TO YOUR HEALTH
Are You Interested in an M.D. Who Treats The Person, Not The Disease?
Hypertension... ...continued from page 31 Hypertension Through A Functional Medicine Lens: Symptoms and Treatment When considering the causative factors of essential (primary) hy- pertension, using a functional medicine perspective offers a more comprehensive, holistic view. From lifestyle habits to hormone and gut imbalances to toxins, here are some of the key factors that may contribute to the development of essential hypertension. Lifestyle Factors A poor diet and lack of exercise are two of the biggest reasons con- tributing to high blood pressure. This can include an excessive intake of sodium, saturated fats, processed foods and alcohol, as well as a lack of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. The lack of regular phys- ical activity, or having a sedentary lifestyle, compounds the problem, as does chronic or poorly managed stress. Tobacco use and exposure to secondhand smoke also negatively impact blood pressure. Hormonal Imbalances It’s no surprise that imbalances within the complexity of our hor - monal system impact blood pressure. Insulin resistance, or impaired insulin sensitivity, and obesity can lead to hypertension. Chronic stress and elevated cortisol levels are potential contributing factors. And both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can affect blood pres - sure regulation. Nutritional Deficiencies Insufficient or unbalanced amounts of key vitamins and minerals can contribute to hypertension. Among these include magnesium, Vi- tamin D, and anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids. Gut Health Imbalances Imbalances in the gut microbiome, known clinically as dysbiosis, can lead to inflammation and metabolic disturbances. Leaky gut, or intestinal permeability, can also contribute to systemic inflammation and hypertension. Nature and Nurture - Genetic and Environmental Causes There is a genetic predisposition to hypertension; certain genet- ic variants and family history can increase the risk of developing es- sential hypertension. Although genetics are not in your control, your environment is. Be mindful that exposure to heavy metals, air pollu - tion, and other environmental toxins can disrupt the body’s regulatory mechanisms and lead to hypertension. Inflammation Inflammation, from various sources, is a key mechanism that can contribute to the development and progression of hypertension. The relationship between the two is multifaceted. Chronic inflammation leads to the release of various inflammatory mediators, such as cy - tokines and chemokines. These inflammatory molecules can directly impact the function of the cardiovascular system, including the blood vessels and the heart. Chronic inflammation is associated with increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative stress. Oxidative stress can damage the endothelium, which is the thin lining of the blood vessels, thereby promoting vascular inflammation and impairing the body’s ability to regulate blood pressure. Furthermore, inflammation can increase the activity of the sym -
Introducing Holistic Physician Margaret Gennaro, MD, FAAP, NMD, ABIHM Member: American Academy of Pediatrics American Board of Integrative Holistic Medicine American Holistic Medical Association Holistic Pediatric Association
Dr. Gennaro is a double board-certified physician with over 30 years of experience who is committed to providing both adults and children personalized, holistic care for those who wish to participate in their own health care. Dr. Gennaro combines cutting-edge medical expertise with warmth and compassion. She utilizes the following modalities to allow the body to naturally heal itself: ✽ herbs ✽ nutrients ✽ acupressure ✽ spiritual growth ✽ homeopathic detox ✽ mind-body techniques [Emotional Freedom Technique, Tapas Acupressure Technique, and The Emotion Code]
Dr. Gennaro is experienced in:
◆ Fatigue ◆ Depression ◆ Phobias
◆ Asthma/Chronic Allergies ◆ Yeast Overgrowth ◆ Natural HRT ◆ Irritable Bowel Syndrome ◆ Autism/Learning Disabilities ◆ Thyroid/Adrenal Dysfunction
◆ Fibromyalgia ◆ ADD/ADHD ◆ Ear/Sinus Infections
Supplements shipped or picked up from our Hallway Bin!
Mosby Tower 10560 Main Street, Suite 301 Fairfax, VA 22030 703-865-5692 • www.DrMGennaro.com E-mail: DrMGennaro@yahoo.com Telehealth Consults Are Available! Call to make an appointment today!
32—PATHWAYS—Fall 24
Made with FlippingBook Digital Proposal Creator