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Month: March 2024

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Aging Gracefully

Sara Yadlowsky, FMHC

Aging is inevitable. Irrespective of our efforts to appear youthful or feel younger, aging will catch up with us eventually. However, vitality is the key to aging gracefully.

Vitality embodies an energy of involvement, appreciation, and liveliness. It represents a harmonious blend of pleasure, purpose, and significance. When we are full of these feelings, we experience a vibrant, open responsiveness.

An excellent question to ask yourself is: How vibrant am I? Vitality manifests as an ability to openly express profound emotions. It’s evident in hearty laughter, streams of tears, and a willingness to engage fully without concerning oneself with outcomes, approval, or social media “likes.”

The most vibrant individuals:

  • Seek opportunities to make a positive impact and follow through with action
  • Dedicate themselves to continuous learning from others
  • Exemplify remarkable generosity and openness
  • Embrace both laughter and tears with equal intensity
  • Share a deep connection with the spiritual realm
  • Are willing to be authentic even if it means being unpopular

This level of aliveness represents soulful fitness, which is not tied to appearing younger than our years. Soulful fitness results from a stead fast commitment to and consistent practice of the vitality-enhancing measures mentioned above.

An excellent idea is to meditate daily with the thought that this could be your last day alive, and let this awareness guide you to fully embrace and cherish each day.

Aging can be viewed as a profound opportunity to establish deeper roots and witness more abundant blossoms. We can perceive the beautiful trajectory from innocence (youth) to ambition (productive years) to wisdom (later years)as a magnificent symphony, with each phase a complete and essential component of a breathtaking unity.

Aging is not an error or shortcoming, but an invitation to embrace life more fully.

To schedule a new patient or health coaching appointment, please call our office at 919-999-0831. 

Your Partner in Health!
Sara Yadlowsky, FMHC

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Nitric Oxide: The Molecule Of Life

Didem Miraloglu, MD, MS

Nitric oxide (NO) is a remarkable molecule that plays a crucial role in various physiological processes within the human body. Discovered in the late 18th century, and its importance has been extensively studied and recognized in the fields of medicine, biology, and biochemistry. In fact in 1998 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was awarded to Robert Furchgott, LouisIgnarro, and Ferid Murad, for their discoveries of NO as a signal molecule in the vasculature and specifically in the control of blood pressure. NO is a unique signaling molecule that influences numerous cellular pathways, contributing to cardiovascular health, immune function, neurotransmission, and even cellular defense against pathogens.
The synthesis of nitric oxide is achieved through the enzymatic action of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) on L-arginine, a semi-essential amino acid found in the body. There are three isoforms of NOS: endothelial NOS(eNOS), neuronal NOS (nNOS), and inducible NOS (iNOS). Each isoform is expressed in specific tissues and cells and responds to different stimuli. eNOSis predominantly present in endothelial cells, contributing to vasodilation and regulating blood flow. nNOS is found in neurons and plays a role in neuro transmission, while iNOS is induced in response to inflammation or immune challenges.

The regulation of nitric oxide production is a tightly controlled process. Various factors, including calcium ions, cofactors like tetrahydrobiopterin, and the availability of L-arginine, affect NOS activity. This precise control ensures that NO is produced when needed, preventing excessive generation and potential cellular damage.

Nitric oxide is a key player in cardiovascular health. It acts as a vasodilator, relaxing the smooth muscles in blood vessel walls, which leads to increased blood flow and improved oxygen and nutrient delivery to tissues. Dysfunction in the NO pathway is associated with numerous cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension, atherosclerosis, and heart failure. Pharmaceutical agents that enhance NO production or mimic its actions, such as nitroglycerin and sildenafil (Viagra), have become essential treatments for these conditions.

The immune system relies on nitric oxide to fight off pathogens and defend against infections. When activated by cytokines and other immune molecules, iNOS produces NO in macrophages and other immune cells. Nitric oxide acts as a potent antimicrobial agent by damaging bacterial DNA, proteins, and lipids. Furthermore, it helps regulate the immune response and plays a role in resolving inflammation after an infection has been controlled.
In the nervous system, nitric oxide is a critical neurotransmitter involved in various processes, such as learning and memory, synaptic plasticity, and neuronal communication. It modulates the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and glutamate, contributing to mood regulation and cognition.

Moreover, NO has been linked to neuroprotection by its ability to act as an antioxidant and counteract oxidative stress-induced damage. Neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, involve oxidative stress, and researchers are exploring the potential of NO-based therapies to mitigate neuronal damage.

Due to its diverse roles in numerous physiological processes, nitric oxide has garnered significant interest as a potential therapeutic agent. Researchers are exploring its use in various medical applications, including wound healing, erectile dysfunction, and respiratory disorders like pulmonary hypertension. Additionally, NO-based therapies are being investigated in the context of cancer treatment, where NO has shown potential to inhibit tumor growth and sensitize cancer cells to radiation and chemotherapy.

Nitric oxide, once regarded merely as an air pollutant, has emerged as a fundamental molecule essential for life and well-being. Its roles in cardiovascular health, immune function, neurotransmission, and neuroprotection highlight its significance in maintaining the body’s delicate balance.

As our understanding of this remarkable molecule deepens, we are likely to witness further advancements in medical therapies that harness the potential of nitric oxide for improving human health and well-being.

To schedule a new patient appointment, please call our office at 919-999-0831.

Your Partner In Health,
Didem Miraloglu, MD, MS
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What Is REM Sleep?

Clarissa A. Kussin, ND, FMCHC, ERYT-500

Did you know that REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep is a game-changer for your overall health and well-being? Let’s dive into the incredible benefits of REM sleep and discover some tips to enhance your dreamy slumber!

Benefits of REM Sleep:

  1. Brain Restoration: REM sleep is crucial for cognitive function and memory consolidation. It’s during this phase that your brain processes information, strengthens neural connections, and helps you wake up feeling mentally refreshed.
  2. Emotional Resilience: Ever notice how a good night’s sleep improves your mood? REM sleep plays a vital role in regulating emotions, contributing to better stress management and emotional resilience.
  3. Learning and Creativity: If you’re looking to boost your creativity and enhance learning, prioritize REM sleep. It’s during this stage that your brain synthesizes information and forms connections, leading to improved problem-solving skills and creativity.
  4. Physical Restoration: While deep sleep is essential for physical restoration, REM sleep also plays a role in muscle recovery. It contributes to maintaining a healthy balance between mind and body.

Tips to Maximize REM Sleep:

  1. Consistent Sleep Schedule: Aim for a consistent sleep routine by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day. This helps regulate your body’s internal clock, promoting better REM sleep. Watching the sunrise and sunset daily.
  2. Create a Relaxing Bedtime Ritual: Wind down before bed with calming activities such as reading, gentle stretching, a warm shower, diffuse lavender/spray it on your sheets, or practicing mindfulness. This signals to your body that it’s time to transition into a restful sleep.
  3. Limit Stimulants Before Bed: Minimize caffeine and screen time before bedtime. The stimulating effects can interfere with the quality of your sleep, including REM cycles. Eliminate caffeine after Noon.
  4. Optimize Sleep Environment: Ensure your bedroom is conducive to sleep – comfortable mattress and pillows, cool temperature, and minimal light and noise. I like to add red ight bulbs for evening use and transition.
  5. Stay Active During the Day: Regular physical activity can contribute to better sleep quality, including more time spent in REM sleep. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.

Prioritize your sleep, and watch the positive impact on your overall well-being!

If you’re ready to experience the transformative benefits of health coaching, reach out to us today! Our team of experienced health coaches is here to guide you on your journey to optimal health. Call 919.999.0831 to get scheduled.

Remember, investing in your health is an investment in a brighter and more fulfilling future.

To your health and happiness!

Clarissa A. Kussin, ND, FMCHC, ERYT-500

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Low SIgA- Part 1

Shane Hemphill, MD

Say your functional medicine provider ordered a stool test and it showed Low SIgA- what does that mean and how did it develop?

The immune system makes T cells and B cells. The B cells produce secretory IgA (SIgA) which acts as a first line of defense against the entry of foreign substances into the body.  These foreign substances include many things such as undigested proteins from the foods that we eat, bacteria, viruses, parasites, or even molds.  In essence SIgA gives us insight into what is happening at our mucosal surfaces.

The body’s mucosal surfaces – located at the eyes, ears, nose, throat, sinuses, gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts, and skin are all entry points for potential disease-causing pathogens.

Our body’s way of protecting these entry points is done with the release of SIgA.  B-cells present within the mucosa are activated upon exposure to pathogens and allergens and thus produce SIgA in response.  The SIgA then attaches itself to the invading bacteria, virus or other foreign substance, traps it in the mucosal surface and then neutralizes it.

So what does it mean if your SIgA is low?
If your SIgA is low, this means that you are less able to prevent invaders from getting into your gut mucosal lining. This lining can become inflamed and tight junctions that ordinarily keep toxins and undigested food particles out – break down. This causes havoc as now toxins and undigested substances are able to get access to our blood stream, causing inflammatory and immune reactions that lead to systemic symptoms throughout the body.
Patients with low SIgA levels  generally have increased risk of food sensitivities, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS),  inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), intestinal permeability also known as ‘leaky gut’,  autoimmunity,  and other gastrointestinal infections.

What causes low SIgA levels?
Chronic infections are commonly associated with low SIgA.  Assessing for problematic bugs including H pylori, Candida, Blastocystis Hominis, H. Pylori, Clostridium difficile are essential in this evaluation. Do keep in mind that many of these normally can exist in the bowel at low levels and not cause harm. Some of them only become problematic depending on their level in the body and others do it based on virulence. These can be assessed via a functional stool test. One interesting note is that these ‘infections’ are opportunistic by nature, meaning they also come about when SIgA levels reduce. Therefore it is not uncommon to see development of Candida in SIgA compromised clients.

Medications are another cause of low SIgA. Anti-inflammatories, antibiotics and antidepressants are some examples. Studies have even shown an association between low SIgA and people that suffer from depression.

Stress is another cause of low SIgA through increased cortisol levels. Stress can be in any form, including mental, emotional or even physical. One study has even demonstrated that persistent negative thoughts about ourselves can lower our own SIgA levels. Lowering stress and introducing stress reduction techniques is vital in maintaining this protector.

Finally, poor dietary choices are another contributor to low SIgA. Certain nutrients such as Vitamin D, Vitamin A, Zinc and Glutathione are instrumental in supporting healthy SIgA levels.  A good intake of dietary fiber and phytonutrients can also play a role in supporting a healthy gut microbiome. This can lead to the development of beneficial bacteria that promote healthy levels as well.

Stay tuned for my next article which will discuss how we treat low SIgA.

To schedule a new patient appointment, please call our office at 919-999-0831. 

Your Partner in Health!
Shane Hemphill, MD

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