Trends Archives - Dr Shawn

04/Dec/2023

Have you ever seen those circular bruises on the back of athletes’ shoulders and wondered how they got there? Chances are, they’re the result of a practice known as cupping. Cupping therapy is an age-old form of alternative medicine, originating from ancient Chinese and Egyptian cultures. The practice involves creating suction on the skin using cups, which pulls the skin upwards and increases blood flow to the area. This is believed to help mobilize blood flow, promoting healing and relieving muscle tension.

There are various types of cupping therapy, each with its unique benefits and applications. In this article, we’ll delve into three main types: flame cupping, vacuum cupping, and sliding cupping. We’ll explore their characteristics, benefits, scientific research backing their effectiveness, and the potential risks involved.

Flame Cupping

Flame cupping, also known as fire cupping, is the traditional method of cupping therapy. It involves soaking a cotton ball in alcohol, setting it alight, and then placing it inside a glass cup. The fire consumes the oxygen inside the cup, creating a vacuum as it cools, which causes the cup to stick to the skin and draw it upwards.

Research suggests that flame cupping can assist in pain management, inflammation reduction, and promote relaxation. A study published in PLoS ONE found that patients with chronic neck pain reported significant pain relief after undergoing flame cupping therapy.

However, there are risks associated with flame cupping, including burns, skin infection, and temporary skin discolouration. Therefore, it’s crucial to have this procedure performed by a trained professional.

Naturopathic Pain Management Cupping

Vacuum Cupping

Vacuum cupping, also called mechanical or suction cupping, uses a hand-held pump to create the suction effect instead of heat. This method offers more control over the amount of suction and will avoid the potential to cause burns.

Research indicates that vacuum cupping can be beneficial for conditions like fibromyalgia and chronic back pain. A systematic review in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that vacuum cupping significantly reduced pain in people with fibromyalgia compared to no treatment.

While vacuum cupping is generally safer than flame cupping, potential side effects include bruising, discomfort during the procedure, and minor skin irritation.

Slide Cupping

Slide cupping, or moving cupping, involves applying oil to the skin, creating suction in the cup, and then sliding the cup around the affected area. This technique is often used for treating large muscle groups and is particularly popular among athletes for recovery.

A study in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine reported that slide cupping could improve range of motion and decrease perceived muscle soreness in athletes.

Slide cupping shares similar risks with the other types, including possible skin irritation and discolouration.

How it works

The primary goal of cupping therapy is to enhance circulation, help relieve pain, remove “heat,” and pull out the toxins that linger in your body’s tissues. It’s believed that the suction from the cups lifts the skin and underlying tissues, leading to increased blood and lymph flow. This fresh influx of blood nourishes and repairs the targeted area, promoting healing and relaxation.

From a scientific perspective, cupping therapy may improve blood flow, reduce inflammation, and activate the immune system. The vacuum created by the cup stimulates the nervous system, which can increase blood circulation and reduce pain.

Conditions

Several studies suggest that cupping therapy may be beneficial for a variety of health conditions:

Chronic Pain: A systematic review of 135 studies found evidence that cupping therapy can effectively reduce chronic neck and lower back pain.
Cardiovascular Diseases: Some researchers suggest that cupping could help manage cardiovascular diseases by improving blood flow. However, more research is needed in this area.
Respiratory Diseases: Cupping is traditionally used in the treatment of respiratory diseases like the common cold, pneumonia, and bronchitis. Scientific evidence supporting this use is limited but growing.
Skin Diseases: Anecdotal evidence suggests that cupping may help with acne, herpes zoster, and other skin diseases. More rigorous studies are needed to confirm these effects.

It’s worth noting that cupping has been associated with some risks, particularly when done without proper training or hygiene. The most common side effects include bruising, skin irritation, and mild discomfort. More serious complications, such as infections or bleeding, are relatively rare but can occur, particularly with wet cupping. Additionally, cupping is not recommended for everyone, particularly pregnant women, people with bleeding disorders, or people taking blood thinners.

Check out more Naturopathic solutions to chronic pain Here

Conclusion

Cupping is an ancient therapy that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of conditions, but it remains a relatively mysterious and controversial practice in the West. While cupping has been associated with some potential benefits, including pain relief, more research is needed to fully understand its mechanisms and effectiveness. Additionally, cupping does carry some risks, particularly when done without proper training or hygiene. If you’re considering cupping as a therapy, it’s important to do your research and work with a qualified practitioner to ensure safety and effectiveness.

For more information on Cupping Click Here

DoctorShawn

27/Nov/2023

Have you ever wondered if you’re getting a good night’s sleep or how many hours of deep sleep you’re getting? A wearable sleep tracker might be the solution for you. A sleep tracker is a small device that you wear on your wrist or attach to your clothing that tracks your sleep patterns and provides insights on how to improve your sleep quality. In this blog post, we will dive into the benefits of using a wearable sleep tracker and provide you with some of the most highly-rated ones according to internet reviews.

Provides Insight into Your Sleep Patterns

With a wearable sleep tracker, you can gain valuable insights into your sleep patterns. It can track the duration of your sleep, how many times you woke up during the night, how long you were in deep sleep, and more. This information can be used to identify patterns and trends in your sleep and help you understand where improvements can be made. For example, if you notice you’re only getting 4 hours of deep sleep a night, you may want to consider adjusting your bedtime routine or seeking help from a medical professional.

How it Works

The core technology behind these devices is an array of highly sensitive sensors. These include:

Photoplethysmography (PPG) Sensors: These sensors emit light onto the skin and measure the amount that’s reflected back. As blood absorbs more light than the surrounding tissue, the sensor can calculate heart rate based on the variability in light reflection.
Accelerometers and Gyroscopes: These sensors detect movement, recording the intensity and frequency of physical activity. They also play a crucial role in sleep tracking by detecting periods of rest and motion throughout the night.
Bioimpedance Sensors: Some advanced trackers, like the Whoop Strap, use bioimpedance sensors to measure heart rate, respiration, and other metrics by passing a tiny electrical current through the body and measuring how much it’s impeded.
Temperature Sensors: By monitoring your skin temperature, these devices can infer various health indicators, such as whether you’re getting sick or how well you’re recovering from a workout.

The data these sensors collect is then processed by sophisticated algorithms. For instance, heart rate variability (HRV) – the variation in time between each heartbeat – is a key indicator of stress and recovery, which these devices calculate. Sleep is categorized into stages (like REM, light, and deep sleep) based on movement and heart rate data. The devices then provide insights and recommendations tailored to your personal health and fitness goals.

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Can Help Improve Your Sleep Quality

Once you have insights on your sleep patterns, you can take action to improve your sleep quality. Wearable sleep trackers can provide suggestions for improving your sleep, such as adjusting your bedtime routine, avoiding caffeine, or reducing screen time before bed. The data can also be used to track how changes in your sleep habits affect your overall sleep quality over time.

Enhances Your Overall Health

A good night’s sleep is more than just a luxury—it’s a fundamental component of good health and well-being. With the advent of wearable sleep trackers, we now have the power to understand and improve our sleep like never before. This technology can provide significant benefits, such as boosting the immune system and regulating hormones that control appetite and metabolism, resulting in improved focus and productivity throughout the day (source).

Improved sleep quality has far-reaching health benefits. For instance, it can enhance the immune system’s functionality, making the body more efficient at fighting off illnesses. This is because during sleep, the body produces more white blood cells that attack viruses and bacteria (source).

Sleep also plays a crucial role in hormone regulation. For example, the hormones leptin and ghrelin, which control feelings of hunger and fullness, are directly affected by sleep. When you don’t get enough sleep, your ghrelin levels (the hormone that makes you feel hungry) go up, and your leptin levels (the hormone that makes you feel full) go down. This imbalance can lead to increased hunger and appetite, potentially leading to weight gain or obesity. By helping users achieve better sleep, wearables can indirectly aid in maintaining a healthy weight (source).

Moreover, getting sufficient quality sleep can lead to improved cognitive function, resulting in better focus and productivity. Several studies have shown that sleep deprivation can significantly impact cognition and performance. By helping users understand their sleep patterns and make necessary adjustments for improvement, wearable sleep trackers can contribute to enhanced daily productivity (source).

Best Wearable Sleep Trackers According to Reviews

Based on comprehensive web and news searches conducted on November 27, 2023, a variety of wearable sleep trackers have been highly recommended by multiple sources. The Whoop Strap 4.0 has emerged as one of the top choices amongst fitness enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals, lauded for its advanced AI-powered technology and comprehensive data analysis (source).

The Oura Ring Generation 3 is another standout, prized for its impressive metrics that monitor both sleep and daytime activity (source). Additionally, it’s not just tech publications that are raving about these devices; discussions on platforms such as Reddit also highlight the superior sleep analysis features of the Whoop band, Oura Ring, and Fitbit (source).

Fitbit Inspire 2 and Fitbit Sense are also noted for their excellent sleep tracking capabilities combined with fitness tracking (source, source).

While these wearable devices are leading the pack, non-wearable options like Withings Sleep Tracking Pad have also received positive reviews (source).

It’s clear that the market for sleep trackers is diverse, offering a range of solutions to suit different needs and preferences. As always, it’s recommended to conduct further research and consider personal requirements before making a purchase.

Conclusion:

If improving your sleep quality is a priority, investing in a wearable sleep tracker may be worth considering. With insights into your sleep patterns and suggestions for improving your sleep quality, a tracker can ultimately lead to a healthier, more productive, and generally better quality of life. The Whoop Strap 4.0, Fitbit Inspire 2, and Oura Ring are just a few solid options for those seeking a wearable device to track their sleep.

For naturopathic solutions to better sleep Click Here

DoctorShawn

29/Aug/2023

In this modern and fast-paced world, we often forget to stop and appreciate nature. We are always in a rush to complete our to-do lists, and we hardly have time to relax and enjoy the beauty around us. But what if we told you that taking a simple walk in the woods could make a significant impact on your mental and physical health? Yes, you read that right. It’s called “forest bathing,” and it’s a Japanese practice that involves immersing oneself in nature and engaging with all the senses. So, let’s dive into the world of forest bathing and learn why science says it’s good for you.

Shinrin-yoku

The idea of forest bathing (“Shinrin-yoku” in Japanese) began in the 1980s and focuses on mindfulness-awareness exercises that use trees and other natural elements to help people relax and recharge. According to research, trees and plants produce an organic compound called phytoncides that help protect them from insects, diseases, and other harmful organisms. When we breathe in these compounds, they enter our bodies, which could enhance our immune system, reduce stress, and improve our overall well-being.

Health Benefits

Apart from scientific benefits, forest bathing has many other advantages. Studies have shown that spending time in nature can lower blood pressure, reduce depression, improve sleep quality and cognitive function, and boost immune response. Moreover, sensory activities like meditating and practicing yoga in the woods, smelling the aroma of trees, listening to the sound of birds, and seeing the sunset through the branches, increase feelings of happiness, calmness, and contentment.

Doing it right

Forest bathing doesn’t have to be an expensive getaway or require any special equipment. It’s as simple as going for a walk in the park or a local trail. However, to fully experience the benefits of forest bathing, it’s best to unplug and be present in the moment. Leave your phone or camera behind, wear comfortable clothing, and let yourself wander aimlessly. Be curious and notice the shapes, textures, colors, and sounds around you. Touch the bark of a tree, smell the wildflowers, and listen to your inner voice.

If you’re thinking of trying forest bathing, it’s essential to follow some guidelines. Firstly, choose a safe and accessible place, preferably without many visitors. Ensure you have enough water and snacks if needed. Wear sunscreen and insect repellent, especially in the summer season. And lastly, be respectful of nature and avoid littering.

Don’t know where to start? Worried about getting lost? AllTrails is a great tool that will allow you to explore hiking trails all around the world with maps, guides, and tracking.

In conclusion, forest bathing is a natural way to improve your overall wellness. It offers various health benefits while allowing you to reconnect with nature and find inner peace. It’s a simple yet effective practice that can modify our daily routine. So, next time you have a stressful day or has been glued on your screen for hours, take a break, and go forest bathing. Challenge yourself to embrace the beauty of nature and see how it positively impacts your life physically and mentally.

Looking for something to read while out in the wilderness? Check my other blog articles especially the one on Training for a Clear Mind.

DoctorShawn

22/Aug/2023

For many people, non-alcoholic beer represents the best of both worlds. They can enjoy the classic taste of beer without the lingering effects of alcohol on their body. However, is non-alcoholic beer actually healthy? Or is it simply a waste of money? In this article, we will explore the potential health benefits of non-alcoholic beer and break down whether or not it is a smart choice for your health.

Lowers Blood Pressure

Indeed, research has shown that non-alcoholic beer can have a beneficial effect on blood pressure. A study published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry indicated that non-alcoholic beer decreased systolic blood pressure, suggesting that it can be a part of a healthy diet for those with cardiovascular risk (1).

The presence of polyphenols in non-alcoholic beer plays a significant role in these health benefits. Polyphenols are plant-based compounds known for their antioxidant properties. They help to combat oxidative stress in the body which is a key factor in the development of chronic diseases like hypertension.

Additionally, the absence of alcohol in non-alcoholic beer removes the diuretic effect commonly associated with alcoholic beverages. Alcohol can cause the body to lose more fluid through urine production, leading to dehydration which can increase the workload on the heart and raise blood pressure. By opting for non-alcoholic beer, this risk is significantly reduced.

It’s important to note that while non-alcoholic beer can contribute to a healthy lifestyle, it should not replace a balanced diet and regular exercise. These factors remain the cornerstone of maintaining optimal blood pressure levels and overall health.

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Can Help with Exercise Recovery

Non-alcoholic beer can indeed serve as an effective post-workout recovery drink. After a strenuous workout, your body’s stores of glycogen, the stored form of glucose, are depleted. Consuming carbohydrates after exercise helps replenish these glycogen stores, promoting faster recovery and preparing the muscles for the next workout.

Non-alcoholic beer is a carbohydrate-rich beverage, which makes it a suitable choice for post-workout recovery. The carbohydrates in non-alcoholic beer are quickly absorbed by the body, providing immediate fuel to repair and rebuild muscles. This rapid absorption can help reduce muscle soreness and fatigue, enabling you to recover more efficiently from your workouts.

Moreover, non-alcoholic beer is high in electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium. These electrolytes are crucial for maintaining fluid balance in the body and are often lost through sweat during intense workouts. Replacing these lost electrolytes is essential to prevent dehydration and facilitate muscle function and recovery.

In addition to its hydrating properties, non-alcoholic beer also contains beneficial nutrients such as B vitamins, which play a role in energy production and muscle recovery. For instance, vitamin B12 aids in red blood cell formation, which is crucial for delivering oxygen to the muscles.

While non-alcoholic beer can contribute to post-workout recovery, it’s worth noting that it should not replace a balanced, nutrient-dense meal. Consuming a mixture of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats after a workout is vital for optimal recovery and muscle growth. Also, keep in mind that everyone’s nutritional needs can vary, so it’s important to listen to your body and adjust your intake accordingly.

May Reduce the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes

Non-alcoholic beer, containing key components like hops and barley, could potentially aid in reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes. This is primarily due to their capacity to increase insulin sensitivity, which is a crucial aspect of regulating blood sugar levels.

Hops, a primary ingredient in beer, are known to contain a variety of bioactive compounds, such as iso-alpha-acids, which are derived from the hops’ bitter acids during the brewing process. Some studies suggest that these compounds have a positive effect on glucose metabolism, improving insulin sensitivity and thus helping to regulate blood sugar levels. Insulin sensitivity refers to how responsive your cells are to insulin. Higher insulin sensitivity allows the cells of the body to use blood glucose more effectively, reducing blood sugar.

Barley, another primary ingredient in beer, is a rich source of dietary fiber, particularly beta-glucan. Beta-glucan is a type of soluble fiber that has been shown to slow glucose absorption into the bloodstream. This slower absorption rate prevents spikes in blood sugar and insulin levels, thereby increasing overall insulin sensitivity.

Furthermore, barley contains a type of resistant starch that is not digested in the small intestine but instead ferments in the large intestine. This fermentation process produces short-chain fatty acids, which are thought to increase insulin sensitivity and may help lower blood sugar levels.

Can Be High in Calories

While non-alcoholic beer may have many potential health benefits, it is important to note that it can be high in calories. A typical non-alcoholic beer has anywhere from 50 to 150 calories per serving, which can add up over time. For those who are watching their weight, opting for a lower calorie beverage like seltzer water or tea may be a better option.

May Trigger Cravings

If you are someone who has struggled with an alcohol or addiction in the past, non-alcoholic beer may not be the best choice for you. Some people may find that drinking non-alcoholic beer can trigger cravings for alcohol, leading them to fall off the wagon. As a result, it is important to talk to your doctor or addiction counselor before incorporating non-alcoholic beer into your diet.

The question of whether non-alcoholic beer is healthy can be viewed from a positive perspective. Indeed, it offers several health benefits such as aiding in lowering blood pressure, bolstering exercise recovery, and potentially reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes. While it’s true that it can be higher in calories than some other beverages and could trigger cravings for those in recovery from addiction, moderation and balance are key. For many people, an occasional non-alcoholic beer can be a delightful addition to their diet without adverse effects. It’s all about understanding its nutritional content and how it fits into your overall health objectives and lifestyle. In essence, the decision to enjoy non-alcoholic beer can be a beneficial one when made with mindfulness and consideration of your personal health journey.

Chiva-Blanch, G., Urpi-Sarda, M., Ros, E., Valderas-Martinez, P., Casas, R., Arranz, S., … & Andres-Lacueva, C. (2014). Effects of alcohol and polyphenols from beer on atherosclerotic biomarkers in high cardiovascular risk men: a randomized feeding trial. Nutrition, metabolism and cardiovascular diseases, 24(1), 33-45. Link

DoctorShawn

08/Aug/2023

If you enjoy checking out the latest health craze on social media then you may have heard about the numerous benefits of borax. Borax, which is also known as sodium borate, is a white mineral compound that has been used for a variety of purposes for many years.

The “Borax Train”

The “borax train” is a recent trend that has emerged on TikTok, where users are claiming that consuming borax can help treat various health issues such as joint pain and swelling in the eyes and mouth. However, this trend is highly alarming and dangerous as borax is a cleaning product with no proven health benefits.

In fact, borax can be toxic and even lethal when ingested in high amounts. It can cause gastrointestinal issues, nausea, and other severe health problems. Despite these risks, some TikTok influencers are encouraging their followers to get on the ‘Borax Train’.

This blog will provide you with 5 reasons why you should not consume borax, as well as 5 perfectly safe uses for borax that you can start using today.

1. Borax is toxic:

Borax is a toxic substance that can cause serious health problems when ingested. Some of the symptoms of borax poisoning include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and headaches. It can also cause reproductive issues, damage to the brain and kidney, and even death in extreme cases. The dangers of borax only increase when it is consumed in large quantities or over a long period of time.

2. Borax is not a food:

Despite some claims that borax is a natural and safe food additive, it is not intended for human consumption. While it may have some uses in cosmetic and household products, it is not recognized as a food or supplement by any health organizations.

3. Borax can be harmful to children:

Children are especially vulnerable to the toxic effects of borax because of their smaller size and developing bodies. Allowing children to come into contact with borax can put them at risk for serious medical problems.

4. Borax can be dangerous when handling:

Borax is also a skin and eye irritant that can cause redness, swelling, and even chemical burns when it comes into contact with the skin or eyes. It is important to always handle it with care and avoid inhaling it or getting it in your eyes or mouth.

5. Health risks during pregnancy:

Borax can be harmful to reproductive health, especially during pregnancy. It can harm the fetus and lead to developmental problems. Women who are pregnant or trying to conceive should avoid the use of borax.

Safe Uses for Borax

Despite the potential dangers of borax, there are still many great uses for this compound. Here are five safe and effective ways to use borax in your home and personal care routine:

1. All-purpose cleaner:

Borax can be used as a natural cleaning agent to clean counters, floors, and surfaces in your home. Simply mix borax with warm water, vinegar, and lemon juice to create an all-purpose cleaning solution that is both safe and effective.

2. Laundry booster:

Adding a tablespoon of borax to your laundry cycle can help eliminate tough stains and odors, leaving your clothes fresh and clean.

3. Silver cleaner:

Borax can be used as a silver cleaner by mixing it with water and vinegar to create a paste. It can remove tarnish and give back the shine to your silverware.

4. Pest control:

Borax can be used to kill ants, cockroaches, and other household pests. Simply sprinkle it in areas where pests are known to congregate.

5. Carpet cleaner:

Sprinkle borax on your carpet before vacuuming to help eliminate odors and freshen up your carpet. Borax may have some great uses when handled properly, but it is important to remember that it is not a safe substance to consume. Always be careful when handling borax and be sure to keep it out of the reach of children. If you are looking for safe and natural alternatives to borax, there are plenty of options available that can help you achieve the same great results without putting your health at risk.

Flame Cupping

Vacuum Cupping

Slide Cupping

How it works

Conditions

Check out more Naturopathic solutions to chronic pain Here

Conclusion

For more information on Cupping Click Here

Provides Insight into Your Sleep Patterns

How it Works

Can Help Improve Your Sleep Quality

Enhances Your Overall Health

Best Wearable Sleep Trackers According to Reviews

Conclusion:

For naturopathic solutions to better sleep Click Here

Shinrin-yoku

Health Benefits

Doing it right

Looking for something to read while out in the wilderness? Check my other blog articles especially the one on Training for a Clear Mind.

Lowers Blood Pressure

Can Help with Exercise Recovery

May Reduce the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes

Can Be High in Calories

May Trigger Cravings

The “Borax Train”

1. Borax is toxic:

2. Borax is not a food:

3. Borax can be harmful to children:

4. Borax can be dangerous when handling:

5. Health risks during pregnancy:

Safe Uses for Borax

1. All-purpose cleaner:

2. Laundry booster:

3. Silver cleaner:

4. Pest control:

5. Carpet cleaner:

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