Weight Loss – Dr Shawn

08/Mar/2025

Amid the buzz about health measurements, there’s one that’s quietly gaining recognition: the phase angle. It’s like a secret code that reveals the health and resilience of your cells, offering a fresh perspective on your body composition and overall wellness. Whether you’re battling a chronic condition or simply striving for your best health, understanding your phase angle could be a game-changer. It’s a bit like having a personal health detective, tracking changes in your cells and guiding you towards smarter choices for your treatment and lifestyle. Curious to learn more? Why not schedule a body composition scan and unlock the mystery of your phase angle?

Understanding phase angle: The basics

To get started, let’s talk about phase angle. It’s a measurement that captures the body’s electrical properties and provides a window into our cellular health. Phase angle is calculated through a method called bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). This non-invasive technique measures how our body tissues respond to a small electrical current, by looking at both resistance and reactance. Resistance is how much the body resists the current, and reactance is how much the body’s cell membranes resist the change in the current.

A higher phase angle is a good thing. It means that your cells are healthier and more resilient. In practical terms, a higher phase angle means you’re in better health. It can be a useful marker for a variety of health assessments. For example, it can help you see if your food and exercise programs are working by showing you how your cells are doing over time.

Phase angle changes can also tip us off to variations in body composition and fluid distribution. When our body’s water or the way fluids are spread between our cells and the rest of our body shifts, the phase angle will reflect that. This is why it’s a great tool for watching our water intake and catching any problems that could affect our overall health. And for healthcare pros and researchers, understanding these phase angle variations is key to getting a clearer picture of our physiological state.

But there’s more. Phase angle isn’t just about the basics. It’s proving to be a game-changer in how we manage chronic diseases and even approach cancer research. By giving us a number to track cellular health, it’s becoming a vital sign in treatment and nutritional monitoring. I’ll delve into these areas a bit later, but it’s worth noting now just how far-reaching the implications of phase angle are across the health spectrum.

How phase angle relates to body composition

Now that we know the basics, let’s talk about how phase angle can be a great way to see our body’s inner workings. It can show us how fat, muscle, and the overall health of our cells interact. Phase angle isn’t just a number; it’s a reflection of how robust and vibrant our cells are. It’s a measure we can thank bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) for, a non-invasive method that zaps a tiny electrical current through us to measure resistance and reactance. The phase angle, then, is the angle between these two measures, and it’s a goldmine of information about our cellular well-being.

Here’s the lowdown: a higher phase angle is like a high-five for your cellular well-being. It points to sturdy cell membranes and a well-hydrated cellular environment. And guess what? Your muscle mass is a big player in this game. Muscles, being the water and electrolyte havens they are, conduct electricity like champs. So, the more muscle you’ve got, the higher your phase angle is likely to be, reflecting a cellular landscape of robust health. On the flip side, lower phase angles might wave a red flag, hinting at cellular damage, inflammation, or dehydration—all the things we’d rather not have our cells dealing with.

I think this phase angle business is like a secret code our bodies are always sending. With the right tools, we can understand it to find a lot of information about our health. It’s like having a conversation with our cells, learning what they need to thrive. And let me tell you, the story they tell are pretty powerful. Over time, I’ve come to understand that a rising phase angle often means our cells are cheering, celebrating an upsurge in muscle mass or better hydration. But a dip in this angle? It’s a red flag, a signal that our cells might be struggling.

Keeping tabs on your phase angle is like having a secret window into your body’s inner workings. It’s a powerful tool for anyone looking to manage their health more effectively. Whether you’re working on your fitness, managing a chronic condition, or simply want to stay ahead of the game, phase angle can be your guide. It’s like having a trusted friend who knows you inside out, nudging you in the right direction to make the best choices for your health.

Phase angle in chronic disease management

It’s not just about the numbers on the scale or the percentages we see. The phase angle is a powerful tool in the fight against chronic disease, giving us a microscopic view of our cellular health and function. It’s based on bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) and tells us how well our body conducts electrical current. This is a direct reflection of our cell membranes’ integrity and function. In the fight against long-term disease, a higher phase angle is like a secret weapon. It shows better cell health and function, which can help us get better and recover.

Let’s talk about diabetes. This is where phase angle steps up as a trusty sidekick, a biomarker that’s a game-changer for keeping tabs on your nutritional status and the health of your cells. Managing diabetes is a team effort, involving your diet, exercise, and any prescribed medications. But here’s the thing: by checking your phase angle often, your healthcare providers can see how healthy your cells are. This helps them make your treatment and diet plans better. A lower phase angle might tip them off that your cells need a little extra love, prompting them to adjust your care to keep you in the best shape possible.

And for those battling chronic heart failure, the phase angle is a beacon, predicting how the body might respond to treatments and even hinting at survival rates. With this condition, it’s not just the heart that’s at stake, but a whole symphony of organs and cells. A higher phase angle often whispers of a better response to therapies and a brighter chance at survival. For healthcare providers, it’s a compass, guiding them to adjust treatments and keep a vigilant eye on the disease’s dance.

Now, let’s talk about chronic kidney disease. It’s a tough one, and the phase angle is a big deal here, too. With chronic kidney disease, your cells can take a hit, and their function might not be as sharp as it once was. This can show up as lower phase angle values. But here’s the thing: studies have shown that higher phase angle values in these patients can mean better odds of making it through. So, by keeping an eye on phase angles, healthcare providers can get a clearer picture of what’s going on with their patients and make more informed decisions about their care.

The role of phase angle in cancer research

In cancer research, phase angle has become a bright spot. It gives us important clues that can help us diagnose, predict, and track treatments. One of the most significant findings is its link to cell membrane integrity. In the realm of cancer, this is no small matter, as the health of these membranes can greatly impact how cancer cells behave and respond to treatments. By peering into phase angle, we’re given a window into the cellular health of patients, a vital piece of the puzzle in crafting treatment plans that truly make a difference.

Research consistently tells us that lower phase angles are linked to less favorable outcomes for those battling cancer. It’s like a window into the health of our cells, and if that window is foggy, it can spell trouble. But here’s the thing—by keeping an eye on phase angle over time, we can get a clearer picture of how the disease is progressing and how our treatments are working. If we see that phase angle on the upswing, it’s a glimmer of hope, a sign that maybe, just maybe, our cells are rallying and we’re on the path to better days.

Moreover, studies have hinted that phase angle could be the crystal ball for how one might respond to chemotherapy. Imagine how powerful that would be. A healthcare provider with this knowledge could create a treatment plan that’s just right for you, which could make it more likely that you’ll get better. It’s about minimizing the guesswork and maximizing the benefits, all by understanding what’s happening at the cellular level.

And here’s something that’s really piqued my interest: the potential to boost phase angle through smart nutrition and targeted therapies. By shoring up the integrity of our cell membranes, we might just be able to bolster the health of those fighting cancer. This approach is all-encompassing. It not only treats the disease itself, but it also helps our body’s natural defenses, which may lead to better long-term results.

Improving health through phase angle analysis

With a deeper understanding of how phase angle is a health barometer, let’s explore how we can put this knowledge to work. One of the most remarkable things about this technology is its potential to catch chronic diseases in their earliest stages. Armed with this information, healthcare providers can act swiftly, halting the advance of the illness and improving patient well-being. Early detection is key, as it opens the door to personalized interventions that can make a world of difference in quality of life.

I’ve learned that higher phase angles often signal better cellular health, a key player in our overall well-being. When our cells are in top form, our bodies are better at fending off infections, bouncing back from illnesses, and maintaining a balanced state. It’s a powerful connection that’s made me a firm believer in the value of regular check-ins. By tracking changes in my phase angle, I’ve gained insights that have nudged me towards proactive steps to keep my health on the upswing.

Now, let’s talk about how this all relates to cancer treatment. Monitoring phase angle is a powerful tool for healthcare providers. It helps them see how well treatments are working and how patients are bouncing back. By staying on top of this data, they can fine-tune treatments, giving patients the best shot at a full recovery. And for us patients, seeing that our treatments are paying off can be a game-changer, mentally and emotionally. It’s a big part of the healing process.

These scans, with their phase angle analysis, are like having a health coach in your corner, cheering you on with personalized insights. They paint a vivid picture of muscle mass, fat distribution, and hydration, all key players in the game of health. Armed with this knowledge, we can make smart choices about our diet, exercise, and lifestyle, leading to changes that stick and a healthier, happier life in the long run.

And let’s not forget the motivation that comes with it. When people see their phase angle improving, it’s like a high-five from their body, cheering them on to keep up the good work. Whether it’s tweaking their diet, getting more active, or finding ways to de-stress, the feedback from a phase angle analysis can be the nudge they need to make a change for the better.

By using phase angle analysis, we can make our health management more personal and effective. This will lead to a better quality of life for everyone.

DoctorShawn

13/Feb/2024

Embarking on a fitness journey involves making a multitude of decisions, with one of the most important being the type of workouts to integrate into your routine. For many, the question isn’t about whether to work out but rather the approach to take: do you focus on building endurance or increasing power? In a world brimming with exercise options, understanding which route aligns with your goals and physiology is critical.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the finer points of endurance and power workouts, aiding you in the quest to enhance your fitness and maximize your health. This is no one-size-fits-all scenario; ultimate success lies in tailored routines that resonate with your body and ambitions. Whether you’re a gym aficionado, a cardio enthusiast, or a rookie ready to break a sweat, this guide is your roadmap to making informed fitness choices.

Understanding Endurance Workouts

Endurance, the bedrock of aerobic fitness, is about the long haul. It entails activities that challenge your cardiovascular system over an extended period, improving your body’s ability to deliver oxygen and nutrients to tissues. The benefits extend beyond the gym, boosting heart health and fostering a sense of stamina in everyday life.

The Endurance Regimen

Endurance workouts, often dubbed ‘cardio,’ include activities like running, swimming, cycling, and even dancing at a brisk, consistent rate. The aim is to maintain an elevated heart rate for the entire duration of the exercise.

Why Choose Endurance?

Endurance training is the cornerstone for those preparing for marathons or wanting to improve their general stamina. It’s also a powerful tool in weight management, burning a substantial amount of calories and encouraging fat utilization for energy.

Understanding Power Workouts

Power training, on the other hand, is about quick bursts of strength and speed. Referred to as anaerobic exercises, power workouts focus on short, intense actions that build muscle strength and size.

The Power Principle

Incorporating plyometrics, sprints, and weightlifting in your routine, power exercises push your muscles to generate force at maximum or near-maximum levels in a controlled manner.

Why Choose Power?

Opting for power workouts can lead to functional benefits including improved balance, agility, and coordination. Athletes, in particular, rely on power training to enhance their explosiveness and performance in sports where agility is key.

Factors to Consider

As you deliberate between endurance and power, it’s essential to weigh various factors that can sway your decision one way or the other.

Fitness Objectives

What are you hoping to achieve? Weight loss might lean toward endurance, while muscle gain could favour power. Tailor your decision to your overarching goals.

Personal Preferences

Do you relish the meditative rhythm of a long-distance run, or are you drawn to the challenge of heavy lifting? Enjoyment is a potent motivator in sustaining a fitness routine.

Health and Injuries

Your current health status and any past injuries should be considered. Endurance exercises are typically lower impact, making them a safer bet for those with joint issues.

How to Decide

Making the choice between endurance and power is largely an individual one. Here are some ways to help you reach a decision:

Fitness Assessment

Conducting a self-assessment of your current strength and cardiovascular abilities can point you towards which area needs the most attention.

Seek Professional Advice

Trainers and fitness professionals can offer personalized guidance that accounts for your body’s specific needs and limitations.

Trial and Error

Sometimes, the best way to know what works for you is to try both types of workouts and assess how your body responds to each.

Tips for Maximizing Results

Once you’ve chosen a path — or perhaps, a blend of both — here’s how to get the most out of your chosen workout philosophy:

Balance is Key

Ideally, your fitness routine should strike a balance between endurance and power to maintain a well-rounded approach.

Progressive Overload

Whichever regimen you commit to, it’s crucial to gradually increase the difficulty to continue seeing improvements and avoid plateaus.

Listen to Your Body

Adaptive training is successful training. Keep an ear out for what your body is telling you. If recovery is slow, it may be time to dial back intensity.

Conclusion

The battle of endurance versus power is not a battle at all; it is a continuum that serves different purposes for different people. Endurance and power aren’t mutually exclusive categories; in fact, blending both in appropriate ratios can provide an ideal platform for reaching diverse fitness objectives. Take the expertise from this guide, align it with your ambitions, and set forth on a fitness journey that’s not just productive, but also deeply fulfilling. Remember, the journey to fitness is continuous, and the path you choose today can — and likely will — evolve with you.

DoctorShawn

30/May/2023

Berberine and Ozempic are two medicines that have gained popularity in recently. Berberine is a natural supplement, while Ozempic is a prescription drug. Both have been shown to lower blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity, making them popular among people with diabetes and weight loss. In this blog post, we will explore the similarities and differences between these two medicines.

1. What is Berberine?

Berberine is a remarkable natural compound, has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine to treat a variety of ailments. Extracted from the roots, rhizomes, and stem bark of plants like goldenseal, Oregon grape, and barberry, berberine’s vibrant yellow color and impressive therapeutic properties have made it a prized ingredient in ancient healing practices.

The mechanism of action for berberine is quite fascinating. It functions by activating an enzyme called AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which plays a critical role in regulating metabolism and maintaining cellular energy homeostasis. This activation leads to numerous health benefits, including improved insulin sensitivity, reduced inflammation, and enhanced lipid metabolism.

Recent scientific studies have confirmed berberine’s effectiveness in managing several conditions. One of its most notable applications is in treating type 2 diabetes, where it has exhibited remarkable potential in lowering blood sugar levels, comparable to the widely prescribed drug metformin. Additionally, berberine has demonstrated promising results in improving cardiovascular health by reducing cholesterol and triglyceride levels. It has also displayed antimicrobial properties against various bacteria, fungi, and parasites, making it a valuable ally in combating infections.

2. What is Ozempic?

Ozempic, also known as semaglutide, is a groundbreaking medication that has taken the world of diabetes management by storm. Developed by Novo Nordisk, Ozempic was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2017 for the treatment of type 2 diabetes in adults (FDA, 2017). This innovative drug belongs to a class of medications called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, which are designed to mimic the action of GLP-1, a naturally occurring hormone involved in regulating blood sugar levels.

The mechanism of action for Ozempic is truly fascinating. As a GLP-1 receptor agonist, it works by stimulating insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells when blood sugar levels are high, thus helping to lower glucose levels in the bloodstream. Moreover, it suppresses the release of glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar levels, and slows down gastric emptying, resulting in a decrease in appetite and caloric intake.

Clinical trials have demonstrated Ozempic’s effectiveness in managing type 2 diabetes, showing significant reductions in HbA1c levels (a measure of long-term blood sugar control) and body weight. Additionally, it has been proven to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events, such as heart attack and stroke, in patients with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease. With its promising results and innovative mechanism of action, Ozempic has emerged as a powerful tool in the ongoing battle against diabetes and its complications.

3. How does Berberine compare to Ozempic?

In terms of blood sugar regulation, berberine has been shown to lower blood glucose levels by activating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which helps improve insulin sensitivity and decrease insulin resistance. On the other hand, Ozempic mimics the action of GLP-1, stimulating insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells when blood sugar levels are high, suppressing glucagon release, and slowing gastric emptying . Both compounds have demonstrated significant reductions in HbA1c levels, a measure of long-term blood sugar control, in patients with type 2 diabetes).

When it comes to weight loss, both berberine and Ozempic have shown promising results. Berberine’s activation of AMPK leads to enhanced lipid metabolism, contributing to weight loss (Turner et al., 2008). Ozempic’s effect on weight loss can be attributed to its ability to slow gastric emptying, resulting in reduced appetite and caloric intake. Clinical trials have demonstrated significant weight loss in patients with type 2 diabetes treated with either compound.

While both berberine and Ozempic have proven effective in managing blood sugar levels and promoting weight loss, their mechanisms of action differ, and they belong to different classes of compounds. Berberine is a natural compound with a broader range of applications, including antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Ozempic, as a synthetic GLP-1 receptor agonist, has been specifically developed for type 2 diabetes treatment and has demonstrated additional cardiovascular benefits in patients with established cardiovascular disease.

4. Can Berberine and Ozempic be taken together?

It is not advisable to take Berberine and Ozempic together without consulting a doctor. Both medicines can lower blood sugar levels, and taking them together can lead to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). If you are already taking Ozempic, it is crucial to monitor your blood sugar levels regularly and follow your doctor’s advice on adjusting your medication.

5. Which one should you choose?

Generally, Berberine is a safer and more affordable option compared to Ozempic, especially for people with mild to moderate blood sugar problems. However, for people with severe diabetes or other health complications, Ozempic may be the better choice, as it is a more potent and targeted medication. Ultimately, the decision to use Berberine or Ozempic should be made in consultation with a physician or naturopathic doctor, who can assess your particular health needs and goals.

References:

Imanshahidi, M., & Hosseinzadeh, H. (2016). Pharmacological and therapeutic effects of Berberis vulgaris and its active constituent, berberine. Phytotherapy Research, 22(8), 999-1012.

Turner, N., Li, J. Y., Gosby, A., To, S. W. C., Cheng, Z., Miyoshi, H., … & Xu, A. (2008). Berberine and its more biologically available derivative, dihydroberberine, inhibit mitochondrial respiratory complex I: a mechanism for the action of berberine to activate AMP-activated protein kinase and improve insulin action. Diabetes, 57(5), 1414-1418.

Yin, J., Xing, H., & Ye, J. (2008). Efficacy of berberine in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Metabolism, 57(5), 712-717.

Zhang, Y., Li, X., Zou, D., Liu, W., Yang, J., Zhu, N., … & Gong, H. (2008). Treatment of type 2 diabetes and dyslipidemia with the natural plant alkaloid berberine. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 93(7), 2559-2565.

Imanshahidi, M., & Hosseinzadeh, H. (2010). Berberis Vulgaris and Berberine: An Update Review. Phytotherapy Research, 22(11), 1485-1494.

FDA. (2017). FDA approves new drug to treat type 2 diabetes. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-new-drug-treat-type-2-diabetes

Aroda, V. R., Bain, S. C., Cariou, B., Piletic, M., Rose, L., Axelsen, M., … & Marre, M. (2017). Efficacy and safety of once-weekly semaglutide versus once-daily sitagliptin as an add-on to metformin, thiazolidinediones, or both, in patients with type 2 diabetes (SUSTAIN 2): a 56-week, double-blind, phase 3a, randomised trial. The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, 5(5), 341-354.

Nauck, M. A., Petrie, J. R., Sesti, G., Mannucci, E., Courrèges, J. P., Lindegaard, M. L., … & Madsbad, S. (2016). A phase 2, randomized, dose-finding study of the novel once-weekly human GLP-1 analog, semaglutide, compared with placebo and open-label liraglutide in patients with type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Care, 39(2), 231-241.

Pratley, R. E., Amod, A., Hoff, S. T., Kadowaki, T., Lingvay, I., Nauck, M., … & Soska, V. (2018). Oral semaglutide versus subcutaneous liraglutide and placebo in type 2 diabetes (PIONEER 4): a randomised, double-blind, phase 3a trial. The Lancet, 394(10192), 39-50.

Marso, S. P., Bain, S. C., Consoli, A., Eliaschewitz, F. G., Jódar, E., Leiter, L. A., … & Seufert, J. (2016). Semaglutide and cardiovascular outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes. New England Journal of Medicine, 375(19), 1834-1844.

Sorli, C., Harashima, S. I., Tsoukas, G. M., Unger, J., Karsbøl, J. D., Hansen, T., & Bain, S. C. (2017). Efficacy and safety of once-weekly semaglutide monotherapy versus placebo in patients with type 2 diabetes (SUSTAIN 1): a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled, parallel-group, multinational, multicentre phase 3a trial. The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, 5(4), 251-260.

drshawn

03/Oct/2022

Introduction:

October means apple season is in full swing. And while apples are delicious and a great source of fiber, they also have some surprising health benefits. Here are 5 reasons to make sure you include apples in your diet this fall.

1. Apples Can Boost Your Immunity

One of the essential components of a strong immune system is vitamin C, and apples are packed with it. Just one small apple contains approximately 10% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin C. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect your cells from damage and supports a healthy immune system.

Apples are also a good source of vitamin A, which is important for a strong immune system. Vitamin A helps the body’s natural defenses against infection and disease. It also helps to keep the skin and mucous membranes healthy. The body needs vitamin A to form white blood cells, which help to fight infection. Vitamin A is found in both the skin and the flesh of apples, so eating a whole apple is the best way to get the benefits.

In addition, apples contain polyphenols, which are plant-based compounds that have been shown to boost immunity.

Apples contain a type of polyphenol called quercetin. Quercetin is a plant-based compound that has been shown to provide a number of health benefits, including boosting the immune system. One study found that quercetin supplements were able to increase the production of infection-fighting cells in the body. Another study found that quercetin supplements were able to reduce the severity and duration of cold symptoms. Polyphenols like quercetin are just one of the many reasons why apples are often referred to as a “superfood.”

2. Apples Can Help Reduce the Risk of Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a serious and growing health concern, with over 29 million Americans affected by the disease. Eating apples has been linked with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes. This is likely due to the fact that apples contain pectin. Pectin helps to slow the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates, which helps to keep blood sugar levels stable. Additionally, apples are a good source of antioxidants, which can help improve insulin sensitivity.

3. Apples May Help Lower Cholesterol Levels

One large apple contains about 4 grams of fiber, half of which is pectin. Pectin has been shown to reduce cholesterol levels by binding to cholesterol molecules and removing them from the body before they can be absorbed into the bloodstream.

Research has supported the notion that apples can help reduce cholesterol levels. One study showed that eating two apples a day for four weeks resulted in a seven percent reduction in bad cholesterol and a five percent increase in good cholesterol. Another study found that women who ate an apple a day had lower cholesterol levels and a decreased risk of heart disease. The antioxidants and fiber in apples are thought to be responsible for these benefits.

4. Apples Can Help Keep Your Heart Healthy

In addition to reducing cholesterol levels, apples can also help keep your heart healthy by preventing plaque build-up in your arteries. This is thanks to the antioxidants found in apples, which help keep your arteries clear and prevent inflammation. One study published in the “European Journal of Nutrition” showed that eating apples every day for four weeks can reduce bad cholesterol levels by up to 10 percent.

5. Apples Can Aid in Weight Loss

Because they’re high in fiber and water, apples can help you feel fuller longer and prevent overeating throughout the day.

Research indicates that apples may play a role in weight loss. One study showed that obese women who ate an apple before lunch felt more satiated and ate fewer calories than those who didn’t have an apple. Another study found that eating an apple at least three times per day helped participants lose weight and body fat. This may be due to the high fiber and water content of apples, which can help you feel fuller longer and prevent overeating. Additionally, apples are a low calorie food, providing just 95 calories per medium-sized apple. They’re also a good source of energy-boosting phosphorus.

Conclusion:

The next time you’re at the grocery store, be sure to pick up a few extra apples. Not only are they delicious and nutritious, but they also have some impressive health benefits. Apples can boost your immune system, lower your cholesterol levels, and even help you live longer. So stock up while they’re in season and enjoy all the benefits this versatile fruit has to offer.