Northeast Center for Holistic Medicine

Benefits of Acupuncture Therapy in Pregnancy

2011-02-02T12:54:00.007-05:00

Finding out you are pregnant can be one of the most exciting and joyous events for a woman. But as we all know, pregnancy also brings with it certain difficulties as the body rapidly changes. Acupuncture is one of the most ideal forms of treatment for women in pregnancy as it offers safe and drug-free options for a multitude of ailments. From morning sickness to low back pain, acupuncture offers gentle and effective relief in all stages of your pregnancy.

Treatment during pregnancy:

Morning sickness
Miscarriage
Heartburn
Edema
Anxiety & Depression
Fatigue
Constipation
Sciatica
Musculoskeletal pain
Pregnancy-induced hypertension

Prebirth acupuncture

Prebirth acupuncture refers to weekly treatments in the final weeks of pregnancy, usually starting at 36-37 weeks. Research has shown that the mean duration of labor in a group of women giving birth for the first time was reduced from eight hours and two minutes in the control group, to six hours and 36 minutes in a group of women who had received prebirth acupuncture. These treatments help prepare a woman for labor both physically and emotionally.

Breeched Baby and Labor Induction

Babies who are diagnosed as breeched, or malpositioned can be successfully turned using acupuncture and a type of heat therapy called “moxibustion”. This form of intervention is most effective when done between 34-36 weeks. Women who have reached full term can use acupuncture or acupressure to help induce labor. This is often a more preferable treatment over a medical induction as we are stimulating the body to go into labor more naturally on its own.

Postnatal Treatment

There are numerous benefits using Chinese medicine for women in the six weeks following childbirth. These treatments can help strengthen the body, help with cramping and pain and also help balance emotional issues such as depression.

Naturopath Offers Complementary Treatments For Cancer Care- WMUR Manchester

2010-12-09T10:46:00.003-05:00

Our office was recently broadcast on the news, discussing the addition of complementary medicine for cancer care. For many battling with cancer, the inclusion of alternative medicine as part of the treatment therapy can greatly enhance their quality of life. The news report interviewed Dr. Lisa Alschuler, a naturopath and author of "The Definitive Guide to Cancer, and Integrative Approach to Prevention, Treatment, and Healing".

"We're talking about taking the best that oncology has to offer and combining it with the best of natural medicine," Alschuler said. "In that combination, people avail themselves to all tools possible."

While surgery, chemotherapy and radiation offer tremendous benefits for those suffering with cancer there are often many unwanted side effects associated with these types of therapies. Using alternative medicine such as natural supplements, acupuncture, exercise and lifestyle changes can offer faster recovery and lessen side effects.

Check out the interview !

Naturopath Offers Complementary Treatments For Cancer Care - News Archive Story - WMUR Manchester

Acupuncture to Help Treat Infertility

2010-11-24T17:58:00.022-05:00

Infertility is a problem that 6.1 million individuals struggle with in the US alone. Acupuncture can be a very safe and effective treatment to help increases your chances of becoming pregnant. Check out this great video to learn more about acupuncture for infertility!

Hyland's recalls their Teething Tablets

2010-10-25T12:38:00.001-04:00

Working with FDA, Standard Homeopathic Company Voluntarily Recalls Hyland’s Teething Tablets to Address Manufacturing Process

Contact:
Mary C. Borneman
424-224-4135

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASELos Angeles, October 23, 2010 - Standard Homeopathic Company, in consultation with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), is voluntarily recalling its Hyland's Teething Tablets. The company is initiating this recall in an abundance of caution due to an FDA investigation of its manufacturing facility. Hyland’s Teething Tablets are manufactured in the United States and distributed throughout North America.

The Hyland’s Teething Tablets UPC codes included in the recall are:

1.Hyland’s Teething Tablets, 125 tablets, UPC # 3 54973 75041
2.Hyland’s Teething Tablets, 250 tablets, UPC # 3 54973 75042
3.Hyland’s Teething Tablets, 125 tablets, UPC # 3 54973 75066
4.Hyland’s Teething Tablets, 50 tablets, UPC # 3 54973 75044
5.Hyland’s Teething Tablets, 145 tablets, UPC # 3 54973 75121
6.Hyland’s Teething Tablets, Clip Strip 6x125 tablets, UPC # 3 54973 35109
Adverse events have been reported but the FDA has said that a conclusive link to Teething Tablets has not been determined. The company, in working with the FDA, has identified manufacturing processes of Teething Tablets that can be improved to ensure uniformity in dosage. As a homeopathic product, Hyland’s Teething Tablets have a wide margin of safety that protects consumers from harm.

After in-depth analysis, a comprehensive review of the company’s adverse event report log, and more than 85 years of safe usage, the company is confident that Hyland’s Teething Tablets are safe for infants and toddlers.

In addition to the product recall, Standard Homeopathic Company is refining its production, packaging and testing protocols. Throughout the process, Standard Homeopathic Company will continue to closely monitor and evaluate the situation and consult with FDA.

Consumers that are concerned about the safety of the product may contact Standard Homeopathic Company for instructions on a refund or replacement product. For these instructions or information regarding how to return or dispose of the product, consumers should log on to www.hylandsteething.com/recall9 or call 1-877-496-5044 (Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern Time, and Saturday-Sunday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time).

"We initiated this voluntary recall to ensure our consumers know that their families' safety and health are our top priorities," said Mark Phillips, PharmD, President and Chief Pharmacist of Standard Homeopathic Company. "We are committed to maintaining and deserving the trust they have placed in Hyland's. We have worked for 107 years to build relationships with our consumers. We intend to preserve that tradition of trust."

Hyland's Teething Tablets is a homeopathic product intended to provide temporary relief of teething symptoms in children that is sold over-the-counter (OTC) in retail outlets.

Consumers who have medical concerns or questions should contact their healthcare provider. Any adverse reactions may also be reported to the FDA's MedWatch Program by fax at 1-800-FDA-0178, by mail at MedWatch, FDA, 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20852-9787, or on the MedWatch website at www.fda.gov/medwatch10.

With over 100 years of experience in providing families with access to safe, natural, reliable medicines, Standard Homeopathic Company and its division, Hyland’s, Inc., have many symptom fighting products consumers have come to trust. For more information on their line of products, visit www.hylands.com11 or www.facebook.com/Hylands.Health.

About Standard Homeopathic Company
Standard Homeopathic Company develops and manufacturers lines of homeopathic medicines, including its top-selling Hyland's brand. Hyland’s homeopathic formulas are manufactured with the highest quality natural ingredients following the strictest standards of preparation. With over a century of commitment, Standard Homeopathic Company’s tradition of excellence consistently provides quality and integrity in every product. From Hyland’s Teething Tablets to Hyland’s Calms Forté, Standard Homeopathic Company cares for your family at every stage of life. Consumers can trust Standard Homeopathic Company’s products to be natural, gentle, effective and safe for the entire family.

How Acupuncture Helps Cancer Patients

2010-10-06T13:50:00.002-04:00

A new pilot study shows the benefits of acupuncture for cancer patients suffering with lymphedema, a type of fluid retention.

Acupuncture Helps Cancer Patients Recover after Surgery

2010-09-12T13:09:00.002-04:00

Acupuncture has been shown to significantly reduce pain, dysfunction and dry mouth in head and neck cancer patients following surgery. Researchers at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York performed a randomized controlled trial to test the efficacy of adding acupuncture to treatment. The study followed seventy patients who had undergone neck dissection surgery for the treatment of cancer.

Half of the patients received standard treatments that included physical therapy exercises and the use of anti-inflammatory drugs. The other half received standard treatment with the addition of weekly acupuncture sessions over a 4 week period.

Pain and mobility improved in 39 percent of the patients receiving acupuncture, compared to a 7 percent improvement in the group that received standard care only. Another added benefit is those in the acupuncture group reported a significant reduction of xerostomia, or extreme dry mouth. Dry mouth is a frequent side effect of those undergoing radiation and chemotherapy treatment that is currently only being addressed with limited success.

Many patients following these types of surgical procedures suffer greatly with chronic pain and limited mobility in the neck and shoulder area. Conventional forms of treatment offer limited relief and show much need for improvement. While more research needs to be done, acupuncture shows a lot of promise towards treating and managing pain for this group of patients. I feel it should be considered as becoming a recommended form of care following surgery, as it provides significant pain relief with minimal side effects.

An introduction to acupuncture

2010-09-08T14:40:00.007-04:00

Heard about acupuncture but just not sure what its all about or how it can help? Please see my new web page to learn a little more about how this long standing form of medicine can help you!

Just click Bedford Acupuncture to be linked to the page.

Enjoy

5 Foods for Fat Loss

2010-08-19T17:25:00.001-04:00

Eating for fat loss can be easy. It’s just about finding out what sort of healthy foods you actually like and enjoy. Like most, I have tried many diets in my lifetime. What I realize time and time again is that diets just don’t work! It’s all about being able to make healthy food choices and incorporating them into lifestyle changes for good…not just for the next 3 weeks! Here are some of my top 5 food choices that I love to eat, because they taste good but more importantly keep me feeling great.

1. Eggs and egg whites
Eggs are high in protein and nutrient rich minerals such as selenium to support your immune system and B vitamins for energy. This is one of favorite foods for breakfast because it jump starts my metabolism and helps keep me full all morning. As a way to reduce fat and cholesterol, I stick with egg white omelets and add some green veggies, onions and tomatoes for flavor.

2. Leafy Greens
Green Leafy vegetables are nutritional powerhouses chock full of vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients. Rich in vitamin K, these greens can help keep blood vessels flexible and healthy, protect bones from osteoporosis, and regulate inflammation. The only leafy greens I used to eat were broccoli and spinach. But I have grown to step outside the box and try greens such as kale, collard greens, bok choy and brussel sprouts. Just because you’ve never had them before, doesn’t mean you can’t give them a try. You might not love them all, but find the ones you do and be creative. High in fiber and low in calories, you can enjoy just about as much as you can fill up on.

3. Lean Protein
For lean protein I love chicken breast, ground turkey and fish. These foods are low in fat, high in protein and loaded with nutrients. Chicken can be prepared in so many ways-sautéed, stir fried, broiled, grilled. I try to mix it up with different marinades and seasonings. For fish, I love a wild caught Salmon or local Cod. Fish are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids which are an integral component for brain and heart health.

4. Quinoa
I found out about this amazing grain when I was living in Oregon. I am amazed at how many people have still never heard of it. Quinoa is an ancient grain that originates from South America. Not only is quinoa high in protein, but the protein it supplies is a complete protein, which means it includes all nine essential amino acids. It has fewer carbohydrates than most other grains and cooks in about half the time of regular rice. Quinoa is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates that can be enjoyed hot or prepared as a cold salad.

5. Healthy Fats
This includes things like Olive Oil, Almonds and Avocados. Most people wrongfully think if they want to lose fat, they have to eat only “fat free” items. The problem here is to substitute; most people fill up on carbohydrate loaded snacks that do not leave them feeling satiated. What modern research is showing is that it is not fat that is bad for us, it’s the type of fat and quantity consumed that matters. The human body uses fatty acids for a multitude of purposes from building cell membranes to performing key functions in the brain, eyes, and lungs. Just be careful with quantity of these “healthy fats”, and keep total fat intake to 20-35% of calories consumed.

By: Alyson Adams, L.Ac.

Lessons from The Tao Te Ching

2010-08-11T14:29:00.000-04:00

Here is one of my favorite passages from the Tao Te Ching by Lao Tsu written in the sixth century B.C.

Chapter 41

The wise student hears of the Tao and practices it diligently.
The average student hears of the Tao and gives it thought now and again.
The foolish student hears of the Tao and laughs aloud.
If there were no laughter, the Tao would not be what it is.

Hence it is said:
The bright path seems dim;
Going forward seems like retreat;
The easy way seems hard;
The highest Virtue seems empty;
Great purity seems sullied;
A wealth of Virtue seems inadequate;
The strength of Virtue seems frail;
Real Virtue seems unreal;
The perfect square has no corners;
Great talents ripen late;
The highest notes are hard to hear;
The greatest form has no shape.
The Tao is hidden and without name.
The Tao alone nourishes and brings everything into fulfillment.

This philosophy of Lao Tsu is simple, follow the natural order of things. People come and go in and out of our lives. We attain possessions while losing others. Often we get caught up trying to constantly gain and achieve more and more. Instead of always seeking more, take a moment to appreciate the beauty that is all around you. If we can see the world with an open and inviting mind, infinite possibilities can exist.
-Alyson Adams, L.Ac.

The State of Health Care

2010-08-11T14:19:00.002-04:00

The healthcare field used to be one that was designed to help people. That was the only goal. A doctor would keep the people in his area healthy and would be provided for in return- money, food, whatever the family could give. There was not as much complication of competing industries. It was simple. Doctor. Patient.

Nowadays, receiving healthcare is much more complicated. I don't know if anyone ever thought that the most asked question in healthcare would be, "Will my insurance cover that?"

I can understand the plight of the patient- I am one too! In fact, throughout medical school, I was uninsured. I did what I could do stay healthy, but I went 2 years without a physical or bloodwork and 4 years without a visit to a dentist (I'm happy to report, I've seen one since, and still have no cavities!). We paid out of pocket for the birth of our son because our insurance plan wouldn't cover a midwife. Healthcare has become so expensive that many of us are unable to provide this basic need for ourselves and our families. And it's all our fault!!

Medicine has come a long way from the bucolic times I describe. Our ability to save lives has increased immensely. But so has our need for those interventions! We have focused so much on technology, medications, and advancement that we have let go of the basics. Our health insurance doesn't usually cover services that teach us how to live well- how to stay healthy and avoid needing to utilize these life-saving surgeries, medications, and interventions. So, we don't emphasize them. And we are the ones who are suffering for it. And paying the bill for it!

The Center for Disease Control estimates that 90% of our healthcare dollar is spent treating conditions that are completely preventable. 90%! Can you imagine if we could cut that number even in half?!? Not only driving insurance costs down, but also being surrounded by people who were healthier- less cancer, less depression, less heart disease and diabetes, less arthritis.

In my opinion, the state of healthcare today is actually a model of sick-care. We don't know how to teach people to stay healthy or to intervene early on in illness to be able to get back to normal.

This is what naturopathic care specializes in! We work from the ground up. We teach people to go as far as they can on their own, through diet and lifestyle interventions. We then add in interventions as needed, which may include natural products or pharmaceutical medicines. But the point is that our goal is never only to be disease-free. It is much more than that. The goal is to bring you to your state of OPTIMAL health! This is wellness-based health care. It is true HEALTH care. And it's what we need in order to save our wallets and more importantly, save our lives!

Study Supports Acupuncture Efficacy for Pain Control

2010-05-27T15:24:00.003-04:00

A recent study published in the May issue of Anesthesia and Analgesia, the official journal of the International Anesthesia Research Society shows positive support of acupuncture for pain relief.

The study examined 24 healthy volunteers using Quantitative Sensory testing to determine if acupuncture could affect levels of pain perception. Researchers found that pain tolerance increased by up to fifty percent. Acupuncture was performed on classic acupuncture points on the legs with either manual or electric stimulation. The reaction in both legs treated and untreated was noted.

Results showed that even the untreated leg experienced pain relief when the opposite leg was treated. This is an interesting finding because this is often a frequently practiced acupuncture style where the affected area of pain is not directly treated with acupuncture. Sometimes an area can be too sensitive or too aggravated to receive acupuncture, but effective pain relief can occur by treating the opposite limb. This study seems to verify why this pain relief may be possible.

By using Quantitative sensory testing, they were able to clearly identify which two nerve fibers were affected by acupuncture. Modern Science is still in the process of figuring out how acupuncture “works”, but it is evident that studies like this can clearly show some physiological changes in the body at work. More studies on larger scales need to be performed in the future, but these types of tests reveal promising information towards treating chronic pain.

To read the entire research study, go to:
http://www.anesthesia-analgesia.org/content/110/5/1448.full

Alyson Adams, L.Ac.

Can healthy lifestyle make a difference in health?

2010-03-12T10:22:00.002-05:00

It's pretty ridiculous that we had to invest money into answering that question, but we did. And to no one's surprise, living healthy equated to being healthy!

This remarkable study showed that people who follow a healthy diet and lifestyle reduce their "all cause mortality" down to 35% (this means they have a 65% less chance of dying within the same time period compared with people who do not follow a healthy diet and lifestyle.)

This is something I have also seen in practice. Many times, simple diet and lifestyle changes can make profound impacts on peoples' health! If you want to make a lasting and significant change to your health, start today by increasing your intake of veggies by one serving and your intake of fruits by one serving. Replace a starch at dinner with a double serving of vegetables or have fruit as a snack rather than having chips or cookies.

Our health is the sum of each small choice that we make daily. Choose wellness!

Do you want to learn more about healthy living and ways to save money in the long-term by reducing your need for medications and surgery?

Vaccination: The best idea for your child?

2010-02-14T20:58:00.003-05:00

Last week, I was asked to testify in front of congress in support of HB1555, an act creating a personal exemption to routine immunization. I had the opportunity to hear several people testify both in support and opposition to the bill including several infectious disease specialists. I also had the opportunity to share the naturopathic perspective. I thought some of you may like to hear my personal approach to immunization and opinion on the topic.

First of all, I think that this discussion needs to start at the beginning. Immunizations changed the health of Americans dramatically. At the time of their inception, infectious diseases were the number one cause of death in America. The average lifespan was in the 40s. Immunizations offered protection from many of the bacteria and viruses that were plaguing Americans. Some were extremely successful- the smallpox vaccine is no longer administered because the virus was effectively eradicated. They were lifesaving.

Today, many of these illnesses no longer present the same risks, in part to the success of the immunization program. In addition, hygeine, cleaner food and water, and several other factors have also reduced transmission of some of these infectious agents. And we have seen increases in rates of chronic diseases including neurological diseases in children as well as adults. Whether the increases of these devastating illnesses are linked to immunization? We can really have no idea- there are so many other things that have changed over time including changes in our food quality, exposure to pollutants, plastics, and numerous other factors whose sum likely contribute to the chronic diseases leading the race in causes of death for americans today.

In addition, proponants of vaccination who claim that vaccines are "totally safe" are either misinformed or misinforming. As a whole, perhaps they are mostly safe, but there are many instances of side effects ranging from common, mild effects such as redness at the injection site and mild fever or flu like symptoms through severe side effects like seizures, intusussception, and death. These side effects may be excedingly rare, but they are real risks. I also believe that although there is no sweeping connection between autism and vaccination, there are instances where a susceptible child can be pushed over the edge by a trigger such as immunization. There have been cases where causation has been proven although I would agree that data on a whole does not show that vaccination is the sole cause of autism.

When I speak with parents about immunization it is a conversation, not a one-way lecture. We begin by looking over the CDC's recommended schedule and we go through each vaccine one at a time. Different children have different risk factors, and some parents have legitimate medical or personal concerns surrounding immunization. This conversation is a lengthy one, and we revisit the topic at every well child visit.

What do my patients choose? It is a mix- Many patients are fully immunized, some on the CDC schedule and some on a delayed or spread out schedule. Others are completely unimmunized. Many are somewhere in between. I have personally diagnosed cases of mumps, rubella (german measles) and chicken pox. I have also seen a child be flown to Boston for emergency surgery following a serious complication following immunization. I see the risks and benefits to immunization. And I have seen parents wrestle with the consequences of their choices on both sides!

I recently did a well child checkup for a 2 week old new patient. I had treated his mother for years, and we had had a vaccination discussion in the past. I asked her if she had thought about immunization for her son. She replied, "I'd like to do whatever you did for your son". My reply? "So you'd like to get informed and make a decision that feels right to you? Great! I'll help you with that!" She laughed, but understood my point.

So what choice did I make for my own son (now 18 months)? You'll never know. And you don't have to. Because your decision should be the one that you are comfortable with.

Taking a break from the holiday hustle and bustle

2008-12-16T11:47:00.001-05:00

By: Alyson Adams, L.Ac., Dipl. O.M.

As I pulled out of my office driveway this afternoon and tried to make my usual left handed turn across traffic, I was shocked at what I saw. A line of traffic backed up in both directions as far as I could see, full of hopeful holiday shoppers! I thought I would try and sneak in a little Christmas shopping myself during the weekday lunch hour, but was surprised to see that I was not the only one with this bright idea. I observed all the honking horns and stressed out faces of those shopping for their loved ones and felt anxious to be done and get off the roads.

When I got back to my office, I did a little “self acupuncture” to help relieve stress. My favorite point is called yin tang and it is located right in the center of the forehead between the eyebrows. The name itself means hall of impression, and it is known as the ‘third eye’ by many traditional cultures. It is a great stress relieving point and offers a feeling of tranquility. It works best in conjunction with other acupuncture points that can help calm the spirit, known in Chinese medicine as “shen”. Commonly, when people experience stress, it is the liver and heart meridians that are typically affected. Acupuncture acts to calm the central nervous system by increasing the release of brain chemicals including melatonin and endorphins, the “feel good” hormones.

So as you push through the last moments of this holiday season, make sure and take some time for yourself to relax and unwind. A 60 minute acupuncture session may do just the trick!

Treating Migraine Headaches with Chinese Medicine

2008-05-13T11:35:00.004-04:00

By: Alyson Adams, L.Ac., Dipl. O.M.

There are over 26 million Americans who suffer from chronic migraines. Often, these headaches can be debilitating and can limit people from maintaining activities in their daily schedules. Conventional medicine is often inconclusive as to locating the cause of migraine and is limited in its treatment. Pharmaceutical medicine can sometimes alleviate pain, but it often causes poor side effects and the medication is only masking symptoms temporarily.

Chinese medicine and acupuncture have shown to be very effective at treating migraine headaches, when no other type of treatment offers any relief. In 2006 the largest study to date looking at acupuncture for the treatment of migraines was published in Lancet Neurology. This study examined nearly 1,000 patients over a 6 week period. Researchers found that 47 percent of people who received acupuncture had a reduction in migraine days by 50 percent. Acupuncture and Chinese herbs can be used when a migraine is in an acute phase, or as a preventative medicine.

In my experience, I have seen many different types of triggers and patterns for migraines. Because each patient is unique, I am able to develop a personalized treatment plan for each person to address their particular concerns. Common triggers include hormonal patterns, stress, anxiety and food sensitivities. In Chinese medicine terms, I commonly see what is called Liver Qi stagnation. This is when stress or a blockage in the Qi flow in the body causes the energy to stagnate, and creates an upward counter-flow of qi to the head.

With a regular acupuncture treatment plan, you can expect both a decrease in the amount of headaches and a decrease in severity. Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine can be used safely and effectively to rebalance the flow of energy in the body and prevent reoccurring migraines. The amount of treatments you will need to resolve your migraine headaches will be dependent on how long you have been suffering from them, and how your body responds to the medicine.

Book Review: Animal, Vegetable, Miracle

2008-02-25T17:09:00.002-05:00

I know that I should probably wait until I finish a book before I review it, but I've been enjoying this one so much that I just can't wait to encourage you all to check it out of the library!

Animal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver is the true story of one family who decided to take the plunge and experience one year eating food that they are in relationship with. This required a relocation from Tuscon, AZ to a rural farm in Virginia and a lifestyle change for all members of the family. A husband and wife, Steven and Barbara, and their two girls, college-aged Camille and the youngest daughter Lily, too young to be a contributing author for the book.

All of the family members contribute to the household food supply- from raising chickens for eggs and meat to mushroom hunting, and from seedling starters to the great first harvest of asparagus. This wonderful, whimsical, and educational book describes the sacrifices each family member had to make as well as the discoveries of the joy that comes from eating "close to home".

What they didn't grow, they got from local farmers- from dairy and meats to exotic plants. If it didn't grow locally or if they didn't know the name of the person who grew it, it was out. Filled with wonderful stories, information about our american food culture (or lack of it) and the changes that have happened to our plates over time, this book meets all of my desires in a good book.

I'd highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to eat more consciously. Sometimes it is frightening to think of where your food comes from. If that's the case, I'd encourage you to not eat that. This book brings the idea of a fulfilling, healthy, and affordable local and organic diet into a reality- teaching you how you can do it and what twists and turns you can expect in the process.

I'd recommend this as a "must-read"!!

-Dr. Chasse

WZID Women's Expo: A Great Success!

2008-02-16T18:49:00.003-05:00

Today, we spent the day with over 2,000 women at the Center of NH in Manchester. We had a wonderful time talking with so many interesting women. Hopefully you were one of them!

Alyson and I spent the entire day educating people about our practice, but also about holistic medicine in general, and what it has to offer. So many people asked about how holistic medicine has been received in NH and in Manchester in particular. I have to say, we have had more interest than I could have ever imagined. Coming from Seattle, where everyone sees a Naturopathic Physician and it is fully covered by insurance, I wasn't sure what to expect practicing in a state that was a little bit more conservative. But everyone I have encountered has been very open-minded, curious, and excited. Our office has become very busy very quickly, and is filling up with patients referred to us by their MDs.

We are so happy to serve in this role. As the leading center for natural women's and children's health, we are so proud to be able to offer the diversity of services that we do. And we are honored to work with you.

Again, if we met you at the expo today, thanks for stopping by. We really enjoyed meeting you and look forward to working together to help you achieve your health goals!

-Dr. Chasse

Dr. Chasse writes for The Cabinet

2008-01-06T22:30:00.001-05:00

Dr. Chasse has been invited to write a monthly commentary for The Cabinet and their affiliated newspapers serving southern New Hampshire, including the Bedford Journal. If you live in this area and receive the paper, be sure to be on the lookout for the articles!

Dr. Chasse's first article, 3 Ways to Get Healthy, was published on January 3rd.

If you would like to read about a particular subject, or have an idea for a great article, please email us and let us know!

Thanks for your support, and keep reading!

People Are Each Other's Medicine

2008-01-02T08:55:00.000-05:00

As we begin a new year, let us be reminded that we have the opportunity to be medicine to one another.

Another modality in medicine, and one that is particularly important in naturopathic medicine, is the human modality itself. I refer to this as the application of “people and organizations” to the patient. Giving the patient people, or groups of people, contains within itself a healing power. This may seem obvious to us, but we seldom prescribe people as a medicine or modality. In the practice of naturopathic medicine, as I view it, I often refer patients to a yoga class, not only for the exercise, a well recognized modality, but for the interaction of the patient to people who are also seeking wellness. People are each others’ medicine in the ideal world.

- William A. Mitchell, ND (1947 - 2007, one of the three co-founders of Bastyr University, the preeminent natural health sciences institution in the country.)

Top 5 Ways to Get Healthy in 2008

2007-12-30T16:06:00.000-05:00

Year after year, millions of Americans make New Year’s resolutions geared toward improving their health. The most common health related resolutions are to quit smoking and to lose weight- partly because the same people end up making those same resolutions year after year! We have the best of intentions when we make these resolutions, but often we end up falling short, feeling bad about it, and getting nowhere. This year, make a New Year’s resolution that you can actually achieve and feel great about. These 5 healthy resolutions are achievable and will make a big impact on your health this year.

Get More Sleep
According to the American Journal of Epidemiology, the average American gets only 6.1 hours of sleep each night. Insomnia has long been connected with reduced ability to concentrate, trouble learning, decreased attention to detail and increased risk of motor vehicle accidents. More importantly, recent studies have tied chronic lack of sleep to medical problems including obesity, resistance to weight loss, diabetes and high blood pressure. Whether it means changing your schedule, avoiding stimulants in the evening, or seeing your doctor to treat your insomnia, increasing the time spent sleeping will help you live healthier.

Quit Smoking
If you are a smoker, it’s likely that you are already aware of the health risks associated with smoking. Smoking drastically increases your risk of lung cancer and emphysema, hypertension and heart disease, as well as quickening the aging process in your skin. Whether you use nicotine gum, a nicotine patch, acupuncture, or go cold turkey, quitting smoking can drastically improve your health. Keep trying!

Decrease Stress
Our bodies were wired to deal with stress in acute and brief situations, called the “fight or flight response”. Today, many people are under states of chronic stress, with no real beginning or end. During stress, our bodies go through a complex chain of biological events. The body directs all of its energy towards preparing your body to fight or flee. Heart rate and blood flow to large muscles increase. Our blood sugar increases to make sure that there is enough energy around to do what we need to do. The body suppresses the activities that are not essential for immediate survival, inhibiting the immune, reproductive and digestive systems, and suppressing growth hormone, a hormone that manages healing and tissue repair.
These biological changes can leave more suceptible to long-term problems like diabetes, high blood pressure, heart attacks and strokes, not to mention the effects stress has on your sleep, relationships, and quality of life. This year, resolve to decrease your stress. Cut out one extra-curricular activity from your life, take one job off of your to-do list, or invest in a stress busting activity like exercise, yoga, or meditation. Even simple deep breathing can make a huge difference! Try each morning to take 3 deep breaths-breathe in for a count of 4, hold for 1, and breathe out for a count of 6. Cutting down on your stress may not only help you live longer, but also help you live better!

Eat your fruits and veggies
According to the Harvard School of Public Health, adults should consume 21 to 38 grams of fiber each day, but the average American only gets 15 grams of fiber in a day! Fiber is important for good health. It acts like a broom in your digestive tract, helping to clean out your gut, and is also important to maintain healthy cholesterol levels, blood sugar, weight, and hormonal balance. The largest source of fiber in our diets comes from plants- fruits and vegetables.
Another reason to load up on fruits and veggies is that they are loaded with nutrients. Vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other phytonutrients provide our bodies with what we need to live a healthy life. Try to eat a rainbow of fruits and veggies every day. Green, red, purple, orange, and yellow fruits and vegetables provide us with the diverse array of nutrients that our bodies need to feel their best.

Exercise
Maybe you’ve heard your doctor tell you to get some exercise, or you have tried to do it to lose some weight, but couldn’t stick to it. Research has shown us that exercise is beneficial for your heart, muscles and bones, but also that it can have profound effects on your mood, energy level, immune system, and can even decrease your risk of colon cancer! This doesn’t mean you have to turn into a gym rat, but make an effort to increase how much physical activity you get in a day. Take the stairs or park farther away and walk. Play with your kids in the snow! March in place of do jumping jacks during commercials. Learn a new sport, martial art, or dance. And don’t give up- it takes 2 weeks for a behavior to come routine, so stick it out and reap the rewards!

With the new year on the horizon, it’s a great time to incorporate new, healthy habits into your life. Even if you can improve your habits only a tiny bit, like replacing one fast food meal per week with a healthier one, you can make a big impact over the course of the year. Good luck!

Acupuncture and You in the New Year

2007-12-02T09:14:00.000-05:00

Still searching for that perfect New Years Resolution? This year, why not make a promise to achieve better health and wellness. The Northeast Center for Holistic Medicine is happy to announce the addition of acupuncture and Chinese medicine services to its clinic.

Beginning in January, Alyson Adams, licensed Acupuncturist and board certified Chinese Herbalist will be joining the clinic’s team. If you have unresolved health problems, consider acupuncture. Chinese Medicine is one of the oldest systems of medicine and has been practiced for nearly 3,000 years. This medicine has proved itself to be a useful modality to treat numerous conditions including chronic and acute pain, stress reduction, enhanced immunity and countless others. It’s now your turn to experience the benefits of one of the fastest growing health care methods in America.

Acupuncture and herbs work particularly well for many conditions that are aggravated by stress or low energy. You’re a great candidate for acupuncture if you suffer from difficult health concerns such as:

• Back pain and neck pain
• Migraines
• Menstrual problems
• Allergies and asthma
• Digestive problems
• Anxiety
• Insomnia
• Depression
• Panic attacks
• Chronic fatigue

The goal of acupuncture and Chinese Medicine is to restore balance and wellness in the body by treating the root cause of disease. The Chinese Medical model believes that there is a basic life energy, called “Qi” that flows through the body in certain channels or meridians. When Qi becomes blocked or disturbed due to certain stressors, body functions do not work properly. Acupuncture needles are inserted into certain points to help restore a normal balance and flow of energy in the body. This sets the stage for the body to repair itself and maintain its own health.

Alyson is very excited to be able to offer her services to the people of southern New Hampshire. She is a recent Masters graduate from Oregon College of Oriental Medicine (OCOM) in Portland, Oregon. OCOM is one of the most highly regarded schools of Traditional Chinese Medicine in the country.

What can I expect from my acupuncture treatment?
Acupuncture uses hair thin, sterile, one-time use disposable needles to stimulate points on the body that balance the flow of Qi in the body. The procedure is virtually painless, and most patients report a deep sense of relaxation with their treatments. The number of treatments a person needs varies according to the severity and the type of their condition. Acupuncture has a cumulative effect, so each treatment will build upon the other.

Susceptibility and the Determinants of Health

2007-10-26T14:38:00.001-04:00

I forgot how beautiful fall is in New England, but I'm quickly remembering why it has always been my favorite season. I have been amazed while I witness the leaves turn, constantly thinking, "This moment must be the peak of the season", then seeing the following day that the reds are even more red and the yellows are even more yellow. As I look out my office window right now, I am struck by the difference in each individual tree- one maple has dropped all but the last lonesome leaves from its branches, while the beech next to it is still in the height of its blossom with it's yellow leaves the color of summer sunshine. The maple lost its leaves after a very windy night last week, but the beech held onto its leaves like mittens to cover its chilly branches during the storm.

Witnessing this got me thinking about why it is that these trees, exposed to the same natural elements, have such different responses to the same stressor. It is the same way with people- we each have different responses to our own "weather" of life stressors. Have you ever wondered why when the flu goes around, some people tend to catch every one while others (luckily) go unscathed every time? Or is it luck?

I believe that it is related to what we naturopaths call your "susceptibility"- the ability of a stressor to trigger a reaction. This stressor could be an emotional sressor like the loss of a loved one or a physical stressor like exposure to a cold or flu. So what are the factors that influence our susceptibility and how can we affect them?

This brings us to the ever-so-important "determinants of health". This phrase refers to all of the things that contribute to our health as a complete physical, mental, and emotional person. They are like the building blocks used to construct the foundation for our health. Some of these things are relatively out of our control. Others are completely in our control and are related to the choices that we make each and every day.

Let's start at the beginning. A large part of who you are comes from the genetic blueprint that was passed down to you from your mother and father, and this was certainly out of your control. Genetics provide a great example of our susceptibility. For example, there is a gene that has been linked to Celiac disease, and we now can test for that gene. If that test shows that you carry that gene, it does not mean that you have Celiac disease- what it means is that you have the potential to develop Celiac disease. Genetic testing is a measure of one's susceptibility.

For each of us, the factors that determine our health are different. But we do share some in common that you could probably name yourself- diet, exercise, clean water, a safe home, strong emotional support, a feeling of purpose in life, etc. Each of these other determinants of health play a key role in our susceptibility to illness. The beauty is that unlike genetics, these factors are all within our control. We have the opportunity to change the way that we live our lives. Which of these building blocks needs work in your life? Perhaps it is improving your diet, or quitting smoking, or healing a strained relationship.

As a naturopathic doctor, I think it is of the utmost importance to recognize what these factors are in your life and see which are strengths in your life and which need more work. I also see this as my job- to assist my patients in identifying and strengthening these determinants of health. If we are constantly making improvements to our lifestyle, we are practicing preventative medicine. And to me, that is the most effective medicine!

Thanks for reading!

Be Well,
Dr. Jaclyn Chasse

Welcome to the Northeast Center for Holistic Medicine Blog!

2007-10-26T14:14:00.000-04:00

Hello! Welcome to the newest feature on the website of the Northeast Center for Holistic Medicine- our Blog. We will use this blog to update you with the newest information about our clinic and about natural health. Here, you can expect to find articles, news and events, an "ask the doctor" feature, and much more. If there's something you'd like to see talked about, or if you have a question for the doctor, please email info@northeast-holistic.com to give us your feedback! Please be sure to have the word "Blog" in the subject heading.