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REPORT THE WELLNESS
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2025
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THE TOP MEDICAL INNOVATIONS OF 2024 Shaping the Future of Health Care
3. A Newfound Safety Net for Childhood Food Allergies Accidental exposure to allergens can be life-threatening for children. Dr. Sharon Chinthrajah’s research shows that omalizumab, an FDA-approved drug, can bind to allergy-causing antibodies and protect children from severe reactions. This innovation allows kids to safely ingest small amounts of allergens, reducing the fear surrounding accidental exposure. 4. Evidence That a Keto Diet May Improve Severe Mental Illness A Stanford pilot study led by Dr. Shebani Sethi demonstrated that a ketogenic diet improves the mental health of patients with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Beyond its physical benefits, the diet helps mitigate the metabolic side effects of antipsychotic medications. 5. Discovery of Lung Cells’ Role in Severe COVID-19 Stanford researchers discovered that a type of immune cell plays a significant role in severe COVID-19 cases. This finding, spearheaded by Drs. Catherine Blish and Mark Krasnow, paves the way for targeted therapies to prevent mild COVID-19 cases from escalating into life-threatening conditions. 6. Heart Pump Offers Hope for Children Awaiting Transplants Stanford researchers have developed a small, implantable ventricular assist device for children with heart failure. Led by Dr. Christopher Almond, the device allows children to lead relatively normal lives while waiting for a heart transplant, offering a lifeline to families in critical need.
On behalf of Dr. Copeland, Dr. Hanna, and myself, I wanted to wish each of you a happy New Year and continue the tradition of passing along the Top Medical Innovations of the past year, according to the Stanford University School of Medicine. Here, you can read more about the top advancements from 2024. I wish each and every one of you a very happy new year full of health, wellness, and prosperity!
–Dr. Jones
7. Gene Variants Predict Breast Cancer Outcomes
A study by Dr. Christina Curtis identified that inherited genetic sequences can predict the type and aggressiveness of breast cancer. This discovery revolutionizes cancer care by offering personalized treatment plans and improving monitoring for recurrence. 8. 6 Subtypes of Depression (and Improved Treatment) Identified Dr. Leanne Williams’ research utilized brain imaging and machine learning to classify depression and anxiety into six distinct subtypes. This advancement enables tailored treatments, potentially delivering faster and more effective relief for patients. Year of Transformative Discoveries These groundbreaking discoveries at Stanford Medicine in 2024 represent a significant step forward in our quest for better health care and improved patient outcomes. For the complete list and more information on the annual Top Medical Innovations list, including descriptions and in-depth information, visit Stanford Medicines Top Scientific Advancements of 2024 page at Med.Stanford.edu/news/ all-news/2024/12/top-scientific- advancements.html .
Here are the Top Medical Innovations from the past year, according to Stanford Medicine. 1. Revolutionary Treatment for Traumatic Brain Injuries A groundbreaking study has revealed that ibogaine, a compound from the African shrub iboga, shows promise in treating traumatic brain injuries among military veterans. When combined with magnesium to protect the heart, ibogaine effectively reduced symptoms of PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), depression, and anxiety. This innovation, led by Dr. Nolan Williams, offers hope to those who have endured long-term mental health challenges due to their service. 2. Breakthrough for Women With Autoimmune Diseases Why are women more susceptible to autoimmune diseases? Stanford researchers, led by Dr. Howard Chang, discovered that the process of silencing one X chromosome in women creates molecular structures that can trigger autoimmune responses. This discovery may allow for earlier prediction of these disorders and offer a transformative shift in health care for women.
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WHAT ARE ADAPTOGENS?
Nature’s Answer to Anxiety, Stress, and More
We’re always looking for new ways to offset our stress. Some people change their diets, hoping that eating healthier will improve their mental health, while others include exercise in their daily routines. No tried-and-true method works for everyone, but a recent trend taking our country by storm might be the secret to healthily reducing stress. All we need to do is take an herb, root, or other plant substance called an adaptogen to melt away any long-looming stress. While adaptogens have existed for centuries, they are only now becoming more mainstream in American culture. Studies regarding adaptogens are still underway, but experts theorize that
these unique plant substances directly interact with the body’s hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, which controls and manages individual stress responses. In order for an herb or plant substance to be considered an adaptogen, it must be nontoxic at regular doses, support the body’s ability to cope with stress, and help the body return to a stable state. Adaptogens are available at almost any pharmacy, each with a unique use. Ashwagandha is one of the most common adaptogens and helps reduce anxiety and depression. Ginseng helps combat fatigue and has other health benefits. Reishi is a type of mushroom adaptogen that can boost our immune system and even fight cancer. Schisandra, a fruit extract from the magnolia vine, helps with concentration, coordination, and endurance and may protect the liver and nervous system. While adaptogens sound like an ideal solution for stress management, consider a few things before you start taking them. Adaptogens can negatively interact with certain medications, so you should check with your primary care physician before starting them. Additionally, the Food and Drug Administration does not regulate many adaptogen supplements, so do your research to ensure you choose a reputable brand. After talking with your health care provider and finding the right adaptogen for your situation, you may discover the key to managing or reducing your stress.
CONTINUING TO KEEP YOU SAFE AND HEALTHY Enhanced Sterilization Protocols and Controls
Hand-sanitizing stations are located throughout the office.
Beverages will be served safely only upon request.
There will be additional time between patients for enhanced sterilization.
Curbside check-in from your vehicle is now available.
Please reschedule if you have a fever or a sick family member.
Medical-grade air filtration is used in all operatories.
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Get Proactive About Your Probiotics
Taking Charge of Your Gut Health Can Be Delicious!
If “health is wealth,” then maintaining optimal gut health is the road map to success! All too often, we think of gut health as keeping stomach issues at bay. While that belief has some truth, improving your gut health is crucial in regulating and supporting your body’s overall functions. So, how can you achieve optimal gut health? The answer is simple: probiotics. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria housed in your gut to help your body’s natural
Naturally fermented pickles and their juice are actually saturated with helpful probiotics, vitamins, and minerals your body needs.
Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt is the all-star of all gut-friendly foods simply because it can be used in many different ways. You can eat it plain, add fruit, or create salad dressings, sauces, and smoothies! The key is to check the label to ensure it says “Live and Active Cultures.” That means it likely contains Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus casei. Kimchi: This healthy, bacteria-driven food is the cornerstone of Korean cuisine, made with fermented cabbage and gochujang, a Korean chili paste. It also contains vegetables like daikon radish, ginger, and carrots. The fermentation process makes it a probiotic. Kimchi can be found in the refrigerated section of your grocery store and sometimes in the produce department. It’s never too late or too early to start getting proactive about probiotics. Incorporating these “easy on the gut” foods into your daily diet will change the makeup of the bacteria in your gut, which, in turn, will keep your body’s overall functioning in tip-top shape.
processes, and adding them to your daily diet can do wonders for your overall gut health. Of course, you can take various tablets, capsules, gummies, and even sodas now to get your daily dose. However, supplements in those forms can get pricey, especially when certain foods are naturally packed with the probiotics your body needs. Here are three delicious foods you can eat to get your daily dose of gut health. Pickles: Pickles aren’t only the perfect addition to your burger or salad!
SMILE-FRIENDLY RECIPES
BRAIN BREAK!
Ginger-Glazed Mahi Mahi
Inspired by AllRecipes.com
Ingredients
• 3 tbsp honey • 3 tbsp soy sauce • 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar • 2 tbsp olive oil • 2 tsp grated fresh ginger root
• 3 cloves garlic, minced • 4 (6-oz) mahi mahi fillets • Salt and pepper to taste • 2 tbsp vegetable oil • Cooked brown rice, for serving
Directions
1. In a shallow bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, ginger, and garlic. 2. Season fish fillets with salt and pepper, then place them skin-side down in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for 25 minutes. 3. Add vegetable oil to a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove fish fillets and add to skillet, reserving marinade. Fry fish for 4–5 minutes on each side, turning only once, until fish flakes easily with a fork. Remove fillets to a serving platter and keep warm. 4. Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet. Simmer over medium heat until reduced to a glaze. Spoon glaze over fish and serve over brown rice.
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The Top Medical Innovations of 2024 PAGE 1
Are Adaptogens the Secret to Better Stress Relief? PAGE 2
Tasty Alternatives to Probiotic Supplements Ginger-Glazed Mahi Mahi PAGE 3
Your Guide to Mardi Gras 2025 PAGE 4
THE CULTURAL ESSENCE OF MARDI GRAS Why Everyone Needs to Experience the Magic at Least Once
Much like Coachella or the NFL draft, Mardi Gras is one of the year’s most anticipated events. The vibrantly colored beads and masks represent more than just a celebration — they’re a cultural phenomenon that captures the essence and history of New Orleans.
If you want to celebrate spring with unparalleled revelry, extravagance, and tradition, pack your bags for Mardi Gras in New Orleans, Louisiana. It’s on Tuesday, March 4, this year, the day before Ash Wednesday on the Christian calendar. Find out why everyone should experience Mardi Gras in New Orleans at least once in their lives. Historical Foundations Mardi Gras is the French term for Fat Tuesday, with celebrations dating back to the 1700s and Renaissance Europe. The traditions of this celebrated holiday are deeply rooted in Italy and France but have evolved into a unique melting pot of Creole, African, and European influences. More than 50 countries around the world now celebrate the festival, including the largest Carnival celebration in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The Festivities of the Carnival Season Carnival commemorates the season before Lent, the 40-day period of abstinence
leading up to Easter. In a tradition that dates back to the late 1800s, those participating in the many Carnival parades, especially in the French Quarter, throw beads out into the crowds of revelers. Many masked parade participants, known as “krewes,” create spectacular floats and elaborate costumes to mimic the Venetian Carnival of ages past. The parades are held throughout the week before and on Fat Tuesday. The Traditions of Years Past During Mardi Gras, Fat Tuesday lives up to its name. The local cuisine is among the best in the world. Whether you are looking for traditional fare like gumbo and crawfish etouffee or local favorites like lobster pizza and king cakes, restaurants serve these options and more day and night. If you want to check out the cocktail scene, ask about the Hurricane . Pat O’Brian’s bar served this local libation during World War II (when whiskey was hard to find) and is still popular today!
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