and flowers of the houpo magnolia tree, may give you the relief you seek! Used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years, research is confirming the many potential benefits.

The active ingredient is dihydrohonokiol-B and can be found in topical creams/oils, tea, and oral supplements. There are two particularly rich polyphenols found in DHH-B, magnolol and honokiol, highly valued for their antioxidant values. Magnolia bark has traditionally been used to treat asthma, anxiety, depression, stomach disorders, and inflammation. Magnolia bark boosts the activity of GABA, a neurotransmitter that produces a calming effect, slowing down the brain’s excitatory neurons, relieving anxiety, and enhancing sleep. It also activates cannabinoid receptors which contain calming compounds that help relax tight muscles. Magnolol has also been shown to reduce lipids and cholesterol. The bark contains another active compound called methylnokiol, which targets insulin resistance and prevents oxidative liver damage which can lead to diabetes.

DHH-B should not be taken with alcohol and should be stopped two weeks prior to surgery due to its blood thinning effects. Moreover, it should not be taken if an anticoagulant drug is already being taken. It also can negatively influence the effectiveness of anesthesia. Pregnant women are also advised to avoid taking this supplement. Ask one of our medical providers if DHH-B is a good choice for you!

References:

*tailormadehealth.com

www.healthline.com/nutrition/magnolia-bark#benefits

By Mila McManus MD|2022-02-15T16:30:11-06:00February 16th, 2022|General|

by Mila McManus, MD

Our medical staff strongly urges adults and children to avoid sports drinks. As indicated below, most individuals can adequately hydrate with filtered, clean water!

Most children and adults who exercise regularly do not need a special form of hydration beyond water unless exercising intensely for more than 60-90 minutes.
Popular sports drinks, such as Gatorade and Powerade, contain a number of concerning ingredients including sugar, high fructose corn syrup, artificial sweeteners, food dyes, caramel coloring, artificial flavors, and acids.
Some research suggests that regular consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages results in a significant increase in body mass index.
The sugar in sports drinks causes an immediate blood sugar elevation and destabilization followed by a dump in energy, especially if the exercise is not strenuous enough to utilize the carbohydrates rapidly. Thus, they are draining rather than energizing.
Artificial sweeteners have been shown to disturb the gut microbiome, affecting immunity, digestion, satiety cues, and weight.
Certain studies associate artificial colors such as Blue 1 and Red 40 with behavior problems in those with ADHD.
The acid levels in the sports drinks have been shown to wear down tooth enamel, while the sugar contributes to cavity formation.
Acesulfame Potassium, a common artificial sweetener in sports drinks, has been shown to cause cancer and affect the thyroid in lab animals.
Sucralose, a.k.a. Splenda, is also linked to cancer, and is made using chlorine. If you want to ‘nerd out’, here’s the formula of sucralose: 1,6-dichloro-1,6-dideoxyfructose and 4-chloro-4-deoxygalactose (Uh, No thanks!)
Two of the four caramel colorings used in foods are formed using ammonia, and caramel coloring has been proven to cause leukemia, as well as lung, liver, and thyroid cancer in laboratory animals.
High fructose corn syrup consumption is linked to joint and gut inflammation, and may be associated with increased risk for rheumatoid arthritis in women.

Our electrolyte needs can be met by Pink Himalayan Salt, Redmond’s Sea Salt used on food and in water, as well as by eating salted nuts and seeds. A wide variety of vegetables and fruits in the diet are also great sources of potassium, magnesium, sodium, chloride, phosphate, and calcium, the primary electrolytes the body needs. Athletes who will participate in strenuous exercise for 60 minutes or more should hydrate well on a daily basis, prior to and on the day of exercise. Moreover, eat salty nuts and seeds, and consume plenty of protein. Foods such as berries, celery, watermelon, kiwi, and cucumber, as well as salty nuts and chicken, and water will suffice well to sustain energy and focus during exercise. Other possible alternatives to common sports drinks are NUUN Hydration Effervescent Electrolyte tablets, LMNT Elemental Labs -Recharge, Hi-Lyte™, or Lyteline™ electrolyte products.

Resources:

https://www.verywellfit.com/is-gatorade-good-or-bad-for-you-4177592

Gatorade.com

Powerade.com

https://cspinet.org/eating-healthy/chemical-cuisine#acesulfamek

https://cspinet.org/new/201102161.html

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC4817078/

By Mila McManus MD|2022-02-09T11:26:59-06:00February 10th, 2022|General|

by Nancy Weyrauch Mehlert, MS

The USDA requires all food manufacturers to disclose if genetically modified ingredients are in their products.

Effective, January 1, 2022, The USDA, through The National Bioengineered Food Disclosure law requires all food manufacturers to disclose if genetically modified ingredients are in their products. The way in which this is done however will not be a simple, uniform way such as an established symbol similar to the USDA Organic Certification. Rather, the manufacturer has options including a text message, a symbol, digital links, or verbiage on the package.

According to the USDA*, “The Standard defines bioengineered foods as those that contain detectable genetic material that has been modified through certain lab techniques and cannot be created through conventional breeding or found in nature.” Some call that “Frankenfood”, others “fake food”, and “man”-ufactured food. Anyway you call it, there is nothing natural about it and likely represents a foreign enemy to the human body, potentially contributing to harm, disease, immune response, inflammation, and/or congestion.

According to the Environmental Working Group,* “Shockingly, virtually no long-term health studies have been done on consumption of genetically engineered food. And there aren’t likely to be any such studies anytime soon. The government isn’t doing this kind of research and is not requiring it of the food industry. It isn’t even making it possible for independent scientists to do it, since under the law, those who hold patents on genetically engineered food get to decide in most cases what testing can – and cannot – be conducted. As a result, the jury is still out – in fact, it hasn’t even heard the evidence – on whether genetically engineered food might cause health problems. And the answer to this question will likely remain unclear for years.”

Apparently the organic and GMO Project Verified labels will still be in use. As a reminder, the USDA Organic standard symbol does mean synthetic fertilizers, sewage sludge, irradiation, and genetic engineering may not be used. Thus buying organic should be a safe way to always avoid genetically modified or bioengineered food.

The Non-GMO Project Verified* is a symbol created by a non-profit organization working in the interest of the consumer. According to nongmoproject.org, “ the Non-GMO Project Verified mark assures consumers that the product bearing the label has been evaluated for compliance with the Non-GMO Standard, which can be found here. Similar to the USDA Organic symbol, this symbol should give some confidence that the product is free of genetic modification and is, we believe, a good measure of protection.

You may also see “Bioengineered Food Ingredients” written on the label. It may be necessary to scan the barcode or look at the manufacturer’s webpage to find out. My experience on webpages is that many food producers make it difficult to find nutritional facts and ingredient lists because they don’t really want you to find the information, but they are required to provide it. You may discover that this disclosure is not easy to find. Others will be forthcoming and more direct.

For optimal health and wellness, we recommend that you make every effort to avoid genetically engineered food. Recognize that most restaurant food will contain it, while eating at home after careful selection during grocery shopping will guarantee the best success.

Resources:

USDA.gov

Nongmoproject.org

https://www.ewg.org/news-insights/news/americans-eat-their-weight-genetically-engineered-food

Mira Dessy, The Ingredient Guru, Weekly Email dated January 4, 2022, The New GMO Label.

By Mila McManus MD|2022-11-01T10:29:58-06:00February 2nd, 2022|General, NANCY’S NUTRITIONAL NUGGET|

by Mila McManus, MD

Fulvic acid serves plants by activating nutrients for better absorption by the plant cells. .. taking fulvic acid is “eating dirt.”

Traditional medicine and modern research are claiming that fulvic acid (FvA) can modulate the immune system and influence the oxidative status of cells. Also, fulvic acid can improve gastrointestinal function according to a review article in the Journal of Diabetes Research[1]. Both oxidative stress and gastrointestinal stress are hallmarks of diabetes. Scientists and functional doctors all over the world are discovering many other benefits of this organic compound found in soil, rocks, and sediments. It is formed by the decomposition of plant and animal matter and is antioxidant rich and very alkaline. In the soil, fulvic acid serves plants by activating nutrients for better absorption by the plant cells.[2] So yes, technically speaking, taking fulvic acid is kind of like eating dirt!

A closer examination of fulvic acid points to its extraordinary potential. In the human body, it serves to carry nutrients throughout the body. It contains trace minerals, electrolytes, fatty acids, silica, prebiotics, and probiotics. It is deeply nutritious for us. Research indicates that it can transport over 60 minerals and other trace elements directly into the cells. Other benefits include:

Improves gut and immune function because of the pre-and pro-biotics found in it.
Helps to dissolve, enhance, and transport nutrients into the body for better absorption.
Serves as an electrolyte, balancing permeability of cells in the heart, muscles, brain, and digestive tract.
Combats free radicals, oxidation, and inflammation.
Increases enzymatic activities in the body.
Attracts and binds heavy metals and makes them water soluble for excretion.
The antioxidant properties help to protect the brain against degenerative cognitive conditions, such a Alzheimer’s.
Some evidence suggests fulvic acid can improve healing of wounds, rashes, and other skin infections.
As a result of detoxification, reduced inflammation, and increased absorption, energy is increased and pain is decreased.

Fulvic acid is available as a natural health product found in tablets, powder, and liquid forms. Care should be taken when starting fulvic acid since it causes a detoxification reaction as it helps to carry toxins away from the body. It is important to have regular bowel movements before taking it to ensure the body’s ability to remove bound toxins quickly. It may be best to seek medical supervision before using it. Here at TWIHW, our medical providers are available to help you determine if fulvic acid is a good option for you and can guide you in its proper use.

[1] From “Therapeutic Potential of Fulvic Acid in Chronic Inflammatory Diseases and Diabetes,” by John Winkler and Sanjoy Ghosh, 2018, Journal of Diabetes Research, Volume 2018, Article ID 5391014, Copyright ©John Winkler and Sanjoy Ghosh.

[2] https://lindseyelmore.com/the-supplement-youve-never-heard-of-fulvic-and-humic-acid/

By Mila McManus MD|2022-11-01T10:40:27-06:00January 26th, 2022|General|

by Nancy Weyrauch Mehlert, MS

Brussels Sprouts: Dark Green Winter Salad is a delicious salad with flexible choices.

A delicious salad with flexible choices. *Alternatives to Brussels sprouts include arugula, cabbage slaw, or shredded romaine. Field greens would work too!

1 thin piece of gluten free bread, toasted

2 T extra virgin olive oil

2 T fresh Meyer (less acidic) lemon or regular lemon

2 T avocado oil based mayonnaise

1 small clove garlic, finely minced

½ t sea salt

3 cups finely shredded Brussels sprouts*

3 cups finely shredded kale

Fresh ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

Toast bread until browned and crisp. Cool before breaking or cutting into small pieces.[Bread Recommendations: Carbonaut GF low carb bread, B-Free GF Bread, GF stuffing cubes]

In a large bowl, whisk together the oil, lemon juice, mayonnaise, garlic and salt.
Toss the Brussels sprouts and kale with the dressing. Season with pepper. Sprinkle bread crumbs and serve.

From : https://www.nutritionaction.com/daily/healthy-recipes/need-a-new-winter-salad/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=engagingnetworks&utm_campaign=2021.12.1+Need+a+new+winter+salad&utm_content=2021.12.1+Need+a+new+winter+salad with suggestions added.

By Mila McManus MD|2022-11-01T10:44:38-06:00January 12th, 2022|General, Recipes|

by Mila McManus, MD

The human body needs routine maintenance. Detoxification is essential to maintain optimal health and sustain strong immunity,

Most of us don’t hesitate to take our car to a professional for routine maintenance, but what about your body? The human body needs routine maintenance now more than ever. While a targeted effort at detoxification may have been optional in decades past, it is essential in our toxic times for anyone desiring to obtain or maintain optimal health, sustain strong immunity, and slow aging. It’s important to make detoxification both a daily focus, and a periodic hyper-focus. Consider once or twice a year implementing a specific targeted approach. Detoxification methods can range from gentle to aggressive, or from targeted organs to whole body, and the best options should be made individually based on your circumstances.

There are many different ways to promote detoxification. There are many things that need to be removed from the body. Common toxins/toxicants that can accumulate in your body include those from chronic infections (whether the infection is obvious or not), personal care products, foods and beverages, and the environment. Chronic infections, caused by bacteria, parasites, viruses, and mold are often stealthy lurkers causing a slow decline in health and can gain entrance in a multitude of ways every day. Environmental toxicants, such as plastics and heavy metals, are common in our air, water, body products, and food.

The human body has five significant detoxification exit pathways: exhalation, mucus formation, sweating, urinating, and defecating. The organs burdened with detoxification are the liver, kidneys, skin, mucous membranes, and lungs. Detoxification methods focus on these pathways and organ systems.

Here is a list of detoxification diets, therapies, and supplements offered here at TWIHW with highlights of what is targeted. January is a great month to focus on detoxification. Your medical provider can help you determine which ones might be most effective and necessary for you.* Also check out our Winter Specials for some deals on detox!

Black Box Detox by Quicksilver – Thorough 4 week program, comprehensively targeting the hormones, plastic-related compounds, mold toxins, herbicides, and pesticides, and even metals on multiple levels. Includes protocol instruction booklet with dietary recommendations, as well as all detox supplements needed for the 4 weeks.

7- or 14- Day Core Restore by Ortho Molecular – a strategic system designed to safely support and promote the primary pathways of detoxification in the liver. The Core Restore kit provides three active formulas – Core Support, Alpha Base, and PhytoCore – which function synergistically to support Phase I and Phase II pathways of liver detoxification to help neutralize environmental pollutants, hormone disruptors, unhealthy estrogen metabolites, xenoestrogens (synthetic compounds that imitate estrogen), and other harmful toxins. This powerful trio of specialized formulas provides essential micronutrients, phytonutrients, and a source of easily digested, low-allergen protein that purifies the liver and fuels optimal biotransformation.*

14 and 21 day Detox Box by Designs for Health – The Detox Original 14- or 21- Day Program with PurePea™ has been created to support the body’s natural two-phase detoxification process. This is accomplished by providing the nutrients needed to support and balance phase I and phase II metabolic pathways, high levels of antioxidants for safe detoxification, and a comprehensive array of herbal hepatics and cholagogues (substances that support gallbladder function) to promote healthy liver function and elimination.* Instruction booklet with dietary guidelines included as well.

Prolon – 5 day program which mimics fasting without fasting. Program promotes weight loss, increased focus, clarity, and energy; triggers cell regeneration; triggers autophagy – the body’s way of cleaning up aging and damaged cells; supports maintenance of healthy levels of blood glucose, cholesterol and blood pressure as well as markers of inflammation. Everything needed is provided in the box. No shopping or food preparation. Included are meals and tasty snacks which are prepackaged and ready to go.

Ultrabinder Sensitive by Quicksilver Scientific – Supplemental capsule, suitable for more sensitive individuals.* Ultra Binder is formulated to catch heavy metals, pesticides, herbicides, hormone mimics, food additives, mold and microbial toxins found in the intestinal lining. It contains an optimized blend of zeolite, bentonite clay, activated charcoal, and chitosan. Helping to soothe and repair the GI Tract, mildly laxative acacia gum and soothing aloe vera are included. They can also support the health of the intestinal lining and the growth of friendly flora.* Ultra Binder is a low sulfur version of our immensely popular Ultra Binder®. It does not contain the IMD® mercury-binding complex.*

Health Reset Protocol – 28 day dietary/prescriptive therapy plan for restoration of gut and immune function, and addressing yeast overgrowth and/or leaky gut, or a gentler and less expensive Do-it-Yourself version using the dietary plan with herbal supplementation.

Liposomal EDTA by Quicksilver Scientific – A liquid supplement which supports the chelation process by binding to heavy metal ions in the digestive tract.

Para Cleanse I & II by CellCore Biosciences – an effective and natural gut cleanse to promote normal peristalsis (i.e., movement of the GI tract), as well as to bind and remove pathogens and toxins in the system, and promote overall optimal gut health. Mimosa pudica polyphenols are extracted from this fern-like plant that has a long history of healing properties in Ayurvedic medicine. It acts to pull out toxins, parasites, heavy metals, biofilm, and other unwanted elements, resulting in a deep cleaning of the tract. This is recommended to perform for at least 2 months. There is not a specific diet required for this.

HepatoThera forte by Klaire Labs – A convenient capsule formulated to help meet the liver’s higher demand for nutrients that support antioxidant pathways, detoxification mechanisms, and enzyme regulation during significant exposure to chemical toxins, heavy metals, drugs, and biological burdens. This is a good supplement to support detox pathways on a daily basis.

IV Nutritional Therapies – IV Vitamin C and Glutathione are especially effective antioxidants and supporters of detoxification pathways in the liver, improving skin health, boosting the immune system, and fighting infection. Call to learn more about available therapies.

Infrared Sauna – to learn more about all the benefits, including detoxification, click this link.

*All product descriptions have been taken from the manufacturer’s educational or marketing material.

By Mila McManus MD|2022-11-01T10:48:53-06:00January 5th, 2022|General|

by Mila McManus, MD

Recognizing that we don’t live in a perfect world, and that alcohol consumption is a real component of many holiday celebrations, below you’ll find some recommendations to help protect your brain and liver from alcohol toxicity while still enjoying a libation or two. Optimal health is impossible with routine alcohol consumption; however, I live in the real world and I’m a realist. At the bottom, you will find an elaborate, well researched article you can check out if you want the long of it. Here are some recommendations, for the short of it.

The key protective supplements, minerals, and vitamins that can help protect your brain and liver are vitamin C, B vitamins, glutathione (and/or its precursor NAC), milk thistle, and lipoic acid. Ideally, you want to start your evening with plenty of hydration and a handful of these supplements. It may also be helpful to take a second dose before going to bed, or even during your celebration, if the time frame is prolonged.

Hepatothera Forte is available at our facility, and this contains several of these supplements (selenium, milk thistle, lipoic acid, and NAC). Taking this with 1000-2000 mg of Vitamin C, and a multivitamin, would be a decent combination. N-Acetyl-Cysteine (aka NAC) and Vitamin C are another good pair, again along with a multivitamin with a range of B’s in it to protect the brain, replenish glutathione levels, and block the toxicity of alcohol when taken before, during, and after drinking.

The author of the aforementioned article (link below) determined, based on both experience and research, that vodka, gin, and rum seem to have the least impact on the brain or creating a hangover, while everything else has more detrimental impacts including most wines, ciders, tequila, whiskey, and beer. Beer lands in last place for the worst hangover experience. That could be personal experience, but take it for what its worth.

Have a safe, wise, and Happy New Year! Cheers!

https://www.optimallivingdynamics.com/blog/how-to-protect-your-brain-from-alcohol-never-be-hungover

By Mila McManus MD|2021-12-22T16:32:25-06:00December 29th, 2021|General|

by Nancy Weyrauch Mehlert, MS

Controlling carbohydrates is critical to weight loss, reducing inflammation, and managing all disease models. All carbohydrates are primarily glucose and fiber molecules. The glycemic impact of a carbohydrate is determined by how quickly the body breaks them down and releases the glucose into the blood stream. The faster a carbohydrate converts to glucose, the higher the glycemic index. Low glycemic index carbohydrates are usually vegetables and fruits. Higher glycemic index carbohydrates include all processed and baked breads/pastries, donuts, pastas, potatoes, rice, and cereals. Of course, all sugar in drinks, desserts, and candy are included as well. Glycemic impact increases in the absence of fiber, fat, and protein, all three of which help to slow down the digestion of carbohydrates into glucose, especially fat and fiber. Fat and fiber also contribute best to being satiated.

Over the past two decades, there have been hundreds of studies consistently showing low or very low carbohydrate diets to be beneficial. We often term these dietary lifestyles as keto or ketogenic. Another familiar lower carb lifestyle is called Whole30. In 2018, the American Diabetes Association Nutrition Committee reported agreement that evidence for a low carb or very low-carb diet is beneficial for Type 2 diabetes more so than any other diet tested, including Mediterranean diets and the DASH diet.

In our practice, we are advocates of a lower carbohydrate diet for most adults because it supports reduction of inflammation, congestion, fat storage, imbalanced blood sugar levels – all of which lead to the lifestyle diseases of our day. It also points people back to eating real whole food – especially vegetables, nuts, seeds, and other healthy fats. Most people need more of these in their diets for fiber and the plentiful micro-nutrients and vitamins found in them.

As you consider your diet, especially if you are working toward a very low carbohydrate diet, there are two important mistakes to avoid.

First, while processed sugars and grains are certainly a significant contributor to obesity and ill-health, the types of fats you eat play an equally important role. Inflammatory fats, high in Omega 6’s and usually damaged (i.e., oxidized/rancid), can be worse than excess sugar. Especially harmful are canola, safflower, corn, cottonseed, and soybean oil. Common in salad dressings, packaged and pre-prepared foods, all restaurant food – their removal, or minimization is mission critical to successful weight loss and reduction of inflammation and illness. These vegetable seed oils damage mitochondria in the cells and impact metabolic functioning. The oxidative stress results in insulin resistance just as sugar does.
Second, if you are using intermittent fasting and eating low to very low carbohydrate every day, over time this may actually make you more sensitive or intolerant to many healthy foods, causing you to restrict or narrow your diet too far. Generally, a low or very low carbohydrate diet would range in Net Carbohydrates [carbohydrates minus fiber] between 25 to 85 grams per day. What we are suggesting here is to pop out above that range at certain intervals to keep your metabolism flexible. You don’t want your body to lose its ability [i.e. flexibility]to handle a higher carbohydrate range when needed.

For the individual working to lose unwanted weight, this means having one or two days per week where you bump your carb intake above your normal range by 100-200% of your target to maintain flexibility.

If you are at your ideal weight, maintaining with a low carb diet, it may be best to alternate days of very low carb with double or triple the intake to maintain metabolic flexibility. My personal low carb range is between 25-30 net carbohydrates each day. Since my weight is normal, two or three days each week, I will range up to 50-75 net carbohydrate grams in a day. By alternating, I have the ability to deal with a higher carb intake from time to time without a net gain in weight. My body burns fat efficiently in the low carb days, and does not over-react by storing fat or elevating blood sugar on the pop-out days. That’s metabolic flexibility.

This gives you tolerance to eat a wide range of healthy choices and maintain good nutrition. It is not meant to be an excuse to eat junk food. The point here is to add in healthy nutrient-dense choices such as beans, beets, sweet potato, potato, rice, quinoa, an extra piece of fruit, or a gluten free oat item. Live well!

Mercola, Joseph. The Case for Keto, accessed October 2021 from www.mercola.com

By Mila McManus MD|2021-12-14T08:18:39-06:00December 22nd, 2021|General, NANCY’S NUTRITIONAL NUGGET|

by Mila McManus MD

The functional medicine patients exhibited significantly larger improvements in patient reported outcomes at six months and sustained at 12 months.

The Journal of the American Medical Association [JAMA] published results of a 2019 study which assessed the association between functional medicine and patient-reported health-related quality of life. The cohort study compared 7252 patients treated in a functional medicine setting with matched patients in a primary care setting over a 6 to 12 month period. These patients exhibited significantly larger improvements in patient reported outcomes at six months and sustained at 12 months. The findings of this study suggest that functional medicine may have the ability to improve global health in patients.

It comes as no surprise to us, and it was nice to see a study reported by well-respected JAMA confirming what we have seen for more than 17 years here in our facility. Our practice is a health model rather than a disease model. It’s health care which integrates treatment of the whole human system according to individual needs, promoting healing and restoring optimal function. If you’re not already seeing a functional medicine specialist, what are you waiting for? If you keep doing what you’re doing, you’ll keep getting what you’re getting.

JAMA Network Open.2019;2(10):e1914017.doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2019.14017

By Mila McManus MD|2022-11-01T11:01:47-06:00December 15th, 2021|General|

Previous 121314 Next