Whats going on in your gut?

The digestive system is more complex than most people realize. Most people know that the food they eat goes in their mouth and out the other end, but few people really understand what happens in between. It is a subject that people do not like to discuss, but digestion is something that everyone should understand and pay attention to.

Food should stay in your body for about 12-18 hours. If it moves through faster than that, proper digestion and nutrient absorption is not taking place. If it is slower than that, proper digestion and elimination are not happening, and this can cause a build up of toxins in the colon and the body.

This process can cause a myriad of symptoms such as;

• Chronic Allergies




• Jaundice




• Acid Reflux




• Indigestion




• Kidney Disease
  



• Candida Overgrowth




• Acne




• Psoriasis and Eczema




• Headaches




• Joint Pain




• Depression




• Fibromyalgia




• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome




• IBS




• Diarrhea




• Constipation




• Leaky Gut Syndrome

• Immune System Dysfunction; ie autoimmune disorders and/or antibody dysfunctions




• and more

If you would like to know how long it takes your body to digest and eliminate waste, you can do a simple test. Eat something that doesn't digest all the way, like corn, and see how long it takes to show up on the other end. You might be surprised.

Food, which is meant to nourish the body, should be chewed into tiny particles and swallowed. The chewing process activates the salivary glands in the mouth and hydrochloric acid production in the stomach. Digestion begins with the chewing process by releasing the enzyme amylase, which acts directly on carbohydrates. This is why infants, who are learning to eat solid, food must have it gound into tiny particles. Infants do have plenty of saliva, but do not have the ability to chew their food into digestable sized pieces. Breaking the food into small particles releases the foods natural enzymes which aid in digestion. Children and adults should pay special attention to chewing their food into similar tiny particles so that digestion begins immediately upon consumption.

As food is swallowed, it proceeds down the esophagus to the stomach, where the second step in digestion takes place. The stomach, which normally produces hydrochloric acid, churns the partially digested food to help break it down further. The enzymatic break down of proteins begins in the stomach with hydrochloric acid. Without the proper amount of hydrochloric acid proteins are not broken down completely and can pass on into the small intestines. This can cause gas, bloating and other digestive upsets. If the process of digestion is hindered the hydrochloric acid can be forced back up and into the esophagus and cause acid reflux. As the broken down food empties into the small intestine both liver (bile) and pancreatic enzymes need to be adequate to buffer the acidity of the stomach contents.

If food particles enter the small intestine that are not broken down properly, the final stage of digestion is compromised. The small intestine utilizes additional enzymes from the liver and pancreas along with bacteria that lives in the gut to complete the digestive process. Fat digestion begins in the small intestine by using bile and bile salts from the gallbladder and liver. If the liver or gallbladder is not functioning properly, digestive upset can occur due to the inability to break down and absorb fats. The surface area of the small intestine, when stretched out has the surface area of about the size of a football field, however the small intestine itself is only about 22 inches long. This is made possible by the tiny villi that line the wall of the small intestine, which resemble fingers. These villi absorb the particles of digested food that have been broken down into small enough pieces for use. If the food particles are still too large, or not broken down properly, they are passed on as waste.

The large intestine is used for storage of fecal matter and the re-absorption of water. If the body is not properly cleaning itself out, or if waste matter is sticking to the sides of the colon, the water that should be recycled is either not able to be absorbed, or is absorbed and full of toxins. This water is of course filtered through the liver to clean it. This detoxification process can put unnecessary stress on the liver and kidneys. To keep the colon clean it's very important to have the proper amount of non-soluble fiber going through it every day to help clean the walls, and absorb undigested fats and sugars too.

Friendly bacteria are a necessary component of the digestion process. Most people live a lifestyle which is not "friendly" to friendly bacteria. Something else to keep in mind is, if there is no room at the inn... then taking a supplement with friendly bacteria may be of little help. When opportunistic bacteria, which are fed by processed foods, drugs and other lifestyle choices, take up too much space in the gut, it leaves little room for friendly bacteria. Likewise, friendly bacteria can also push out the non-friendly types if done properly. Bacteria is a necessary part of the digestive system, and often antibiotics, steroids, sugar and other things kill off the beneficial bacteria and feed the non-beneficial bacteria, by allowing yeast to flourish.

The immune system begins in the gut with proper digestion, detoxification and elimination. In order to have a healthy body, a healthy gut is very important.

So you ask... how do I have a healthy gut?

Avoid these things:

• Antacids and proton pump inhibitors - acid killers

• Antibiotics (unless absolutely necessary)

• NSAIDS - non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs




• Steroids - including birth control pills




• White sugar




• Processed foods




• Carbonated beverages




• Antihistamines




• Coffee




• Chlorinated and flouridated water

• Meat which has been given antibiotics

Do these things:

• Completely chew every bite of food until it's liquid - looks like baby food




• Eat fresh vegetables and fruits - as raw as possible




• Eat fiber - from high fiber vegetables or as a supplement (psyllium husk is best)




• Take probiotics - daily, you should flood your system at first to build up good bacteria




• Walk regularly - 210 minutes a week or more to help the intestines move




• Drink lots of clean water - avoid chlorinated and flouridated water




• Take digestive enzymes if needed




• Have your indican level tested - an indican test is a simple urine test to determine the level of bowel toxicity

For an indican test please call our office. If you wish to take probiotics we do recommend that you do a one week intensive booster for friendly bacteria. We also have a great psyllium husk fiber supplement. Please call our office for more information.

What is a DABCI?

DABCI is an acronym for Diplomate of the American Board of Chiropractic Internists. A chiropractic internist is a doctor who uses specific diagnostic skills to diagnose and treat a wide variety of internal disorders. These doctors are the "cream of the crop" when it comes to diagnosing chronic illnesses and in many instances can help people who have been told "there is no more we can do." They are also very educated in disease prevention and achieving and maintaining optimal health!

DABCI diplomate doctors have completed an additional 300 hours of classroom instruction on the inner workings of the human body and the processes that keep it functioning at its optimal level. Often these criteria are overlooked or ignored by standardized medicine. There is nothing "cookie cutter" about a DABCI doctor's practice. These specially skilled doctors look at each patient as an individual, their patient history, blood work, level of health, overall appearance and attitude, are all taken into account before a diagnosis can be made.

DABCI practitioners are skilled at getting to the core of the problem and treating the cause of the symptoms. They do not treat symptoms, they treat the disease process. Many illnesses that modern medicine has no cure for can be treated by DABCI doctors with much success. Illnesses such as fibromyalgia, chron's disease, IBS, migraine headaches, lyme disease, heart disease and diabetes can be greatly improved and often completely resolved with natural therapies offered by these doctors.

Many times, DABCI practitioners, through specialized diagnostic testing and skills, can pinpoint health problems before symptoms become evident and prevent illness from occurring. These specialized tests are not new, nor are they only used by the DABCI doctor, but in the hands of a DABCI practitioner these tests are indispensable tools for detecting future health concerns. The tests themselves are the same tests that are run at many clinics and hospitals. It's how the tests are interpreted and understood which makes the difference.


DABCI doctors understand that occasionally a person does need critical or crisis care, and must be sent to the hospital for emergency intervention, but in many cases these crises can be prevented by taking charge of health before the situation becomes critical. It's this skill that DABCI doctors hold dear; the ability to help people overt serious health problems with lifestyle changes and proper nutrition.


Changing habits and balancing nutrition is an effort that takes time and requires the patients participation and commitment. Many conditions can be eliminated rather quickly with minor changes to eating habits and nutritional supplementation, but some conditions require a more complex approach and complete health may take a little longer to achieve. Having a healthy body without the intervention of drugs is something that many people wish to accomplish. DABCI doctors are very well educated on how to prevent disease, as well as, how to treat it with natural therapies and nutrition. If you wish to learn how to help yourself and your family live longer, more active and healthy lives call your DABCI practitioner today. For a list of practicing DABCI doctors in the US you can go to our website www.drkessinger.com/dabci_locator.html. Doctors are listed by state and can be found through their local phone directory.

Why do we cough, sneeze and experience other symptoms?

Did you know that coughing, sneezing, runny nose and eyes, diarrhea and fever are natural responses to bacteria, viruses and allergens? Your body knows to do these things to rid itself of invading organisms. Of course, many of us find these symptoms bothersome and difficult to deal with. Before you reach for that bottle of fever reducer or cold medicine, you should think about how your body functions.


The symptoms that your body exhibits when you have a cold or flu are actually an immune response. Your body coughs to clear out the lungs, sneezes & sniffles to rid the sinus passages of dirt and germs, watery eyes cleanse the soft tissue of the eye, fever is to make the body less habitable for organisms, and diarrhea is to rid the intestines of unwanted organisms.


When you look at it this way, it makes less sense to run right to the medicine cabinet and reach for an over the counter relief product, doesn't it? Your body has an innate ability to heal itself, when it is provided with proper nutrition and rest. Why would you want to stop your body from doing what it does best? Taking medicines to reduce the normal symptoms of a cold or flu can actually prolong the duration of an illness, because the body can not expel the invading organisms like it needs to. Of course, we all have responsibilities and things to do, but if we take the time to rest and allow our body to heal itself we would be healthy, and back on course much sooner.


Natural Solutions


Prevention is key, but even the most healthy person gets a bug occasionally. Maintaining a strong immune system is vital to avoiding the seasonal viruses that seem to run rampant through schools and work places. Below are some great ways to help boost your body's natural response and immunity.


Vitamin A - Vitamin A is often overlooked, but its role in immune health is not to be undersold. Vitamin A is depleted when the immune system is in high gear and fighting off bugs. Replacing this vitamin is very important for children and adults alike. Supplementation is available, and eating foods such as; carrots, spinach, apricots, cantalope, sweet potatoes, dark leafy greens, and other orange colored vegetables can increase your vitamin A levels over time. It is important to make sure your diet contains these foods regularly.


Vitamin C - This vitamin can not be made by the human body. It is very important to cell growth, immune health, cancer prevention and other body functions. Eating citrus fruits frequently and taking a good vitamin C supplement is necessary for a healthy immune system.


Vitamin D - This nutrient is key in immune health and almost all Americans are low on vitamin D. This vitamin is not taken in by eating foods, it is metabolized by the body when exposed to the sun. Even in the summer time we do not absorb enough of the suns rays to metabolize adequate levels of this important vitamin. Before you take a D supplement you should have your levels checked, and your physician should monitor your levels to ensure they are in optimal range. Vitamin D not only helps fight depression, autoimmune disease and fibromyalgia, it is known to reduce the risks of certain kinds of cancer, too.


Vitamin E - An antioxidant, helps the body reduce free radicals and is an essential nutrient for immune health. It is known to prevent certain types of cancer, heart disease, eye disorders and mental disorders.


In addition to the nutrients listed above there are many other nutrients that are required for a healthy body. Some of these include, zinc, iron, iodine and essential fatty acids. If you are concerned about managing a healthy immune system, feel free to stop in and talk to our staff about what you can do to increase your odds of staying healthy.


Reducing Allergic Reactions


For those of us that have seasonal allergies, immune health is very important. Allergies are a sign that the immune system is not opperating at its optimum level. Along with supporting the immune system allergy sufferers must take an active role in preparing their bodies to deal with the symptoms of allergies.


Symtom prevention - We use a product in our office which contains Quercitin, a powerful flavonoid, which helps to stabilize mast cells. Mast cells are the cells responsible for releasing histamine and other symptom producing chemicals into your blood stream. Quercitin strengthens mast cells and helps to prevent histamine release. (Histamine is what causes those annoying sinus and respiratory symptoms.) This product also has vitamin C, and Stinging Nettles Leaf, which is great to help support sinus passageway health. Bromelain is also used as an anti-inflammatory and it helps the body to absorb quercitin, along with supporting normal mucosal tissue. This great allergy fighting combination would not be complete without N-Acetyl L Cyeteine, which is also great for reducing the viscosity of mucous. We use this product for anyone who is suffering from an allergy or who wishes to prevent symptoms in the future.


Homeopathic remedies are also helpful with symptom prevention. Homeopathic tinctures which help the body build its response to specific allergens have been used for hundreds of years. There are options for broad spectrum products or to target specific allergens like cat dander or ragweed. These products can help your body become desensitized to a specific allergen so that your response is lessened over time.


Exercise is also important. In order for your immune system to operate at its optimum level, you must get regular exercise. Exercise promotes blood flow to all parts of your body, and by doing this it helps the body carry the important nutrients that all cells need to their destinations, along with carrying away things it no longer needs. Oxygen, which is increased by exercise, is vital to every cell in your body, and exercise is the best way to get it to those cells.


I hope you feel more educated about those annoying symptoms that happen when your body senses an invader. I also hope that you will think twice before you pop a pill for those symptoms in the future. Occasionally, we must do something to reduce the symptoms of a virus or allergy, but remember that by doing so we are hampering our bodies natural ability to handle things its own way.

Do your Feet Make Your Back or Knees Hurt? Orthotics May Help!

The body is an amazing machine, designed so that all of its parts work together to achieve movement, digestion, thought processes and basic life as we know it. When one part of the body is not functioning at its optimal level the repercussions are felt in other locations. For example if you have one knee that is weak, the hip, back, other knee and leg take on the responsibility of making up for that weakness. Many times you do not feel these changes immediately because your body is made to keep functioning, even if it has to change the way it does things. Walking differently, or putting more weight on one leg constantly can cause posture changes, which can affect your entire spine and even cause headaches. Odd isn't it, that your knee could cause you to have a headache? This is because our bodies need balance to work properly.

Changes or modifications in the way we move, or balance ourselves, is meant to be a temporary shift to allow the other body parts to heal. When healing doesn't or can't happen due to injury or surgery, these permanent changes can cause an imbalance in your musculoskeletal system. This change typically results in chronic pain, and often the pain is not in the spot where you would expect it to be. Of course a chiropractic adjustment and treatment can relieve the pain and put the body back into alignment, but if the cause of the misalignment is foot imbalance then the problem will surely return. People who use orthotics often find that chronic pain in their knees, back or neck disappears.

Our feet are our base, our foundation, the stability resource for our entire musculoskeletal system. If our feet are not functioning properly our body compensates for this imbalance, but our knees, lower back, spine and neck will surely suffer from being out of alignment. Improperly balanced arches and other foot problems can be caused by injuries to the foot or leg, or from years of walking on hard surfaces with little or no support.

In order to find out if your feet are working as they should, you can have your feet scanned by Lucy in our office. Our foot scan program provides a free scan to anyone who wishes to find out what the condition of their feet is. It takes about 20 minutes and you get a picture like the ones below of your own feet. It shows what a foot with normal arches looks like and compares it to your feet.

What is the solution to the foot concerns shown above ??? It's a simple thing. Orthotics, balance the foot and change the way your weight is distributed onto your feet. This in turn makes you stand up straighter, walk taller and remove the strain on your muscles, tendons and bone structures.

Our office uses Footlevelers products. You can view their website for more information if you like at http://www.footlevelers.com/index.php .

Orthotics are a cost effective way to help manage many different chronic conditions caused by fallen arches or misaligned feet.

To schedule a foot scan please stop by our office or call Lucy to make an appointment. She can walk you through the process and explain how your feet affect your performance on a daily basis. The foot report is yours to keep and it comes with a photo of the scan of your feet.