P: 281-298-6742 | F: 281-419-1373|info@TWIHW.com

About Mila McManus MD

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So far Mila McManus MD has created 860 blog entries.

Cognitive Health Assessment

We are SO excited to offer this new Cognitive Health Assessment by Cambridge Brain Sciences, 

a leading provider of simple and powerful online brain health assessment solutions.

 

Watch Dr. McManus explain in this 2 minute video:
 
Why you should test:
 
  • Quantify cognition
See a quantitative and objective measure of your cognitive health to help complement any existing subjective assessment methods you’re using as part of your care.
 
  • Track cognitive trends
See how your cognitive health is progressing, or detect early indications of cognitive decline that you may be worried about.
 
  • Educate yourself
Educate yourself and your family members on the core areas of cognition-like short-term memory, reasoning, attention, and verbal ability-that are fundamental to your quality of life.
 
Call our office at 281-298-6742 to purchase your test ($49-79)
and we’ll email you the link to take the test in the comfort of your home or office, at your convenience.
By |2018-08-03T12:14:25-06:00July 30th, 2018|General|

“I feel like I turned a corner this last week.”

I feel like I turned a corner this last week.

“I’m feeling much better this week. Not near as much pain or nervousness as before and more energy and clarity in my thinking. I actually felt good enough to work on my taxes and get them to the CPA!

My sleep improved dramatically.

Like I said, my pain levels are dramatically down. Not completely of course, but I’ve had 2 muscle relaxers in 5 or 6 days compared to 3 times a day.

I feel like I turned a corner this last week.”

Thanks,

CW

By |2018-08-21T14:36:47-06:00July 25th, 2018|General, Testimonials|

State of the Art Testing: Optimized Treatment and Prevention

By Mila McManus, MD

When I founded The Woodlands Institute for Health & Wellness in 2004, there were far fewer useful and affordable tests to utilize with my patients.  In Functional Medicine, our goal is to identify the root causes of disease while working to build overall optimal health. Functional medicine is observing the uniqueness of each person.  It is, in fact, individualized medicine. The human body is intricate and complex which can make the search for root causes in unique people a step by step, sometimes arduous process of elimination and trial and error. Thankfully, over the last decade, significant advancements in our understanding of the gut biome, immunology, nutrition and genomics have resulted in very advanced and affordable tests which tell us about you as an individual. This leads to personalized and optimized treatment plans with better health outcomes.  Not only do many of these tests lead us to the root causes of symptoms and disease, but also help to identify genetic mutations, predispositions for disease, and help to detect problems early. Below are descriptions of many of the tests we offer here, many of which are new.  

COLOGUARD Colon Cancer Screening is one of our newest test and a welcomed alternative to the traditional, and unpopular, colonoscopy.  The test kit is used at home and is a stool collection which does not require bowel preparation, dietary restrictions or medications to complete. The test uses advanced multiple-marker, stool DNA technology to detect colorectal cancer and advanced adenomas. It is 92% sensitive for detection of colorectal cancer and analyzes patient stool for the presence of 11 molecular markers, including hemoglobin and DNA markers and can detect pre-malignant neoplasia at early onset of abnormality. Patient Profile: Intended for adults, 50 years or older, who are at typical average-risk for colorectal cancer. Offers an excellent screening for colon cancer without the hassle of a colonoscopy. A positive test result would, however, lead to a colonoscopy.  It’s recommended every 3 yrs and is covered by most insurance companies, including Medicare.  You are NOT a candidate if you have a history of colon polyps, and family history of colon cancer, or if you have inflammatory bowel disease (i.e., Crohns, Ulcerative Colitis).

Genetic risk detection for heart disease tests for coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction and congestive heart failure risk. Patient Profile: Individuals with a family history or uncontrollable hypertension.

Wheat Sensitivity Testing is done at the highly sensitive peptide level and can confirm Celiac disease, leaky gut caused by wheat allergy, and WGA related Vitamin D deficiency.  The test also allows for tracking of the healing process for leaky gut. Patient Profile: Individuals with digestive disturbances, fatigue, chronic headaches, low vitamin D, joint pain or numbness in fingers, arms or legs, leaky gut syndrome or skin inflammation.

Gut microbiome evaluation examines bacteria, fungi and parasites, identifying imbalances and pinpointing potential risks associated with imbalances.  Patient profile: Individuals with IBS, Autoimmune disease, skin conditions, food intolerances, joint pain and inflammation, fatigue, and nutrient deficiencies.

Neural Zoomer is a test designed to assess an individual’s reactivity to neurological antigens.  Results provide a comprehensive set of autoimmunity markers, from a single blood draw.  Neurological risk for demyelination antigens, blood brain barrier disruption, optical and autonomic nervous system disorder, peripheral neuropathy, brain autoimmunity and neural genetics (available upon request) are assessed. The results allow for early risk detection to motivate the patient to improve lifestyle and information to guide the medical practitioner to an optimal treatment plan. Test provides ability to track progress.  Patient profile: Individuals with ataxia, sensory loss, neuropathic pain, muscle pain/spasm/weakness, brain fog, chronic pain, orthostatic hypotension, photosensitivity, and autoimmune disease.

IBS-D and Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth test confirms IBS-D and SIBO and allows tracking of progress following treatment.  Patient profile: Individuals with abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, flatulence, abdominal distension and weakness.

Lectin and Aquaporin Sensitivity test measures the body’s IgG & IgA immune responses to both specific lectins and aquaporins. Immune responses to lectins and aquaporins can result in microbial imbalances, damage of the gut lining and provoke delayed immune responses. This test is specific and defined for 16 commonly consumed high lectin foods and 7 aquaporin foods that often trigger autoimmune responses in the body. Patient profile: Individuals with known autoimmune disease, those who struggle to lose weight, or have bloating, gas, abdominal cramps, painful and swollen joints, fatigue, skin rashes, hormonal fluctuations, nausea or allergy like symptoms.

Genetic testing which, while similar to the popular 23 & Me, provides a deeper level of medical information upon which a provider can formulate treatment protocols. Many genetic mutations directly impact the methylation and detoxification pathways in the human body. Knowing the mutations allows the provider to guide the patient in addressing chronic medical conditions by using nutrition and nutrient supplementation as well as other treatment protocols. The test includes testing for MTHFR and other genes in methlyation pathways, COMT, genes related to detoxification, inflammation, and more. It’s done through a cheek swab from a home test kit. Patient Profile: Individuals with diagnoses, symptoms, or lab data indicating a tendency toward cardiovascular diseases, neurological disorders (e.g. depression, Alzheimer’s, autism spectrum, migraines insomnia), metabolic conditions (diabetes mellitus, kidney diseases, multiple chemical sensitivity, metabolic syndrome), musculoskeletal disorders (osteoporosis), macular degeneration, and cancers.

Comprehensive nutrient analysis measures functional deficiencies at the cellular level.  It is an assessment of how well the body utilizes vitamins, minerals, amino/fatty acids, antioxidants, and metabolites. It also provides treatment recommendations to improve the deficiencies to enable the production of enzymes, hormones, and other substances essential for proper growth, development and good health. Patient Profile: An excellent first assessment to ensure proper supplementation as well as an excellent starting point to assess overall cellular function and needs. Also used when symptoms have not resolved with diet and supplements.

Heavy Metal Testing provides an analysis of the levels of toxic metals and essential elements in urine after administration of a metal detoxification agent. This provides an indication of the accumulated toxic burden on the body.  Low level exposure to toxic metals and essential elements can result in significant retention in the body and can be associated with a vast array of adverse health effects. Patient Profile: Patients with known exposure to heavy metals, unresolved allergies, seizures, unusual neurological symptoms, metabolism issues such as inability to lose weight, history of dental work, and compromised immune function.

Food sensitivity testing helps to identify if the immune system is out of balance, irritated and up-regulated, causing it to attack our food as if it were a threat.  Tests identify what foods are causing these inflammatory responses which most often result in a variety of symptoms. Results allow the patient to remove foods which irritate the immune system so that it can be balanced and down-regulated as well as provide some insight to the provider as to the degree of gut inflammation. Patient Profile: An excellent first assessment for anyone with issues of the digestive system, skin, respiratory system, migraines, muscle or joint pain, low energy, mood swings, anxiety, poor sleep, or children with failure to thrive.

Environmental Allergy Testing is a skin prick, intradermal test for 40 airborne environmental allergens including weeds, grasses, trees, dust mites, mold spores and animal dander. Test also includes wheat, corn, egg, milk, yeast, soy and oat. Intradermal testing is more accurate and sensitive than most typical blood tests for IgE allergies to foods and inhalants. Test results allow for the personalized preparation of allergy drops (not shots!) containing the antigens you need, no matter where you travel. Administering small amounts of these antigens daily will train your immune system to accept the allergens instead of fighting them. Patient Profile: Individuals who suffer with sneezing, post-nasal drip, coughing, sore throat, snoring, headaches, poor sleep, dark circles under eyes, itchy eyes and nose, bloody nose, decreased sense of smell, decreased sense of hearing, eczema or other skin rashes or bumps, fatigue, and/or frequent upper respiratory infections.

Neurotransmitter Testing evaluates the levels of neurotransmitters that directly impact daily life function related to pleasure, reward, mood, alertness, calmness, learning, libido, appetite, energy, attention, aggression, and sense of wellbeing. Patient Profile: Individuals who struggle with anxiety/panic attacks, depression, negativity, easy agitation, low mood, fatigue, impulsive behaviors/addiction, sleep disturbances, hyperactivity, PMS or PMDD and/or poor concentration/focus.

Cognitive Health Assessment by Cambridge Brain Systems provides simple and powerful online brain health assessment solutions.  Patient Profile: Individuals who want to quantify cognition, track cognitive trends and want to educate themselves.

Metabolic Rate Analysis (aka Metacheck) allows you to quickly and accurately learn your resting metabolic rate.  Patient Profile:  Individuals wanting to know how their metabolism is truly working, i.e. how many calories are burned daily at rest, and with exercise.

Consult with your medical provider for suggestions and guidance regarding which test or tests may help to optimize your treatment plan and expand your knowledge about your health!

By |2025-03-27T13:56:16-06:00July 25th, 2018|General|

CBD (Cannabidiol) Oil

Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a hemp-derived phytocannabinoid found in agricultural hemp. It is being recognized for many promising, safe and beneficial effects on human and animal health in nearly every biological process and gaining recognition as a natural and safe way to address many health issues.

Despite common misconception, hemp and marijuana come from two different varieties of Cannabis sativa. Though the industrial hemp plant does contain low levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)¹, the psychedelic substance in marijuana, the levels are so significantly less that they would not cause any reaction in humans. Agricultural hemp is one of the most commercially important plants and is used to make textiles, soaps, oils, food products, paper and sustainable fuel. It is in this plant that Cannabidiol (CBD) is in high concentration and the oil can be properly extracted to be used for health benefits. It is a legal substance in Texas with no negative effects (be sure to check the laws in your state and note that this article is about hemp derived CBD and NOT marijuana derived CBD).

CBD Oil has been shown to have significant health benefits through promoting homeostasis, or balance, in the body. Benefits include:
• Reduction of inflammation and pain
• Reduction or prevention of nausea and vomiting
• Calming of the GI tract
• Reduces neural excitability, improving peripheral neuropathic pain
• Reduces anxiety
• Decreases seizure activity
• Can calm tremors
• Can elevate mood (you may find that you chuckle when you are at the right dose)
• Neuroprotective
• Anti-cancer
• Anti -Oxidant
• Promotes elimination of DNA-damaged cells
• Improves sleep

Some of our CBD vendors are Guardian Wellness, Green Roads, and CV Sciences. The extraction process utilized is solvent-free using nonchemical CO2, with state-of-the-art, EU-certified, ISO certified laboratory using a 7 step, full traceability from seed to shelf, with internal tests for pesticides, contaminants, heavy metals, and solvents as well as third party testing to ensure the highest quality hemp-derived CBD oil products.

How Does CBD Oil Work in Your Body, and How Can it Benefit You?

CBD is a type of cannabinoid, and our brains are already wired up to respond to them. There are special receptor sites to which cannabinoids bind in places like the brain, other organs and the immune system. When cannabinoids bind to these receptor sites, they have influence over some
part of the function or activity of what this site controls.

Research has shown that the way CBD interacts with these receptor sites can have beneficial influences. In addition, it seems that adding CBD to your everyday diet can have a positive impact on general health and well-being. There are many reasons to make CBD oil part of your diet, from its richness in omega-3 to its role as a natural source of amino acids.

¹THC, the compound found in marijuana and still illegal in many places, causes psychotropic and psychotoxic effects, specifically the euphoric high for which marijuana is known. Marijuana is specifically bred to have high levels of THC in the plant (and much less CBD) and there are negative implications and recognized correlations to its use with psychological disorders.

There is no evidence that the trace amounts, if any, of THC would show positive on a drug test, but there is a small theoretical risk (as with poppy seeds showing positive for morphine in urine), and therefore it would be prudent for you to discuss this with your employer. We can issue a letter stating that you have been prescribed CBD Oil as part of your medical treatment at The Woodlands Institute for Health & Wellness at your request.

Instructions for use:

The therapeutic dose varies widely and typically ranges from 3 to 300mg per day. You can start with a low dose (e.g. 2 to 3mg per day) and increase as needed, or start at a higher dose (e.g. 20mg) and adjust up or down from there. We feel that it’s best to start higher so as to get more a ‘loading dose’, and then wean to lowest effective dose.

If you feel sleepy during the day, reduce dose.
If you feel a dull nagging headache, reduce dose.
If you feel socially withdrawn, reduce dose.

We offer several doses, flavors, and methods of delivery. Some forms/doses are special order, and others we keep stocked at our facility.

• 0.5mg per squirt-peppermint and unflavored
• 1.5mg per squirt-peppermint and unflavored
• 12mg per dropperful-peppermint and unflavored
• 10mg capsules
• 15mgm capsules
• 25mg capsules
• Topical creams (150mg or 300mg per bottle)
• Tinctures (25mg/ml, 30mg/ml, 41.6mg/ml, 58.3mg/ml) in 30ml bottles
• Organic coffee with CBD and resveratrol
• CBD bath salts

There is no maximum dose found to be harmful.

 Some need to take CBD once daily, while others need 2 or 3 times daily. CBD simply requires trial and error to find your individualized dose that works for you.

If taking a liquid form, apply sublingually (i.e., under the tongue), and after 10 seconds, swish it around your mouth, using your tongue, to coat your entire mouth as best you can (cheeks, gums, roof of mouth) and keep there as long as you can. This will provide the best, quickest absorption and effect. You can also gargle the CBD because it absorbs well at the back of the tongue.

By |2021-01-20T11:51:51-06:00July 25th, 2018|Articles, General|

Lemon Poppy Coffee Cake

from The Plant Paradox Cookbook, by Steven R. Gundry, MD

 

Serves 8

Ingredients:

  • Butter or ghee
  • 1 ½ cups almond flour (or hazelnut flour)
  • ¼ cup coconut flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 3 pastured eggs
  • ½ cup Swerve (erythritol)
  • ¼ avocado oil
  • Juice of 3 lemons
  • Zest of 2 lemons
  • ¼ cup unsweetened full fat, canned coconut milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons poppy seeds

Directions:

  1. 1. Coat a 9 x 5 inch loaf pan lightly with butter or ghee and line with parchment paper. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
  2. 2. In a large bowl, whisk together the almond flour, coconut flour, salt and baking soda.
  3. 3. In a small bowl, combine the eggs, Swerve, avocado oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, coconut milk and vanilla extract.
  4. 4. Whisk the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until well combined.
  5. 5. Fold in the poppy seeds, then transfer dough to prepared loaf pan.
  6. 6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the middle of the loaf comes out clean.
  7. 7. Let cool for a few minutes before running a knife around the edge of the pan to help remove the loaf. Serve while still warm, or at room temperature.

 

By |2018-08-01T17:15:44-06:00July 25th, 2018|General, Recipes|

Individualized Nutrition

By Nancy Mehlert, MS

As you scour the internet or  bookstore for the next NEW diet, please keep in mind that there isn’t one perfect diet for everyone.  We are each biochemically unique. Our lifestyles and abilities are unique. The goal should be to find a way of eating that works for you, your lifestyle, and contributes to providing you with optimal weight and health.  Below is a list of the many factors that will impact your ideal food choices, how and when you eat, as well as the macronutrient (protein, fat, and carbohydrates) content that might be right for you.

  • Digestive styles – efficiency or inefficiency with carbohydrates or proteins.
  • Metabolic rates – resting metabolic rates vary greatly among individuals and should be tested with a reliable medical device (TWIHW uses Metacheck)
  • Food sensitivities and allergies (both food and environmental)
  • Activity Level – which may be too little or too much depending on these other factors
  • Weight status – over, under or normal
  • Medical history – surgeries such as gallbladder removal, stomach lap bands, partial colon removal, as well as diseases such as thyroid, cardiovascular, and autoimmune diseases, cancer and metabolic syndrome, all have a direct impact on dietary approach
  • Emotional and social issues around food
  • Nutritional deficiencies
  • Genetic mutations
  • Age and stage of life
  • Toxic burden on the body
  • Stress level and status of adrenal health
  • Composition of microbiome (i.e. the balance of microbes in GI tract)

 

The latest fad diet could be a mistake for you. Choosing a vegetarian diet may be perfect or it might be problematic. Or 130 pounds may be a realistic goal weight for you or a totally unhealthy one. We are all unique, so seek your personal nutrition lifestyle for optimal health. If you are interested in discussing your nutrition lifestyle and want to work toward finding a healthy diet to maintain optimal health, call our office to schedule a nutrition consultation today.

By |2018-07-27T13:12:16-06:00July 25th, 2018|General, NANCY’S NUTRITIONAL NUGGET|

“It was life changing!”

It was life changing!

“About five months ago, I made an appointment with Dr. McManus about some digestive problems I have been having for the last few years.  I thought it was just getting older and there was nothing I could do about it.  Dr. McManus told me about the yeast cleanse, so I thought I would give it a try, not expecting much.  After 10 days on the diet and eating healthier, I had amazing improvements to my digestive system and felt so much better.  It was life changing! I discovered I was sensitive to certain foods and once I eliminated them from my diet, I am so much better.  I don’t have all the cravings and extreme energy swings I used to have either.  I highly recommend this program. It has changed my life for the better!”  – Pat B

By |2018-08-21T14:35:57-06:00June 20th, 2018|General, Testimonials|

Recipe: Melon, Cucumber, Chili, Mint and Feta Salad

From The Ketogenic Kitchen, by Domini Kemp and Patricia Daly

Serves 6

1 Honeydew melon

1 large cucumber

2-3 fresh mint leave sprigs

Juice of 1 lemon

2 tablespoons of olive oil

Salt and pepper

½ teaspoon chili flakes

3.5 ounces goat feta cheese

 

  1. 1. Cut the melon into slices, de-seed and cut out flesh. A melon baller makes the appearance nice if you have one. Otherwise, cut the flesh into bite-sized pieces. Place in a large bowl.
  2. 2. Wash the cucumber and cut lengthwise into quarters. Then dice into bite-sized pieces and add to the bowl. English cucumbers partially peeled would be lovely.
  3. 3. Chop the mint and add to the bowl along with the lemon juice, olive oil and some salt and pepper.
  4. 4. Add the chili flakes and mix well. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
  5. 5. Add the goat feta, toss lightly and serve.

 

Net Carbs: 9.8g

Protein: 4.2 g

Fat 7.2 g

Calories: 125

By |2018-06-28T22:14:58-06:00June 20th, 2018|General, Recipes|

annmarie Sunscreen

Choosing a sunscreen can be difficult, especially since most have harmful and toxic chemicals or make promises for UV protection that may not be accurate. Two of the most harmful ingredients to watch for in sunscreens are oxybenzone, which is a known endocrine disrupter, and retinyl palmate, a form of vitamin A that can harm the skin and lead to skin tumors [1].  For this reason, we recommend:

Sun Love – Natural Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 20 (2 oz)

Formulated with 15% non-nano zinc oxide, this daily moisturizer protects the skin from UV damage, while providing a light, natural tint. This Broad-Spectrum SPF 20 cream infuses your skin with antioxidant-rich sea buckthorn seed, buriti fruit and sunflower seed oil to nourish and visibly enhance your glow.

 

[1]https://www.ewg.org/sunscreen/report/8-little-known-facts-about-sunscreens/#.WylBEiAnbIU

By |2018-06-27T15:34:22-06:00June 20th, 2018|Articles, General|

How to Hydrate Healthfully

  1. 1. Clean water has always been and remains the gold standard for hydration. For normal daily exercise and play in the sun, aim for 25-50% of body weight in ounces for adults and children.  For long periods in the heat, drink more and drink frequently.
  2. 2. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Rich in both water and electrolytes, they are optimal hydrators that prevent cramping and assist with recovery.  Examples of good hydrating choices for summer outdoor activities include celery, watermelon, cucumber, kiwi, citrus fruits, carrot, pineapple, iceberg lettuce, tomato, berries, broccoli and cauliflower.
  3. 3. Add Sea Salt to water, fruits and vegetables. Sea salt will help to balance potassium levels, alkalize the body and support hydration.
  4. 4. Avoid typical sports drinks such as Gatorade, Powerade and Propel, just to name a few. They are full of sugar, phosphoric acid, food dyes, and artificial sweeteners. If you feel you must use something more than the options listed above, then opt for cleaner, healthier choices such as NUUN Hydration Effervescent Electrolyte tablets, Hi-Lyte™ or Lyteline™ Electrolyte products. These choices are clean and appropriate for endurance sport activities. They are non-GMO, gluten free, and sugar free.  Follow the instructions provided on the products.
By |2018-06-28T22:14:07-06:00June 20th, 2018|General, NANCY’S NUTRITIONAL NUGGET|