How to Prevent, Control or Eliminate Type II Diabetes & Metabolic Syndrome

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Here are some FACTS regarding Diabetes:

1 in 13 have Diabetes, 1 in 4 don’t know it yet, and 1 in 5 are at risk of getting Diabetes.

Diabetes DOUBLES the risk of stroke and heart attack.

Diabetes is the #1 cause of blindness in adults.

Complications of Diabetes kills more people than breast cancer and AIDS combined.

Unfortunately, Type II Diabetes is becoming an epidemic with 1 out of 3 children born today expected to become diabetic at one point in their life.

All forms of Diabetes are caused by the fact that the sugar in the blood fails to make it into the cell. When sugar builds up in the blood, you get high blood sugar or Diabetes. If you are overweight, have high cholesterol, and high blood pressure without elevated blood sugar, you have: metabolic syndrome. If it is not addressed, it will eventually lead to Diabetes.

Causes & Cures:

Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, has the role of opening up the cells to allow the sugar in the blood to pass through.  If the sugar cannot get into the cell you get high blood sugar or Diabetes.

There are two basic reasons sugar does not get into the cell: 1. Lack of insulin, a hormone made by the pancreas, which acts like the key to unlock the cell door so the sugar can go through. 2. Failure for the cell to accept the insulin and then open to let the sugar in.

Insulin will not work to open the cell wall if the cell develops what is called “insulin resistance.”

Despite a normal amount of insulin being made, you still get Type II Diabetes because your cells fail to respond to the insulin in your blood. Since Type II Diabetes and Metabolic Syndrome are not genetic but have to do with lifestyle: You can prevent, control and eliminate them. By Lifestyle we mean: what you eat, if you exercise and how you care for your body.

The reason your cells would resist insulin lies in the fact that (if you are similar to the average American) you consume 120 lbs. of sugar each year! To handle the large amounts of sugar being consumed, the pancreas starts to release insulin in greater quantities. Over time 2 things can happen:  First, the cells begin to expect a large amount of insulin to be released with the sugar we eat. Then, when the normal amount of insulin is released, it will no longer work. The cells will only respond to a more than normal amount.

At the same time the pancreas itself can become exhausted from overwork and start producing less insulin which also results in Diabetes.

To help eliminate high blood sugar or any other health problems you are having – you need to look at what might be causing these illnesses. The first thing that leads to this problem is: too much sugar. You need to remove the junk food and sugar products from your diet if you wish to be healthy. Secondly, you need to stabilize your blood sugar by eating 4 to 5 small meals per day, rather than one or two large meals with lots of snacks.

According to researchers at Wake Forest University School of Medicine, and published in the August 2009 issue of Journal of American Dietetic Association:  93%  of diabetics just eat too much food or eat food that is lacking in nutrition, and don’t eat recommended amounts of nutrient-dense foods, such as fruits and vegetables.

We offer a supplement which include certain necessary nutrients that can be taken daily to help you with blood sugar problems related to diabetes, metabolic syndrome or even hypoglycemia. 

Another contributing factor  to Type II Diabetes is being overweight.  A dramatically effective approach to weight loss is called Nutritional Detox Cleansing.  Our detox program includes: specific herbs to cleanse the liver, trace mineral to restore normal function & maintain your energy and help you rebuild your cells. 

Another important factor is the role of Blood Circulation, not only in Diabetes, but in regards to your general health. Blood flow stagnation and blockages often result in not only headaches, neck and back pain, numbness, sciatica and digestive disorders, but it can also aggravate numerous unrelated health problems.  The number one reason people don’t exercise is pain associated with past traumas. A lack of exercise adds to weight issues, as well as heart disease and cancer.  Undetected blockages in the proper flow of blood resulting from trauma not only affects weight gain/loss but also your general health.

In our clinic, we've been able to help people with Diabetic Neuropathy and other nerve related problems by not only providing the essential nutrients the cells need, but also by improving blood circulation to these nerves. Having a proper blood flow to your organs and tissues controls every function of your body. Diabetes is considered to be a Functional Disease – a disease related to a lack of function. Acupuncture is based on the fact that blood is vital to the health of your organs, tissues and glands. Without proper blood flow, you cannot get the vital nutrients to the cells to cleanse the body of stagnant blood. Since proper blood circulation controls all the organs, tissues and glands, including the pancreas – their reduced circulation causes symptoms and diseases such as Diabetes. We can provide you with a safe, natural drug-free solution for your health concerns.

To Schedule a FREE Consultation,   Please Call 321.259.0555

402 N.  Babcock St. Suite 101, Melbourne, FL 32935

www.healthforlifeisgood.com

Get a Great Night's Sleep Naturally!

You settle into a warm, comfortable bed, close your eyes and nothing happens, you just can't fall asleep.  Hours go by and you're still awake.  The next day you feel tired, grouchy, and are unable to focus.  Does this sound familiar?


Sleepless nights happen to almost everyone at some time, but ongoing insomnia can indicate a deep issue and could lead to further health concerns.  Unfortunately, a common approach to treating insomnia includes prescription sleeping medications, which can cause side effects or even dependence. That's one of the many reasons to consider an all natural approach to treating your sleep problems.  Acupuncture can be a very effective way to improve your sleep quality without side effects.

One bad night.... or an ongoing issue?  Occasional insomnia is a very common problem, affecting about one in four Americans.  It can happen to anyone, but is more common in older adults.  Its symptoms include:

• Difficulty falling asleep
• Waking up during the nigh
• Daytime fatigue and irritability
• Frustration and moodiness

Insomnia can be very frustrating, but it's more than an annoyance.  When insomnia becomes ongoing, or chronic, your body is unable to the rest and renewal it needs so that you can feel your best.  In fact, a lack of quality sleep can cause problems such as difficulty concentrating, diminished energy, low mood, and trouble performing everyday tasks.  Since sleep strengthens the immune system, insomnia can leave you susceptible to many other health concerns.  Luckily, you don't have to just "put up with" chronic insomnia.

How Acupuncture Can Help

According to the theories of acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine, conditions such as insomnia are a sign of an imbalance in Qi, the vital energy that animates the body and protects it from illness.

This imbalance can stem from a number of causes such as stress, anxiety, medications, depression, and chronic pain.  To determine the underlying causes of your insomnia, your acupuncturist will take into account many factors, including your lifestyle and emotional and mental well-being.  They will then work to restore the balance and flow of Qi by inserting fine, sterile needles at specific points along the body.

Your acupuncturist may also suggest aromatherapy, yoga, meditation, or other additional therapies.  You may find that you sleep better after your very first session, though you will most likely receive the most benefit from a series of treatments.

Your acupuncturist can get to the root of your sleep issues by taking into account all of the factors that may be contributing to your sleep disturbance.  With this ancient form of health care, you can treat your symptoms, improve your overall health and well-being, and start looking forward to a great night's sleep, every night.

Schedule a free consultation:

Health for Life

Sylvie Morin, D.O.M.

Acupuncture Physician

321.259.0555

Here are a few questions your practitioner may ask. They help refine your specific diagnosis.

• Do you have difficulty falling asleep?
• Do you have difficulty staying asleep?
• Is your sleep filled with vivid dreams?
• Is it difficult to calm your mind at night?
• Is it difficult to sleep on your back? This can relate to an excess condition of the lungs or heart meridians.
• Do you only sleep on your back with outstretched arms? This can reflect a pattern of excess heat.
• Do you prefer to sleep on your stomach or side? This could indicate a deficient condition.

Boost Weight Loss with Acupuncture.

If you struggle with your weight, you're not alone.  In fact, more than 30% of all U.S. adults meet the criteria for being obese.

Americans spend billions of dollars annually on weight loss products, but obesity is still on the rise.  People are even turning to surgery as a weight loss option.  This is a drastic measure and can cause unwanted side effects.

Unfortunately, excess weight is not just a cosmetic issue.  Being overweight is a risk factor for many conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease.  The good news is that maintaining a healthy weight can reduce your risk, and it's NEVER too late to get started.  People seeking to address their weight concerns are turning to acupuncture as a natural and effective way to approach weight loss.


Acupuncture works to control weight loss on various levels.

Release Endorphins - With diet changes, many people experience cravings, which can lead to binge eating. Cravings in the body are often due to lack of endorphins. Acupuncture can help to balance out the cravings by helping the body to release endorphins.

Reduce Stress - An increase in the "stress hormone" cortisol can alter the metabolism.  Through the release of endorphins, the "stress hormone" can also be neutralized.

Support Digestion - Acupuncture can support the body to generate an efficient digestive process.

A Traditional Approach to Healing.

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) take a holistic, or whole-body approach to health.  This ancient form of healthcare works to restore the balance and flow of the body's Qi (pronounced "chee"), or vital energy.  According to TCM, the reasons why people gain weight, or find it difficult to lose weight, are numerous.  Your acupuncturist is well versed in uncovering the root cause(s) or imbalances that have affected your weight.

Your acupuncturist will also take into consideration other factors that may have led to weight gain, including your lifestyle, and emotional and mental well-being. By taking your whole self into account, you and your acupuncturist can get to the root of your health concerns, rather than just treating the symptoms.

What Will My Acupuncturist Do?
During your first visit, your acupuncturist will take an extensive health history and perform various exams.  At the completion of your first visit, your acupuncturist will provide you with a comprehensive diagnosis and an explanation of your treatment plan.  Your treatments will focus on correcting any underlying imbalances in your body, and will also help to support you in reaching your weight loss goals.

Based on your unique symptoms, your acupuncturist will choose to concentrate on acupuncture points related to specific organs.  For example, restoring balance to the flow of Qi in the stomach can help promote good digestion and suppress an overactive appetite.  Emotional issues, such as anxiety and stress, both of which can lead to overeating, can be addressed by balancing the liver.

A Partnership for Better Health
It is important to remember that acupuncture is not a "quick fix."  By working with your acupuncturist, and committing to long-term goals, you will experience positive changes in your overall health, including maintaining a healthy body weight.

In addition to acupuncture treatments, your practitioner may also recommend other lifestyle changes.  Whether you want to lose a few pounds or a significant amount, people are turning to acupuncture as a natural and effective way to approach weight loss.  By working together with your practitioner, you can help your body regain its natural balance and start taking steps toward true health and vitality!

Other Ways to Support Your Path Toward a Happier, Leaner You!

• Exercise is an important component of any weight loss program.  Adding aerobic exercise, weight training, and other types of exercise to your daily routine will have a positive effect on your weight and general health.
• Diet is another important issue to consider.  In general, a healthy diet is made up of unprocessed, organic foods, including a wide variety of whole grains and vegetables.  Your acupuncturist may offer nutritional counseling designed for your specific needs.
• Stress relief may also be a part of you treatment.  By learning how to lower stress and anxiety through techniques such as breathing, meditation, or gentle exercise, you may lose weight more easily, and possibly stop destructive habits such as overeating.

Schedule your FREE Consultation:

Sylvie Morin, D.O.M.

Doctor of Oriental Medicine (D.O.M.)

Diplomate in Oriental Medicine (Dipl. O.M.)

Diplomate in Acupuncture (Dipl. Ac.)

Diplomate in Chinese Herbology (Dipl. C.H.)

Nationally Board Certified (NCCAOM)

321.259.0555

www.healthforlifeisgood.com  or  www.healthforlifemedspa.com

Non Surgical Repair of Tendons & Ligaments

ProloTherapy is a term used to describe a technique of proliferative therapy also known as "tendon and ligament reconstruction by injection".  Partial tearing, disruption or over-stretching of tendons and ligaments (those soft issues that bind our bones and joints together) can be the source of much acute and chronic pain.


With Prolotherapy, physicians inject substances (usually concentrated dextrose, or sugar) into these injured ligaments and tendons at their bony attachments.  This stimulates the body's own healing cascade, leading to an increase in the thickness and tensile strength of these connective tissues and improved function of the joints supported by them.  The final result: more stable joints and decreased or absent pain!

Prolotherapy is used whenever these is pain related to structural damage, either from major or minor trauma such as automobile accidents, whiplash, falls, sports injuries, repetitive injuries, degenerative diseases, sciatica, surgical trauma and often minor forgotten injuries from the distant past.

History
Prolotherapy has been used in the United States for over fifty years.  Former Surgeon General, C. Everett Koop, MD, suffered with lower back and leg pain for several years in spite of attempting a variety of treatment methods.  He eventually located Dr. Gus Hemwall, MD who used Prolotherapy to stop Dr. Koop's pain.  Dr. Koop became an advocate of Prolotherapy and said: "I personally know the benefits of Prolotherapy.  I had intractable (incurable) pain, which traveled down my legs.  After a few treatments, the pain was gone."

Despite it's safety and effectiveness, Prolotherapy is not taught in our medical schools.

Physicians Use Prolotherapy For:

• Neck, thoracic & lower back pain
• Sports injuries
• Sacroiliac and hip pain
• Headache and TMJ
• Pain from Arthritis 
• Shoulder, knee, elbow, wrist, ankle or any other joint pain or dysfunction

Only a physician trained in Prolotherapy can determine if you are a candidate for this unique non-surgical treatment. Call us today to schedule your free consultation!

321.259.0555

402 N. Babcock St, Suite 101

Melbourne, FL 32935

www.healthforlifeisgood.com

Acupuncture & Fertility

The treatment of infertility with acupuncture and Chinese medicine dates back 2,000 years. These ancient, time-tested techniques improve fertility rates and support a woman's whole body, unlocking unlimited potential for health, healing and childbearing.

A landmark study published in the medical journal Fertility & Sterilityfound that acupuncture dramatically improves the chances of becoming pregnant when used in conjunction with other assisted reproductive techniques. Researchers from Weill Cornell Medical Center in New York reviewed studies and concluded that acupuncture helps to:

- increase blood flow to the uterus, which improves the chances of an ovum implanting on the uterine wall

- reduce anxiety, stress, and the hormones that are secreted during stressful situation that can significantly decrease fertility

- normalize hormone and endocrine systems that regulate ovulation, especially in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome

- positively affect the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, which plays a key role in fertility

- regulate menstrual cycle

In a study published in Human Reproduction Journal, an ultrasound was used to evaluate blood flow to the uterus during acupuncture treatments. The study found blood flow increases during treatment. According to Dr. Nancy Snyderman, "When acupuncture needles are placed correctly, it can affect the nervous system. The idea is that if you stimulate the nervous system, you can make the uterus quiet and allow blood flow." Relaxing the uterus and increasing blood flow allows for the successful implant of an embryo within the uterine lining.

Acupuncture and Chinese medicine can raise the fertility potential for women by affecting the quality, quantity, balance and flow of Qi and blood. When Qi (also called life energy) and blood are circulating freely throughout the body, every cell, tissue and organ is properly nourished and functioning well. When this occurs, a woman's health and fertility are increased.

According to the theories of acupuncture and Chinese medicine, infertility is caused by an imbalance of Qi and blood affecting one or more of the Organ Systems. (please keep in mind that the Organs described below reflect Eastern medical theories and philosophies)

Kidney Organ System - The release of an ovum is controlled by the Kidneys. The Kidneys also create a substance called Jing Qi, which is required in order to have a healthy body, mind, and pregnancy. If an imbalance exists within the Kidneys, Jing Qi may be inadequate in supply and infertility may be a result. Chinese herbal medicine, along with acupuncture, can nourish and support Jing Qi and overall Kidney health.

Spleen Organ System - An adequate supply of blood is required by a woman's body to sustain anormal menstrual cycle, a growing fetus and a healthy pregnancy. A disharmony within the Spleen can result in an inadequate supply and imbalance of blood. Acupuncture and Chinese herbs can build and nourish blood, in order to promote a healthy flow of blood to the uterus.

Liver Organ System - In order to conceive and have a healthy pregnancy, it is important to have free flow of Qi and blood throughout the body. When it is out of balance, areas of the body will not receive the required supply of Qi and blood. This imbalance can lead to depression, anxiety, stress and anger, and increase infertility.

Acupuncture and Chinese medicine provide a safe, effective, and drug-free, and natural approach to treating infertility and enjoying a healthy pregnancy. Here are a few reasons to try acupuncture and Chinese Medicine:

1. An acupuncturist does not treat just symptoms and signs, but instead activates the body's natural healing potential by treating the root causes that have lead to the problem or disease.

2. Acupuncture and Chinese medicine are completely natural. No drugs are ever used. In the Western treatment of infertility, undesired side effects and accumulated toxicity from invasive procedures and drugs therapies may occur.

3. Acupuncture and Chinese medicine can be used to strengthen, support, and balance overall health and well-being, so other fertility procedures are more effective.

4. The practice of acupuncture and Chinese medicine is over 3,000 years old, and has helped millions of people become well and stay healthy.

5. It works!

Also consider acupuncture during your pregnancy and birth. According to the World Health Organization, acupuncture has been found useful for relieving labor pain, nausea, vomiting, and significantly reducing the duration of labor. There is also strong evidence that acupuncture can help with a breech birth.

For a FREE Consultation
Call Health For Life!
321.259.0555
www.healthforlifeisgood.com

1. Paulus W, et.al., Influence of acupuncture on the pregnancy rate in patients who undergo assisted reproduction therapy. Fertility and Sterility, vol. 77, April 2002, 721-724
2. 5 Ways Acupuncture Can Boost Fertility. Prevention.com, 2002
3. Human Reproduction Journal, Vol. 11, No. 6 1996
4. Fertility and Sterility, Vol. 78, December 2002, 1149-1153
5. Pins & Needles. Could acupuncture help promote pregnancy? ABCNews.com, April 16, 2002
6. Acupuncture: Review and analysis of reports on controlled clinical trials, World Health Organization, Geneva, 2002
7. A manual of acupuncture. Page 326. Peter Deadman & Mazin Al-Khafaji

Treating Depression with Acupuncture

Depression can be debilitating for those who experience it. Prolonged feeling of sadness, discouragement and hopelessness greatly affect the quality of life.

At one time or another, most of us have experienced some form of depression. It's a healthy response to events in our lives that seem overwhelming. When we are balanced, physically and emotionally, we can easily bounce back from a depressed state and move on with our lives. But, when negative feelings and emotions become persistent and consistent, depression may set in.

Today, more than 28 million Americans are taking antidepressant and anti-anxiety drugs.* In 1998, doctors wrote more than 130 million prescriptions for antidepressants. According to the Physicians' Desk Reference, the top antidepressant drugs only address signs and symptoms associated with depression, and cause a variety of side effects, including insomnia, anxiety, listlessness, fatigue, body rash, tremors, facial tics, diarrhea, loss of appetite and sexual dysfunction. Depression alone is stressful enough on the body - and while medications may provide temporary relief, they can further compromise our health.

How Can Acupuncture Help?

Acupuncture and Chinese medicine incorporate thousands of years of experience in treating depression. Not only can they help to alleviate the signs and symptoms accompanying depression, they can address the root causes and underlying imbalances that have contributed to the problem, safely and naturally.

Acupuncturists are aware of the powerful interplay between our body and emotions-the two are inseparable. When we experience emotional upset, our internal environment becomes disrupted. Likewise, when we experience physical problems, our emotions can become greatly affected.

Over time, this disruption leads to what an acupuncturist calls "stagnant or depressed Qi." This diagnosis is unique to acupuncture and Chinese medicine. Eventually, it can cause a disharmony within our body, affecting our physical and emotional well-being. If not properly treated, this imbalance may lead to depression.

What will an Acupuncturist do?

An acupuncturist will take a complete health history in order to find out where, why, and how Qi has stagnated or depressed. They will develop a unique treatment plan tailored to specific symptoms and signs of each individual.

The goals of such a plan will be to activate the movement of Qi throughout the entire body, as well as to address the root causes and underlying imbalances. By treating the body as a whole and unique organism, acupuncture care can support recovery from illness and disease toward health and wholeness.

Acupuncture and Chinese medicine provide SAFE, NATURAL, DRUG-FEE & EFFECTIVE ways to address depression. The focus is to restore a balanced and continuous flow of Qi throughout the body and mind.

- Acupuncture is not a magic bullet. You may need to receive weeks or months of treatment in order to see lasting results. Give yourself the time required so that you can experience the maximum benefits acupuncture and Chinese medicine have to offer.

- Surround yourself with people whom you trust to provide objective and unbiased input and insight. Develop a support group of friends, loved ones, family and co-workers who can lend an ear and listen to you.

- Breathe, go slow, and think things through. Don't make too many life changes all at once. A few at a time will support you and not overwhelm your emotions.

- Try to get at least 20 minutes of simple exercise at least 3 days per week, if not more. Take a daily walk, breathe deeply and let it all go.

- Remember, you are not alone. Others are having similar experiences.

- SMILE.

* Acupuncture Today; December 2001
** Boston Globe; November 17, 1999

For More Information on How Acupuncture can treat Depression, or
for a FREE Consultation, Please Contact:

Sylvie Morin, D.O.M.
Health For Life
402. N. Babcock St.,
Suite 101
Melbourne, FL 32935

321.259.0555

Facial Rejuvenation

Safe, Effective, Natural & Drug-free
Facial Rejuvenation

Acupuncture and Chinese medicine can provide a safe, effective, natural drug free approach to reduce signs of aging. A facial rejuvenation using this ancient technique can improve muscle tone of the face and neck while addressing underlying imbalances that may have contributed to the aging process.


Why does skin sag?

According to Chinese medicine, wrinkles begin internally from a weakness and imbalance of Qi (pronounced "chee"). Qi circulates throughout the body within a series of pathways called meridians. Flowing through these pathways, Qi provides nourishment, support, and energy to every cell, tissue, muscle and organ.

As we get older, it becomes more difficult for Qi to flow upwards to "lift" the face. This leads to inadequate muscle tone, and over time wrinkles and sagging skin. A variety of factors can contribute to this - poor diet, digestion and circulation or emotional and environmental stress.

Give your skin a lift.

A facial rejuvenation using acupuncture improves overall skin and muscle tone while enhancing and increasing the elasticity of the skin. Acupuncture can reduce signs of aging by strengthening and stimulating the circulation of Qi within the meridian pathways, especially those of the face. You will look and feel more energetic, calm, vibrant and healthy.

Acupuncture treatments may be combined with herbal supplements, exercise and acupressure in order to maximize results. Before using drugs or surgery to improve appearance, consider acupuncture. It is an effective, natural, safe, drug free and painless alternative.

Self Care techniques

1) Herbal poultice - Thoroughly clean face. Make a poultice using equal parts of ground organic almonds, lavender and rose flowers, ground flax seeds and oats. Add water and French clay, and stir into a thick paste. Apply to the face, avoiding the eyes and let dry. Wash off after 15-20 minutes.

2) Stay hydrated - Drink plenty of fresh spring water. This can keep the muscles and skin hydrated to prevent drying.

4) Gently massage the face.

5) Walk at least 20 minutes a day, and remember to breath deeply.

Call today to schedule a free consultation or
for more information:

Sylvie Morin, D.O.M.-Acupuncture Physician
Health For Life
321.259.0555
www.HealthforLifeisGood.com
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