Showing posts from October, 2024
Sleep is vital at all ages, but what is the amount of sleep for older individuals? Amount of Sleep For Older Individuals Individuals 65 and older are still recommended to get the same amount of sleep as younger adults. ( National Council on Aging, 2023 ) As the body ages, it still needs around 7–9 hours of sleep, but how an individual sleeps is what changes. Older individuals begin to sleep lighter, and their sleep is broken up, causing them to wake up more at night. This can be due to natural changes in the internal body clock, medications, health conditions like arthritis or sleep apnea, or a combination. Older adults often face sleep barriers that are less common in younger individuals, like disabilities and chronic illnesses, and nearly half of adults aged 75 and above have a disability. Aging also shifts the circadian rhythm, causing older individuals to fall asleep and wake up earlier. Melatonin begins to decline with age, starting in the 30s, which can affect body temperature
Individuals who have been injured or ill or have a chronic disability may be having difficulty performing everyday activities. Can recreation therapy help rehabilitate injuries and manage chronic conditions? Recreation Therapy Living with a chronic disability or functional limitation due to an illness or injury can significantly impact an individual's quality of life. Working with a team of rehabilitation professionals can help improve mobility and the ability to complete everyday tasks comfortably. A recreational therapist is one professional who helps regain emotional and functional well-being. A recreational therapist is a healthcare professional who helps individuals maximize physical and emotional health through recreational activities. Also known as therapeutic recreation, the therapist will use activities to help move and feel better. A physical or occupational therapist uses exercises to improve functional mobility, and a recreational therapist uses recreational activitie
Can healthy noodle alternatives and heart-healthy ingredients help make cholesterol-friendly pasta dishes for individuals trying to lower and manage cholesterol levels? Pasta and Cholesterol Pasta, like other refined carbohydrates such as white bread and rice, can increase cholesterol levels. Although pasta does not contain cholesterol, it is high in carbohydrates, which can increase the amount of calories and fat in one's diet and contribute to high cholesterol levels. Since some types of carbohydrates can affect cholesterol levels, the goal is to eat the right pasta and healthier sauces and sides. Even for those following a cholesterol-lowering diet, there's no reason you can't enjoy meals containing pasta occasionally. The Pasta and Cholesterol Link Pasta made from white flour is considered a refined carbohydrate because it is high in carbs and low in fiber. Research has shown that a diet high in refined carbohydrates is associated with increased levels of triglyceride
How are MRIs used to help diagnose bulging and herniated discs and help healthcare providers develop effective treatment programs for individuals experiencing back pain symptoms? Herniated Bulging Disc MRI A herniated bulging disc is often identified during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI); however, it's usually an incidental finding that was done for other reasons where spinal problems and/or injuries are found. A bulging disc is relatively common, even in individuals who experience no symptoms. A herniated or bulging disc in the back can be identified with an MRI test, typically recommended when someone experiences back pain symptoms for at least six weeks. ( American Academy of Neurological Surgeons, 2024 ) Normal wear and tear and age cause changes in the spinal disc/s cushion to bulge and become misaligned with the spine. ( Brinjikji W. et al., 2015 ) And with a herniated disc, it can press against the spinal cord and nerves. Repeated heavy lifting, practicing unhealthy post
How is eucalyptus tea made, and what are its health benefits? Eucalyptus Tea Eucalyptus tea is an herbal tea made from the leaves of the Australian eucalyptus tree. It is drunk as a hot tea and is commonly used to treat cold and flu symptoms. It can also be combined with other teas as a tonic. Researchers have been studying its benefits. Eucalyptus Tree There are different varieties of eucalyptus trees. The blue gum or Australian fever tree is a fast-growing tree that produces long grey-greenish leaves whose glands contain essential oil to prepare eucalyptus tea and oil. Eucalyptus tea is made from crushed leaves of the tree, not from the oil. The hot drink is sometimes called eucalyptus leaves tea to avoid confusion. The tea has a pale green color and a strong scent that can be described as woody or piney and clean or fresh. The smell is familiar to many because many lip balms and skin creams are made with eucalyptus. Making The Tea Eucalyptus or loose-leaf tea bags can be purchased
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Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, ATN*
email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com
phone: 915-850-0900
Licensed in: Texas & New Mexico*