TO YOUR HEALTH
Inflammation... ...continued from page 25
Identifying Inflammation Because inflammation can manifest in a number of ways, iden - tifying the root cause can be challenging. Testing for inflammation usually involves a blood test that checks for inflammation markers, like elevated levels of CRP (C-reactive protein) and ESR (Erythro- cyte sedimentation rate). However, one alternative method available to practitioners is Biomeridian testing. This type of health assessment is based on Traditional Chinese Medicine theory. The testing involves using Meridian energetics to measure the body’s energetic flow and imbalance. The Meridian system network is energy pathways that run through the body, each one associated with a particular organ or sys- tem like lungs, liver or lymphatic system. During a bioscan, acupuncture points are tested to measure en - ergetic flow or blockages. This information is then used to assess a patient’s overall health and identify any potential health concerns or imbalances that may be present. The results of this type of testing typ- ically include advice addressing nutritional deficiencies, lifestyle mod - ifications, herbal and acupuncture treatment. NAET and BioSET are two additional alternative techniques specif- ically used to desensitize the body from environment, food and chem - ical sensitivities. Each works by stimulating the body’s energy or Me - ridian channels that could become blocked when a patient is sensitive to a particular substance or irritant. By working to clear blockages, the result is the patient becomes less sensitive to wheat, gluten, dairy, pollen, and other allergens, thereby reducing or eliminating any of the associated inflammation that’s present. At the same time, support for intestinal mucosa and the immune system is provided. Depending on the patient and condition, supple - ments —like probiotics, l-glutamine, marshmallow root, slippery elm, aloe vera, vitamin D, zinc, GDL, folate, magnesium, colostrum, diges - tive enzymes, bile salts, berberine and more — can be used. In addi - tion, acupuncture is an incredible tool to help leaky gut syndrome and allergies, as well as the depression and anxiety that often accompanies these conditions — the so-called brain-gut connection. Understanding how inflammation can show itself in the body is the first step to confronting this unwelcome guest and showing it to the door so you can start healing. Helena Amos, M.Ac., L.Ac., is a licensed acupuncturist, European physician and Functional Medicine practitioner with 30+ years of clinical experience combining modern Functional Medicine with the ancient wisdom of Traditional Oriental Medi - cine. She is Founder/Owner of the Acupuncture and Natural Medicine Clinic in Rock - ville, MD, and is available for free 20-minute in-office and telehealth consultations. Visit rockvilleacupuncturemd.com.
tion of oxygen and nitrogen species that damage the tissue, leading to further inflammation. It’s a vicious cycle. Leaky gut syndrome is a condition that causes damage to the di- gestive system, particularly to the lining over the intestines, which normally keeps away toxins and other harmful substances. When the lining is compromised, it allows these toxins to pass into the blood- stream, which can lead to inflammation. Symptoms of leaky gut in - clude gas and bloating, changes in digestion, food sensitivities and more. There are certain foods that cause inflammation and should there - fore be avoided or kept to a minimum, especially if you experience a pattern of negative reactions after eating them. Some of these foods include: • Commercial red meat and processed meats - hot dogs, bacon, lunch meats with preservatives • Snack foods - chips, cookies, crackers, pastries with refined sugar • Refined grains - white bread, pasta, • Fried foods • Sodas and other sweetened drinks • Alcohol • Trans fats • Common cooking oils - polyunsaturated vegetable oils - & artificial food additives • Dairy for susceptible people To support good gut health and keep inflammation in check, these anti-inflammatory foods should be featured regularly in your daily diet: • Garlic • Olive oil • Green leafy vegetables - spinach, kale, bok choy • Broccoli, carrots • Nuts & seeds - walnuts, chia seeds, flax seeds • Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, tuna, and sardines • Fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, cherries, and oranges • Herbs like cinnamon, turmeric, and ginger
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26—PATHWAYS—Spring 23
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