The Healing Code

By Dr. Alex Loyd and Dr. Ben Johnson

The premise of the book is that all disease stems from physiologic stress. If you deal with psychological stress, you can be assured that your body is experiencing physiologic stress; however, even if you do not feel anxious or stressed, it’s still likely that your body is under physiologic stress.

So what does this all mean? Well, for starters, when you are under physiologic stress, your body is in survival mode (aka “fight or flight”). This involves activating your sympathetic nervous system which raises blood pressure, increases heart rate, stresses your adrenal glands, and overrides the parasympathetic nervous system which is responsible for digestion and for maintenance and repair of the body.

Instead of your body worrying about cancer cell over here, and virus over there, and digesting the food in your stomach, it’s worried about surviving the next few minutes. This means that people with chronic stress are bound to have digestive issues and are adversely affecting their body’s ability to heal itself.

The author of The Healing Code, Dr Alex Loyd, spent years trying to help his wife recover from depression. He even went back to school to get a PhD in Psychology to try to figure things out for her. One day, while flying home from a conference, he tells how this information appeared to him, and he knew how to help his wife when he returned home to her. He performed what he now calls the healing code with his wife and apparently she’s been great ever since. The co-author of the book, Ben Johnson, MD, DO, NMD, was diagnosed with ALS (a typically fatal auto-immune disease affecting the nervous system) and, knowing his fate, was seeking out alternatives when he came across the healing code. He began a diligent regimen of the healing code and reports that he cured his illness in 3 months.

In the book it’s explained how we accumulate memories, both good and bad, and that the bad memories can be constantly reactivated, even at a subconscious level, keeping you in a state of physiologic stress. Let’s say, for example, that you were in a terrible car accident 15 years ago with a red car. Ever since then, every time you see the color red, it may be causing you stress, whether you feel it (e.g. a random panic attack) or not (e.g. chronic high blood pressure or digestive issues without obvious cause).

The goal of this book is to teach you how to neutralize your body’s physiologic stress response with a simple 6 minute exercise done once daily which in turn would dampen the activity of the sympathetic nervous system, helping to lower blood pressure and heart rate, and allow the parasympathetic nervous system to take over again, thereby improving digestion and allowing the body to heal itself.

By Mila McManus MD|2013-04-30T06:59:12-05:00April 30th, 2013|Recommended Reading|

The Healing Code

The Healing Code: Address Your Stress

I first learned about a book called The Healing Code from a patient of mine and I think this is one of the most fascinating books I’ve read in a long time. This book gives hope.

The premise of the book is that all disease stems from physiologic stress. If you deal with psychological stress, you can be assured that your body is experiencing physiologic stress; however, even if you do not feel anxious or stressed, it’s still likely that your body is under physiologic stress.

So what does this all mean? Well, for starters, when you are under physiologic stress, your body is in survival mode (aka “fight or flight”). This involves activating your sympathetic nervous system which raises blood pressure, increases heart rate, stresses your adrenal glands, and overrides the parasympathetic nervous system which is responsible for digestion and for maintenance and repair of the body.

Instead of your body worrying about cancer cell over here, and virus over there, and digesting the food in your stomach, it’s worried about surviving the next few minutes. This means that people with chronic stress are bound to have digestive issues and are adversely affecting their body’s ability to heal itself.

The author of The Healing Code, Dr Alex Loyd, spent years trying to help his wife recover from depression. He even went back to school to get a PhD in Psychology to try to figure things out for her. One day, while flying home from a conference, he tells how this information appeared to him, and he knew how to help his wife when he returned home to her. He performed what he now calls the healing code with his wife and apparently she’s been great ever since. The co-author of the book, Ben Johnson, MD, DO, NMD, was diagnosed with ALS (a typically fatal auto-immune disease affecting the nervous system) and, knowing his fate, was seeking out alternatives when he came across the healing code. He began a diligent regimen of the healing code and reports that he cured his illness in 3 months.

In the book it’s explained how we accumulate memories, both good and bad, and that the bad memories can be constantly reactivated, even at a subconscious level, keeping you in a state of physiologic stress. Let’s say, for example, that you were in a terrible car accident 15 years ago with a red car. Ever since then, every time you see the color red, it may be causing you stress, whether you feel it (e.g. a random panic attack) or not (e.g. chronic high blood pressure or digestive issues without obvious cause).

The goal of this book is to teach you how to neutralize your body’s physiologic stress response with a simple 6 minute exercise done once daily which in turn would dampen the activity of the sympathetic nervous system, helping to lower blood pressure and heart rate, and allow the parasympathetic nervous system to take over again, thereby improving digestion and allowing the body to heal itself.

What have you got to lose? Maybe $15 for the book and the time to read it? I’ve already received positive feedback from others to whom I’ve recommended the book, such as lower blood pressure, less anxiety, resolving reflux, better sleep, etc. Whatever ails you, why not give it a try?

By Mila McManus MD|2014-06-30T14:34:40-05:00April 30th, 2013|Articles, General|

L-Theanine

Did you know?

Can improve mood, reduce stress and help focus
Non-sedating improved alpha wave activity, the brain activity present when you are alert
Role in helping reduce cholesterol
May improve the efficacy of cancer treatments
Rats fed a high Theanine diet showed a significantly lower body weight, blood
plasma fat and overall body fat accumulation
Reduces blood pressure
Accelerates metabolism of alcohol metabolites which helps protect the liver from alcohol effects

L-Theanine is a non-essential amino acid and has unique and almost amazing properties. L-Theanine can cross the blood brain barrier and hence has psychoactive properties and is found in the tea plant. Green tea is felt to have the greatest concentration of L-Theanine.

L-Theanine can improve mood, reduce stress and help focus and particularly when working with caffeine. Moreover, individuals taking Theanine also showed improved alpha wave activity, the activity present when you are alert but not stressed and for most people the most desirable awake state. Unlike many supplements where research is still in its infancy there is a large base of clinical trials done by the Japanese to indicate that Theanine is not only effective but also safe. Japan approved Theanine as a universally safe supplement as early as 1964 and permitted unrestricted amounts in all foods except those for infants.

While Theanine is widely touted as a mind relaxant, and for good reason, it also has some other very attractive properties. Theanine has been found to increase dopamine in humans. Dopamine is the naturally occurring chemical in the brain, which is released during pleasant activities such as eating, sex and for some…chocolate. Dopamine produces a sense of well being.

Additional research indicates even more L-Theanine benefits including that it plays a role in helping reduce cholesterol and that Theanine also may improve the efficacy of cancer treatments by decreasing the amount of cancer drug in healthy cells while focusing the drug on cancerous cells. The calming benefits of L-Theanine were also stressed in this study. Rats fed a high Theanine diet also showed a significantly lower body weight, blood plasma fat and overall body fat accumulation. There appear to be many L-Theanine benefits and not many negative L-Theanine side effects. However, as with any supplement there are some interactions with medications that might be significant to note. Theanine is known to reduce blood pressure and if taking Theanine supplements with blood pressure medication the potential exists to reduce blood pressure too far. Medically prescribed stimulants may interact with L-Theanine and reduce the effectiveness of the prescription. Although no case studies have been done specifically nor is there any indication it may prove harmful, it is worth noting when considering L-Theanine supplements.

The exact safe or “recommended dosage for an L-Theanine supplement is perhaps the most difficult to effectively guess. The scientific community has been unable to come up with any indication that there is an “unsafe” level of Theanine. As with any supplement, it is always best to check with a medical professional before using the supplement in the case of children, pregnant women or individuals with severe health issues. Frequently prescribed doses range from 50-200mg, 2 to 4 times daily. It is wisest to follow label directions and consult with your physician if unsure of the appropriate dosage.*

*The information above is not to be construed as medical advice. Consult with your health care provider. Information for this article obtained from ltheanine.net

By Mila McManus MD|2013-04-30T06:22:23-05:00April 30th, 2013|Articles, General|

Testimonial- I am a Healthier me, all because you educated and I listened.

I am a Healthier me, all because you educated and I listened.

I have been a patient of Dr. McManus for over two years now, and I have never felt better. I originally went to a Lunch and Learn as a skeptic, but decided to give it a try. The best money I ever spent. I have never felt better in my life, I have more energy and overall good health. My daughter next decided to travel from Austin to go through their program. Neither of us went for weight loss, but for health and nutrition primarily. After following their protocol, the end result was a healthier us and as a bonus weight loss! My daughter has also had the a similar story. My daughter has thyroid issues and is currently working with Dr. McManus on this as well. She now has a healthier family as a result because she has learned so much from them and from their nutritionist, Nancy. Two years later, they continue to be a phone call or email away. The initial cost may be high, but it is the best money you will ever spend. I can confidently state that I have spent far less on medical expenses in the past two years, that easily made up for the initial cost.

My real reason for writing is my most recent experience. My 4 year old granddaughter had a stomach virus several weeks ago that she has not been able to shake. She has visited the ER twice in the past four weeks, lost weight and has not been able to eat. I emailed Dr. McManus on a Friday, knowing they closed early that day and never expecting them to see her. They were amazing. They stayed late to allow time for them to travel from south of Houston to Spring, evening running to the store to purchase Pedialyte popsicles for my granddaughter. My daughter and I know they are good, but even this dedication overwhelmed us.

TWIHW, Dr. McManus and staff care about your health. If you listen to them, they will educate you. I remember Dr. McManus saying one time….. “You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make them drink it.” How true this statement is. The education will be provided. If you listen to them and follow, you will be the benefactor.

Thank you, Dr. McManus and staff, you have changed my life. I am a healthier me, all because you educated and I listened. My family, one by one, is joining the team…..

By Mila McManus MD|2013-04-29T17:41:06-05:00April 29th, 2013|Testimonials|

Eggocado Recipe

This eggocado recipe is great for those on a high protein diet. Serve for breakfast or any meal.

Ingredients:
– 1/2 avocado
– 1 egg
– Picante sauce, fresh herbs or uncured prosciutto

1/2 Avocado, remove seed, open egg into the hole in avocado, bake at 350 for 15-20 minutes until egg has reached desired doneness. Top with picante sauce, fresh herbs or chopped uncured prosciutto.

By Mila McManus MD|2014-07-31T11:56:30-05:00April 26th, 2013|General, Recipes|

Trans-fats linked to irritability and aggression

One of the most disheartening aspects of being about the business of nutrition today is that the majority of the food available in the market place today does not jive with my idea of real, whole food. There is a lot of fake food out there. I’m sure you have heard about trans fats for example. The majority of trans fatty acids in our food come from an industrial process that partially hydrogenates unsaturated fatty acids to stabilize the oil and prolong shelf life, thus starting with an all natural fat as it occurs in nature, and literally de-naturing it by changing the molecular structure. Real food becomes man-made, man-altered, fake food. Inside our human body, our cells really struggle to put unnatural, fake food to any good use! In fact damaged foods cause a multitude of problems.

To make the point, a recent study published online in March of 2012, reports “dietary trans fatty acid intake is associated with irritability and aggression in adults. The investigators found that greater dietary trans fatty acid intake was associated with greater aggression. Furthermore, dietary trans fatty acid intake was a more consistent predictor of aggression than the other aggression predictors evaluated. Even after adjusting the data to account for confounders such as sex, age and ethnicity, the correlation remained significant. The investigators concluded that this study provides the first evidence linking dietary trans fatty acids with behavioral irritability and aggression. “ (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22403632)

These trans fatty acids are also known to be artery clogging fat and the cause of much of our cardiovascular disease today. It is no surprise that heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and obesity ride the top of the charts for the reasons for death in America today. Trans fatty acids are found in margarine and shortening and in fried foods like French fries, fried chicken, donuts and most fast foods, and packaged baked goods. With the popularity and availability of these foods, is it any surprise that we also are finding more children and adults with behavioral issues? Healthy, undamaged, all natural fats, such as butter from grass fed cows, avocado, expeller pressed coconut oil, nuts and olives are good examples of undamaged, natural fats that contribute to good mental health and well being. Eat Well! Live Well!

By Mila McManus MD|2013-05-01T06:30:09-05:00April 26th, 2013|Articles, General, NANCY’S NUTRITIONAL NUGGET|

Depressed?

Depression comes in many forms and has many possible causes. Rather than band-aiding your depression with an anti-depressant medication, The Woodlands Institute aims to detect and correct the underlying causes of your depression. Causes may be anything from a simple nutritional deficiency or hormonal imbalance to a reaction to a food. We’ll help you understand common depression signs so that you may identify depression symptoms in yourself, a family member or a friend. Then, we can also help you determine the best depression treatment for you.

We invite you to read our online article “Depression Symptoms & Treatments” for details on how depressed feelings affect all types of people and can be easily addressed with the right attention. Talking to a trained professional about your depressed feelings or those of a loved one is critical to resolving these feelings. Whether you’re a teen struggling with depression, a new mom who may be challenged with postpartum depression or a father who just isn’t energized about the things he once was, The Woodlands Institute is here for you.

Test yourself for hormonal imbalances that may be causing or contributing to your depressed moods. One culprit of your depression could be low thyroid, which we can also help address.

Contact us and we will call you or call 281-298-6742 now for a free consultation with one of our wellness consultants.

By Mila McManus MD|2018-05-09T14:47:52-05:00April 1st, 2013|Articles|

Thyroid Symptoms

Wondering if there’s a problem with your thyroid?
If you feel that you have thyroid problems, but your labs are always normal, you are not alone. There are many factors that contribute to low thyroid function. It’s not a simple matter of whether your thyroid labs are in range or out of range. The range that is acceptable and right for one individual could be quite different for another. For instance, we know that a person showing within the “normal range” for thyroid may be on the lower end of that “normal range”. By helping this person with small adjustments to their thyroid, we often see thyroid symptoms disappear.

Natural Response to Thyroid Symptoms
At The Woodlands Institute, our goal is to correct the underlying causes of your low thyroid function, which are usually a combination of nutritional deficiencies, food allergies/sensitivities, yeast overgrowth (dysbiosis), other hormonal imbalances or deficiencies, and toxins. We treat our patients, not their lab results.

Whether you’re struggling with hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism or another related issue, we’re here to help you identify the real problem and get to solutions that make you feel better. Patients are often amazed how some simple tweaks to their nutrition impacts their thyroid and metabolism. Clients feel better overall.

Online Test for Thyroid Problems
Test yourself using our online questionnaire that guides you through typical symptoms and helps you identify whether or not there are concerns to address. Then we encourage you to contact us and we will call you or call 281-298-6742 for a free consultation.

We also encourage you to watch a short video on thyroid fatigue.

By Mila McManus MD|2014-06-27T10:55:23-05:00March 28th, 2013|Articles|

Spring Shape Up Strategies

As spring arrives and the shortest, darkest days give way to longer, sunny days, it gets easier to get outside, increase activity and enjoy the sunshine. Below you will find many reminders and tidbits of information to help you put your Spring Shape-Up Strategy into action:

Try Intermittent Fasting to break a stall in weight loss or as a healthy lifestyle change. Intermittent Fasting can be approached in a number of schedules but an easy pattern is to restrict normal daily eating to an 8 hour window of time you are awake. For example, if you wake in the morning at 6, you would choose to eat meals and snacks only between 6 a.m. and 2 p.m. or 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. Research has shown that this simple lifestyle change can promote weight loss, normalize insulin and leptin sensitivity, reduce triglyceride levels, and reduce inflammation and free radical damage. [1]

While you cannot exercise your way out of a bad diet, exercise can help to lift your spirits and energy levels, which often helps us to be smarter about our food choices. Muscle (created best through weight bearing exercises versus aerobic exercises) helps to increase metabolism and takes up less space than fat, which makes you look thinner.

There are many things in food that interfere with burning fat and losing weight, not to mention overall good health. We recommend avoidance of artificial sweeteners, gluten, sugar, soy, and food additives such as MSG, nitrates, nitrites and hydrogenated or trans fats. Stick to real, whole food and restrict or eliminate grains.

Be intentional and plan your splurges. For example, if you know you are attending an event on Wednesday evening, make Tuesday, Wednesday day and Thursday times of healthy choices, plenty of hydration and exercise. Putting these days of healing and health before and after your evening of splurging helps you to minimize the damage and stay focused on what is important.

Healthy fats are essential to losing weight, being satiated and overall good health. Be sure every meal includes a source of naturally occurring, undamaged fat such as raw or expeller pressed coconut oil or coconut, cold pressed extra virgin olive oil, avocado, grass-fed butter, raw nuts and seeds, olives or free range eggs.

[1] Http://fitness.mercola.com/sites/fitness/archive/2013/01/18/inter…8_DNL_art_1&utm_source=dnl&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=20130118

By Mila McManus MD|2013-03-27T09:44:49-05:00March 27th, 2013|NANCY’S NUTRITIONAL NUGGET|

Cabbage Soup Recipe

Cabbage is a great source of vitamins and fiber. This cabbage soup recipe offers a twist on traditionally prepared cabbage while keeping it healthy.

Ingredients:

6 large green onions
2 green peppers
1 to 2 cans diced or crushed tomato
1 bunch of celery
1 head of cabbage
1 cup diced carrot
1 cup diced green beans
Water, Vegetable Broth, Chicken Broth, Beef Broth or V-8 Juice
Salt, Pepper, Parsley, Italian Seasonings to taste

Combine all ingredients in a stockpot, cover with liquid combination of choice and bring to a boil. Boil for 10 minutes, reduce to simmer and continue cooking until vegetables are tender (approximately 30 min). Keep refrigerated for up to 7 days or freeze.

By Mila McManus MD|2014-07-31T12:01:02-05:00March 27th, 2013|Recipes|

About Mila McManus MD

The Healing Code: Address Your Stress

Did you know?